The president expressed these views after attending religious activities at Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara Saturday (17) evening.

The president also called on Chief Incumbent of the Temple Ven Dr. Kollupitiye Mahinda Sangharakkitha Nayake Thera.

He also gave an undertaking to commence work on the second phase of the Kelaniya Sacred City development project, at the earliest.

President Sirisena further added that it is the expectation of the present government to build a prosperous country while improving the economy and uplifting national and religious reconciliation.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe also spoke.

President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe were accompanied by Ministers, State Ministers and Deputy Ministers.