The subject of troubled equations that the pervious Rajapaksa regime had with the United Nations came to the fore at an event here on Saturday to mark 70th anniversary of foundation of the UN and completion of 60 years of Sri Lanka’s membership.

President Maithripala Sirisena, who visited the UN premises on Bauddhaloka Mawatha for the first time, recalled how a Minister of the earlier government [Housing Minister Wimal Weerawansa in July 2010] observed a fast in front of the UN office with the encouragement of the powers that be of the time.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, while addressing the gathering that included Speaker K. Jayasuriya and Leader of Opposition R. Sampanthan, felt that ignorance on the part of a section of politicians and officials of the previous regime put the country on the path of collision with the UN and international community.

Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera said Sri Lanka had now rejoined the world community “after a brief period, which can be termed as an aberration of our history.” It would maintain engagement and friendship with all nations alike and the UN.

Wickremesinghe expressed the hope that there would not be any clash with the UN in future while Mr. Sirisena praised the UN for its role in addressing “social, economic, humanitarian and cultural challenges” of the country.

Subinay Nandy, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative in Sri Lanka, mentioned “persistent income inequality and regional disparities in employment and education” as challenges that had to be addressed by the country. He urged the Sri Lankan government to accelerate the release of private lands, now held by the security forces, to legitimate owners.

(The Hindu)