Stating that the country’s foreign policy will be guided by what best serves the interests of all Sri Lankans, the Minister explained that the Government’s aim is to regain Sri Lanka’s position as a responsible and respected member of the international community. He stressed that the Government is committed to pursuing a policy of engagement with the international community including international organisations to address issues of concern not only for Sri Lanka but for the global community as a whole.

Thanking the diplomatic corps for their constant commitment and determined efforts to foster stronger relations between Sri Lanka and the countries and international organisations that they represent, the Minister stated that he looks forward to engaging actively with all the countries represented in Sri Lanka.

Minister Samaraweera also spoke on the efforts of the Government to strengthen democracy through constitutional and administrative measures.

Stressing the importance placed by the Government on upholding and strengthening the multi-ethnic, multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-lingual nature of Sri Lankan society, the Minister emphasized the priority placed on achieving meaningful reconciliation and guaranteeing non-recurrence.

The Minister also announced the decision to appoint a Spokesperson in order to facilitate greater engagement between the Ministry and the public as well as the diplomatic community based in Colombo. The current Director General of the UN Division of the Ministry, Mahishini Colonne, will accordingly hold weekly briefings for the media at the Ministry beginning on 20 May 2015.