President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated that the external forces, under the guise of democracy and other enticing slogans, are seeking to interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries.

He made this statement addressing the 8th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties or ICAPP which commenced in Colombo on Friday.

The opening ceremony of ICAPP took place at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Approximately 300 representatives from different political parties and political associations throughout 33 countries in Asia are attending the high-level conference.

Building an Asian Community has been selected as the theme for the two day conference.

The 8th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties is jointly organised by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the United National Party.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressed the distinguished gathering at the event.

[quote]The Asian region today has some of the world’s developed and rapidly developing economies. We are in fact moving to the age of Asia. That is the focus of international attention and the envy of powers that are being left behind. Despite the differences we have among us, in building an Asian community, we need to focus on revising and re-investing in old friendships and building new networks of solidarity.[/quote]

Speaking further President Mahinda Rajapaksa also commented on external forces interfering in domestic processes.

[quote]The emerging trends in the world including in parts of Asia, gives signals that are dangerous to the Asian community, we see how external forces under the guise of democracy, and other enticing slogans, enticing slogans, seek to interfere in the domestic affairs of other countries. They show little concern about destabilising nations.[/quote]

President Mahinda Rajapaksa will be appointed as the Chairperson of the ICAPP for the next two years – until its 9th General Assembly. The Colombo Declaration will be adopted and read at the closing session.

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