UK to return historical artefacts to Sri Lanka: Minister
July 16, Colombo (LNW): Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, Vidura Wickramanayake, has announced that numerous artefacts taken from Sri Lanka by the United Kingdom during the colonial era, including the statue of Tara, will be repatriated.
Speaking at a press conference titled “Collective Path to a Stable Country” at the Presidential Media Centre on the 15th, the minister stressed the need for an education system that resonates with the country’s culture, fostering national pride among citizens.
Minister Wickramanayake emphasised the role of his ministry in shaping responsible and patriotic citizens, noting that the perceived economic crisis is not the sole issue facing the nation.
He highlighted the importance of addressing the cultural disconnection caused by an education system misaligned with local traditions, which has contributed to a lack of national pride and a risk of subjugation.
The minister also mentioned the recent appointments of over a thousand long-serving local government employees, addressing a longstanding need despite criticisms of it being an election strategy.
He clarified that the process involved over ten cabinet papers and has been ongoing for more than five months.
Full Statement:
“The majority of the community believes there is an economic problem in the country today. However, our ministry holds the responsibility of shaping the people of Sri Lanka into good citizens. Our ministry has the official mandate to work towards creating a better society.
Additionally, the country lacks an education system that aligns with our cultural needs, which has led to a societal crisis. This situation has resulted in the emergence of a group of people who lack love for their country and pride in their heritage, putting the nation at risk of becoming subjugated. Therefore, our ministry has implemented several programs to prevent this outcome and save the people.
Additionally, more than a thousand individuals who have served in local government institutions for many years received appointments today. This has been a longstanding need. Some critics claim this is an election tactic, but over ten cabinet papers were presented for their confirmation, indicating that efforts have been underway for more than five months.
Furthermore, many antiquities taken from our country by the United Kingdom, including the statue of Tara, are in the process of being repatriated. We are working to bring back these and other ancient treasures, and we have also received numerous similar items from the Netherlands.
Moreover, there are people in our country who constantly divide into opposing parties and accuse each other. What we need are individuals who recognise right from wrong and are dedicated to the betterment of the country and its people”.
