Canada, the European Union and the United Kingdom have all condemned the violence against Muslims in Kandy and other parts of Sri Lanka this week.
“Canada is deeply concerned by recent inter-communal violence in Sri Lanka, in which Muslims were targeted,” the country’s foreign minister, Chrystia Freeland said in a statement.
“Canada calls on the government to ensure the safety and security of all minorities, to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all and to hold those responsible for the violence accountable.”
The European Union’s delegation in Sri Lanka called for the perpetrators to be brought to justice, saying in a statement:
“The recent attacks on communities are very worrying. It is important that the Government and the security forces take urgent action against hate crimes and ensure that the perpetrators of such actions are swiftly brought to justice.”
Referring to the state of emergency called by the government, the EU delegation said, “the EU trusts that any actions taken under the State of Emergency will be proportionate and respect constitutional rights and freedoms.”
The British High Commissioner for Sri Lanka said in a tweet, “recent inter-communal violence needs to be a serious concern for everyone in Sri Lanka.”
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