PM Harini Says Politics and Development Are Closely Linked During UK Visit

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has stressed that politics and development are deeply interconnected, stating that political decisions shape every choice made in governance.

She made the remarks while addressing the 60th anniversary commemoration of the Institute of Development Studies at the University of Sussex during her official visit to the United Kingdom.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya and her delegation arrived at Heathrow Airport on May 18, marking the start of the official visit. The delegation was received by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Nimal Senadheera, alongside Special Representative to the UK Foreign Secretary and former British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Richard Wildash and other diplomatic officials, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

Beginning her official engagements, the Prime Minister visited the University of Sussex in Brighton, where she was welcomed by Professor Anu Joshi, Professor Mick Moore and senior university representatives.

Addressing a public event, Prime Minister Amarasuriya reflected on the connection between politics, governance and development, drawing on Sri Lanka’s recent political and economic experiences. She highlighted the challenges of balancing governance, economic recovery, social protection and institutional reform while responding to public expectations and upholding democratic accountability.

The Prime Minister also underscored the government’s policy focus on recognizing paid and unpaid care work as a key part of the national economy, particularly emphasizing the contributions and challenges faced by women in the care sector.

During the visit, Prime Minister Amarasuriya is also expected to address a session at the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies at the University of Oxford, followed by discussions with scholars and students.

She is also scheduled to meet senior representatives of the UK government, including Yvette Cooper, UK Secretary of State for Education Bridget Phillipson, and Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey during the visit.