Opposition wants talks on deal before visit to India

UPFA MP Dinesh Gunawardena yesterday insisted the Opposition should have discussions with the Government to clarify core issues before the high-level delegation visit to India later this month.

Gunawardena appealed for more transparency in the negotiation process for the proposed Economic and Technical Agreement proposed between Sri Lanka and India.

“Professionals are curious and worried about certain clauses in the CEPA. I would like to hold discussions with the Prime Minister as the representative of the true Opposition to see the issues. We are not against the friendship between Sri Lanka and India, but we need to make sure what you have in mind before Minister Malik Samarawickrema leaves for India,” said MP Gunawardena, citing the importance of national policies.

In response Prime Minister Wickremesinghe wanted MP Gunawardena to support the passing of the Committee proposals and the respective proposals to be presented there. 

“I went and told them we are not going to have services in the agreement, to which they agreed. If you want a discussion, we have no issue. Before the 19th we will brief you on the topics and after we return I will meet the actual Opposition Leader as well as the shadow Opposition Leader. Honourable member, this is a matter of Royalists and the class of ’60,” the PM replied. (AH)