As I conclude my public duties, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported, guided, and constructively critiqued my efforts. Your trust and encouragement were the pillars that sustained me throughout this journey.
When I stepped into politics in 2019, I was driven by a single, clear vision: to serve my country, particularly in reforming the justice system—a field to which I had already devoted much of my life. However, as many of you can appreciate, the road we set out to travel often shifts unexpectedly.
The world, and indeed our country, was soon besieged by extraordinary challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic, followed by the far-reaching effects of the conflict in Ukraine, upended global stability, leading to one of the most severe economic crises in our nation’s history. It tested our resilience in ways we could not have imagined.
During these difficult times, I was privileged to serve in multiple roles: first as Minister of Justice, then as Minister of Finance, and finally as Minister of Foreign Affairs. Each position came with its own unique set of trials, and in each, I gave my very best to rise to the occasion and meet the demands placed upon me.
As Foreign Minister, I had the opportunity to engage with leaders, diplomats, and international organizations from around the world. Their unwavering support and partnership were invaluable as we sought to steer Sri Lanka through its economic recovery. I am deeply grateful for the solidarity they showed during some of our darkest hours.
Public service is never an easy road. It requires not just time and energy but also deep personal sacrifices. And when one strives to serve with integrity and honesty, those sacrifices can feel even greater. But as I reflect on this journey, I do so with a sense of pride in the contributions I was able to make—no matter how small—during such a challenging time for our nation.
Entering politics was not a path that came naturally to me. There were many challenges, both expected and unforeseen. Yet, through it all, I held tightly to the advice my father gave me many years ago: “Control what you can, and do not waste time worrying about what lies beyond your reach.” These words have been my constant guide, allowing me to move forward even when the road ahead seemed uncertain.
As I now step away from public office, I look forward to returning to my first passion: the practice of law. I am excited about reuniting with the profession that has always been my true calling and, above all, having more time to spend with my family—something I have missed dearly during these years.
To the Presidents I served under, my colleagues in government, the dedicated public servants, our international partners, and, above all, the citizens of this great nation: thank you. Serving Sri Lanka during such a critical time has been one of the greatest honors of my life. While the road was not always smooth, I am proud of what we achieved together.
Of course, no journey is without its missteps. I made mistakes, as anyone would. But through every challenge and every difficult decision, I can say with absolute sincerity that I gave my best—never shying away from the task at hand or retreating into the safety of armchair criticism.
As I close this chapter, I will always carry with me the lessons and memories from this period of service. I remain hopeful, like all of you, that Sri Lanka will rise to meet its full potential in the days to come.
