No Special Preferences in Sri Lanka’s Foreign Policy

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka remains committed to maintaining diplomatic relations with all countries without any special preferences, said Minister Vijitha Herath, the Cabinet Spokesperson.

Minister Herath emphasized that Sri Lanka does not prioritize any country over another, regardless of size or influence. "Whether a country is large or small, Sri Lanka maintains diplomatic relations with all nations. We have no distinctions in this regard," he stated.

He highlighted that Sri Lanka engages diplomatically with a diverse range of countries, including India, China, the United States, Russia, Cuba, and Vietnam.

"This month, a Chinese military training ship will arrive in Sri Lanka, and we have granted permission for its visit. This poses no threat to Sri Lanka's security," Minister Herath assured.

When asked whether the incoming Chinese ship is a research vessel or a military ship, Minister Herath clarified, "The incoming ship is not a research vessel; it is a military training ship. Various countries have previously sent military training ships to Sri Lanka, and we have granted them permission. Similarly, we have granted permission for this ship as well."

He noted that American and German naval exercise ships have also visited Sri Lanka in the past, with similar permissions granted for short stays.

Minister Herath further mentioned that on the 10th of this month, a senior official from the U.S. military will visit Sri Lanka. "We will receive naval equipment from the United States as aid. We accept such assistance, but always in the best interest of the country," he added.