Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa met with United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Marc-Andre Franche, for a high-level discussion focused on strengthening cooperation in the health and media sectors.
During the meeting, held at the Health and Mass Media Ministry, Dr. Jayatissa reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to maintaining a continuous and transparent supply of high-quality medicines through the national hospital network. He noted that comprehensive procurement and distribution plans are in place to sustain uninterrupted medicine access through 2026.
“All medicines provided free of charge through Government hospitals are of the highest quality, and our systems are designed to ensure complete transparency,” the Minister stated.
The discussion also touched on post-crisis healthcare recovery efforts, media sector development, and future UN-supported initiatives. Dr. Jayatissa acknowledged the recent challenges faced by Sri Lanka’s health system, while stressing that stabilisation and progress are now underway, with the Government focused on ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all citizens.
He further praised the United Nations’ longstanding role in Sri Lanka’s development journey, saying: “Partnering with the UN has always been integral to our progress, especially in advancing socio-economic, cultural, and public health objectives.”
Resident Coordinator Marc-Andre Franche lauded the Government’s commitment and pledged the UN’s continued support, particularly in the wake of increased public expectations following the recent elections.
“Despite the challenges ahead, we are committed to supporting the Government’s health and media reforms, especially efforts that promote sustainable peace, equity, and social inclusion,” Franche said. He also welcomed Sri Lanka’s increased budget allocation for free healthcare, expressing confidence that it would help drive transformational changes in the sector.
Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe and several senior officials also took part in the meeting, which marks another milestone in Sri Lanka–UN collaboration on public service delivery and development.
