It is important to have an objective approach and extend equal treatment to all countries when fulfilling the assigned mandate, observed External Affairs Minister, Prof. G.L. Peiris, when he met visiting UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay at the Ministry of External Affairs today. High Commissioner Pillay is on a weeklong visit to Sri Lanka on an invitation extended by the Government of Sri Lanka in April 2011.
The invitation to the High Commissioner for Human Rights is a part of Sri Lanka’s consistent engagement with the United Nations system, including its human rights mechanism. Minister Peiris reiterated to High Commissioner Pillay Sri Lanka’s firm resolve to work with the United Nations system. However he said that there is a perception in the country about the lack of objectivity and fairness in the treatment meted out to Sri Lanka. The Minister added that Sri Lanka accepts constructive and justified criticism but resents vicious and baseless positions which are incessantly repeated.
External Affairs Minister, Prof. G.L. Peiris welcoming UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay, provided an update on matters relating to post-conflict development. On the aspect of accountability, the Minister highlighted the action taken by the law enforcement authorities.
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