Colombo: Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reaffirmed his country's unwavering support for the rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state. He also condemned the targeting of civilian infrastructure in Arab countries.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency - WAFA, this declaration came during a meeting held on Wednesday at the Presidential Palace in Colombo with the Council of Arab Ambassadors accredited to Sri Lanka, in the presence of Palestinian Ambassador Ihab Al-Tari. The meeting was convened at the Council's request to discuss several issues of mutual interest.
Several Sri Lankan officials attended the meeting, while the Arab delegation was led by the Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador Khaled Al-Amiri, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, along with council members, including Palestinian Ambassador Ihab Al-Tari, who also serves as the Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives.
The discussions centered around Sri Lanka's position on recent developments in the region. The meeting also addressed developments concerning the Palestinian issue, including the death penalty law for Palestinian prisoners, the violations faced by Palestinians, and restrictions on freedom of worship at significant holy sites such as Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
President Dissanayake highlighted the deep historical ties between Sri Lanka and the Arab states, acknowledging Arab support for Sri Lanka, especially during recent crises. Ambassador Al-Amiri underscored the importance of these relations, noting the close economic and humanitarian links between the two sides.
President Dissanayake reiterated Sri Lanka's condemnation of the targeting of civilian infrastructure in Arab countries and reiterated his country's unwavering support for Palestinian rights, including their right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent state. He stated that Sri Lanka will issue a statement condemning the violations against Palestinians and the inhumane and illegal death penalty, which contravenes international norms and law, including restrictions on freedom of worship at Muslim and Christian holy sites.