UNP supports continued involvement in UN peacekeeping operations

• Stresses purchase of helicopters should only be made utilising Russian Export Credit Line 

The United National Party (UNP) yesterday said it is of the view that the peacekeeping operations should not be in any way weakened, as there is scope for further involvement in future contingents.

“The 2015 to 2019 Government decided to participate in the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping and peace enforcement operations as part of a higher profile foreign policy,” the UNP said, issuing a statement.

An Army battalion with MI-17 helicopters were dispatched to Mali as part of the UN contingent facing Al-Qaeda affiliated terrorists.

However, the UNP said that taking into account the present COVID-19 crisis in Sri Lanka and the need for additional financial resources, the purchase of the helicopters should only be made utilising the Russian Export Credit Line for Arms Purchases with a grace period and long-term repayment.

“Furthermore, if we are to continue our involvement and increase our numbers in these missions, the Government must address the human rights concerns in the UNHRC,” the UNP said.