Addressing the 2025 World Government Summit in the United Arab Emirates today (12), Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake made a powerful appeal for international cooperation, urging world leaders to unite in building a better future for all. “Let us come together and create a beautiful life and a beautiful world,” he stated, calling for collective global action to tackle the pressing challenges facing humanity.
The President emphasized that global climate issues are no longer distant threats but realities “knocking on everyone’s doors, regardless of whether they are rich or poor.” Stressing the urgency of a coordinated response, he reminded the audience that these crises transcend borders and require a united front from all nations. “We must unite as global citizens to face challenges that affect us all,” he urged.
President Dissanayake’s speech focused on Sri Lanka’s vision for economic growth, innovation, and governance reforms. He underscored the country’s commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation, highlighting the importance of such summits in shaping global strategies. “This conference provides a driving force for the development of future strategies and plans in important areas related to humanity,” he remarked.
A strong advocate for social justice and the rule of law, the Sri Lankan leader stressed the necessity of a fair and standardized global order. He called for systematic legal frameworks that ensure accountability while supporting vulnerable communities. “A developed world must provide space for free media and social activists to function freely while ensuring that agreements and laws are implemented systematically,” he noted.
In a bold proposal, President Dissanayake advocated for an updated version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, originally established in 1948. He insisted that the new version must reflect modern realities, incorporating both digital access rights and environmental rights. “The world has changed significantly since 1948. Our human rights frameworks must evolve accordingly,” he asserted.
On global economic concerns, the President acknowledged the increasing strain on international financial structures. He warned of the looming sovereign debt crisis and called for reforms to global financial mechanisms. “The global outlook has become extremely problematic with tightening conditions in economic financing and large debt payments ahead. The current international financial structure is poorly prepared to handle this crisis,” he cautioned, urging world leaders to adopt fairer financial policies that reflect contemporary economic realities.
Discussing the future of work in an era of automation, President Dissanayake stressed the need for education and skill development programs to support workers who may lose their jobs due to advancements in robotics and artificial intelligence. “A formal program must be implemented to empower human resources in the face of rapid technological change,” he advised. He also emphasized the necessity of strong cybersecurity measures, given the growing digital threats worldwide.
Adding a cultural and emotional appeal to his speech, President Dissanayake referenced Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous words, “We must learn to live together as brothers.” He drew parallels to Sri Lanka’s own journey, recalling how the nation came together in 2024 to build a “beautiful life and a prosperous country.” In a poetic moment, he also mentioned the “Love Dub” melody, symbolizing the universal rhythm of hope and unity among people.
Closing his address with a heartfelt invitation to all world leaders, President Dissanayake once again urged global solidarity. “The problems we all face, as well as the love and dreams in our hearts, are calling for us to come together and build the world. Let us unite to create a beautiful life and a beautiful world,” he concluded, receiving a warm response from the gathered delegates.
