Meeting with UN Resident Coordinator on Disaster Management
and Aid Coordination
December 18, 2025
The Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd) met with the United Nations Resident Coordinator to Sri Lanka, Mr. Marc-André Franche, at the office of the Deputy Minister of Defence yesterday (17 December) to review ongoing disaster response efforts, institutional reforms, and the coordination of international humanitarian assistance.
The UN Resident Coordinator admired the strong national unity and resilience shown by the Sri Lankan people and in responding to the recent disaster. The Deputy Minister stated that the current response reflects a decisive shift from past shortcomings and represents a turning point toward a more coordinated and sustainable approach.
The Deputy Minister outlined the key reforms, including proposed amendments to the Disaster Management Act to strengthen institutional coordination, and the recognition of environmental protection as a component of national security.
The Deputy Minister briefed the UN Resident Coordinator on the role of the High-Level Committee for Foreign Relief Aid Coordination (HL-FRAC) in tracking and streamlining foreign aid and enhancing coordination among government agencies and partners.
Logistical challenges, mobility problems, and limited warehousing capacity were also reviewed, with proposals to simplify procedures by designating the DMC as consignee and strengthening centralized logistical coordination.
On behalf of HE the President and the people of Sri Lanka, the Deputy Minister expressed sincere appreciation for the continued support of the United Nations, international partners, and organizations.
The UN Resident Coordinator reaffirmed ongoing UN assistance, shared international best practices for a unified command with good leadership and management, while proposing a temporary one-stop facility at the airport and harbor to expedite the clearance of humanitarian aid.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to closer cooperation and reforms aimed at strengthening Sri Lanka’s disaster management framework.
