Namal commends government's decision

The decision taken by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to allow the Iranian ship IRIS Busehr to enter Sri Lankan maritime borders and arrive at the Trincomalee port is appreciated, Namal Rajapaksa said. On humanitarian grounds, steps have also been taken to bring 208 of its crew members to Colombo.

In a message posted on the social media platform X, Namal Rajapaksa said that this step reflects the importance of Sri Lanka maintaining a neutral stance amidst existing regional conflicts.

He said that it is essential for Sri Lanka to protect its obligations under international law while providing humanitarian aid when necessary.

Rajapaksa also expressed hope that the Sri Lankan government will continue to work to encourage dialogue between all parties involved in the conflict to maintain peace and stability throughout the Gulf region and globally.

He further emphasised the importance of the government coordinating closely with regional partners including India to ensure maritime safety and security in the Indian Ocean.

The full statement from his X account is below:

"We welcome President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s decision to allow the Iranian vessel IRIS Bushier to enter local waters and dock the vessel at Trincomalee Port while bringing its 208 crew members to Colombo under humanitarian grounds.

It is most necessary that Sri Lanka maintains a neutral stand in the ongoing conflict while fulfilling its obligations under international laws and maintaining its humanitarian gestures as and when the need arises.

We also hope the Sri Lankan government can continue to push for dialogue with all parties concerned in order to maintain peace and stability in the entire Gulf region and throughout the globe.

It is also important that the Sri Lankan government monitor and work closely with India and its other regional partners to ensure the safety and maritime security of the Indian Ocean."