The continuation of global connections is a must if countries are to move forward in their development effort. One has to accept that such connections make life easier with access to the developed world. Among the many places of historic value Australia stands out as a globally renowned country for humanitarian work, noted for its good governance always wishing the betterment and contentment of the masses.
The cordial relations with Australia is linked to our historic past when both countries were under imperialism. It throws light on early British history when both countries experienced colonial rule. This is prominently seen in the system of education, with pride of place being given to English. “The Australian government invests in education as a force necessary for political and economic reform and good governance, and Australian awards are a significant component of this investment,” in the words of Robin Mudie, the Australian High Commissioner.
Australia has been of great assistance to Sri Lanka and a top source of strength, as is evident from the help offered in various fields. No one can dispute the fact that it has reached the peak in education. The world’s most prestigious universities, such as Melbourne, Monash, Sydney, Swinburne La Trobe, and RMIT (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology) open up a wealth of opportunity to students worldwide, and, Sri Lanka in particular.
The discipline and education one gets in diverse backgrounds itself is an experience which helps young students. The facilities provided by these institutions are a great source of help in this demanding situation. Also, there are organizations which have donated books for distribution among university and school libraries, which should be admired.
Australia offered help to Sri Lanka as far back as 2004 when Sri Lanka was overpowered by the tsunami and then recently the mammoth effort undertaken to organize fundraising charity events for those stricken by the floods and landslides. As a mark of respect Sri Lanka too put up a splendid performance in providing relief to the bush fire victims in Victoria. A bush fire appeal concert was an effort to say ‘thank you’ to all those who stood by them during the tsunami.
One of the highlights of Aussie Lankan friendship is the ASLC formed nearly two decades ago with the initiative of the commissioners of both countries. The primary aim was to lend a hand to improve the friendly ties in the field of trade, and investment.
Since its inception, ASLC has been encouraging trade delegations hosting official visits, academic exchanges, promoting technology agreements and signing MOUs with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, in unison with the Rotary and Lion Clubs. Some of the major projects are mostly in the field of health, such as: Installation of cardiac catheter laboratories and heart lung machines at Teaching Hospitals, the donation of well-equipped ambulances (e.g. Kurunegala) and dispatching of hospital beds and other medical equipment. Exploring ways and means of eradicating dengue is still another recent welcome measure. Certain medicines found after much research is the most recent achievement to help Sri Lanka face the crisis.
Aussie aid to Sri Lanka in the sphere of agriculture is varied, such as, agricultural equipment, and cattle to improve milk requirement.
There were occasions when veterinary consultants were sent to perform artificial insemination to increase milk and meat production. Hosting of dialogues and felicitations to promote tourism while advertising Lankan tea and food is still another measure.
Above all the state visits of the President and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka heralded in a new era of friendship between the two countries to win more benefits.
It reflects the extent of the incredible network of co-operation encountered in their tireless efforts to help Sri Lanka. At a time that Sri Lanka has dedicated to the development of the country is welcome for her national growth and development.
Rupa Banduwardena