Iran congratulates Sri Lanka on defeating terrorism

(May 19, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) The Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Manouchehr Mottaki telephoned Foreign Minister Bogollagama today (19th May), to extend his warm congratulations to the President, the Foreign Minister and the Government of Sri Lanka on the success achieved by Sri Lanka in defeating LTTE terrorism.

The Iranian Foreign Minister said that Iran has maintained close relations with Sri Lanka and has always condemned terrorism and, consistently upheld the sovereignty and the territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. He states that he was speaking on behalf of the President of Iran who has conveyed his best wishes to Sri Lanka and will personally speak to the President of Sri Lanka at a mutually convenient time. Iran has also offered assistance through the Red Crescent, for the emergency relief operations for the IDPs in the North.

Foreign Minister Bogollagama conveyed his appreciation and thanks to the Government of Iran for the generous support extended to Sri Lanka at all times. While reiterating that bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Iran have stood the test of time, he informed his counterpart that LTTE terrorism has been completely eradicated from the country and that Sri Lanka is now looking forward to a new chapter.

Minister Bogollagama further pointed out that the Government will give utmost priority to the humanitarian exercise underway to provide facilities to the IDPs in the welfare centres. At the same time, it will be actively pursuing the inclusive political agenda and work towards economic empowerment of all citizens of the country which would ensure peace, stability and progress in Sri Lanka.

-Sri Lanka Guardian