EU and Sri Lanka engage in counter-terrorism dialogue

<p>The EU and Sri Lanka held an informal counter-terrorism dialogue today, chaired by Gilles de Kerchove, the EU Counter Terrorism Coordinator. .</p> <p>Challenges relating to violent extremism and terrorism were discussed.&nbsp;The EU delegation underlined the importance of efficient coordination of counterterrorism effortts with a focus&nbsp;on the prevention of violent extremism and the importance of counterterrorism&nbsp;responses to be in line with human rights obligations.&nbsp;</p> <p>The EU presented Sri Lanka with a support package worth EUR 8.5 million which will focus on law enforcement, rehabiliation and disengagement, counter-narratives, and online radicalisation.&nbsp;</p> <p>Mr de Kerchove was set to hold meetings with President Maithiripala Sirisena, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Tilak Marapana.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>