Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya has called for collective effort in Sri Lanka's development journey, highlighting the role of spiritual guidance alongside infrastructure modernization. She made these remarks while participating in a ceremony conferring the title of Mahanayaka Thero on a senior Buddhist monk.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya stressed that national transformation extends beyond government initiatives, requiring active participation from all segments of society. Speaking at a ceremony on August 15, 2026, where Most Venerable Mahakande Rathanapala Thero was conferred the title of Mahanayaka Thero of the Shyamopali Vanavasa Nikaya, the Prime Minister outlined her vision for comprehensive national development.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the contributions of the Maha Sangha in preserving Buddhist values and strengthening societal ethics. According to her remarks, the spiritual guidance provided by Buddhist institutions offers essential support for government development efforts. She noted that the Vanavasa tradition's emphasis on harmony with nature, simplicity, and discipline provides valuable lessons for modernizing the country responsibly.

Dr. Amarasuriya outlined the government's modernization agenda across multiple sectors, including health, education, and transportation infrastructure such as metro services. However, she emphasized that development cannot be measured solely by new construction. Instead, she advocated for renewing existing systems and creating conditions that enable citizens to build better lives while maintaining social responsibility and compassion.

The Prime Minister underscored that protecting new infrastructure and systems, using opportunities responsibly, and ensuring their preservation for future generations constitute shared responsibilities extending beyond government. She highlighted that developing the necessary human qualities to use technology and economic opportunities properly is as crucial as the infrastructure itself in creating a prosperous and responsible society.