larger objective to have a common basis for Norms, Rules and Principles for State behavior in cyberspace and that of International Law. In this regard, the principles identified by the GGE report in 2015 on the application of international law to State use ofICTs are useful. Sri Lanka, like most countries is aware that the economic prosperity and social wellbeing of the country is increasingly dependent on an open, secure and safe cyber network that links up with the outside world. The Government has been looking at these related issues ofICT very seriously and in November of last year, the Government launched the "National Information and Cybersecurity Strategy" to be implemented over a five year period from 2019 to 2023. In addition the Government in the process of enacting a "Cyber Security Act" to protect cyberspace and essential services from cyber attacks, that will also provide for the establishment of a high level "Cyber Security Agency". A variety of different stakeholders in government, including the industry and private sector have been consulted in the preparation of the Act and the Final Draft is now open for public comments before it is finalized. If I may close with another example from Sri Lanka, from one of our long term resident Science Fiction writers- Arthur C. Clarke. In the 4^^ and final book of his Space Odyssey series- "3001: The Final Odyssey" about the adventures of Frank Poole, the astronaut killed by the HAL 9000 computer. In the book, "3001" the future of mankind is saved by the infection of the monolith with a computer virus; but in turn is infected with a computer worm and to safeguard the future, is locked up in a deep vault below the surface ofthe moon. While this is a more drastic measure, we would like to highlight the imperative need to work together creatively and with flexibility to find common ground and collaborate together as we forge ahead in the work before us. Please be assured that we stand ready to help you Mr Chairman in your work ahead. Thank you.