Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that the Paris terrorist attack on November 13 "underscored the need for global resolve" in dealing firmly with terrorism.

“It is with shock and disbelief that I heard of the terrorist attacks in Paris which has left well over 100 people dead and scores more injured. Only those who have endured the same agony will fully understand what the people of France are going through at this moment," Rajapaksa said in a message.

"Sri Lanka suffered the scourge of terrorism for well over three decades and attacks similar to that which has just taken place in Paris were commonplace in Sri Lanka. This is why my government resolved firmly to put an end to terrorism. Today, my country is at peace with no terrorist attack reported since May 2009.  

I wish to convey my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families in France and sympathies with those injured. This barbaric act of terrorism perpetrated against ordinary citizens has once again underscored the need for global resolve in dealing firmly with terrorism. I wish to express solidarity with the people of France at this moment of travail” he added.