Minister welcomed the new UNICEF country programme to be implemented from 2023. He further stated that Sri Lanka has been a benchmark in its efforts in providing free healthcare, education as well as other social security measures due to which the Human Development Index for Sri Lanka is well above regional average. The Regional Director appreciated the efforts taken by the Government of Sri Lanka for the protection and well- being of children in Sri Lanka and assured the continued cooperation and assistance of UNICEF to Sri Lanka.

