No Lankans affected in Lebanon

COLOMBO: There has been no report of any Sri Lankans being affected by the situation in Lebanon, the Foreign Ministry said yesterday.

The Ministry in consultation with the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment (SLBFE) has kept round the clock watch on the situation and safety of Sri Lankans in Lebanon, it said in a release. The Sri Lanka Embassy in Beirut is being strengthened with additional local staff and SLBFE officials to handle inquiries and assist those seeking help.

The Embassy has also made arrangements with the assistance of humanitarian organisations in Beirut to provide safety and shelter to some Sri Lankans who sought assistance. The Government is in touch with authorities regarding further action on contingency planning and for safety of Sri Lankans.

The Mission has advised Sri Lankans to avoid travel to Lebanon. If the need arises, assistance will be obtained from International Organisation for Migrants and other governments with whom the Sri Lankan Government is in touch through diplomatic channels for those who wish to return.

The information and help desk will continue to function at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, SLBFE and Sri Lanka Embassy in Beirut.