Co-operative Movement’s future discussed under President’s patronage

A special meeting to discuss the future direction of the co-operative movement in Sri Lanka was recently convened by the Sri Lanka National Co-operative Board under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. 

Held at the Sri Lanka Exhibition and Convention Centre (SLECC), the event saw participation from figures, including Sanasa Movement founder Dr. P. A. Kiriwandeniya alongside other officials. 

Among the other attendees were; the Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Safety Nalin Fernando, State Minister of Mass Media, Shanta Bandara, the Chief of Presidential Staff, Sagala Ratnayake, and several other Ministers. 

Additionally, the event drew a significant number of participants from the co-operative and related sectors, including A.D. Sarath Weerasiri, who represented the Sri Lanka National Co-operative Board.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Kiriwandeniya emphasised the challenges surrounding the identity of the co-operative movement in Sri Lanka, noting the need for a clear solution.

He called on the President and other authorities to prioritise the establishment of a co-operative system that remains independent of external influences. In response, the President expressed his appreciation for Dr. Kiriwandeniya’s efforts in empowering the people and affirmed his intention to engage in further discussions with him  to address the challenges faced by the co-operative sector.