
– JICA Pledges Support for Sri Lanka’s “Clean Sri Lanka” Programme
– Attention drawn to expedite the on-going development work at the Bandaranaike International Airport
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will continue its financial and technical assistance to Sri Lanka without interruption, stated Mr. HARA Shohei, Senior Vice President of JICA.
This assurance was revealed during a meeting held today (07) at the Presidential Secretariat between President Anura Kumara Disanayake and Mr. HARA Shohei.
During the discussion, attention was drawn to the on-going development work at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, which is being carried out under Japanese aid.
It was highlighted that all projects initiated in Sri Lanka under JICA support are planned to be expedited and completed efficiently.
Mr. HARA Shohei also reaffirmed JICA’s commitment to extending financial support to Sri Lanka in the future, similar to the assistance provided during the country’s debt restructuring process
He emphasized that JICA is ready to provide financial and technical assistance for the “Clean Sri Lanka” programme and other initiatives.
Additionally, JICA expressed interest in supporting Sri Lanka in reforming its transport system and enhancing urban cleanliness through financial and logistical aid.
Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka, H.E. Akio Isomata, First Secretary, Head of Economic Cooperation Mr.Kenji Ohashi, Chief Representative, JICA Sri Lanka Mr.Tetsuya Yamada, Senior Representative, JICA Sri Lanka Ms. Yuri Ide, Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma and Secretary to the President, Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake also participated in the discussions.

* New Diplomats Urged to Promote the Image of the Country on the International Arena
* President Calls for Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Enhancing Migrant Worker Welfare
President Anura Kumara Disanayake appointed a High Commissioner and four Ambassadors to serve in Sri Lanka’s diplomatic service.
The official appointments were handed over by the President during a formal ceremony held today (07) at the Presidential Secretariat.
The newly designated diplomats also engaged in a brief discussion with the President following the appointments.
The newly appointed representatives include:
* Ms. R. S. Khan Azard, Ambassador-designate to Qatar
* Mr. W. G. S. Prasanna, High Commissioner-designate for New Zealand
* Ms. S. K. Gunasekera, Ambassador-designate for Russia
* Mr. L. P. Ratnayaka, Ambassador-designate for Kuwait
* Mr. A. S. K. Seneviratne, Ambassador-designate for Egypt
President Disanayake expressed his confidence in the newly appointed diplomats, emphasizing the importance of their roles in strengthening Sri Lanka’s bilateral ties and fostering mutual cooperation with the respective nations.
He called on Sri Lanka’s newly appointed diplomats to prioritize improving the country’s international image and promoting its interests globally. Addressing the appointees during the official ceremony, the President stressed the importance of representing Sri Lanka positively in all their diplomatic engagements.
He also emphasized the need to provide equitable welfare services for Sri Lankans working abroad, ensuring that they receive support without any discrimination. The President highlighted the significance of focusing on the welfare of Sri Lankan workers in regions like the Middle East, South Korea, and Japan, where a substantial number of expatriates are employed.
Underscoring Sri Lanka’s aspirations for economic growth, President Disanayake urged the diplomats to work toward increasing direct foreign investments and expanding international market opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
He stated that achieving these goals is a crucial responsibility entrusted to the Ambassadors and High Commissioners. The President assured the diplomats the government’s full support in these endeavors and announced plans for a follow-up discussion on the progress of these initiatives.
The newly appointed diplomats were selected from career diplomat with over 20 years of experience in the Sri Lanka Foreign Service, recognized for their expertise, potential, and ability to contribute to Sri Lanka’s global engagement and economic advancement.
The new appointees will assume their duties shortly, representing Sri Lanka’s interests and contributing to the nation’s diplomatic endeavours.
Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Secretary to the President and Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage were also present at the ceremony.

President Anura Kumara Disanayake held a discussion with the Attorney General and officials from the Attorney General’s Department at the Presidential Secretariat today (06).
During the discussion, the President emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts among all institutions working towards the effective enforcement of the law.
President Disanayake highlighted the critical responsibility of the Attorney General’s Department to restore public confidence in the judicial system. He further stressed that public perception regarding political interference must be transformed to ensure trust in the legal process.
The President reiterated the government’s commitment to avoiding any actions that could erode public expectations. He assured that efforts are being made to re-establish confidence in the justice system and restore the principles of fairness and equity in the eyes of the people.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Justice and National Integration Harshana Nanayakkara, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Security Ravi Seneviratne, Attorney General Parinda Ranasinghe PC, along with several officials from the Attorney General’s Department.

FACETS Sri Lanka – 2025 International Gem and Jewellery Exhibition was inaugurated under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Disanayake at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo today (04).
The President also visited and inspected the gem and jewellery stalls featured at the exhibition.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewellery Association (SLGJA) in collaboration with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA) and the Export Development Board (EDB), this year marks the 31st edition of Asia’s leading gem and jewellery exhibition. The event will continue until January 6.
Delegations from China, India, the United States, Europe, and several other countries, along with representatives from globally renowned gem and jewellery companies visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, are participating in the event.
Additionally, local gem entrepreneurs from prominent industry hubs such as Ratnapura, Elahara, Beruwala, Eheliyagoda, Galle, and Colombo are showcasing their exceptional craftsmanship.
The primary objective of the exhibition is to create business opportunities with traders, exporters, and industry professionals worldwide, with the ambition of exceeding USD 1 billion in gem and jewellery exports.
FACETS Sri Lanka is one of the most anticipated events in the local and global gem and jewellery industry calendar, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, diversity, and sustainability in the sector.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Enterprise Development, Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, and Chaturanga Abeysinghe, Deputy Minister of Industry and Enterprise Development, along with Ambassadors and other distinguished guests.

• We Have Successfully Concluded Our Initial Approach. Significant progress has been made in establishing the foundation necessary to rebuild the nation and restore its stability.
• Our Country and Citizens Need a New System of Values
• Introducing a fresh and constructive value system is essential for the nation’s progress.
• The Success of the “Clean Sri Lanka” Program Relies on Active Public Participation
• Active engagement and support from the general public are critical to achieving the goals of this initiative.
• Every Citizen Must Take Responsibility for Their Assigned Duties
• It is essential that all citizens fulfil their responsibilities diligently for the betterment of the nation.
• Our Government’s Contributors Work Largely on a Voluntary Basis, a political system where individuals willingly contribute to the nation’s progress is what Sri Lanka truly needs.
President Anura Kumara Disanayake stated that the success of the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative depends solely on the active participation of the public.
The President made these remarks today (01) at an event held at the Presidential Secretariat to inaugurate the “Clean Sri Lanka” program.
During his address, President Disanayake further elaborated:
The event was attended by members of the Maha Sangha, religious leaders, ministers, ambassadors, athletes, representatives from various sectors, and government officials.
Donors also presented donations to the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program.
We believe that as 2024 concludes and we step into 2025, the dawn of a new year presents us with a critical question. Despite decades of similar beginnings, have we truly embraced renewal for the betterment of our nation? Or have we regressed, adapting only to perpetuate past failures? This question confronts us as we welcome the New Year. Our firm resolution is to usher in transformative change for our country this year. This is both our challenge and responsibility, and we are fully committed to fulfilling it.
Together with my cabinet, deputy ministers, and the entire political leadership, we are dedicated to this cause. This year marks the start of a new political culture in our country, as we lay the necessary foundations for its development. We aim to abolish practices such as nepotism, the abuse of power against the people, and the creation of a political elite that prioritizes personal interests over the public good. Instead, we are committed to a political culture aligned with the aspirations of the people.
Economically, we recognize the severe challenges our nation has faced in recent years, leading to a state of near-collapse. Over the past year, we achieved some stability on the surface level of the economy and officially emerged from bankruptcy in the latter half of the year. This progress is owed to the immense efforts of officials from the Ministry of Finance, the Central Bank, and the political leadership. However, surface-level stability is not enough. This year, we will implement an economic policy framework aimed at addressing the deeper structural problems within our economy.
Our country has also faced various security threats over the years. It is with great confidence that we can now assure our citizens of a robust and secure national defence. Last year, reports surfaced regarding a potential attack cantered on Arugam Bay. Our police, intelligence services, and armed forces acted decisively to maintain the nation’s security and instil public trust. We have also begun systematically reinstating the rule of law, which had been neglected for far too long. In the past, criminals, corrupt individuals, and even political authorities operated above the law, disregarding constitutional principles. In some instances, former presidents were found guilty of constitutional violations by the Supreme Court. In such a context, the rule of law had become merely an abstract notion.
To re-establish and strengthen the rule of law, we are making significant efforts. Our country has been plagued by widespread corruption, malpractice, and inefficiency within the state apparatus, political institutions, and society as a whole. Corruption has become a malignant cancer spreading throughout our nation, and eliminating it requires a tremendous collective effort. The Attorney General’s Department has a critical role to play in this endeavour, and I trust they will perform their duties with the necessary diligence and support.
Similarly, institutions such as the Criminal Investigation Department and the judiciary bear the principal responsibility for transforming our country into one free from corruption and fraud. We believe these institutions will act with the dedication required to achieve this transformation. As political leaders, we are committed to setting an example through both our words and actions.
However, leadership and intervention from the political sphere alone will not suffice. Relevant state institutions must understand their responsibilities and contribute actively to this process of change.
Therefore, I call upon all relevant institutions and officials to provide their unwavering support. This collective effort is vital for the transformative progress our nation needs in the coming year.
To construct any strong building or initiate any successful project, a solid foundation is essential. Our nation, however, is one that has lost its foundation, its very groundwork. For this reason, we have focused our initial efforts on successfully establishing the fundamental groundwork required to rebuild this country. This foundation encompasses political authority, state mechanisms, the rule of law, respect for and protection of the Constitution, and a rejection of corruption, fraud, and bribery. These elements form the bedrock necessary to advance the nation. We are rapidly and systematically laying this foundation. The benefits of the robust economy built on this foundation must flow to our citizens.
Our government is focusing on three main projects, or key objectives, to lead this initiative. The first priority is to rescue our country and its people. Economic reforms are being formulated to ensure that economic benefits reach rural communities, as an economy concentrated in the hands of a small group can never bring stability to society. Such an imbalanced economy fosters instability for the nation and its people. Therefore, achieving economic stability requires extending economic benefits to rural populations.
With the upcoming budget, we aim to steer economic programs toward the eradication of poverty in our nation. Our second goal is to embrace digital transformation. By establishing a foundation for digitalization, we seek to minimize inefficiency and corruption while enabling citizens to interact seamlessly and effectively with state mechanisms.
The third major initiative is the “Clean Sri Lanka” project. This endeavour goes beyond merely cleaning up the environment. It aspires to restore the deeply eroded and deteriorated social and environmental fabric of our motherland. We aim to create cleanliness and rejuvenation across all sectors of society.
Allow me to highlight a few critical issues to emphasize the importance of these efforts. Sri Lanka is endowed with an exceptionally beautiful and vital environment. Our strategic geographic location is a significant advantage, and visitors often remark on the stunning beauty of our country. However, despite this natural wealth, Sri Lanka faces grave challenges.
In 2023 alone, 181 people lost their lives in human-elephant conflicts, and 484 elephants were killed by human action. Although we possess an aesthetically and ecologically rich environment, we are a nation where 484 elephants die annually. Furthermore, floods and landslides displace significant populations; resulting in loss of life, and cause substantial economic damage.
Restoring our environmental system must become a core focus of the “Clean Sri Lanka” program. Our nation and its people need a new value system. We have mistakenly elevated incorrect values to positions of importance, embedding them as the fundamental ethos of our society. It is crucial to establish a new framework of values.
Where do we begin? The first step must be cultivating an appreciation for one’s own life. Sadly, many of our citizens lack a sense of self-worth or value for their lives. I say this because, in the past year, 550 people drowned, whether in the sea, reservoirs, wells, or ponds. A total of 2,321 people died due to such incidents. These figures highlight the urgent need to foster respect for life in our society.
On average, approximately seven people lose their lives daily due to road accidents in our country. This reflects the emergence of a society that lacks a sense of value for life; one where individuals have little regard for their own lives or the lives of others. It is a society devoid of empathy, concern, and consideration for one another.
Therefore, it is essential to heal our society and introduce a new system of values and principles. Under the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ Initiative, we aim to establish these new values and systems. Minimizing road accidents is a priority. To achieve this, my trust lies first and foremost in the citizens rather than the law. Citizen participation and engagement are vital. If citizens fail to comply, we are prepared to enforce the law. However, we are committed to driving this transformation with a thoughtful, inclusive and adaptive approach. Nonetheless, if any one obstructs this progress, we are equally ready to act decisively and assertively to ensure the recovery and well-being of our society.
Furthermore, it is essential to address the concerns of our citizens regarding the safety and quality of the food they purchase from the market. As a state, it is our responsibility to provide food that is free from harmful substances.
The Clean Sri Lanka initiative encompasses the responsibility to act towards these goals. Furthermore, as a society, we must care for our citizens, including those with disabilities. This is a matter of social justice. Can we marginalize individuals simply because they have grown old? Can we exclude those with disabilities from society, treating them as outsiders instead of equals? A society that does so can never truly be considered a just or compassionate one. If we lack empathy and compassion for the disabled community, the elderly, and the women and youth in our midst, we fail to nurture and uphold a sense of collective care. Such a society will become one characterized by cruelty and indifference toward one another. Therefore, we must cultivate a new social mind-set that prioritizes inclusivity and compassion.
Additionally, the protection of public assets is vital. For a long time, Sri Lankan citizens held a deep respect for public property. However, in recent times, there has been a shift where people protect their personal possessions but neglect the preservation of national resources and public goods. This stems from a lack of understanding about the intrinsic value of these shared assets.
A state must ensure that all citizens recognize the importance of safeguarding national resources—not just for their benefit but for the benefit of future generations. These resources are not exclusively ours to exploit or destroy. Our generation has a responsibility to protect and preserve them for those who will come after us.
It is within this framework that the Clean Sri Lanka initiative is prepared to act. Moreover, we understand that the government machinery and political authorities must function with efficiency and urgency. Every citizen must take responsibility for fulfilling their respective duties to ensure the success of this collective vision.
If responsibility is neglected, the weight of that responsibility will inevitably cause the system to collapse. The strength and stability of this structure are built upon various frameworks, including government, political, and private sectors. When members of these frameworks fail to fulfill their assigned responsibilities, it leads to significant harm to the system as a whole. Therefore, we urge, particularly from the state sector, to be prepared to uphold your duties with diligence and commitment. Numerous examples today highlight the importance of responsibility and selfless service. Many critical institutions in Sri Lanka, vital to economic progress and national security, are led by individuals who voluntarily take on significant responsibilities.
The Chairperson of Sri Lankan Airlines, the Chairperson of Sri Lanka Telecom, the Chairperson of the Port City, the Chairperson of the Board of Investment, and the Chairperson of the Gas Company, among many others, are professionals with exceptional skills and expertise. These individuals have stepped into their roles within our institutions to serve voluntarily, without any personal financial gain. Additionally, on a personal level, I have three advisors who also contribute their knowledge and expertise without receiving a single rupee as remuneration from the government.
On a personal note, my own three advisors work without receiving a single rupee in compensation from the government. These examples of selfless dedication serve as powerful reminders of the impact individuals can make when they place national progress above personal gain.
Sri Lanka is fortunate to have some of its most brilliant minds contributing voluntarily to national progress. Among them is a distinguished expert in digital transformation with extensive experience in the field. Having conducted ground-breaking research in science and technology at a leading American university, this individual is now working selflessly for the betterment of our nation.
Similarly, an expert with practical experience in economics, who has accumulated invaluable insights, has chosen to dedicate their time and expertise voluntarily. These are the kind of leaders our country needs—visionaries with fresh perspectives and transformative ideas. They are not driven by monetary gain or personal benefit but by the desire to serve the nation. These individuals have set aside their prestigious careers and dedicated their knowledge, time, and effort to rebuild our country, serving as an extraordinary example of selflessness and commitment.
A remarkable example has been set for our country. Because of this, I am telling you that we have been given an opportunity to rise. I do not consider this the final opportunity, because there are no “final moments” for people there are only opportunities. Today, as a nation, as a country, we have the chance to rise.
What I ask of the citizens of this country is this: Will you let this opportunity slip away, or will you seize it with determination and use it to rebuild our country and our nation? Are you ready to fulfil your duties and contribute to this cause? This is the question I am asking you.
Is this responsibility solely that of the government? Is it just a political manifesto? No. This is a collective effort. Throughout history, various nations around the world have faced challenges at different times. I don’t believe that any nation has ever gone through its journey without facing challenges from the beginning to the present. Every country has faced its unique set of challenges at various points in time. However, in each case, the political leadership, state machinery, and collective effort of the citizens have come together to overcome these challenges.
We don’t need to go far back in history. If we think of just the last century, we can see how many countries in Asia rose up in unity based on the message of collective effort. But what have we done? Instead of rising together, we have fostered distrust among ourselves, allowing nationalism, religious extremism, and divisive political battles to undermine our society. We’ve let mistrust, anger, and hatred grow among us through divisive politics. If the people are never ready to rise together, we will never have the chance to overcome these challenges. Therefore, the opportunity has presented itself. We now have the chance to rise up and take this opportunity.
We are ready to put an end to all divisions. As people born in the same Sri Lanka, we are prepared to come together and work collectively to build this country. Therefore, especially the success of the ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ program will depend solely on the active participation of the people. Without that, this cannot be achieved merely by laws imposed by the government or by officials appointed by the government. It is only through the collective effort of the public that we can make this a success.
A government mechanism is needed for this. Already, a task force of about 18 individuals has been appointed towards this end. I want to emphasize that everyone is working voluntarily. Furthermore, we hope to establish a Clean Sri Lanka Secretariat for this purpose. We also aim to form a Clean Sri Lanka Council to bring the people together for this cause, throughout the country. Ultimately, this is not a project that will conclude at a specific time. It is a continuous program that adapts to new global circumstances and is a part of the effort to restore governance within society. This is not a one or two-year project. If it were a project, it would be something that could be completed in one place, but the world is rapidly changing, and significant global victories are being achieved.
Social values, new principles, and fresh systems are continuously evolving. All of these elements are contributing to the formation of a new Sri Lankan nation in this country. For this cause, we are establishing a separate fund to support this effort. Citizens of this country will have the opportunity to contribute to this fund. The Ministry of Finance has appointed a supervisory board to oversee it. Therefore, this work is a collective effort that we must carry out to succeed, and we invite everyone to join in. By working together, we can accomplish this with great success. May this year be a prosperous new year for everyone.
Thank you very much.

As Sri Lankans, we step into 2025 with the dawn of a new era, a time when the dreams of prosperity that our nation and its people have long cherished begin to materialize.
The parliamentary elections of 2024 enabled us to establish a government with a strong majority, earning the trust of people across the North, East, West, and South. With this mandate, we have initiated a transformative political shift, fulfilling our democratic responsibilities to build the good governance our citizens aspire to.
Our primary developmental goals include eradicating rural poverty, implementing the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, and building a digital economy. The “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative, launched alongside the New Year, aims to uplift society to greater heights through social, environmental, and ethical revival.
In 2024, we achieved significant economic stability as a nation. With this progress as our foundation, we move forward in 2025 with renewed vision and determination, working towards creating a prosperous nation and ensuring a beautiful life for everyone. I firmly believe this moment marks an exceptional opportunity to inspire new ideals and foster greater unity for the benefit of all.
For the first time in Sri Lanka’s history since independence, we now have the chance to make the dream of a united and developed nation a reality through people-centered governance. This unparalleled responsibility rests upon all of us, and we fully understand its importance. In 2025, with courage and unwavering commitment, we will strive to regain the victories missed in the past century and bring these dreams to fruition.
Wishing everyone a Happy New Year filled with prosperity, unity, and renewed hope as we strive for peace and progress together.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake directed officials to take immediate measures to suppress drug trafficking and underworld activities that operated within the prison system. These instructions were issued during a discussion held at the Presidential Secretariat today (30).
The President emphasized the need to expedite legal proceedings related to inmates involved in drug and underworld-related activities. He also proposed adopting online methods to streamline the judicial process and highlighted the importance of enhancing infrastructure to address challenges associated with such digital systems.
Allegations of certain officials’ involvement in irregular activities within prisons were also addressed during the meeting. The President instructed that disciplinary actions be supplemented with appropriate legal measures against any officials found to be involved.
The discussion also focused on vacancies in the Government Analyst’s Department, with participants agreeing on the urgent need to fill these positions promptly.
The meeting was attended by Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala, Minister of Justice and National Integration Attorney Harshana Nanayakkara, Secretary to the Ministry of Justice and National Integration Attorney Ayesha Jinasena, Commissioner General of Prisons Thushara Upuldeniya, and other officials.

– President Instructs the Officials
President Anura Kumara Disanayake has instructed officials to promptly implement the necessary plans to position Sri Lanka as an attractive destination for tourists.
He further emphasized that the successful implementation of the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative would strengthen efforts to promote the tourism industry.
The President made these remarks during a meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat today (30), where discussions were held on positioning Sri Lanka as one of Asia’s most valuable and environmentally sustainable islands.
Additionally, discussions focused on promoting the tourism sector through environmental and cultural avenues. Special attention was given to uniting all stakeholders from both the formal and informal sectors to advance the country’s tourism industry.
The Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Dr. Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, the Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi, the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Buddhika Hewawasam, the Director General of the Department of Wildlife Conservation Chandana Sooriyabandara, the Director General of the Central Cultural Fund Dr. T.M.J. Nilan Cooray and a group of officials were present at the meeting.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held a discussion today (28) at the Presidential Secretariat with the heads of the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka Customs, and the Airport and Aviation Services.
The discussion extensively focused on preventing the entry of narcotics and other prohibited substances into the country, curbing corruption, fraud, and irregularities at airports, customs, and halting the unauthorized departure of individuals from the country.
During the meeting, President Dissanayake instructed the establishment of an integrated camera system and a unified observation room to be shared among the Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka Customs, and the Airport and Aviation Services.
The President also emphasized the need for a practical and modernized process to prevent smuggling, calling for the replacement of the current scanning equipment with advanced, modern scanners.
Highlighting the need to eliminate the negative perceptions surrounding Sri Lanka Customs, the President underscored the urgency of implementing strict disciplinary and legal action to restore public confidence.
The discussion was attended by prominent officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath; Minister of Public Security and Parliamentary Affairs Ananda Wijepala; Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake; Director General of Customs Sarath Nonis; Acting Controller General of Immigration and Emigration BMD Nilusha Balasuriya; and Chairman of Airport & Aviation Services Sri Lanka (Private) Ltd, Air Chief Marshal Harsha Abeywickrama.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake extended his heartfelt condolences on the demise of former Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh through a special message on Twitter.
The message reads as follows:
“On behalf of the people of Sri Lanka and myself, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Republic of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s family, and his countless admirers worldwide. A visionary leader, Dr. Singh’s influence transcended national boundaries. As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, his transformative policies, like the Right to Education Act and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, reflected his steadfast commitment to equity and inclusivity.
A tireless advocate of international collaboration, he forged lasting alliances, contributed to coalitions like BRICS, and showcased remarkable diplomacy through achievements such as the Indo-US nuclear agreement. His humility, intellect, and dedication to public service will forever inspire future generations. May his soul find peace and be united with the divine!”