Prof. G.L. Peiris urges govt to clarify stand on Middle East crisis

Former Foreign Minister Professor G.L. Peiris has written a letter to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, highlighting the serious consequences Sri Lanka may face due to the unstable situation in the Middle East. On behalf of worried citizens, Professor Peiris emphasized the need for the government to quickly clarify its position on these issues to both the local population and the international community. He pointed out four key areas where the crisis could directly affect Sri Lanka: 1. Rising oil prices in the global market will soon lead to higher living costs in Sri Lanka, worsening the existing economic struggles for many people. 2. Export income may decrease, particularly for products like tea, due to difficulties in reaching important markets in the conflict-affected areas. 3. The hotel industry is already seeing many cancellations from potential tourists from Europe, North America, and the Gulf, who are facing challenges with air travel in the region. 4. The situation threatens the financial support that Sri Lankan workers send back home from the Gulf and surrounding areas. “In dealing with these serious effects, we are committed to offering any help we can to the government for the greater good of the nation during this complex crisis,” he stated. Professor Peiris also confirmed that discussions are taking place about practical ways to lessen the impact of the ongoing situation.