March 03, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has expressed profound concern over the tragic loss of over one hundred lives among those awaiting aid in Gaza and has added its voice to the demand for a thorough investigation into the incident. In a statement issued on Saturday (02), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored the urgent necessity to terminate the blockade imposed on Gaza, which has severely constrained its civilian populace, including women and children, from accessing essential provisions such as food, water, medication, electricity, and fuel. Emphasising its stance for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded humanitarian passage to Gaza to alleviate the plight of civilians, Sri Lanka reiterated its call. Moreover, the Foreign Affairs Ministry disclosed that the Sri Lankan Government has sanctioned the establishment of the “Children of Gaza Fund,” an empathetic initiative proposed by the President, aimed at extending assistance to Gaza’s victims. Additionally, Sri Lanka has committed to donate USD one million through UN agencies to offer vital support to Gaza’s victims. Sri Lanka aligns itself with the global demand for a sustainable political resolution to the conflict and stresses the importance of establishing an independent and sovereign State of Palestine, based on the 1967 borders as outlined in relevant UN resolutions. Furthermore, Sri Lanka emphasises the significance of ensuring Israel’s security, as articulated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.