Peace, security and stability are vital for progress and economic development
in a nation or a region, as has been demonstrated by Sri Lanka, since eliminating terrorism. It is absolutely essential therefore, that we work collectively to create a peaceful and stable new Asia.
These observations have been made by President Rajapaksa. The President was addressing the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia.
The Fourth Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia commenced under the patronage of Chinese President Xi Jinping. The President address the Summit today on ‘Measures to enhance mutual confidence between all parties’. President Rajapaksa said that the statement made Chinese President Xi Jingping, contained a number of important elements for CICA cooperation worthy of consideration, particularly the vision of a new Asian security concept. It is indeed appropriate that Asia takes the lead in the settlement of any Asian affair, and CICA as a multilateral mechanism on security in Asia, should seek to engage appropriately on the proposals made by the Chinese leader towards this end.
Asia is a vibrant and dynamic region and as the emerging global powerhouse, international focus on Asia is increasing, bringing a multitude of opportunities and challenges, from both within the region as well as from external sources.
President Rajapaksa asserted that it is imperative that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our nations are secure to build peace and stability in a region,. But he mentioned that sadly, they have watched this fundamental right of States, being violated elsewhere in the world. With self-interests at the core, some external entities, using the guise of democracy, have sought to interfere in the domestic affairs of countries, resulting in de-stabilizing these nations and thereby even those regions.
There are of course the known challenges of the threat, posed by transnational organized crime, terrorism and its financing, drug trafficking, human smuggling and money laundering, which also transcend national boundaries, impinging on the sovereignty of nation states. The President said he believed that CICA members can work together to guard against threats to the territorial integrity of each other’s borders, from external sources, through strong cooperation. He pointed out that he wanted to share with them the experience of his country on effectively eliminating terrorism, which presently poses a significant challenge to many countries in Asia.
President Rajapaksa recalled that five years ago, Sri Lanka emerged from the brutality of terrorism, lasting over three decades. His Government could not have overcome this challenge without the cooperation and assistance of their friends.
His Government has successfully ushered in an era of peace, which has enabled all our people to benefit from the dividends, setting the country on the path to further economic prosperity. Sri Lanka today, has a wealth of experience to share in this regard at a forum such as CICA.
Regrettably, the eradication of terrorism in Sri Lanka, has now given rise to a punitive campaign being carried out by interested parties for their own ends. It is unfortunate that this campaign has introduced continuing obstacles. The need of the hour, however, is goodwill and solidarity to deal with the universal challenge to peace, stability and prosperity.
President Rajapaksa pointed out that he is of the view that this forum can provide the right platform for CICA members to share their experiences and learn important lessons on countering terrorism, including the action for prevention by member states, of the activities of separatist and extremist organizations on their soil.
Economic disparity and poverty can likewise destabilize nations. Therefore, it is necessary for member states to explore possible avenues for trade and economic cooperation and widening of collaboration among financial sectors.
The President elaborated that further, steps are also essential to ensure energy security cooperation, among CICA members by developing and enhancing the efficiency and safety of the routes and security of the supply of energy. The CICA region is rich in energy resources and should be secured against any external threats posed.
Enhancing mutual confidence between the diversity of its Asian members and creating an environment of trust and cooperation is central to the basic objectives of CICA.
Peace, security and stability are vital for progress and economic development in a nation or a region, as has been demonstrated by Sri Lanka, since eliminating terrorism. The President added that it is absolutely essential therefore, that we work collectively to create a peaceful and stable new Asia.
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