Muslim world affirms support to Lanka at Geneva Sessions - Musthapha

"At a time when certain extremist elements are attempting to distance the long bonded historical relationship between Sinhala and the Muslim communities the Muslim countries overwhelmingly supported Sri Lanka at the 22nd Sessions of UNHRC held in Geneva, states Deputy Investment Promotion Minister President's Counsel Faiszer Musthapha in a statement.

Following is the statement: "It is unfortunate that the UNHRC resolution against Sri Lanka has failed to focus on the post-conflict development of the country; particularly in the North and East. It does not recognize the rapid, unprecedented economic development of the North, the most affected area where the people suffered under the hands of the LTTE during the armed conflict. The people of the North and East were at the lowest ebb of poverty and the government by empowering them economically pursuing livelihood projects not only lifted the people above the poverty line but also gave them life with dignity and honour.

"The Muslims in Sri Lanka and the world over have been continuously supporting Sri Lanka both in defeating terrorism and in the process of post conflict nation building in addition to solidly supporting Sri Lanka at various international fora. One example is All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama's efforts during the last year UNHRC session in making representations to Muslim countries explaining that the resolution was not beneficial to the interests of Sri Lanka.

"In the year 2012, when Sri Lanka had to face a resolution moved against it by certain countries the Muslim world refrained from supporting the resolution thus demonstrating their unswerving solidarity with Sri Lanka. Muslim countries, namely, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bangladesh, Maldives, Mauritania and Indonesia voted with Sri Lanka; while Malaysia, Jordan, Kyrgyzstan and predominantly Muslim Senegal abstained.

"Those countries prevented the resolution against Sri Lanka gaining a large majority. This year, last week, this position was further endorsed consolidating the friendship between Sri Lanka and the Muslim world. , Mauritania ,Indonesia, Maldives, Pakistan, UAE and Qatar voted in favour of Sri Lanka whilst Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Burkina Faso abstained.

"In sum it could be observed that the Muslim member states within the UNHRC on both occasions almost en bloc had extended support to the cause of Sri Lanka.

"President Mahinda Rajapaksa enjoys a very high popularity rating within the Arab and Muslim world. It would be pertinent to note that in his honour a road has been named in Palestine with which country the whole Muslim world expresses its solidarity and co-operation. It is his popularity which led to winning the support of the large majority of Muslim countries in Geneva.

"President Mahinda Rajapaksa should be commended for continuing to maintain very healthy, friendly relations with the Muslim countries. However, Muslims will regret to note that a handful of extremists have begun a campaign against Muslims quite contrary to the thinking of President Rajapaksa who has clearly stated that this country has no divisions on ethnic or religious lines.

On several occasions the President had clearly stated that the majority is the patriotic Sri Lankans who comprise people from all communities and religious beliefs and the minority is formed of the people who work against the motherland.

"Therefore, people of all communities should be mindful about the need to foster inter- religious harmony and promote peaceful coexistence among people of all ethnicities, beliefs and faiths.

"No country can live in isolation. Therefore, attempts by any group to lead Sri Lanka on the path of isolation has to be thwarted in the interest of Sri Lanka irrespective of race, religion or creed".