A special discussion between Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata was held today at the Opposition Leader’s Office in Parliament.
During the meeting, both parties exchanged detailed views on the ongoing disaster situation in Sri Lanka. Opposition Leader Premadasa expressed his gratitude for the relief teams Japan has sent to assist the country.
He also urged Japan, as a long-standing friend of Sri Lanka, to continue its support during such critical times. Premadasa emphasized that the Japanese government could contribute its expertise, technology, and workforce to modernize the collapsed road network and repair the railway system.
The Opposition Leader highlighted the scale of the devastation, including widespread infrastructure collapse, significant loss of livelihoods, displacement, and severe shortages of essential services. He pointed out that major hospitals still lack water, a challenge that could exacerbate post-disaster health risks, including pandemics. Premadasa stressed that Sri Lanka urgently requires Japan’s assistance and called for an intensification of humanitarian aid.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of establishing transparent, accountable, and depoliticized mechanisms to ensure that all domestic and international relief reaches affected communities without discrimination.
