In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity and compassion, the Government of Sri Lanka has extended a helping hand to the children impacted by the conflicts in the Gaza Strip. A substantial donation of USD 1 million was formally transferred to the Government of Palestine through the United Nations’ official channel, underscoring Sri Lanka’s commitment to humanitarian causes.
The ceremony, held at the Presidential Secretariat on Monday, was graced by the presence of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who personally oversaw the transfer of the donation. With unwavering resolve, President Wickremesinghe presented the contribution cheque to Zuhair M.H. Zaid, the Palestinian Ambassador in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the significance of collective efforts in alleviating the suffering of innocent children caught in the throes of conflict.
This generous contribution forms part of the ongoing support for the “Children of Gaza Fund,” an initiative spearheaded by President Wickremesinghe to provide crucial aid to affected children in the Gaza Strip. Responding to the President’s impassioned call to action, ministries and government institutions rallied behind the cause, culminating in the initial USD 1 million donation being swiftly dispatched to the Palestinian government in the first phase.
Furthermore, echoing the President’s plea for solidarity, the Sri Lankan community has demonstrated immense generosity, with over Rs. 20 million contributed to the fund. These funds, earmarked for the welfare of Gaza’s children, are set to be formally transferred to the Palestinian government in the coming days, serving as a beacon of hope amidst adversity.
As the deadline for contributions approaches on April 30, 2024, donors are urged to partake in this noble initiative. Contributions can be made by depositing donations to the Bank of Ceylon (Account number: 7040016), Taprobane Branch (Branch code: 747), before the specified date. Donors are kindly requested to forward the relevant deposit receipt via Whatsapp to 077-9730396, as instructed by the President’s Office, ensuring transparency and accountability in the donation process.
The ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat witnessed the exchange of goodwill and solidarity, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry PC, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms. Aruni Wijewardena, and a delegation of senior officials from the Palestinian Embassy in Sri Lanka in attendance. Their collective presence underscored the shared commitment to fostering peace, stability, and prosperity for all, irrespective of geographical boundaries.
In extending a helping hand to the children of Gaza, Sri Lanka reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of compassion, solidarity, and humanity, transcending borders and embodying the spirit of global citizenship. As the world grapples with myriad challenges, let this gesture serve as a testament to the transformative power of collective action in making a tangible difference in the lives of the most vulnerable among us.
