‘Widening gap’ in bilateral relationship with US: MEA
Tuesday, 12 August 2014 00:19
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The Sri Lankan Government has pointed to a ‘widening gap’ in its bilateral relationship with the United States and urged Washington to examine the ‘root causes’ for the development.
“With reference to the US perception that there is increasing anti-Western sentiment, for which the basis is unclear, it would be prudent for the US authorities to examine the root causes for such a development, and corrective measures may be sought in order to stymie the widening gap in the bilateral relationship,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement issued yesterday.
The Ministry accused the US State Department’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security of creating a ‘false and alarmist view’ of conditions in Sri Lanka.
On 8 August, the US State Department issued a security advisory to American citizens living in Sri Lanka to be wary of their security against the backdrop of rising anti-western sentiments in the country.
The State Department noted the increase in protests in Sri Lanka since early this year including anti-western demonstrations against the US, UN and recent escalation in Gaza, increased pressure on NGOS, journalists and others affiliated with US projects and the disruption of civil society meetings
The Ministry of External Affairs in Colombo said that there had been no instances of violent protests targeting the US Embassy, its diplomats, officials or citizens, although it had been claimed by the State Department Security Message that such incidents could occur.
“The recent demonstration on 8th August in front of the US Embassy on the current situation in Gaza was organized by an opposition political party. The protest had been peaceful. In fact it is known that the US Embassy in Colombo maintains working relations with all opposition parties, including that which staged this demonstration,” the MEA said in its statement.
It said law enforcement authorities in Sri Lanka had taken necessary action consistently to ensure the safety and security of diplomats, their families, premises and property in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and continue this practice diligently.
“A significant number of US citizens live in Sri Lanka and also visit the island every year. There have not been any reports of their safety and security being challenged. The Government of Sri Lanka remains firm in its commitment to maintain law and order in the country and protect not only its own citizens, but diplomats as well as non-nationals in the country at all times,” the statement said.
