Foreign Minister Meets UN Secretary-General

01-Oct-2026

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Sri Lankan Foreign Minister, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath briefed United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on the progress achieved in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and reforms, as well as the reconciliation efforts being undertaken by the Government.

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath addressed the high-level segment of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 30, 2026, and subsequently held bilateral meetings with high-level representatives.

The meeting between Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and UN Secretary-General António Guterres was held as part of these engagements.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the meeting provided an opportunity for a constructive exchange of views. During the meeting, Minister Vijitha Herath briefed the UN Secretary-General on Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, progress made in reforms and the reconciliation efforts being undertaken by the Government.

The two sides also exchanged views on reforms required in the international financial architecture with the objective of supporting developing countries, while Sri Lanka’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping operations was also discussed.

Thereafter, Minister Vijitha Herath participated in a high-level meeting organised to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, where he reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to nuclear disarmament.

He also called on all countries to take strong, time-bound measures aimed at achieving the complete elimination of nuclear weapons.

Furthermore, Minister Vijitha Herath stressed the need to utilise excessive resources for development, healthcare, education and measures to address climate-related challenges.