April 27, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government is facing mounting pressure from opposition parties to clarify the country’s position in the event of further escalation in the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan.
With the region on edge, the opposition is demanding transparency, particularly in light of the recent defence cooperation memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Sri Lanka and India.
Namal Rajapaksa, National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), voiced concerns over the lack of clarity regarding Sri Lanka’s stance if the situation between India and Pakistan were to escalate into full-scale conflict.
Rajapaksa emphasised that the people of Sri Lanka have the right to know where the government stands, particularly given the strategic defence agreements in place with India.
“Sri Lanka is a nation that has long been committed to peace,” he remarked, adding that it is crucial for the government to be upfront about its plans in the event of an intensifying conflict in the region.
Echoing these sentiments, Dr. Harsha de Silva, Member of Parliament for the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), also called for greater transparency. He argued that the public deserves to be informed about the country’s position on such a critical issue.
De Silva stressed that Sri Lanka’s commitment to peace and neutrality should be at the forefront of any declarations, especially considering the implications of the defence cooperation MoU signed with India.
He further suggested that Parliament should be provided with a detailed briefing on the contents of the MoU to ensure that all legislative representatives are fully informed of the terms of the agreement and the potential ramifications for Sri Lanka’s foreign policy.
The government’s response to these demands will likely shape public perception of its foreign policy, especially as the situation in South Asia continues to evolve.
