Sri Lanka's Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry criticised the “double standard and hypocrisy” shown by some countries over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, and called for “upholding international law,” despite his government refusing to address crimes committed against the Tamil population on the island.
Sabry made the remarks addressing the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting held in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, earlier this month.
“What is happening in Gaza is heartbreaking,” said the minister.
“The double standard and hypocrisy which are displayed by the so-called champions of human right and freedom of expression is beyond our imagination. Therefore, it is the duty of the global South to get together and ensure that the helpless and defenceless population of Gaza are rescued from total annihilation.”
“It is imperative that we strive hard to ensure a rules-based order not only when it suits the rich and powerful but as an equitable and justifiable model for a sustainable world order,” he continued.
“This means upholding international law and ensuring that the principles of fairness, justice and respect for sovereignty guide our actions.”
Several Sri Lankan leaders, including president Ranil Wickremesinghe, have spoken out over Israel’s offensive into Gaza, but at the same time have also maintained friendly relations with Israel and sent thousands of workers to the country in recent months.
