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On June 23, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe reiterated his country’s steadfast support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state within the next five years. Despite Sri Lanka’s economic challenges, the President highlighted the generous contributions made by the public to the Gaza Children’s Fund, emphasising the nation’s commitment to humanitarian efforts and international solidarity.
Commitment to Palestinian Statehood
President Wickremesinghe, speaking at a special service held at the Grand Jummah Mosque in Kattankudy, a predominantly Muslim area in the eastern province, stressed Sri Lanka’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue. “Sri Lanka’s stance on the Gaza clashes would never change, action must be taken to set up an independent Palestine state within five years and murdering of civilians must stop,” he stated. This declaration comes amidst ongoing conflicts and humanitarian crises in the Gaza Strip, underscoring Sri Lanka’s commitment to advocating for a resolution.
Humanitarian Aid Amid Economic Crisis
Despite facing severe economic hardships, Sri Lanka has managed to gather significant public support for the Gaza Children’s Fund. President Wickremesinghe acknowledged the country’s bankrupt status but praised the collective effort that raised one million dollars for the cause. According to the President, the Sri Lankan civilian effort was able to organize and donate a million dollars.
This fund was specifically established to support children affected by the conflict in Gaza, showcasing Sri Lanka’s prioritization of humanitarian assistance even during economic turmoil. The President emphasized that such contributions exemplify the nation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian causes, regardless of its own financial struggles, reflecting the deep empathy and solidarity of the Sri Lankan people towards the suffering of children in Gaza.
Solidarity from Kattankudy Community
The special service at the Grand Jummah Mosque highlighted the community’s solidarity with Gaza. The New Kattankudy Grand Jummah Mosque made a notable contribution of Rs 10,769,417 to the Gaza Children’s Fund. The trustees of the mosque presented the cheque to President Wickremesinghe during the ceremony, demonstrating the local community’s commitment to international humanitarian causes. This gesture of support is a testament to the deep-rooted empathy and solidarity felt by the people of Kattankudy for the plight of Gazan children.
Addressing Hamas-Israel
In his address, President Wickremesinghe also touched on the broader geopolitical issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasised the need to address Israel’s security concerns separately while focusing on establishing a Palestinian state. “People should not be made to pay for the problems with Hamas. We all should assist in finding a solution to the Palestine problem – the state of Palestine must be set up before five years. It will not be productive to waste time talking about it, as we have done now for 40-50 years,” he remarked.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s reaffirmation of support for an independent Palestinian state within five years, despite Sri Lanka’s economic difficulties, reflects a strong commitment to international solidarity and humanitarian principles. The significant contributions from the public and the Kattankudy community underscore the nation’s collective effort to support those in need, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s position as a steadfast ally in the quest for Palestinian statehood.
Wickremesinghe’s statements at the Grand Jummah Mosque in Kattankudy, coupled with the substantial financial aid collected for the Gaza Children’s Fund, demonstrate a profound dedication to global humanitarian efforts. This collective action highlights the compassion and determination of the Sri Lankan people to contribute meaningfully to the resolution of international conflicts and the betterment of vulnerable communities, even amidst their own national challenges. By prioritizing humanitarian assistance and advocating for a peaceful solution, Sri Lanka positions itself as a nation committed to fostering global peace and justice.
