Govt doesn't understand diplomacy, claims Marikkar

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP S.M. Marikkar has alleged that the government lacks an understanding of diplomacy and does not know how to engage effectively with the international community.

He made the remarks to the media yesterday (5), noting that the President's absence from the recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) highlighted the failure.

Marikkar said the President should have attended the UNGA to meet world leaders and potential investors and generate revenue for the country, rather than attending meetings in Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.

He also raised serious national security concerns over reports of alleged US-sanctioned Iranian vessels anchored in international waters near Sri Lanka, claiming the government remains helpless in the face of the situation.

He said national security must remain the top priority and urged the government to hold direct diplomatic discussions with the United States to safeguard the country's territory, maritime boundaries and citizens.

Marikkar also criticised the President, in his capacity as Defence Minister, for failing to issue a formal statement to Parliament on the matter.

He pointed out that if the government cannot manage the issue independently, it should consult the opposition to formulate a solution.

The opposition lawmaker criticised the ruling party for parading the same group of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) cadres at rallies across the island.

He alleged that the President had deceived youth and women with false promises.

Citing World Bank data, Marikkar said nearly 65 per cent of the population is living in poverty, and that ordinary citizens can no longer afford basic necessities, their children's education or essential medicines.

Noting that the government has completed 25 months in office, he challenged the NPP administration to hold the long-overdue Provincial Council elections if it is confident of its public mandate.

He added that the SJB is prepared to secure a decisive victory.