Today (08) marks International Women's Day, a celebration of women's achievements regardless of race, religion, language, culture, economy or politics.

The United Nations has designated the year 2024's theme as 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress' with a focus on addressing economic disempowerment, while the campaign theme for this year is 'Inspire Inclusion.' It highlights the significance of diversity and empowerment across all sectors of society.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe said two bills are being drafted for gender equality and women's empowerment.

In a message to mark International Women's Day, the President said the five-year national action plan to prevent sexual and gender-based violence was completed, adding it will be forwarded to the Cabinet for approval.

In a message to mark Women's Day, Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said several programmes have continuously been implemented for women's nutrition, health and education and to create new job opportunities for them, despite the prevailing social challenges.

The message added that the government's sole aim is to produce a strong and productive generation of women who are suitable for the new world, by understanding the knowledge and skills of women as well as their needs.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa in a message to mark Women's Day said he believes that Sri Lanka can be restored to number one in the world, by turning the lost courage and strength of women, into a lifeline.

The Opposition Leader said it is regrettable that as a nation we are yet to understand the courage and strength of women.

The Opposition Leader added that women should be empowered with knowledge, technology and broad skills appropriate for the new world, in order to make them the lifeline of the family and the country.