Freedom of protest & economic security – British South Asia Minister speaks with Sri Lanka’s President

Following a crackdown on demonstrators in Colombo, Britain’s South Asia Minister, Lord Tariq Ahmad, has stated on Twitter that he has had a “constructive conversation” with Sri Lanka’s President which focused on the right to peaceful protest.

Minister Ahmad’s statement grew international condemnation of Sri Lanka’s heavy-handed response to protests which saw the military destroy the settlement of protesters and injure at least 50. During the military suppression of the protesters, a BBC journalist was also attacked, with his phone snatched by a soldier and his videos deleted.

Jaffna newspaper, Kalaikkathir, reports that upset with international coverage of the violence, Wickremesinghe challenged diplomats on their criticism. He reportedly told US Ambassador Julie Chung, to read the history of America starting from President Abraham Lincoln.

In his Twitter statement, Lord Ahmad reemphasised the UK’s continued support to Sri Lanka during its economic crisis.

Constructive call with President Ranil Wickremesinghe @RW_UNP today about the concerning security & economic situation in Sri Lanka Also focused on rights to peaceful protest,media freedom,human rights&justice. UK will continue to support Sri Lanka through these challenges. pic.twitter.com/ZfI6dGAteZ

— Lord (Tariq)Ahmad of Wimbledon (@tariqahmadbt) July 23, 2022