Independent Presidential Candidate and current President, Ranil Wickremesinghe, emphasized that Sri Lanka’s economic recovery over the past two years has garnered support from friendly nations, including India and Japan, propelling the country towards progress.
“Plans are underway to relocate the Sapugaskanda oil refinery to Trincomalee, while Sampur is being developed into a solar energy hub. Trincomalee will also emerge as a tourism destination, and trade and investment zones will be established there in collaboration with the Indian government,” he stated during his speech at the “Ranil Can” (Ranil ta Puluwan) victory rally held in front of the Kantale Railway Station this morning (16).
Wickremesinghe underscored the significant development Trincomalee is set to experience, thanks to joint efforts between India and Sri Lanka.
He also criticized opposition leaders Sajith Premadasa and Anura Kumara Dissanayake for abandoning the people during the previous economic crisis, despite their current patriotic rhetoric. The President noted that, after two years of economic stabilization, 38 individuals are now working towards rebuilding the nation.
Reflecting on past economic challenges, Wickremesinghe recounted a 2016 discussion with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during his tenure as Prime Minister. “The IMF warned that reducing taxes would lead to a loss of support, which I made public at the time,” he explained. “However, when Gotabaya Rajapaksa assumed power, he reduced taxes, and, as expected, the IMF withdrew its relief.”
Wickremesinghe highlighted his efforts to unite individuals from various political parties to strengthen the economy. “Neither Sajith nor Anura supported me, but the majority stood with me. Mahinda Rajapaksa extended his support, as did Wajira Abeywardena from the United National Party, along with members from other parties, including the Podujana Peramuna. Despite accusations of being aligned with the Rajapaksa government, this is not the case—if it were, Namal Rajapaksa would be standing here with me,” he remarked.
He concluded by expressing gratitude for the support he received and highlighted his leadership in negotiating with the IMF and successfully implementing the economic recovery program.
This statement was shared by Wickremesinghe’s campaign.
