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Sri Lanka’s non-aligned foreign policy has served the best interests of the country. The proof of this is the response of many countries to assist us when Cyclone Ditwah devastated us recently. In addition, the country has special relationships with many countries. The government must continue to pursue policies that do not offend any of our friendly foreign countries.

Massive assistance

The foreign assistance we received in the form of funds, personnel, aircraft, food, medicines and equipment when Cyclone Ditwah destroyed the country was ample evidence of our friendly relations with many countries. The assistance that was beyond expectations was a testimony to our non-aligned foreign policy and friendship with all nations—one of not taking sides in conflicts between nations.

Non-aligned

Although our foreign policy has been described as non-aligned, the multiplicity of international conflicts, especially between our friendly countries, makes it exceedingly difficult to remain neutral. However, we must continue our friendly relations with the countries in conflict with each other.

Conflicts

The conflicts between India and Pakistan, India and China, Japan and China, Thailand and Cambodia, and Russia and Ukraine, as well as the United States’ harsh trade policies, make friendly relations with all countries difficult but imperative. The Cyclone Ditwah assistance we received from a large number of countries demonstrated the wisdom and importance of maintaining friendly relations with all countries.

Friendly relations

Since independence, governments have maintained friendly relations with all countries and pursued a non-aligned foreign policy. This has not been the easiest of tasks in a world of numerous conflicts. However, it is imperative that we continue with our friendly foreign relations with all countries.

Complex

The evolving international situation is uncertain, complex and dangerous. There could be wars and aggressions in all parts of the world. Nations could rise against nations. Countries that are friendly could fight with each other. We could ask them to restrain but keep aloof.

For instance, if hostilities break out between China and Japan, two friendly countries for over eight decades, or between India and China—all nations with whom Sri Lanka maintains close links and obtains investments and assistance, as is the case with India and Pakistan—we cannot take sides. We cannot afford to offend the US nor break our ties with Russia.

Even distant wars could strain our friendly ties and trade relations.

Government position

In this complex international environment, our policy stance must be cautious and diplomatic. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath articulated the government’s policy on the US-Venezuelan conflict. He told a media conference that the US had violated international law and that Sri Lanka backed the ongoing UN Security Council bid to deal with the developing situation in Venezuela. He said the government’s position on the abduction of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife must be settled by international law. Hopefully, this stance will not offend any friendly country.

Unnoticed

It is also possible that our policy stance would go unnoticed. Furthermore, let us hope that there wouldn’t be pressures from sections of the ruling party for the government to take a strong stand against the US actions against Venezuela.

National interest

Our foreign policy should be guided by our national interests rather than high moral grounds.

Concluding reflection

The evolving international situation is uncertain, complex and dangerous. There could be wars and aggressions in all parts of the world. Nations could rise against nations. Countries that are friendly with us could fight with nations that are our friends. We could ask them to restrain their aggression but must keep aloof.

Our closest neighbours, India and China, are in continuous suspicion of each other. India, the country to come to our assistance after Ditwah, is in conflict with Pakistan, a friend since independence. We cannot afford to offend the US nor break our ties with Russia. Even distant wars could strain our friendly ties and trade relations.