Lanka-Palestine joint front against terror

Rafik JALALDEEN

COLOMBO: Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama assured to work with the State of Palestine on a common ground to fight and defeat terrorism and restore democracy in both nations.

Minister Bogollagama told the media in Colombo that defeating terrorism and promoting democracy topped the agenda of Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas.

“During the discussion, we stressed the need for defeating terrorism to restore democracy,” he said.

Sri Lanka will be model for countering terrorism. “Terrorism is a global challenge and Sri Lanka is facing this grave challenge with a higher level of capacity.

The East was liberated from terrorism and democracy was restored in the region.

The Government is launching a humanitarian mission in the North to liberate the region and civilians engulfed by terrorism. Once the North is liberated, Northerners will enjoying democracy and freedom,” Minister Bogollagama remarked.

Minister Bogollagama said the visit of Palestine President Abbas was a milestone strengthening cooperation and relations between the two nations.

“President Abbas made history with his first visit to Sri Lanka. This will further strengthen our relations,” Minister Bogollagama said.

The Minister asserted that Sri Lanka and Palestine had inked bilateral agreements on Technical Cooperation and Practical training and several other sectors such as human resources, science, culture, education, tourism and health care

The Sri Lankan Government is willing to extend support and assistance to the Palestinian people in the broad spheres of development.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa is a strong advocate of the Palestinian cause and the Sri Lanka- Palestine Solidarity Society will keep the relationship warm and unique.”

Palestinian Foreign Minister Riad Malki observed that both Sri Lanka and Palestine were facing terrorism.

“Palestine is sharing three pillars with Sri Lanka and they are fighting terrorism, promoting democracy and economic development.

“On this basis the bilateral agreements will strengthen the relationship between the two nations”, he added. Minister Malki noted that the Palestine Government is glad for the support and cooperation extended by the Sri Lankan Government in the development process in Palestine.

“We are overwhelmed and encouraged by the support of the Sri Lanka government.” he added.