Sri Lanka and the US recently discussed how the latter can help the Parliament here. A delegation of members of the House Democracy Partnership (HDP) of the United States House of Representatives, led by its Executive Director Derek Luyten, discussed issues at hand with Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne. US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung and Secretary General of the Parliament of Sri Lanka Kushani Rohanadeera took part in the discussion.
Officials of the House Democracy Partnership participating in a two-day programme at the Parliament said that at present they worked in collaboration with 15 legislatures across the world. They said that their purpose is to provide necessary assistance to legislatures through various processes, such as budget oversight and financial accountability, effective functioning of committees, legislative drafting and procedures, and research and policy formulation.
The Speaker conveyed his gratitude to them for visiting Sri Lanka to exchange the required knowledge in cooperation with the Parliament of Sri Lanka. The Speaker also explained to the delegation how the legislative process is carried forward strongly by adopting various Acts and regulations. Furthermore, the Speaker elaborated on how the legislature functions effectively through the responsibilities carried out in full transparency by the legislature, its committees, and the Parliament.
The Speaker also informed the delegation about the transformation of the Speaker’s official residence into a Parliamentary Studies and Research Centre, to which the delegation responded by stating that they are ready to extend the necessary resources and support.
The Speaker also requested the members of the House Democracy Partnership to continue the support they have given so far to Sri Lanka, emphasising that as a country following a non-aligned foreign policy in Asia, Sri Lanka cooperates with other countries of the world.
Meanwhile, the delegation met with the Committee on Public Finance, chaired by Member of Parliament (Dr.) Harsha de Silva, along with its member Parliamentarians. During this meeting, discussions were held regarding the functions of the Public Finance Committee and the prevailing challenges. The Chair explained matters such as the proposed establishment of a Parliamentary Budget Office, the drafting of legislation on casino regulation as recommended by the Public Finance Committee, and other practical measures affecting the economic progress of the country. The exchange of experiences between the two legislatures also took place at this meeting.
The delegation also met with Member of Parliament Attorney-at-Law Lakmali Hemachandra, Chairperson of the Sectoral Oversight Committee on Economic Development and International Relations. The discussions focused on the functions and scope of the Sectoral Oversight Committees, the challenges they face, and possible solutions to address them.
The delegation held discussions with the Secretary General of Parliament Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera and senior officials of the Office of the Secretary General. Chief of Staff and Deputy Secretary General of Parliament Mr. Chaminda Kularatne, together with senior officials, including the heads of departments of Parliament, also participated at this meeting. Knowledge sharing pertaining to the legislative process in both countries took place including the process in relation to government Bills and private members’ Bills, the committee system of Parliament, and other parliamentary traditions.