Addressing a special media briefing at the Presidential Secretariat, the President said Sri Lanka’s foreign policy position requires the country to avoid any action that could harm another state or favour one side in an international conflict.
He said that from the moment the conflict began, Sri Lanka’s actions and official statements had been guided by this principle of neutrality.
“Particularly in the context of the current Middle East conflict and any international dispute, we will not permit our territory, maritime zones or airspace to be used in a biased manner by any nation engaged in a conflict,” the President said.
However, he emphasised that while safeguarding neutrality, Sri Lanka would also prioritise humanitarian responsibilities.
“As a nation and as a state, while maintaining neutrality, we place humanity above all else. If there are actions required to protect human lives, we will not hesitate to take them under any circumstances,” he said.
The President noted that Sri Lanka’s policies and decisions in recent developments involving foreign vessels near its waters had been guided by both neutrality and humanitarian considerations.
He also urged all parties involved in the ongoing conflict to demonstrate a stronger commitment to peace.
“The world urgently needs peace. People are dying and the risk of a severe global economic crisis is increasing. Entire societies are facing serious and complex challenges due to war,” he said.
Sri Lanka, he added, stands ready to support any initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability.
