The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been drawn to a lead news report which had appeared in an English language newspaper on Sunday, 3rd May 2009 entitled “Top Diplomat to be expelled?”

Responding to questions raised by the media on this report, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rohitha Bogollagama stated that the question of expelling the UN Resident Representative was never contemplated or discussed as there was no reason whatsoever to consider such a move.

The Government of Sri Lanka has always worked in partnership with the UN and has consistently acknowledged and appreciated the role played by the UN system in Sri Lanka.

Mr. Neil Buhne, the UN Resident Representative has continued to maintain a close and cordial relationship with the Government of Sri Lanka and other agencies. The Government is closely engaged with the UN at this critical time and appreciates the active contribution and assistance extended to Sri Lanka towards emergency relief operations in the North.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs has dismissed the said news report as a non-issue.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Colombo
4th May 2009