1. His Excellency Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka,   Indian High Commission, Sri Lanka
2. Guest of Honour, Mr. Murtaza Jafferjee, Chairman, Advocata Institute

        ii1. Dr. SaveenSemage, Chief  Executive Officer, National Medicines Regulatory Authority

Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,Good evening and a warm welcome to the Annual General Meeting of the Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry. I am honored and privileged to be addressing such a distinguished gathering on behalf of the SLCPI as its current president.

I would like to extend a special welcome to our Chief Guest, His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of India, Santhosh Jha and our Guest of Honor, the renowned economist Mr.MurtazaJefferji

Your Excellency,your presence underscores the collaborative spirit that exists between our two nations. As India meets more than 60% of our nation’s pharmaceutical needs, your presence this evening signifies the vital role that India plays in ensuring the well-being of our population.

To our Guest of Honor, your insights into the country’s economy and the approaches industries should adopt post-economic crisis will undoubtedly provide us with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Needless to say, the pharmaceutical industry plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of our society. Our innovations and advancements have the power to save lives, alleviate suffering, and enhance the quality of life for millions of people. However, with this power comes great responsibility. We must ensure that our efforts are guided by the principles of fairness, transparency, and sustainability.

Over the past 12 months, all industries have been grappling with various challenges, and the pharmaceutical industry has faced its own unique set of challenges.

SLIDE PRESENTATION

one of the major topics discussed at length and raised concerns across the healthcare system was the quality of medicines brought into the country. Obviously, this led to a lot of scrutiny of our industry from within and outside. The report published by the National Audit Office on the NMQAL and the inefficiencies and shortcomings prevailing within the department was clear proof that, as an industry, we are suffering, and that significant improvements need to be brought in if we are to meet even the minimum global standards.

We strongly believe that India can play a significant role in improving the quality-assurance laboratory facilities in Sri Lanka in consultation with the Ministry of Health. These initiatives will ensure high-quality medicines are available to our general public. Sir, we seek your support on this matter as a priority.

I would like to thank the office bearers and the council members for their unwavering support and the trust they have placed in me over the past year. I hope to receive the same support in the upcoming year.

Last but not least, my sincere thanks to Maureen, who ensures the smooth running of the chamber’s back-office functions.

Together, we have made significant strides, and together, we will continue to overcome the challenges that lie ahead. 

 Thank you.