US, UK hail adoption of ‘historic resolution’

The United States and Britain hailed the adoption of the ‘historic resolution’ on Sri Lanka at the UN Human Rights Council.

The US Ambassador to Geneva Keith Harper said that the consensus resolution expresses international support for Sri Lanka as it takes courageous steps to strengthen democracy and restore civil liberties.

“We have witnessed important changes in Sri Lanka since January, which have made today’s consultative, constructive resolution possible. The goal of this resolution – and of our efforts here in Geneva – is to help Sri Lanka undertake a difficult but essential journey. And, we welcome that this resolution recognises the critical role of continued OHCHR engagement. As Secretary Kerry reiterated last week, the United States will remain steadfast in supporting justice, promoting reconciliation, and seeking an enduring peace and prosperity for all Sri Lankans. We will continue to work bilaterally and multilaterally to support all Sri Lankan people in their efforts to achieve a Sri Lanka that is peaceful, democratic, prosperous, and realises the full potential of all its citizens,” Harper said.

The United Kingdom, which co-sponsored the resolution said the resolution sets Sri Lanka on a new path towards reconciliation and a more prosperous and inclusive future. Minister of State for Asia, Hugo Swire said last year, the United Kingdom pushed hard for a UN process that would shine a light on a traumatic period in Sri Lanka’s history.

“We believed then, as we believe now, that for Sri Lanka to fulfil its enormous potential it must address the difficult legacy of its past. With co-sponsorship by the Sri Lankan Government, today’s resolution sets Sri Lanka on a new path towards reconciliation and a more prosperous and inclusive future – a path which is clearly marked by the recommendations set out in the UN report and which, at every step, the United Kingdom stands ready to support. I recognise this has not been an easy process for Sri Lanka, but I commend its people and its Government for their willingness to take these brave steps forward,” he said. (Colombo Gazette)

EU to assist Sri Lanka in implementation of UN resolution 

Geneva: The European Union has said it will continue to support Sri Lanka as the country looks to work in partnership with the international community to implement its commitments and moves forward on the path of reconciliation, justice, and progress on human rights.

“As a first step, we will closely engage with the Government of Sri Lanka to further strengthen the dialogue on governance, rule of law and human rights,” the EU said addressing the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva Wednesday after the High Commissioner for Human Rights presented the report on Sri Lanka.

The EU will also explore with the Sri Lankan Government how best to assist the implementation of the resolution.

“The full implementation of these commitments is now needed, starting with prompt action on a fully participatory national consultation, especially with victims, for the design of a comprehensive justice process and the immediate adoption of essential confidence building measures,” the EU said.

Welcoming and supporting the clear recommendations made by the High Commissioner in the report, the EU said the resolution tabled by the core group and Sri Lanka makes a crucial step toward a credible transitional justice process in the country with the active support and participation of the international community.