The Institute of National Security Studies (INSS) takes pride in its dedicated participation in the prestigious 'LKI Foreign Policy Forum', a flagship program of the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies (LKI). This forum has been specifically designed to serve as a platform for incisive discussions, comprehensive analysis, and thorough evaluations of global subjects pertinent to Sri Lanka's foreign policy landscape.
Marking the 18th Death Anniversary of the late Minister Hon. Lakshman Kadirgamar, the inaugural event unfolded on August 9th, 2023. Centered on the theme "Changing Global Dynamics: Implications for Sri Lanka", the event was graced by the presence of Hon. M. U. M. Ali Sabry, PC, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Board of Management of LKI, along with State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya, Acting Foreign Secretary U.L.M. Jauhar, and a diverse gathering encompassing heads of diplomatic missions, international organizations, government officials, academics, business leaders, civil society representatives, media professionals, and students.
The INSS research staff, including Acting Director General and Director of Communications and Publications Rear Admiral D C Gunawardena, Military Research Officer Commander Amila Prasanga, Research Assistant Ms. Minoshi Perera, and Intern (Research) Ms. Sumudu Madhavi, participated in the event.
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha, Executive Director of LKI, extended a warm welcome to all participants and accentuated the forum's potential to cultivate an exclusive 'Sri Lankan perspective' on global concerns. The Chief Guest, Minister Ali Sabry stressed the critical significance of maintaining accuracy, independence, and impartiality in LKI's research endeavors. He emphasized how this principle reflects the enduring legacy of Lakshman Kadirgamar and expressed optimism that the 'LKI Foreign Policy Forum' will emerge as a platform fostering enriching discussions, insightful analyses, and pragmatic policy recommendations. Minister Sabry also underscored the pivotal role of data-based research in guiding government decisions, especially in avoiding crises such as recent economic challenges.
The event prominently featured a thought-provoking panel discussion with eminent experts, that included Former Foreign Secretary, Ambassador H. M. G. S. Palihakkara, Director/ International Relations & Director/Centre for Strategic Assessment, Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) Dr. Harinda Vidanage, Executive Director, Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) Dr. Dushni Weerakoon, and the Executive Director, National Peace Council of Sri Lanka (NPC) Dr. Jehan Perera. In addressing some of the salient dynamics of the current global order outlined by Ambassador Aryasinha who moderated the session, the panel analyzed the implications of these trends to Sri Lanka from foreign policy, strategic security, economic and civil society perspectives, respectively. This was followed by a vibrant question and answer session.
