Lankan women set many valuable examples – First Lady

Sri Lankan women set many valuable examples to women in most societies, said First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa in a message to mark International Women’s Day yesterday.

Here is the full text of the message.

“I am pleased to send this message for freedom and peace to all women of the world on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Sri Lankan women set many valuable examples to women in most societies. Enriched by great historical and cultural heritage, ethics and education, the women of Sri Lanka, through their strength of character enjoy a special place among their counterparts the world over. This special position continues to be enhanced with the passage of time.

It is women who suffer most due to conflicts and wars in different parts of the world.

Today, the women of Sri Lanka heave a sigh of immense relief as our country has succeeded in defeating the most ruthless terrorist organisation that left a trail of blood in many parts of the country for three decades.

The women of Sri Lanka now enjoy the benefits of the progress made in poverty eradication, supply of electricity to all parts of the country and the availability of new tools and equipment as a result of the spread of technology.

The doors of the public as well as private sectors are wide open to women too. The number of girls going for higher education has risen to an unprecedented level.

The strong sense of discipline, good behaviour and peaceful way of life of Sri Lankan women have laid a solid foundation for peace and harmony in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan mothers’ devoted attention to their children’s education is a strong factor for the country’s admirable human resource bank.

The strength of the Sri Lankan family is built on the firm foundation of motherhood. The extraordinary strength of the family unit demonstrates the strength and commitment of our women. May the Sri Lankan women continue to shine throughout the world in their commitment to social progress and be an example to others.”

This year’s theme is ‘Women a Strength to the Nation.’