Statement by Nisha Biswal, Assistant Secretary of State Nisha Biswal on Saturday, February 1, 6:00 pm Thank you for joining us so late in the afternoon. I am pleased to be returning to Sri Lanka after many years, this time as Assistant Secretary. Over the last two days I have had frank discussions with the government, opposition, and civil society representatives in Colombo and Jaffna. Its been terrific to meet so many Sri Lankans who care so deeply about their country. The United States and Sri Lanka have a longstanding partnership dating back to this country’s independence. This friendship is based on our peoples’ shared democratic values and strong economic and cultural ties. The late Senator Edward Kennedy said it very well when he said: Our relationship is not just government-to-government, but it’s people-to-people, citizen-to-citizen, and friend-to-friend.” In meetings this week with senior officials (Foreign Minister Peiris, Minister of Economic Development Rajapaksa, Justice Minister Hakeem, Defense Secretary Rajapaksa), as well as with senior UNP and TNA leaders, and a diverse range of other civil society leaders, I reiterated our longstanding desire to see further progress for all people of Sri Lanka. The meetings were productive and collaborative, but also addressed a range of serious challenges. We reiterated our commitment to Sri Lanka but conveyed our concerns to senior government officials about the insufficient progress in addressing justice, reconciliation, and accountability. The United States has always supported a Sri Lankan process to resolve issues emanating from the conflict. But as I earlier indicated, that patience is wearing thin with the pace of progress, including implementing the recommendations of the LLRC. We are concerned about the worsening situation with respect to human rights, including continued attacks against religious minorities, as well as the weakening of the rule of law and an increase in the levels of corruption and impunity. All of these factors lead to undermine the proud tradition of democracy in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, we are aware that in the past, individuals who have met with Foreign Officials have been met with intimidating visits and calls. I would say that we view this very seriously and find it unacceptable. I conveyed to senior officials that the United States is motivated out of an inclusive vision of a peaceful and unified Sri Lanka. This inclusive vision is what also motivates the United States to sponsor a third resolution calling on Sri Lanka to do more to promote reconciliation, democratic governance, justice, and accountability at the UN Human Rights Council in March. While it is too soon to say what that text may include, it will be carried out in the spirit of friendship with the Sri Lankan people. As true partners and friends, the United States stands ready to support Sri Lanka as it continues to move forward to establish a just and lasting peace. In 2013, the U.S. Embassy in Colombo donated a $2.1 million forensics laboratory to the Sri Lankan government, and we are prepared to offer additional technical assistance to ensure credible, transparent, independent, and verifiable investigations take place. As we see Asia taking on a leading role in the global economy, we dont want to see Sri Lanka left behind. But without justice, reconciliation, and accountability, there can be no sustained peace and equitable prosperity for the Sri Lankan people. Respect for human rights and a promotion of transparent and democratic governance are essential. Unfortunately, continued deterioration in these areas is already beginning to take its toll on democracy in Sri Lanka. The U.S. believes in the spirit of the Sri Lankan people and stands with you as you advocate for peace and prosperity, and a brighter future for all of your citizens.
Posted on: Sat, 01 Feb 2014 18:06:30 +0000
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