Former Deputy Leader of the United National Party, MP Ravi Karunanayake, says Sri Lanka has previously faced similar geopolitical challenges and should continue to pursue balanced diplomacy amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking in an interview with the ceylonwire.lk website, Karunanayake recalled the period when Qatar faced regional isolation by several Middle Eastern countries during his tenure as Foreign Minister.
He noted that tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz had also affected global oil prices at that time.
Karunanayake said Sri Lanka maintained diplomatic engagement during the crisis, including high-level visits aimed at preserving friendly relations and protecting national interests.
He also referred to former President Junius Richard Jayewardene and his well-known statement at the 1952 San Francisco Peace Conference that “hatred cannot be cured by hatred,” saying the principle remains relevant today.
The MP further pointed out that Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath should ideally be actively engaged in the Middle East region during the current crisis.
Karunanayake emphasised the importance of diplomatic engagement and maintaining constructive international relationships during periods of global instability.
