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Friday Dec 13, 2024
Wednesday, 24 May 2017 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
By Charumini de Silva
Ports and Shipping Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe officially assumed duties yesterday at the Ministry and pledged Sri Lanka’s interest would be paramount to ensure rapid economic growth.
He thanked Coalition Gover-nment President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe for appointing him to a portfolio where several mega development projects had been launched to ensure socioeconomic development.
“I am aware of the challenges ahead as I take over leadership of this Ministry. Ports and Shipping, a key agency in the Government, can significantly contribute towards Sri Lanka’s sustainable development and the wellbeing of the people. I have no doubt we can overcome these challenges,” he stressed.
Samarasinghe was grateful to former Ports and Shipping Minister Arjuna Ranatunga for his work during the past two-and-a-half years, especially in overcoming many challenges.
He also expressed confidence on tackling the difficult tasks ahead.
“As a former Labour Minister and a Resident Representative of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), I am well aware of the disputes and decrees related to trade union requests. I hope to speak to all the unions individually soon to maintain a balance on disputes. My doors are always open to anyone. There has been immense contribution by all employees towards the Ministry’s progress,” he added.
The Maha Sanga led by Chief Prelate Most Venerable Iththapane Dhammalankara Thero blessed the new Minister and said Samarasinghe’s wealth of knowledge and experience would pave the way to drive this economically-important ministry to great heights.
“Samarasinghe has earned a good reputation among international and local communities. I am sure the countrymen are also happy that a qualified person like him has been given this responsibility,” Petroleum Resources and Development Minister Arjuna Ranatunga said, expressing confidence in Samarasinghe’s leadership.
Noting that the new Minister would continue the work he had initiated, Ranatunga added: “Samarasinghe has always stepped forward in the country’s interest and I have no doubt that he will safeguard the country’s ports.”
Ranatunga also commended all Ministry and SLPA officials for their support during his tenure.
Transport and Civil Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said the Samarasinghe’s leadership would provide a facelift to the ministry.
“I have worked with Samarasinghe regarding national and international matters. He is a real patriot and I am sure that he will bring about the best for Sri Lanka,” de Silva opined.
He noted that Samarasinghe had always worked closely with the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) leadership and contributed to strengthen the party.
De Silva also appreciated the work of former Minister Ranatunga, especially in securing employees’ rights.
Science, Technology and Research Minister Susil Premajayantha, Labour, Trade Union Relations and Sabaragamuwa Development Minister W.D.J. Seneviratne, Sports Minister Dayasiri Jayasekara, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Faiszer Musthapha, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, stakeholders of the shipping industry and other senior officials of the Ports and Shipping Ministry as well as SLPA also participated in the official ceremony.
