The visiting UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief, Ahmed Shaheed, when he called on Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa at the latter's Chamber at the Parliamentary Complex in Battaramulla, has said that all ethnic groups in Sri Lanka enjoyed freedom of religion in comparison to some other countries in Asia.

According to a statement issued by the Opposition Leader's Office, the UN Expert had also said the reconciliation among the different ethnicities and religious groups in the country was commendable.

The UN Expert, who undertook a visit to the North and East, also mentioned that the residents have said Mr. Rajapaksa's Government had contributed immensely to develop the infrastructure of the region.

During the meeting, Mr.Rajapaksa said the country cannot forge ahead if there was no faith among different communities.

Mr. Shaheed, who arrived in Sri Lanka on August 15, will end his visit on 26th.  (Lahiru Pothmulla)