Pre-conditions for GSP plus:

Provocative and intimidatory

The Communist Party of Sri Lanka issuing a statement on the GSP plus preference said:

The Communist Party of Sri Lanka (CPSL) expresses its unqualified support to the Government’s unwavering decision to reject outright stipulations made by the European Commission as pre-conditions for the extension of G. S. P. Plus preference. Through a letter dated 17-06-2010 addressed to the External Affairs Minister by the European Commissioner Vice-President Catherine Ashton, she has demanded a firm undertaking from the Government within a stipulated date to fulfil 15 pre-conditions.

Amongst those pre-conditions are demands for changes to the Constitution, the Code of Criminal Procedures, the Emergency Regulations and Prevention of Terrorism Act etc.

In our view, stipulation of such pre-conditions is both provocative and intimidatory. It is an attempt to interfere into the internal affairs of a sovereign country. The compromising of a country’s sovereignty and national dignity for a sum of $ 150 million is totally impermissible and reprehensible. The CPSL while expressing its deep appreciation of the Government’s firm decision not to give in to the dictates of the European Commission calls upon the Government to explore alternative measures in support of our Exporters.