State Minister of Women and Child Affairs Geetha Kumarasinghe said the Government has initiated gender-based laws to address inequalities affecting the full enjoyment of women’s rights. Such laws establish an environment in which women can exercise their political, social, economic and cultural rights.
The State Minister made this comment while addressing the ‘The First International Congress for Women of Influence’ held in Tehran on January 20.
“Sri Lanka is a country that values women as important members of society who shoulder many responsibilities including political affairs. For instance, late Prime Minister Sirima Bandaranaike had the distinction of being the world’s first female Prime Minister, as far back as the 1960s – a unique achievement not only for our country, but also for the entire world. Her daughter, Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga was also elected as Sri Lanka’s first female Executive President. There is clear evidence in our history spanning over 2,000 years that Sri Lankan women have enjoyed a high degree of freedom and equality in public and private life,” the State Minister said.
“All political parties in our country emphasize the importance of upholding the rights of women’s participation. The Government of Sri Lanka has initiated gender-based laws to address inequalities affecting the full enjoyment of women’s rights. Such laws establish an environment in which women can exercise their political, social, economic and cultural rights,” she said.
Addressing the gathering, State Minister Kumarasinghe added that Iran and Sri Lanka have enjoyed diplomatic relations for close to 60 years. “We are very happy about the support and assistance you have given us during this long period. Your help, whether financial or otherwise, to improve the lives of many Sri Lankans, is greatly appreciated. You continue to be a major buyer of pure Ceylon Tea, resulting in the strengthening of our economy,” she said.
“As Sri Lanka’s State Minister for Women and Child Affairs, I am extremely grateful to all those who organized this important conference that discusses women’s issues around the world. This first International Congress for Women of Influence shows how the entire world is concerned about the rights and responsibilities of women,” State Minister Kumarasinghe said.
“This conference will encourage women of different nationalities to participate in global activities that promote the status of women. It will be a great opportunity to work collaboratively to share their experiences on the intellectual and cultural foundations of ‘Women and Family Status’,” she said.
The State Minister further commented that despite the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic and the resulting economic hardships, special programmes aimed at empowering women and children, especially in the rural areas, continued to be initiated in Sri Lanka.
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