European Commission assures Sri Lanka support

The European Commission has assured Sri Lanka support to overcome the current economic crisis, the President Media Division said.

President of the European Commission Ms. Ursula von der Leyen congratulated President Ranil Wickremesinghe on his election as the President of Sri Lanka and assured support to the government of Sri Lanka for the efforts to overcome the crisis successfully.

Issuing a statement, Ursula noted that at a time of unprecedented challenges faced by the people of Sri Lanka, the European Commission remains committed to support Sri Lanka?s efforts to overcome the crisis successfully, including the necessary reforms that will bring the country back to a path of inclusive prosperity and lasting national reconciliation.

Ms. Ursula further stated that in this process, freedom of expression and assembly, dialogue among all stakeholders, as well as respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights will remain essential.

She has also made a reference to the assessment by the European Union on the progress made by Sri Lanka on GSP+ commitments. Accordingly, the European Union will assess the progress made on Sri Lanka?s GSP+ commitments very soon.?The report is scheduled to be released towards the latter part of this year or early 2023.

She also commended the success in the efforts to introduce and steer policies that will ensure the short and long-term interests of all Sri Lankans and address the devastating efforts of the unprecedented economic downturn as well as the negotiations with international financial institutions and creditors.

Ms. Ursula von der Leyen expressed her interest in working closely to strengthen further the ties and cooperation, based on commitments to shared values and common interests. (Colombo Gazette)