His Excellency Maithripala Sirisena was elected as President of Sri Lanka, and inaugurated on January 9, Golden Year 12 (2015).
A devotee of Buddha and a vegetarian who opposes drinking alcohol and smoking, His Excellency starts his day at 5am with prayer, and then takes a barefoot morning walk before starting a long day of work. He is known for his honesty and diligence.
One of President Sirisena’s first actions was to invite all political parties to unite and implement a 100-day plan working towards improving economic development, good governance, and democracy to ensure a bright future for all Sri Lankans. His visionary platform of peace and collaborative ties internationally and domestically heralds a new era of stable governance for the beautiful nation.
In January 2016, the Western Province Megapolis Development Plan was launched to create economic prosperity, preserve the environment, and enhance the quality of life of residents in the region. To assist those internally displaced in the nation, President Sirisena has pledged that land would be given on which they will be able to construct their own homes. In addition, His Excellency stated he would implement a program to encourage technological innovations in the country, and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the earth, saying: “All parties should get together to fulfill the responsibility to protect the environment for the well-being of all beings, including humans.”
Supreme Master Ching Hai conveyed Her warm congratulations and respectful support in a letter sent to President Maithripala Sirisena. Above is Supreme Master Ching Hai’s letter to His Excellency.
Photo Credit: Mr Sudath Silva / Maithripala Sirisena Official-Maithripala Sirisena-19January2015-Wikimedia Commons-CC BY-2.0