Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya participated in the inaugural ceremony of the 2025 National Conference themed Beyond Dr. Roland Silva Charting New Frontiers in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Heritage on Saturday (25th  October) at the Sri Lanka Foundation.

The National Conference jointly organized by ICOMOS Sri Lanka and the Central Cultural Fund (CCF) was held on  25th and 26th of October providing a platform for both senior academics, professionals and emerging scholars to engage in meaningful dialogue and share research on Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

As the present chairperson of the Central Cultural Fund, reflecting on Dr. Silva’s enduring legacy, the Prime Minister commended his pioneering work as an architect, archaeologist, administrator, and institution-builder and his unwavering efforts in establishing the Central Cultural Fund to transform Sri Lanka’s heritage sector, setting an international example for sustainable heritage financing.

The Prime Minister further emphasized the government’s commitment to building a unified and inclusive Sri Lanka, where every citizen feels a genuine sense of belonging.

Addressing the event the Prime Minister stated, ’Under the vision of the new government, we aim to build a unified and inclusive Sri Lanka, where every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, religion, language, or location, feels a sense of belonging.’

The Prime Minister underscored the need to integrate new technologies, digital tools, artificial intelligence, and climate adaptation strategies to ensure the protection of vulnerable heritage sites across the country highlighting that Sri Lanka’s heritage belongs to everyone, and its protection is a shared responsibility.

Commending the Central Cultural Fund (CCF) and ICOMOS Sri Lanka, Dr. Amarasuriya noted that their collective effort will enable Sri Lanka’s heritage sector to adapt to emerging global challenges while continuing to safeguard its cultural legacy for future generations.

During the inaugural ceremony, the printed painting collection entitled ’Thivanka Image House’ was officially published along with a commemorative stamp and First Day Cover marking the 35th anniversary of the historic election of Dr. Ronald Silva as the first asian president of ICOMOS international.

The event was attended by the Minister Of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural AffairsDr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, Director General of Central Cultural Fund Dr. Nilan Cooray,  Ambassadors, Mrs. Roland Silva,  scholars, and  professionals.

(Prime Minister’s Media)