The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has concluded his official four-day visit to Sri Lanka.

During the visit, High Commissioner Türk met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and several key government officials, including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Justice, Public Security, and Defence. He also held discussions with the Speaker of Parliament, the Chief Justice, and other senior representatives.

Talks focused on advancing human rights, strengthening reconciliation, promoting social justice, and addressing economic and social challenges. The government reaffirmed its commitment to these goals and briefed the High Commissioner on ongoing and planned initiatives, including legal reforms, anti-corruption efforts, and new legislation to protect the rights of persons with disabilities.

The High Commissioner expressed appreciation for the government’s openness and acknowledged positive momentum across various sectors. He noted that Sri Lanka has the potential to become a model of peaceful coexistence and inclusive governance.

Türk also engaged with religious leaders, civil society organizations, and political representatives during visits to Colombo, Kandy, Trincomalee, and Jaffna. In Kandy, he visited the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and met with Buddhist Mahanayake Theras. In Jaffna, he visited Nallur Kovil and the Chemmani grave site, and held discussions with local leaders and the public.

This visit marked the first by a UN High Commissioner for Human Rights to Sri Lanka since 2016. Türk conveyed his gratitude to the government for its cooperation and reiterated the UN’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s human rights journey.