Minister Vijitha Herath Meets Foreign Ministers and Senior UN Officials on the Sidelines of UNGA81
On the sidelines of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81), Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath engaged in a series of bilateral meetings and discussions with foreign ministers and senior United Nations officials.
During the High-Level Week of UNGA81, Minister Vijitha Herath held a cordial meeting with Nepal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Shisir Khanal. Discussions focused on advancing shared priorities between Sri Lanka and Nepal, opening new avenues for closer cooperation, and pursuing joint efforts to address common climate challenges. Minister Herath expressed Sri Lanka’s solidarity with the government and people of Nepal following the recent severe flooding, extending best wishes for their recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Minister Herath also held a productive discussion with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations. As a long-standing contributor to UN peacekeeping, Sri Lanka reaffirmed its continued commitment and constructive support toward international peacekeeping efforts aimed at promoting global peace, security, and stability. Additionally, Minister Herath briefed the Under-Secretary-General on the progress of the National Human Rights Rights Screening Mechanism (NHRSM).
In another side meeting, Minister Herath conferred with Dr. Seyed Abbas Araghchi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Both sides exchanged views on current regional and international developments. Minister Herath reiterated Sri Lanka’s firm stance on de-escalating regional tensions through dialogue and diplomatic channels, stressing the importance of continuous engagement to restore regional stability.
Furthermore, Minister Herath met with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The two leaders discussed prospects for further strengthening bilateral relations across key sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, labor cooperation, and the welfare of the Sri Lankan community residing in the UAE.
Minister Vijitha Herath also engaged in a warm and constructive exchange with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The Minister briefed the Secretary-General on Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, progress in national reforms, and ongoing reconciliation efforts. Both parties exchanged views on reforming the international financial architecture to support developing nations and highlighted Sri Lanka’s ongoing contributions to UN peacekeeping operations.
Additionally, Minister Herath held discussions with Atul Khare, UN Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support. Minister Herath expressed gratitude for the operational support provided to Sri Lankan peacekeepers participating in UN Security Council-mandated missions and reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s long-term dedication to international peace operations.
0
