Anura Kumara uses UN speech to call for Gaza ceasefire

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

The President expressed deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip.

He called for an immediate ceasefire, the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid and the release of hostages by all parties, in line with agreements reached by the United Nations and other stakeholders.

"We are deeply distressed by the ongoing catastrophe in the Gaza Strip. Gaza has been turned into an open prison full of pain and suffering, echoing with the cries of children and the innocent civilians. The United Nations Organisation and all related parties must work towards an immediate ceasefire, enable adequate humanitarian aid to these areas and to ensure the release of hostages of all parties," he said.

The President also said that Sri Lanka recognises the Palestinian people's inalienable right to their own state.

"We also believe that legal, security and humanitarian concerns of Israel and Palestinian people need to be acknowledged," he said.

Sri Lanka reiterated the importance of early implementation of the UN General Assembly resolutions regarding a two-state solution on the basis of the 1967 borders.

"The time has come for the international community to stop being a mere spectator and to move decisively to end the suffering of millions," the President said.

The President emphasized the constructive measures implemented by Sri Lanka to address the global drug issue, a multifaceted challenge impacting millions worldwide.

He urged world leaders to collaborate in advancing the global initiative aimed at eradicating the drug menace, which endangers global health, democracy, politics and the overall well-being of society. He proposed stricter enforcement of laws against traffickers, limiting their ability to migrate across borders and establishing more rehabilitation centers for drug addicts.

Turning to corruption, President Dissanayake described it as a destructive force that undermines development, democracy and social well-being while perpetuating poverty.

He noted that Sri Lanka has already embarked on this difficult but essential fight for the sake of future generations and urged all countries to embed the culture of anti-corruption within their governance.