Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has called for unprecedented global cooperation to tackle the complex challenges facing the world today.

Speaking at the World Governments Summit in the UAE on Wednesday (12) President Dissanayake Sri Lanka's unique position, both geographically and culturally, as an island nation with a rich history and a forward-looking citizenry.

“My country is a beautiful island nation with a unique history, a present filled with optimistic dreams for the future and a citizenry that possesses broad political and social awareness. The people of my country have a deep sense of empathy for events occurring anywhere in the world. While they cherish their traditions, they also demonstrate the wisdom and openness necessary to embrace change when required,” President Dissanayake remarked. He proudly noted that Sri Lanka has the highest number of eye donations in the world, reflecting the altruistic spirit of its citizens.

President Dissanayake underscored the importance of uniting as global citizens to address issues that transcend national boundaries. “Today's isolated problems can quickly become global concerns, knocking on everyone's doors and ultimately ending solitary pursuits,” he warned. He called for collective global action and a unified front to tackle these challenges effectively.

Highlighting the need for enhanced governance accountability and efficiency, President Dissanayake urged citizens to move from individual efforts to collective initiatives. He emphasized the crucial role of accountable state institutions and responsible bureaucratic systems in securing the future of governance.

“Social justice and the rule of law are not only essential for a regulated state but also for a well-functioning professional world,” he stated.

He advocated for the proper implementation of agreements and laws, support for vulnerable communities, and ensuring accountability through independent media and social activism.

President Dissanayake called for an updated universal declaration on human rights, reflecting the emergence of new rights and evolving political systems. He stressed the importance of awareness and proactive engagement in addressing pressing global issues.

“The emergence of digital access rights, environmental rights and other new rights—along with evolving political systems—highlights the need for an updated universal declaration on human rights, which was not envisioned in the 1948 declaration. This moment serves as a reminder of the importance of awareness and proactive engagement in addressing these pressing issues,” he said.

Addressing the debt crisis faced by the poorest countries, President Dissanayake highlighted the need for a fair and equitable financial system. “Transforming into a fair and equitable financial system is of critical importance,” he noted, emphasizing the precarious outlook of the global economy.