President Sirisena interacted with President Obama, Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and several other leaders during the luncheon hosted by Mr Ban Ki-moon. “President Obama said there is a positive transformation in Sri Lanka. Ban Ki-moon congratulated me about the progress in many spheres. Everybody paid glowing tributes to Sri Lanka and I am extremely happy about their positive responses,” the President said.

He said that no country has any hatred or animosity towards Sri Lanka today and all have a favourable image of friendship. “I am going back to Sri Lanka carrying this most favourable impression of the world leaders,” President said.

The President said that he was glad about the ratification of the Paris Declaration on Global warming by many countries and said he is totally committed to make Sri Lanka economically strong nation that preserves the environment and natural resources.