Herath Mudiyanselage Vijitha Herath earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Kelaniya, providing a solid foundation for his subsequent career in public service.[1]
Career
First Cabinet Positions
Vijitha Herath has held various cabinet positions throughout his political career, showcasing his extensive experience in governance. He briefly served from September to November in the First Dissanayake Cabinet as the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, National Integration, Social Security, and Mass Media; Minister of Environment, Wildlife, Forest Resources, Water Supply, Plantation and Community, and Infrastructure; Minister of Public Security; Minister of Rural and Urban Development, and Housing and Construction; and Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation.[2] Additionally, he served as the Minister of Cultural Affairs & National Heritage from 2004 to 2005, focusing on preserving Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Foreign Minister
In November 2024, Herath was appointed as the Minister of Foreign Affairs, where he oversees Sri Lanka's diplomatic engagements and addresses emerging international challenges. His portfolio includes strengthening diplomatic ties with regional and global partners, advocating for cultural preservation through modern diplomacy, and tackling social security and environmental sustainability on national and international levels. Known for his pragmatic approach, Herath balances Sri Lanka's domestic priorities with its global responsibilities, aligning his governance with socialist ideals while navigating complex political dynamics to achieve tangible outcomes in foreign policy and cultural promotion.[3]
