The Hon. M. Nizam Kariapper, PC

¶ 01 Hon. Deputy Chairperson of Committees, earlier when Hon. Mujibur Rahuman spoke, he said a media conference was held in Israel and officials attended. Hon. Dr. Ariyaratne responded that it was a private visit. Let me clarify the institutional rules. There are two ways to travel abroad: officially, through the ministry/department with due approvals; and privately, in which case, under Section 12 of the Establishments Code, the officer must obtain prior leave and necessary approvals through the head of department and ministry.

¶ 02 This is highly relevant while discussing the Sri Lanka–UAE Agreement. Today, Israel claims to be carrying out “humanitarian operations” in Gaza. What are they actually doing? In Gaza, 367 people have died of starvation, including 131 children—these are civilians. While Israel speaks of “Greater Israel,” the whole world condemns these actions. Yet individuals holding important positions in our government, including from the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, have gone there, apparently lending legitimacy to such events. At a time when the world protests against Israel’s actions, if Sri Lankans in official positions attend, it signals support.

¶ 03 I respectfully urge the government to act against Israel’s inhuman operations and immediately ascertain who attended that media event, and on whose authorization. Thank you.