A special discussion on the next steps to be taken in view of the situation arising from the conflict in the Middle East was held yesterday afternoon (15) under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
During the meeting, attention was drawn to the disruptions affecting energy supply networks, including coal, gas and oil, caused by the conflict in the Middle East. The measures already taken by relevant sectors to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply, as well as proposed alternative options to address these challenges, were reviewed.
It was noted that the situation has had a significant impact not only on Sri Lanka but on countries around the world. The President pointed out that, through the proper planning and implementation of alternative methods such as the digital quota system and work-from-home arrangements, the impact on the national economy could be minimised. He also emphasised the importance of maintaining an effective communication mechanism to keep the public continuously informed about emerging developments.
Discussions were also held on promptly addressing the difficulties faced by individuals who had not previously registered under the digital quota system currently in operation. Attention was further focused on possible measures to respond to new developments in the industrial sector by bringing together both the public and private sectors.
It was observed that the current situation differs from the conditions experienced during the COVID-19 period. Accordingly, it was discussed that fuel-saving mechanisms should be strengthened by adopting alternative measures suited to the present circumstances.
The President also instructed officials to maintain continuous monitoring of developments related to the evolving situation arising from the conflict in the Middle East and to remain vigilant regarding possible alternative measures to minimise the impact on the national economy.
Among those present at the meeting were Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Energy Kumara Jayakody, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Vijitha Herath, Secretary to the President Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Presidential Adviser on Digital Economy Dr Hans Wijayasuriya, Presidential Economic Adviser Duminda Hulangamuwa, Presidential Chief of Staff Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Governor of the Central Bank Nandalal Weerasinghe, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Harshana Suriyapperuma, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sampath Thuyacontha, Chairman of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation Janaka Rajakaruna, and Chairman of Litro Gas Company Channa Gunawardena, among others.
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