tatement by Mr. Imthiaz Bakeer Markar on Sri Lanka’s Decision Not to Sign the Joint Letter Condemning Israel’s Ban on UN Secretary-General

Sri Lanka has a long and proud history of supporting multilateralism, peace, and justice on the global stage. Our country has consistently backed international efforts aimed at conflict resolution and upholding the rights of the oppressed, including our steadfast support for Palestine at the United Nations.

It is therefore deeply concerning that Sri Lanka has chosen not to sign the joint letter issued by 105 countries condemning Israel’s ban on the United Nations Secretary-General from entering the country. This letter reaffirms the essential role of the United Nations in mediating conflicts and providing humanitarian assistance, particularly in the ongoing Middle East crisis. Our refusal to join this collective call for justice and peace marks a significant departure from our well-established diplomatic traditions.

We must ask ourselves: why has Sri Lanka’s voice gone silent on such a critical global matter? In times of growing global instability, Sri Lanka cannot afford to retreat from its historic commitments to international peace and diplomacy.

As a nation that has always championed the principles of multilateralism, it is vital that we remain aligned with efforts that promote dialogue, peace, and the rule of law. We urge the government to reconsider its position and ensure that Sri Lanka’s foreign policy remains grounded in the principles of fairness, justice, and respect for international institutions.

For the first time in Sri Lanka, the government is to establish a mechanism to supervise and advice ministries in the implementation of policies, a source said.

A tense situation was reported at the UNP party headquarters in Sirikotha when a group of UNP supporters arrived to hand over a document on reviving the party.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Harsha de Silva said today that an NPP MP has told him that the Parliament canteen will not be closed but the government will see that no one will abuse the facility.

Two fishermen were seriously injured and hospitalised after a parcel floating on the sea exploded while they were checking it off the coast of Mannar.

The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and the Examinations Department have initiated a joint programme to mitigate potential disasters during the 2024 Advanced Level examinations.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake addressed the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka today. Following are 11 key points from the President’s Government Policy Statement;

Speaker Dr. Ashoka Sapumal Ranwala informed Parliament that nomination of Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), has been accepted as the Opposition Leader of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka.

Jaffna District Independent MP Archuuna Ramanathan refused to move away after he sat on the Opposition Leader's seat inside the chambers despite requests by Parliament staff to move.

National People's Power (NPP) Gampaha MP Dr. Ashoka Sapumal Ranwala was elected as the Speaker of the 10th Parliament of Sri Lanka a short while ago. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya proposed his name, and the nomination was confirmed by Vijitha Herath.

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake adjourned the Sri Lankan Parliament until 9:30 a.m. on December 3. The adjournment followed the President’s delivery of the government’s policy statement during the inaugural session of the 10th Parliament earlier today.