Build bridges, not barriers, says Sri Lankan PM on visit to alma mater

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya on Thursday urged young people to nurture empathy and uphold democratic values, saying that one should always build bridges and not barriers, whether at home, in the workplace, or between nations.

Amarasuriya, who is on her first official visit to India after assuming office, returned to her alma mater, Hindu College, Delhi University, where she studied sociology between 1991 and 1994.

Addressing a packed auditorium of students and faculty, the visiting leader reflected on her time in India and expressed deep gratitude for New Delhi’s support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis.

“India extended the hand of a true friend in our darkest hours,” she said, adding that the two countries shared “civilizational and cultural ties that continue to bind us deeply.”

The campus was abuzz with excitement ahead of her arrival. Large posters and banners lined the corridors, while students and teachers gathered to welcome the distinguished alumna. Principal Anju Srivastava greeted Amarasuriya at the entrance, where she waved to cheering students from the steps of the historic main building.

Before addressing the formal gathering at the Sanganeria Auditorium, the Prime Minister met faculty members, students from the Sociology Department, and representatives of the college parliament.

Encouraging students to think critically, Amarasuriya said, “Ask difficult questions and challenge assumptions. Education and empathy must go hand in hand — intelligence is incomplete without compassion.”

Underscoring the need to safeguard democratic institutions, she urged young citizens to remain active participants in the civic life. “Democracy is not a spectator’s sport — it is hard work,” she said, drawing loud applause from the audience.

Amarasuriya’s three-day visit to India, from October 16 to 18, is expected to include meetings with senior Indian leaders to review bilateral cooperation and explore new avenues of partnership between the two neighbours.