Sri Lanka Tells UN Rights Chief 'NO' to external initiatives

Colombo (News 1st): Sri Lanka observes that external initiatives will only serve as hindrances to the ongoing national efforts and serve to polarise the population.

The government made this remark in a statement submitted to the UN Human Rights Council in response to the recent report by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

The Government of Sri Lanka said that it does not agree with the conclusions and recommendations  in the report with regard to international action.

It added that the government has the mandate to and is firmly and sincerely committed to working towards a country that respects and celebrates the diversity of its people with no division or discrimination based on race, religion, class and caste.

The Government said that it is resolved not to leave room for a resurgence of racism or extremism in Sri Lanka.

The statement said that as Sri Lanka moves forward on this path through its domestic processes, the understanding, encouragement, and support of the international community is welcomed and appreciated.