In a noteworthy gesture of solidarity, Sri Lankan Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa attended Thursday’s parliament session on December 7, adorned with a keffiyeh, a distinctive black and white scarf symbolizing Palestinian identity and history. Premadasa’s choice to wear the keffiyeh was a symbolic expression of support for peace in the Middle East and worldwide.
During his address on the nation’s Foreign Policy, the opposition leader emphasized the pivotal role foreign policy plays in governance. He stated, “A strong, innovative, vibrant, thought-providing, result-oriented foreign policy is of great benefit to our own nation-state.”
Premadasa highlighted concerns about Sri Lanka’s track record regarding adherence to agreements, underscoring the significance of credibility in foreign policy. He lamented the country’s apparent failure in upholding various rights, including human rights, civic rights, political rights, economic rights, social rights, cultural rights, and religious rights, as outlined in international agreements to which Sri Lanka is a signatory.
Expressing dismay, he pointed out the contradiction in the government’s actions within the domestic jurisdiction, specifically citing the introduction of the Online Safety Bill and Anti-Terrorism Bill. According to Premadasa, these measures undermine the essence of democracy by infringing upon freedom of speech, freedom of thought, freedom of affiliation to political parties, and the ability to express one’s vision and wishes.
Concluding his remarks, the opposition leader urged that Sri Lanka’s Foreign Policy should not only articulate its principles but also actively implement them, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with stated commitments.
