PARLIAMENT

The inauguration of the Advanced Residency Program on Leadership in Parliament for Clerks and Officials organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Parliament of Sri Lanka was held recently (Jun. 10) in the Parliament under the patronage of the Speaker Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena.  

About 40 Parliamentary officials from 15 Commonwealth countries including India, Pakistan, The United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia joined this event and this residential training program will be held in Colombo from 11th to 14th of this month.

Addressing the gathering, the speaker, Hon. Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, stated that the parliamentary officials have a great responsibility to serve the country by strengthening democracy. ‘’This programme would be great platform to build up the friendship and professional relations across the common wealth countries’’ the Speaker said. Also, he extended his gratitude to the all who have worked tirelessly to make this event a success.

Welcoming the gathering Secretary General of Parliament of Sri Lanka Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera said that aim of this programme is not only to enrich the professional skills but also to foster culture of continuous learning and development within Parliamentary institutions. She also expressed her gratitude to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association for conducting this program in Sri Lanka.

Also, Chief of Staff and the Deputy Secretary General of Parliament Mr. Chaminda Kularatne said that this is important for everyone belonging to the Commonwealth family to enhance Parliamentary leadership and exchange ideas. He also expressed his gratitude to all those who work hard to make this event possible.

Addressing the gathering, the Head of Programmes of CPA Headquarters Secretariat Mr. Matthew Salik also expressed his gratitude to all those who supported including Parliament of Sri Lanka to make this program a success.

Clerk to the Parliament of Eswatini Mr. Benedict Xaba, Assistant Secretary General of Parliament of Sri Lanka Mr. Hansa Abeyratne, Mr. Mark Webb, Chief Executive, Department of Parliamentary Services of Australia, Mr. Rafael Gonzalez-Montero, Chief Executive, Parliamentary Service of New Zealand, Ms. Kate Faragher, International Coach, Facilitator and Trainer of New Zealand and Mr. Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau were also present on this occasion.