February 03, Colombo (LNW): In a significant diplomatic development, Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath engaged in a telephone conversation yesterday (03) with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister, U Than Swe, to discuss key matters aimed at enhancing bilateral ties and addressing urgent issues concerning Sri Lankan nationals in Myanmar.
The primary focus of the conversation was the urgent request made by Minister Herath for Myanmar’s assistance in securing the safe rescue and repatriation of 18 Sri Lankan citizens who have been trafficked to the Myawaddy region in Myanmar.
These individuals have been forced to work in Cybercrime centres under harrowing conditions. The Minister stressed the critical need for swift action, as the victims are reportedly being subjected to severe mistreatment and torture by criminal syndicates.
Minister Herath also took the opportunity to express Sri Lanka’s gratitude to the Myanmar Government for its ongoing cooperation in efforts to rescue and repatriate Sri Lankan victims of human trafficking.
From 2022 to 2024, Myanmar had successfully assisted in the safe return of 91 Sri Lankans who had been trafficked to the Myawaddy region, a gesture which has been highly appreciated by the Sri Lankan Government.
However, with 18 Sri Lankans still held in captivity, the Minister urged Myanmar to prioritise their immediate rescue and return.
During the discussion, both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the robust bilateral relationship between their countries, which has been built over more than 75 years of diplomatic ties.
These relations are also enriched by deep people-to-people connections, particularly through shared Theravada Buddhist heritage.
The two leaders also agreed to explore the possibility of convening the fourth round of the Sri Lanka-Myanmar Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) at a time convenient for both parties, reinforcing their ongoing efforts to deepen cooperation in various fields.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministries of Foreign Employment and Tourism, will continue to work closely with Myanmar to ensure the swift and safe repatriation of the remaining Sri Lankans trapped in Myawaddy.
Both governments remain committed to overcoming the challenges posed by human trafficking and will intensify efforts to safeguard the welfare of their citizens abroad.
