Sri Lanka has maintained democracy against all odds states Foreign Minister Bogollagama

(November 06, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) Sri Lanka has maintained a vibrant democracy despite having to face a number of challenges, including the suffering and destruction caused by 30 years of terrorism in the country pointed out Foreign Minister Bogollagama during his meeting yesterday (05/11/’09) with the French Ambassador for Human Rights, François Zimeray.

The Minister stated that under the Presidency of H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa, terrorism has successfully been eradicated in Sri Lanka, though much skepticism had been expressed by some sectors of the international community on the possibility of such success. In this context, he requested the Ambassador to overcome all doubts and fears on the ability of the GoSL to successfully handle the IDP situation. The Foreign Minister referred to the GoSL’s responsibility on the promotion and protection of human rights of all the Sri Lankan people. The Government of Sri Lanka has continuously maintained its human rights international obligations to which it is signatory.

Ambassador Zimeray’s visit to Sri Lanka was welcomed by Minister Bogollagama who stated that it provided an opportunity to witness first hand the programmes implemented by the GoSL in the post conflict scenario. He briefed that the resettlement programme was progressing well and that the numbers of IDPs have now reduced drastically. He also stated that Sri Lanka required additional international assistance in de-mining in order to further expedite the process of resettlement. Further with the steady flow of returnees the need for assistance in permanent shelter was outlined by the Minister. He stressed that the well-being of all Sri Lankans was at the heart of the numerous policies being implemented by the GoSL.

The visiting Ambassador informed that he was visiting Sri Lanka as a friend and congratulated Sri Lanka on the successful defeat of terrorism. He stated that while terrorism is a concept to most countries, for Sri Lanka it has been a reality for 30 years. The gap in comprehending this factor has contributed to a number of misunderstandings in the international community. He opined that it is difficult to maintain a true democracy when faced with a challenge such as terrorism, and that International Humanitarian Law has to be adapted to such situations.

Ambassador François Zimeray is visiting Sri Lanka from 5 – 7 November 2009.

-Sri Lanka Guardian