Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party and Member of Parliament, Ravi Karunanayake, stated that Sri Lanka has a valuable opportunity to demonstrate its neutral friendship by helping to ease tensions between India and Pakistan.
Speaking at a media briefing, Karunanayake emphasized that Sri Lanka is well-positioned to play a mediating role in the current Indo-Pakistan crisis. He noted that the country has a history of stepping in during regional disputes, citing past examples such as the Maldives crisis, Indo-Bangladesh tensions, and Nepal-India conflicts.
He further said this moment presents a chance for Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to actively showcase Sri Lanka’s impartial diplomatic stance.
Karunanayake also recalled that when it was not possible to host cricket matches between India and Pakistan in their respective countries, Sri Lanka served as a neutral venue—highlighting the nation’s ability to foster friendly relations and facilitate dialogue.
He concluded by asserting that the Foreign Minister could lay the groundwork for meaningful discussions between the two countries, promoting a path toward peaceful resolution.
