GL meets European Union Amb. in Colombo

COLOMBO (News 1st); ​Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. G.L. Peiris met with the ​Ambassador of the European Union Denis Chaibi in Colombo at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 06 July 2022.

During the discussion, Minister Peiris briefed the EU Ambassador on developments related to the current economic situation, review of the list of proscribed organizations and individuals under the United Nations Regulation No. 1 of 2012, release of detainees being held under PTA, progress made by the independent institutions and key features of the proposed 21st Amendment to the Constitution among other matters.

The Minister emphasized that the government has achieved a great deal of verifiable and measurable progress through established domestic mechanisms and that it remains focused to deliver on the required political reforms despite the ongoing economic crisis. Further, the Minister informed that the Government intends to present a new budget shortly which includes a range of welfare measures aimed at the vulnerable sections of society.

The EU Ambassador appreciated the details conveyed on the recent developments. The Ambassador stated that the next EU GSP regulation for 2024-2033 is currently being discussed in the EU Commission and the European Parliament.

Minister Peiris stated that Sri Lanka is continuing its constructive engagement with the members of the Human Rights Council including at the recently concluded 50th session of the UN Human Rights Council session.