The government is committed to building a disciplined and civilized society where people of all ethnic and religious backgrounds can live together in harmony, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath stated.

Addressing the 76th Annual General Meeting of the All Ceylon Young Men's Muslim Association (YMMA) in Colombo, Minister Herath said the era of exploiting ethnic and religious divisions for narrow political gain had come to an end.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka's recent history, Foreign Minister Herath said the country's economic collapse and the failure to capitalize on the opportunity for national reconciliation after the war were consequences of political leaders promoting racism and religious extremism for their own interests.

He stressed that there should be no room for ethnic or religious conflict in the country after 2024, adding that rebuilding the economy, restoring discipline and strengthening the rule of law require the collective efforts of all communities, including Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims, Burghers and Malays.

"Whether Muslim or Sinhalese, we are all human beings. There is no difference between us. Regardless of language, religion or caste, we must stand together like children of one mother," the Minister said.

Minister Herath also commended the All Ceylon Young Men's Muslim Association for its more than 70 years of service to communities across Sri Lanka.

He further praised Muslim youth volunteer groups that travelled from the South to assist flood- and storm-affected communities in remote areas, describing their humanitarian efforts as a practical demonstration of the values of brotherhood taught by Islam.