Sri Lanka has warned Islamic States of extremist groups misusing modern technology.
Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris noted that in recent years, as in other parts of the world, fringe groups of extremists in the name of various faiths have tried to disrupt this social harmony and create confusion in our society, including through the misuse of modern communication technology and ungoverned access to social media.
The Minister also explained to the Islamic envoys the legislative steps currently underway to curb such hate speech.
The Foreign Minister hosted a working dinner for the Heads of Mission of Islamic States in Colombo on Monday. Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa also joined the occasion as Guest of Honour.
At the meeting the Minister assured the envoys that Sri Lanka will continue to uphold its rich democratic tradition as a society where every person irrespective of their religion, ethnicity or race enjoys the freedom to express their identity by practising their own religion culture and language.
Heads of Mission of Islamic States in Colombo were also given the assurance that Sri Lanka will retain personal laws specific to Muslim, Kandyan and Tamil communities.
The Minister exchanged views with the Islamic envoys on the constructive role played by the Sri Lankan Muslim community both historically and in the recent political and social life in the country.
The envoys present agreed that diversity of religion and culture was a strength to Sri Lanka and expressed confidence in the measures taken by the Government to clarify ambiguities spread by extreme elements, as well as other recent progressive step relevant to the Muslim community. They expressed their solidarity with Sri Lanka in these efforts as well as their cooperation in overcoming the challenges related to economic recovery and progress.
Courtesy: Colombo Gazette
