Sri Lanka’s President Rejects UN Resolution, Strengthens Ties with China
“The Cabinet of Ministers has been unanimous in its decision to reject the draft resolution, affirming that we will engage in cooperative discussions with the Human Rights Council and other human rights mechanisms.”
Sri Lanka has categorically rejected a proposed resolution at the 57th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), emphasizing its commitment to addressing human rights issues through local procedures rather than external mandates. This decision was announced by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vijitha Herath, during a Cabinet press briefing earlier today.
The UNHRC session, which runs from September 9 to October 11 in Geneva, has seen Sri Lanka maintain its stance against resolution 51/1 and any initiatives that would extend the powers of the external evidence collection mechanism. Minister Herath stated that despite the rejection of the proposal, the government is dedicated to pursuing reconciliation and addressing human rights matters through domestic avenues.
“The Cabinet of Ministers has been unanimous in its decision to reject the draft resolution, affirming that we will engage in cooperative discussions with the Human Rights Council and other human rights mechanisms,” he said.
In the context of international relations, Herath highlighted Sri Lanka’s balanced approach, asserting that no country is given preferential treatment. He underscored the nation’s intention to foster diplomatic ties with a wide range of partners, stating, “We are doing business with China just as we are doing business with India.”
Minister Herath also confirmed plans for a Chinese military training vessel to visit Sri Lanka later this month, framing this as a part of the country’s regular diplomatic engagements. “The ship is scheduled to arrive in the port of Colombo this month,” he noted.
The Minister elaborated on Sri Lanka’s foreign relations policy, reiterating the country’s impartial stance toward all nations, including China, India, the United States, Russia, Cuba, and Vietnam. He cited a collaborative solar panel project with China aimed at enhancing energy access for religious institutions in Sri Lanka, emphasizing that the government is committed to working with multiple international partners.
Additionally, Minister Herath pointed out that military vessels from various nations have visited Sri Lanka in the past as part of routine diplomatic exchanges, mentioning the previous docking of American, Indian, and German warships. “In such diplomatic relations, we engage with all countries equally,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy Sail Training Warship ‘PO LANG’ docked at the Port of Colombo this morning, marking the commencement of its formal visit to Sri Lanka. The vessel was welcomed with full naval honours by the Sri Lanka Navy, in keeping with traditional protocols.
The ‘PO LANG’ is an impressive 86-metre-long sail training vessel, manned by a crew of 130 personnel, including 35 officer cadets. This visit aims to foster goodwill and strengthen the camaraderie between the Chinese and Sri Lankan navies.
During the visit, Commander Ma Wenyong, the ship’s commanding officer, is scheduled to meet Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe, Commander of the Western Naval Area, at the Western Naval Command Headquarters later today. This meeting underscores the significance of naval diplomacy in enhancing bilateral relations between the two countries.
In addition to official engagements, crew members of the ‘PO LANG’ will participate in a series of organised programmes by the Sri Lanka Navy, designed to promote collaboration and knowledge exchange. The visiting crew will also have the opportunity to explore various tourist attractions across Sri Lanka, immersing themselves in the local culture and hospitality.
Sri Lanka Navy personnel will benefit from briefings on the operational functions of the ship, further enhancing mutual understanding and professional development. The ‘PO LANG’ is set to conclude its visit and depart from Sri Lankan waters on 11 October, after which it will continue its journey.
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