“Do not leave space for outside powers to suppress the power of Asian nations,” President Maithripala Sirisena told a summit meeting of Asian nations held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on Friday.
Addressing the Fifth Summit of Heads of State of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA), the President also warned against external interference in domestic affairs on the basis of allegations of human rights violations.
In his speech, the President also said, “The next century of the world has been aptly considered as the Century of Asia. Hence, through CICA we all should make a pledge to commit ourselves to build a better world. The unity and brotherhood among us are the most powerful tools in our commitment to win and preserve peace.
It is with great sadness I recall the barbaric terrorist attack that came upon Sri Lanka on 21st April. Sri Lanka is still struggling to address the challenges posed before us following the attack. The Sri Lankan government together with our security forces possess the ability to defeat terrorism.
The unity of the CICA countries is essential in our battle against terrorism. I take this opportunity to request members who have gathered here today not to leave space for outside powers to suppress the power of Asian nations. The Asian region, as the forerunner of the next century, should be strong and powerful in every aspect especially in peace and economic strength.
The need of the hour is to build peace through modern technology. Members of CICA should commit themselves to protect and preserve the integrity and the independence of democratic and sovereign nations. Freedom and democracy are indispensable features of every country. Any effort to influence and intimidate free nations is not acceptable in any way. We should take measures to strengthen the policies of CICA in order to achieve sustainable goals. Thus, I would like to emphasize the importance of marching forward powered by unity and strength. One cannot ignore the significance of regional security. I sincerely hope that CICA objectives will be instrumental in ensuring peace and stability in the region.We should wholeheartedly commit ourselves to ensure that the Asian region is free from poverty in the future. I call upon every one of you to make your valuable contribution towards this end.”