A sharp public critique from the Bar Association President raises questions about Sri Lanka’s diplomatic preparation after Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath faced scrutiny during the Raisina Dialogue in India.
A recent exchange at the Raisina Dialogue in India has sparked debate in Sri Lanka after remarks made by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath drew criticism from legal and diplomatic observers. Rajeev Amarasuriya, President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka, publicly commented on the episode through a social media post after watching the international conference discussion live.
Amarasuriya stressed that Sri Lankan representatives attending global diplomatic forums must arrive thoroughly prepared to address sensitive geopolitical questions. The Raisina Dialogue, attended by more than six hundred diplomats, policy experts and global leaders, is considered one of Asia’s most influential international policy gatherings.
According to Amarasuriya, ministers may not always be specialists in foreign policy or international relations. However, he emphasized that the Foreign Ministry and Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions carry the responsibility of briefing their representatives adequately before such high profile engagements.
He also pointed out that the issue of the two Iranian ships was a predictable topic that could have been raised during the discussion, especially since the session was moderated by experienced journalist Palki Sharma.
Amarasuriya suggested that a simple diplomatic response highlighting Sri Lanka’s commitment to international law, balanced foreign policy and national interest could have addressed the question effectively. He expressed hope that future Sri Lankan representatives will appear better prepared at global diplomatic platforms.
