By Malinda Seneviratne
The Sri Lankan resolution, expanded from 17 to 29 paragraphs and titled “Assistance to Sri Lanka in the promotion and protection of human rights” had the support of 29 countries. Twelve members voted against the resolution while six abstained.
Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative at the UN in Geneva, Dr. Dayan Jayatillake responding to the outcome said it was “the best synthesis of the sentiments of the Human Rights Council”.
Sri Lanka, which had earlier drawn a 17-point resolution presented an amended resolution at 7.15pm Geneva time incorporating some of the elements of the Swiss Resolution.
When the Council re-convened, Germany had, on behalf of the European Union, recommended a further 9 amendments. However, this move was shot down by Cuba on the basis of technical and procedural irregularities. The Council had then decided to vote on the expanded resolution submitted by Sri Lanka.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rohitha Bogollagama, said that the efforts in Geneva constituted a major achievement in terms of Sri Lanka’s international relations in the immediate aftermath of successfully countering LTTE terrorism.
“The final result, 29 countries voting for us and only 12 opposing, shows that Sri Lanka stands on top in terms of wide support from a states across the globe. This is again a reflection of President Mahinda Rajapaksa's astute leadership and the wide engagement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in seeking the support of the international community,” he said.
Meanwhile, UNHCR President Martin Ihoeghian Uhomoibhi (Nigeria) commended the Sri Lankan delegation for facing and discussing human rights allegations and stated that he hopes to stay engaged with Sri Lanka.
The resolution adopted praised the government of Sri Lanka for its commitment to human rights, while condemning the LTTE. The resolution also allows the government to let aid agencies' have access to camps for the internally displaced "as may be appropriate." This is a significant achievement given that the Swiss-led move sought to obtain free and unhindered access of unnamed 'humanitarian agencies'.
They also wanted an investigation into alleged human rights violations during the fighting.
Brilliant
Brilliant, Well done
So there really is international community afterall.
the definition of'Hilllary's international community became 'null and void'
well done guys ,brilliant.
Battle field is not the only place where generals and brigadiers exist.
Thanks to all who are fearlessly fighting the international battle ground right now.
Right On! Lanka, keep up the good work.
This gave a good opportunity for the Sri Lanka public, especially the business community and the politicians (of all colours and creeds) to identify who the REAL friends of Sri Lanka are. A REAL friend will always lend you a helping hand when they see that you are fallen and you are struggling to get up on your feet, while your enemies (or the friends in guise) will try to beat you up and push you down further.
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