September 25, Colombo (LNW): In a significant move aimed at reinforcing international collaboration, a senior delegation from the United Nations held extensive discussions with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Defence yesterday (24), focusing on expanding cooperation in global peacekeeping operations and reinforcing human rights initiatives.
The meeting took place at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Colombo and was led by Marc-André Franche, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, accompanied by Karen Whiting, Deputy Director for Protection and Solutions at the UNHCR Regional Bureau for Asia and the Pacific.
They were welcomed by Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retired), Secretary to the Ministry of Defence.
Discussions centred on a shared vision to further develop Sri Lanka’s involvement in UN peacekeeping missions. Particular emphasis was placed on streamlining the deployment process through faster and more rigorous screening procedures, enhancing pre-deployment training, and ensuring that deployed personnel are equipped with tools and resources that meet United Nations standards.
Both parties stressed the importance of maintaining operational readiness and professionalism in line with evolving international demands.
The delegation also touched on matters of broader concern, including the role of human rights in peacekeeping contexts. Franche expressed the UN’s recognition of Sri Lanka’s continuing efforts to reinforce human rights frameworks and its engagement with global governance norms.
He welcomed the island nation’s willingness to strengthen its peacekeeping infrastructure while aligning its policies with the broader mandates of the United Nations.
Air Vice Marshal Thuyacontha reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to multilateral engagement, underlining the country’s dedication to serving in peacekeeping capacities with discipline, transparency, and a respect for global humanitarian standards. He noted that Sri Lankan forces have a long history of serving under the UN banner and conveyed the government’s aspiration to play a more active role in future missions.
