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Violence can only be stopped by ending impunity says Swiss ambassador

Marking the tenth anniversary of the end of the armed conflict, Switzerland's ambassador to Sri Lanka, Hanspeter Mock said "cycles of violence can only be stopped if the government ensures that perpetrators can no longer enjoy impunity."

In a statement issued today, the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "the Easter Sunday terrorist attacks against civilians and members of the Christian community in the capital Colombo and other cities, coupled with the ensuing clashes and assaults against ethnic minorities and refugees, showed that the root causes of the conflict have not yet been addressed." 

"Switzerland condemns the intolerance and violence that have led to tremendous suffering in Sri Lanka over the last few decades, and offers it sincere condolences to the victims' families."

"Switzerland encourages the national government to do everything in its power to ensure that all sections of society, irrespective of ethnic background, religion, caste or status, feel part of the nation of Sri Lanka. The cycles of violence can only be stopped if the government ensures that perpetrators can no longer enjoy impunity."

Read full statement below: 

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