Addressing the religious leaders and representatives of the Sri Lankan Associations in the UK at a meeting convened on hybrid mode at the High Commission of Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom on 8 August 2024, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the United Kingdom Rohitha Bogollagama, delivered the following remarks:
In the wake of incidents of public disorder in some parts of the United Kingdom, I wish to highlight that President Ranil Wickremesinghe personally inquired on the situation in the UK and ascertained the wellbeing and protection of the Sri Lankan community. Accordingly, we have maintained a close dialogue with the UK establishment, highlighting the perspective of our efforts to assist the UK government to reinstate stability in the country.
I request the Sri Lankan community in the UK to stay informed by following trusted local news and updates and official announcements.
Sri Lankan community in the UK which is approximately 750,000 is a multi-cultural and multi-ethnic community that has contributed to UK’s growth and prosperity over the years as a law-abiding community.
Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom share longstanding bilateral relations based on mutual trust and goodwill. UK is a country founded on democracy and Rule of Law which are the core principles of the longstanding stability in the country. I am confident that the UK law enforcement authorities will duly overcome this situation and bring those responsible to justice. Sri Lanka expresses solidarity with the UK Government in this time of public disturbances.
I request all the community members to maintain close contacts with the Sri Lanka High Commission for the latest information and assistance if needed. In case of an emergency, the High Commission could be contacted as per the following detail:
Mr Sameera Dayasekara
First Secretary
Mobile: +44 7475206220
020 7262 1841
Email: mail@slhc-london.co.uk
Responding to the statement by the High Commissioner, the religious leaders including Maha Sanga, and the community representatives extended their appreciation to the High Commission for maintaining constant contact with them and looking into their welfare during this time of public disorder. While noting that no incidents involving Sri Lankans have been reported, they appreciated the efforts of the UK law enforcement authorities to mitigate the disturbances. They also highlighted measures taken by the local authorities to protect the minority communities and look after their welfare. All the participants expressed confidence in the law enforcement authorities of the United Kingdom in overcoming this situation and bringing those responsible to justice.
High Commission of Sri Lanka
London
09 August 2024
