The EU hopes that the Government of Sri Lanka will recognise the constructive objectives of the report, and encourages it to engage with the UNSG on its contents.
10 May 2011, 9:08 am
Declaration by the High Representative, Catherine Ashton, on behalf of the European Union on the Report of the UN Secretary-General Panel of Experts on Accountability in Sri Lanka
The EU considers that the publication of the report of the UN Secretary-General Panel of Experts on accountability in Sri Lanka is an important development. It will be recalled that the EU had welcomed the appointment of the Panel by the UNSG in June 2010.
The Panel has concluded that there are credible allegations that major violations of international human rights and humanitarian law were committed on all sides in the conflict. The EU reiterates its view that an independent process to address these extremely serious allegations should contribute to strengthening the process of reconciliation and ensuring lasting peace and security in Sri Lanka. As the report says, the issue of accountability should be seen as an essential part of the process of national reconciliation.
The EU therefore hopes that the Government of Sri Lanka will recognise the constructive objectives of the report, and encourages it to engage with the UNSG on its contents.
TC