President Maithripala Sirisena addressing the fifth Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, yesterday called on Asian countries not to allow outside powers to suppress the power of Asia.
“The Asian region, as the forerunner of the next century should be strong and powerful in every aspect especially, in peace and economic strength, as it is the Century of Asia,” he said.
He warned against undue interference in the internal affairs of countries in the guise of human rights. “At this gathering I especially request not to damage and interfere in the sovereignty of the countries because of allegations of human rights violations.” He said freedom and democracy are indispensable features of every country and the effort to influence and intimidate free nations is not acceptable in any way.
President Sirisena said the cooperation among nations is essential to face the challenge posed by terrorists and violent extremists.
“Peace plays a vital role in alleviating poverty too. As much as peace is essential to win the battle against poverty, defeating terrorism is imperative to ensure equal economic prosperity for every citizen,” he said.
President Sirisena left for Tajikistan on Thursday (13) to attend the Summit where he also held bilateral discussions with the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon.The Sri Lankan President was accorded a grand welcome at the President’s Palace in Dushanbe.
Following the exchange of pleasantries the two leaders sat for bilateral talks. Since both countries are committed to strengthen economic development and international trade, they focused attention to lay a solid foundation to revitalize bilateral trade.
Both leaders pledged to work in unison to ensure regional security and battle against drug trafficking.
Recalling his visit to Sri Lanka, the Tajikistan President expressed his gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him. He said the current visit by President Sirisena will further cement the friendly ties between the two countries.
During his stay in Dushanbe President Sirisena visited the Tajikistan National Museum where nature, civilizations, medieval, modern and contemporary historical objects were on display, drawing his attention to an ancient Buddha statue. The President then visited Nurek hydro power plant in Dushanbe.
(Sunday Observer)