Sri Lanka, Dec. 15 -- Sri Lanka should not delay in organizing an international Donor Conference in the aftermath of one of the worst natural calamities the country has experienced in its modern history-an event now widely considered to be more devastating than the 2004 tsunami. Initial assessments estimate the damage at over USD 7 billion, with the figure expected to increase as comprehensive evaluations continue.

Former Envoy stressed that while the international community has responded with immediate humanitarian assistance, such support is largely short-term and cannot be assumed to continue indefinitely. "We are grateful for the prompt assistance extended by the international community," Kananathan indicated. "However, emergency rel...