'Uma Diya Janani': Joint Inauguration of the Uma-Oya Multipurpose Development Project by the Presidents of Iran and Sri Lanka

The ‘Uma Diya Janani’ multipurpose development project, marked as a significant irrigation initiative following the Mahaweli movement, was officially handed over to the public by the Presidents of Iran and Sri Lanka. 

Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi, attending the event at President Ranil  Wickremesinghe’s invitation, received a warm welcome. During the ceremony, both leaders unveiled a commemorative plaque and inaugurated the project, initiating the operation of electricity generators through digital technology. 

President Ranil Wickremesinghe thanked Iran for their indispensable support, highlighting that without it, Sri Lanka couldn’t have diverted water from Uma Oya to Kirindi Oya. He emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening ties with Iran.

Reflecting on the shared aspirations of the Global South for their unique identity and independence, President Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of solidarity among these nations.

President of Iran Ebrahim Raisi underscored that the project symbolizes the friendship between Iran and Sri Lanka and signifies enhanced cooperation, integration, harmony, and unity among Asian nations. 

The President of Iran also affirmed  Iran’s readiness to foster a strong partnership with Sri Lanka and expressed Iran’s willingness to contribute to Sri Lanka’s progress and development through the provision of technical and engineering services for large-scale projects.

Iran’s President, Dr. Ebrahim Raisi, accompanied by Iran’s First Lady Jamile Sadat Alamolhoda, arrived in Sri Lanka to attend the inauguration of the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project.