Govt. must formulate counter-terrorism programs to prevent re-emergence of IS terrorism in Sri Lanka ; says Ranil Wickremsinghe
Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Ranil Wickremsinghe has said that it is the responsibility of the government to formulate counterterrorism programs to prevent the reemergence of IS terrorism in Sri Lanka.
Participating in a ceremony in Matale, the Prime Minister emphasized that the basis of IS terrorism is racism and counterterrorism programs based on the Sri Lankan identity should be prepared understanding this fact.
The premier said the attention should be focused on all three aspects of preventing people from joining the IS, preventing terrorist attacks and facing them in the event of an attack.
Wickremsinghe emphasized that steps must be taken to share the support and experience of international intelligence agencies using modern technology.
Meanwhile, President Maithripala Sirisena has said that he will not allow any foreign forces to come into the country as long as he is in office.
His comments came as top Buddhist clergy and a Catholic leader strongly expressed opposition to any agreement that may enable foreign forces to set up bases in Sri Lanka.
Opposition groups have accused the government of preparing to ink a military agreement with the United States which they claim would be detrimental to the country.
