In response to escalating tensions in the Middle East, including developments in Iran and the assassination of a Hamas political leader, President Ranil Wickramasinghe has established a Special Committee on National Security. This committee includes:
- Public Security Minister Tiran Alas
- Foreign Affairs Minister Ali Sabri
- Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera
- President's Chief of Staff and Senior Adviser on National Security Sagala Ratnayake
This committee is tasked with evaluating potential national security risks and recommending measures to mitigate them.
Committee on Economic Impact
A separate Committee on Economic Impact will assess the potential repercussions for Sri Lanka’s economy, particularly in areas such as energy supplies and essential imports. Members include:
- Sagala Ratnayake
- Presidential Adviser on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga
- Secretary of the Ministry of Finance Mahinda Siriwardena
- Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Aruni Wijewardena
- Secretary of the Ministry of Power and Energy Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena
High-Level Monitoring Committee
President Wickramasinghe himself will lead the High-Level Monitoring Committee, which will oversee the work of the other committees and make timely decisions. Members include:
- Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena
- Minister of External Affairs Ali Sabri
- Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera
- Minister of Labor and Foreign Employment Manusha Nanayakkara
- Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake
- Prime Minister's Secretary Anura Dissanayake
Mandate and Purpose
The committees are tasked with analyzing the potential impacts of Middle Eastern tensions on Sri Lanka’s national security and economy, with a focus on preventing disruptions to fuel and other essential supplies. Their findings will be reported to the High-Level Monitoring Committee for swift action based on their recommendations.
This proactive initiative highlights Sri Lanka’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests amidst global geopolitical challenges.
No comments