Ex-Prez Sirisena on “Shared Values and Democracy in Asia,” Excellencies, Distinguished Participants, Ladies, and Gentlemen, Good afternoon Let me at the outset congratulate Excellency Suga Yoshihide, the Prime Minister of our cherished friend-Japan. I am extremely happy to address the Symposium on “Shared Values and Democracy in Asia,” following him, and Excellency Shree Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India- our great neighbour and friend. I am reminded of the San Francisco Conference after the Second World War, where Excellency J R Jayewardene, our then Finance Minister, staunchly stood for Japan. Quoting from Dhammapada, he said, “We extend to Japan a hand of friendship, and trust… her people and ours may march together to enjoy the full dignity of human life in peace and prosperity.” Japan has achieved that wish. I consider the invitation to me echoes that friendship and trust.