The Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa warned of "external forces" encouraged disharmony in Asian countries "under the guise of democracy", at the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), jointly hosted by the ruling Sri Lankan Freedom Party (SLFP) and opposition United National Party (UNP) in Colombo this week.

"Today the emerging trends in the world, including in parts of Asia gave signals that alarmed the Asian Community because external forces under the guise of democracy and other enticing slogans sought to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries," the Daily Mirror reported him as saying to delegates.

“They show little concern about destabilising nations,” he said, adding, "Asian countries have seen how the media including social media is being used by the forces that are continuing the cause of division, separation and terror."

Lauding Sri Lanka's military efforts Mahinda Rajapaksa added,

"Sri Lanka can stand out in this great gathering for our experience in battling and defeating terrorism against the efforts of many external forces outside Asia that sought to bring about an accommodation of terrorism in our land. We are always ready to share that experience with the world. Your presence here and what you will see in this country today are the fruits of that great success in protecting our State and our Nation, from the forces of terror."

The president thanked the opposition United National Party (UNP) for helping host the international conference in Colombo, reports the Island.lk.

“I also thank the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the United National Party, the main parties of government and opposition in Sri Lanka for being the joint hosts for this event in the spirit of democratic participation for Asian solidarity,” he said.

The opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe also delivered a speech at the event, reported Colombo Page.

The UN General Secretary, in video address, thanked Sri Lanka for holding the conference. Highlighting concerns regarding growing inequalities, environmental degradation, political and communal tensions as well as a rise of extremism, Ban Ki-Moon said,

"There is no better way to overcome differences, foster mutual trust and build confidence among Asia’s diverse ethnicities and religions than strengthening democracy and respect for human rights. Asian political parties have a responsibility to demonstrate leadership in this effort.  I encourage you to build an inclusive, prosperous and peaceful region, and to pursue sustainable development for all.”

Mahinda Rajapaksa was nominated as Chairperson of the ICAPP conference on Friday. The event which consists of 300 representatives from 75 different political parties and political associations from 33 countries in Asia, will continue in Colombo until the 21 September.