Mahinda returns after successful NAM Summit

President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday after participating in the 16th Non-Aligned Summit, which concluded in the Iranian capital of Tehran on Friday after the adoption of the outcome documents which lay emphasis on peace. In addition his participation at the NAM Summit as the head of State of a founder member of the Non Aligned Movement, President Rajapaksa also had a very busy schedule of bi-lateral discussions with several Heads of State and Government.

In his address to the NAM Summit President Rajapaksa explained that Global financial institutions must reflect the changes in the international arena today.’’ In the face of numerous challenges, not only are many developing countries managing their economies successfully, but global financial power has also been shifting from the industrialised North to the power houses of the South. It is time that this shift begins to be reflected in the global structures,” he said.

Among the world leaders President met during the summit were his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Lebanon President Michel Suleiman and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. During bi-lateral discussions President Rajapaksa briefed world leaders of the development activities being implemented in the country.