President commends outgoing Treasury Secretary for service and integrity

Thursday, 19 June 2025 03:51 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

President Anura Kumara Disanayake presents a memento to outgoing Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana

President Anura Kumara Disanayake expresses gratitude to Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana’s outstanding dedication and leadership amidst country’s worst economic crisis
Calls on young public officials to learn from Siriwardana’s dedication, integrity and expertise
Highlights need for value-driven, accountable and citizen-focused public service

President Anura Kumara Disanayake yesterday lauded outgoing Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana for his exemplary service, emphasising the vital role of public officials in preventing negative outcomes and driving positive change.

Speaking at the farewell ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat, Disanayake expressed his gratitude for Siriwardana’s outstanding dedication and leadership during one of the country’s worst economic crises.

The President praised the Treasury Secretary’s expert leadership in navigating the economy through post-crisis recovery, contributing significantly to recent economic progress.

President Disanayake stressed that young public officials have much to learn from the distinguished career of outgoing Treasury Secretary Siriwardana, who is a senior public servant with extensive experience and profound understanding.

The President also took the opportunity to underscore the importance of encouraging a value-driven public service, grounded in merit, humanity, and accountability, especially in an era when materialism and corruption too often overshadow true service to the people.

Disanayake further emphasised that the public service should not be an inaccessible mechanism distant from citizens. He underscored the importance of considering the impact of decisions on people’s lives when making policy choices.

During the ceremony, the President also presented Siriwardana with a commemorative token in appreciation of his outstanding service to the country.

The event was attended by Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Finance and Planning Deputy Minister Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Chief Presidential Adviser on Digital Economy Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya, Senior Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs Duminda Hulangamuwa, Government officials, and family members of Siriwardana, amongst other invited guests.