CCHA proposes common approach to overcome disputes

Rasika SOMARATHNA

The Consultative Committee on Humanitarian Assistance (CCHA), while proposing a common approach to overcome disputes has reiterated its support for and confidence in UN operations in Sri Lanka.

In their latest meeting chaired by Minister for Disaster Management and Human Rights Mahinda Samarasinghe, the CCHA has proposed an approach based on the party accused of such misconduct being given the opportunity to put forward its case and to refrain from issuing public statements, until all investigations are concluded.

However, the Minister has pointed out that the Government has the right to fully investigate any allegations of misconduct.

The international members while welcoming the proposal has reiterated their confidence in the UN, Red Cross and I\NGO agency members working in the country.

Minister Samarasinghe in the latest meeting has stated that it appreciates the efforts of the international agencies in humanitarian assistance and development work in the country, claiming that their efforts have greatly contributed to the welfare of the people in Sri Lanka.

The meeting was attended by heads of UN and multilateral agencies, heads of diplomatic missions including the US Ambassador representing the Co-Chairs and EU Ambassador, along with Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa and other key Government stake holders.

The CCHA is a high level committee appointed to deal with important policy issues concerning humanitarian assistance and meets on a monthly basis with Minister Samarasinghe as the helm.