The World Food Health Organization (WHO) has welcomed Sri Lanka’s decision to phase out the use of chemical fertilizers and invited President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa to attend the first and special address of the UN General Assembly on Food Security as an honour to the decision.
The President was felicitated at the 48th Session of the United Nations Conference on World Food Security in Rome, Italy was held yesterday (04) via video technology and the president was felicitated during the session.
“We know that problems will arise in the early stages during this transition. These include barriers to domestic production and the provision of organic alternatives, as well as the negative public opinion that arises from the ban. However, as leaders we must take decisive action despite the critical challenges we face. If we are reluctant to make responsible decisions, such essential initiatives will always be limited to discussions, ”the President said.
The President said that his government’s decision to ban the import of synthetic fertilizers and agrochemicals would meet the long-standing need for migration to a healthier and more environmentally friendly agricultural system.
The President said he was looking forward to the support of multilateral organizations, technical experts and institutions as well as businesses and investors from other countries to strengthen the local capacity for organic farming.
President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa emphasized that governments around the world should not hesitate to adopt bold policies to protect human health.
Such policies should support environmental protection. The President also pointed out that the people should be an assist to prevent the destruction of biodiversity and to achieve more sustainable economic aspirations.
The President pointed out that climate change is a serious problem facing mankind and stressed that all countries should work together to reduce its impact.
