The United Nations Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki Moon on 23 November 2015, sent a personal and heartfelt message of condolence to President Maithripala Sirisena on the passing of the Venerable Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero.

The Secretary-Generals message noted that at a time when Sri Lanka is undergoing its most profound political transformation towards a more peaceful and harmonious future, the Venerable Thero will be greatly missed. Secretary General Moon also observed, that the Venerable Thero was as admired for his dedication to principles of democracy and social justice as he was for his kindness and generosity.

The full message is reproduced below: