Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya participated as the Chief Guest at the 78th Annual General Meeting and Convention of the Sri Lanka Veterinary Association (SLVA), held at the Shangri-La Colombo on 30 October 2026.
The event brought together government representatives, veterinary professionals, academics, policymakers and international partners to recognise the contribution of the veterinary profession to public health, food security, animal welfare and sustainable development.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasised that veterinary medicine is an integral part of national development, extending beyond animal healthcare to protecting public health, preventing diseases transmitted between animals and humans, ensuring food safety, supporting farmers and conserving wildlife.
“Veterinary professionals play a vital role in safeguarding animal health and protecting human well-being. Their contribution directly impacts public health, food security, livelihoods and environmental sustainability,” stated.
Highlighting the importance of the profession to Sri Lanka’s agricultural sector, the Prime Minister noted that veterinary services are essential to improving livestock productivity, preventing disease and strengthening the resilience of farming communities.
She also stressed the need to strengthen animal welfare and wildlife protection through improved legal safeguards against animal cruelty, responsible animal ownership and effective responses to injured and distressed wildlife.
“The Government recognises that these priorities require a strong, adequately resourced and professionally supported veterinary sector,” the Prime Minister stated, emphasising the need to address staff vacancies through appropriate recruitment and deployment, strengthen infrastructure and improve access to modern equipment and technology.
Concluding her remarks, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of supporting veterinary professionals as part of the country’s broader development priorities.
“A strong veterinary profession is essential to a healthy population, a productive agricultural sector and a sustainable environment. Supporting this profession is not merely a sectoral concern; it is an investment in the well-being and future of our country,” she said.
The occasion was attended by Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr.Sugath Premachandra, President , Sri Lanka Veterinary Association, oOffice-bearers and members of the Sri Lanka Veterinary Association, The Chairman of the National Livestock Development Board, Mr. Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka and the Maldives; Veterinarians representing government services, universities, private practice, research institutions, and the livestock and animal healthcare industries.
Prime Minister’s Media Division