He congratulated Sri Lanka’s successful defeat of terrorism and said that it is difficult to maintain a true democracy when faced with a challenge such as terrorism, and that International Humanitarian Law has to be adapted to such situations.

Sri Lanka has maintained a vibrant democracy despite having to face a number of challenges, including the suffering and destruction caused by 30 years of terrorism in the country, said Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama.

Under the Presidency of Mahinda Rajapaksa, terrorism has successfully been eradicated in Sri Lanka, though much skepticism had been expressed by some sectors of the international community on the possibility of such success, the Minister stated. In this context, he requested the Ambassador to overcome all doubts and fears on the ability of the GoSL to successfully handle the IDP situation.

Minister Bogollagama stated that French Ambassador’s visit provided an opportunity to witness first hand the programmes implemented by the GoSL in the post conflict scenario. He briefed that the resettlement programme was progressing well and that the numbers of IDPs have now reduced drastically.

He also stated that Sri Lanka required additional international assistance in de-mining in order to further expedite the process of resettlement. Further with the steady flow of returnees the need for assistance in permanent shelter was outlined by the Minister. He stressed that the well-being of all Sri Lankans was at the heart of the numerous policies being implemented by the GoSL.