Sri Lankans in Nepal safe amid violent unrest: Acting Foreign minister

Colombo, Sept. 9 (Daily Mirror) - Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Arun Hemachandra said that no Sri Lankans have been reported harmed amid the violent unrest unfolding in Kathmandu and other parts of Nepal.

Hemachandra said he had personally spoken to members of the Sri Lankan community in Nepal to check on their safety and wellbeing. 

“There are 22 Sri Lankan students in Nepal and a total of 99 Sri Lankans, including Embassy staff and residents. I was relieved to learn that none of them have been affected,” he said.

The Minister noted that the Sri Lankan Embassy in Kathmandu has established WhatsApp groups and circulated emergency contact numbers to maintain close communication with citizens. 

He said Sri Lankans have been advised to remain indoors, avoid protest-hit areas and strictly follow curfew measures.

“I assured our citizens that the Government of Sri Lanka stands ready to provide further assistance, including evacuation, if necessary,” he added.

Hemachandra also expressed appreciation to the Sri Lankan mission in Kathmandu, commending the Chargé d’Affaires and Embassy staff for their “tireless work and dedication at this critical moment.”

He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism would continue to closely monitor developments and act to protect Sri Lankans overseas.