Colombo: President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to neutrality during a special media briefing at the Presidential Secretariat, particularly in the context of the ongoing Middle East conflict. He stated that Sri Lanka will not allow its land, maritime zones, or airspace to be used in a biased manner by any nation involved in conflict, nor in any way that harms another nation.
According to News.LK, President Dissanayake’s remarks came as he addressed the situation involving two Iranian vessels. He reiterated the country’s adherence to neutrality and its prioritization of humanity, asserting that Sri Lanka will act to protect human lives whenever necessary. The President explained that actions and statements since the conflict began have been guided by these principles. On February 26, Iran requested permission for three naval vessels to enter a Sri Lankan port for a visit to enhance cooperation. Upon review, Sri Lanka found these vessels were positioned near but outside its natio
nal maritime zone, prompting a study of the formal procedures involved.
On February 27, Sri Lanka received a request to bring ashore an injured sailor from one of the vessels for humanitarian reasons, which was duly facilitated by the Sri Lankan Navy and Air Force. A subsequent incident on March 4 saw a vessel attacked close to Sri Lanka’s maritime zone, leading to a rescue operation by Sri Lankan forces. This operation resulted in the rescue of 32 individuals and the recovery of 84 bodies, with the injured receiving treatment at Karapitiya Hospital.
The IRIS Bushehr vessel requested permission to enter a Sri Lankan port on March 4, citing engine damage. Sri Lankan authorities, in consultation with the Iranian Embassy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, considered their obligations under international conventions, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to determine the appropriate course of action.
Following discussions with the vessel’s captain and relevant embassies, Sri Lanka pr
oposed taking custody of both the crew and the vessel, ensuring adherence to international commitments. The decision was made to station the vessel at the Port of Trincomalee rather than the commercial Port of Colombo to avoid disrupting maritime operations. Plans were made to bring 208 individuals ashore, including officers and sailors, before relocating the vessel.
President Dissanayake underscored Sri Lanka’s position as a sovereign and independent state, committed to neutrality and humanitarian values. He called for global dedication to peace amid the ongoing conflict, recognizing the risk of a severe global economic crisis and the challenges faced by societies worldwide. The President reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s support for peace initiatives and its commitment to international conventions, while dismissing misinformation and criticisms as the government continues to protect human lives and uphold the country’s dignity.