• Various misconceptions are being circulated in the international arena regarding the PTA

The government will deal with openness and transparency regarding the issues of human rights and reconciliation, Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardana assured the activists of the civil organisations and NGOs of the country. 

Speaking at a meeting with the activists of the civil organisations and NGOs, the Foreign Minister said that the government will deal with openness and transparency regarding the issues of human rights and reconciliation among ethnicities that have arisen on the international front. Minister of Justice Ali Sabry also participated in this meeting at the Foreign Ministry. 

“Various misconceptions are being circulated in the international arena regarding the Prevention of Terrorism Act. In fact, we as a government have appointed a Cabinet Sub-Committee to look into and amend certain provisions of this Act. Also, a committee of officials has been appointed to assist them. We are doing all this openly and transparently. The same is true for reconciliation as well. Our government has taken steps to maintain inter-ethnic reconciliation and equality. 

As a government, we are bound to look into any shortcomings in them, and take necessary steps.” said Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. 

Tharaka Balasuriya, State Minister of Regional Cooperation and Foreign Secretary Jayanath Colombage also participated in this discussion. The civil Society activists participated in the discussion were among others Ven. Kalupahana Piayarathana, Dr. Saravanamuttu of the Centre for Policy Alternatives, Rohana Hettiarachchi of the PAFFREL, Bishop Asiri Perera of the Methodist Church of Sri Lanka, Dr. Joe William and Dr. Jehan Perera of the National Peace Council, Dr. Hilmi Ahmed of Sri Lanka Muslim Council, Dr. Dayani Panagoda, a civil society activist.