ECT factor could be crucial during upcoming UNHRC sessions: Ruwan

The Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) issue might be a decisive factor when it comes to the resolution that is to be brought against Sri Lanka during the upcoming UNHRC session, UNP Deputy Leader Ruwan Wijewardene said yesterday.

Mr. Wijewardene told journalists after assuming duties in his post for the year 2021 that the Eastern Container Terminal might become an issue when it comes to discussions in getting the support of certain countries to support Sri Lanka at UNHRC sessions. “I would not say that handing over the ECT will be a bribe to get India’s support to Sri Lanka but it could become a vital factor when it comes to discussions pertaining to the UNHRC resolution on Sri Lanka,” he said. “Our government was blamed for selling state assets to foreign countries but it is this government which is engaged in such exercises,” he added. Mr. Wijewardene said he was willing to go to Parliament on the National List if the party decided so but stressed that he preferred to be elected to Parliament rather than being appointed on the national list.

“However the party had already decided that Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe is the best choice to fill the slot. We have already made a written request from him in this regard. Besides the other opposition parties and even ministers want Mr. Wickremesinghe to come to Parliament,” he added.(Yohan Perera)

Pix by Pradeep Pathirana