US says 'time slipping away' for Sri Lanka

The US Under Secretary of State, Maria Otero, warned Sri Lanka to implement the recommendations of the LLRC without delay.

Speaking at the 19th UN Human Rights Session on Friday, Otero said that there can be no lasting peace without reconciliaton and accountability.

The Under Secretary reiterated the need for action at this session to 'sow the seeds of lasting peace'.

Full comment on Sri Lanka by Maria Otero:

"We know from experience that there can be no lasting peace without reconciliation and accountability, but the United States is concerned that, in Sri Lanka, time is slipping away.

"The international community has waited nearly three years for action, and while we welcome the release of the LLRC report, the recommendations of the report should be implemented.

"We have engaged Sri Lanka bilaterally on these issues since the conflict ended in 2009, and stand ready to continue to work with them.

"Action now in this Council will sow the seeds of lasting peace on the ground."

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