APD | China defends Sri Lanka’s efforts to protect human rights

By APD writer Easwaran

COLOMBO, Mar.21 (APD) -- China has defended Sri Lanka’s efforts to protect human rights in the country and called on the international community to support the domestic process in Sri Lanka, a report said on Thursday.

The Chinese delegation attending the 40th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva has said that China recognises the efforts taken by Sri Lanka to promote human rights.

China also took note of the measures taken by Sri Lanka to improve the economy and eliminate poverty.

The Chinese delegation said that Sri Lanka has also taken steps to protect the rights of women and vulnerable groups.

China said that the steps taken by Sri Lanka must be appreciated and the international community must consider objectively and impartially the human rights situation in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka was the focus of discussions at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday over its failure to address human rights related issues linked to a 30 year war with Tamil Tiger rebels which ended in 2009.

Several countries called on Sri Lanka to agree to a time-bound action plan to address the human rights issues.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)