Mangala's move to close mission in Iraq shelved

13 January 2016 08:48 pm Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 7 Bookmark

CHATURANGA PRADEEP SAMARAWICKRAMA Follow

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Foreign Affairs Minister Mangala Samaraweera had to shelve his move to close the Sri Lankan mission in Baghdad, Iraq due to objections by a group of cabinet ministers, it is learnt.

The minister submitted the Cabinet paper in this regard under his plan to rationalise the missions abroad.

But his move was resisted by some cabinet ministers, including Rishad Bathiudeen, Mahinda Samarasinghe and Anura Priyadarshana Yapa.

Mr. Samaraweera said that, though Iraq was a friendly nation, it was difficult to operate a mission in that country at the moment. He said it was even difficult to find an ambassador to serve in that country.

Ultimately the paper was not approved due to requests to reconsider the move. (Kelum Bandara)

Comments - 7

Sarath Fonseka Thursday, 14 January 2016 02:26 AM

I am available to work as Ambassador to Iraq!

1 30

Wele Vidane Thursday, 14 January 2016 05:35 AM

Give it to SF.

2 19

colin Thursday, 14 January 2016 10:08 AM

The previous Head of Mission a former banker is reported to have done a good job in Baghdad so why not consider him for the post if he is agreeable

1 1

idroos2002 Thursday, 14 January 2016 10:54 AM

Its a good move to temporarily close non valuable missions overseas.

1 4

lkboy Thursday, 14 January 2016 11:34 AM

Then send Rishad for the job.

0 3

Sapu Thursday, 14 January 2016 11:46 AM

What do we gain from this embassy? Iraq was destroyed by Saddam Hussein like MR almost did for SL

8 4

dilip Thursday, 14 January 2016 03:08 PM

Iraq was distroyed by Saddam? Do you eat grass Mr. Sapu?

2 11

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