UN commends Sri Lanka’s disaster response efforts
The Deputy Minister of Defense, Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd), met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator to Sri Lanka, Marc-André Franche, at the office of the Deputy Minister of Defense to review ongoing disaster response efforts, institutional reforms, and the coordination of international humanitarian assistance.
During the meeting, the UN Resident Coordinator commended the strong national unity and resilience demonstrated by the Sri Lankan people in responding to the recent disaster. The Deputy Minister noted that the current response reflects a decisive shift from past shortcomings and represents a turning point toward a more coordinated and sustainable approach.The Deputy Minister outlined key reforms, including proposed amendments to the Disaster Management Act to strengthen institutional coordination, as well as the recognition of environmental protection as a component of national security.He also briefed the UN Resident Coordinator on the role of the High-Level Committee for Foreign Relief Aid Coordination (HL-FRAC) in tracking and streamlining foreign aid and enhancing coordination among government agencies and development partners.
Logistical challenges, mobility constraints, and limited warehousing capacity were revived
On behalf of the President and the people of Sri Lanka, the Deputy Minister expressed sincere appreciation for the continued support extended by the United Nations, international partners, and organizations.The UN Resident Coordinator reaffirmed the UN’s ongoing assistance and shared international best practices on unified command structures with effective leadership and management. He also proposed the establishment of a temporary one-stop facility at airports and harbours to expedite the clear
