SL says unilateral action by UK complicates national reconciliation process

Thursday, 27 March 2025 05:14 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Government yesterday said the UK’s sanctions over alleged human rights violations and abuses were “unilateral” and complicate the national reconciliation process.

Sri Lanka’s position was conveyed by the Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry in a statement following the UK sanctions for human rights violations and abuses during the Sri Lankan civil war on four individuals, three of whom are former military commanders of the Sri Lankan armed forces.

It is also noted that the UK FCDO press release refers to “a commitment made during the election campaign to ensure those responsible are not allowed impunity.”

In its statement, the Foreign Ministry said it wishes to underline that this is a unilateral action taken by the UK Government, which involves an asset freeze and travel ban on the individuals concerned. Such unilateral actions by countries do not assist but serve to complicate the national reconciliation process underway in Sri Lanka.

The Government is in the process of strengthening domestic mechanisms on accountability and reconciliation and any past human rights violations should be dealt with through domestic accountability mechanisms.

The position of the Government of Sri Lanka was conveyed by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to the British High Commissioner Andrew Patrick at the Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Ministry.