Sri Lanka's deputy minister urges global cooperation to tackle poverty at Doha summit

COLOMBO, Nov. 6 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Labour Mahinda Jayasinghe has addressed the importance of international experience and collaboration in eradicating poverty and promoting sustainable development in the country, local media outlet Ada Derana reported.

Addressing the media during the Second World Summit for Social Development in Doha, Qatar, Jayasinghe observed that nearly a quarter of Sri Lanka's population continues to live in poverty. He noted that lessons and strategies drawn from other nations could be effectively applied to improve living standards and advance social inclusion.

The summit, reconvening almost three decades after its inaugural session in 1995, serves as a global platform for dialogue on poverty eradication, decent work, and equitable growth.

At the opening session, United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres underscored the central role of education in shaping the future of nations, calling for stronger efforts to bridge global learning gaps. UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights Kate Gilmore and President of the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development Sheikha Moza bint Nasser also addressed the gathering.

Discussions throughout the summit are focused on advancing the core objectives established in 1995, with world leaders and government representatives examining policies that can enhance human development and reduce inequality.

Jayasinghe participated in a concurrent session titled "The Path out of Poverty," where delegates explored actionable strategies for sustainable poverty reduction through education, employment creation, and inclusive social protection systems. ■