GL explains to UNHRC progress on human rights front in Sri Lanka

Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris has highlighted the measurable and verifiable progress made including changes to the Prevention of Terrorism Act and the proposed 21st Amendment to the Constitution, as well as strengthening independent commissions, the work of the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation, the Office on Missing Persons, the Office for Reparations and engagement with civil society when he met President of the Human Rights Council, and Permanent Representative of Argentina, Federico Villegas on Tuesday (14).

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 50th Session of the HRC.

The Foreign Minister briefed on the current socio-economic situation in Sri Lanka and the need for empathy and understanding of the international community. Whilst stressing the need for space for the country to deal with the present socio-economic issues, he reiterated the political will and resolve to deal with obligations and move ahead.

Noting that all countries go through difficult periods in their history and that each specific case requires a different approach, the President of the Human Rights Council expressed his willingness to assist Sri Lanka in this respect.

He said that his role as the President of the HRC was one of bridge-building and to promote dialogue with every country and every mandate. Sri Lanka could avail of the assistance and expertise of the HRC Presidency as well as the experience of Argentina from which South Africa too had benefitted.