• Seeks safety of Sri Lankans 

Foreign Minister 

Vijitha Herath has held telephone discussions with several Middle Eastern foreign ministers to discuss the worsening security situation in the region and to seek assurances regarding the safety of Sri Lankan nationals working there.

The discussions, which took place with the foreign ministers of Bahrain, Kuwait, Lebanon and Jordan, come amid escalating conflict in parts of the Middle East that has raised concerns in Sri Lanka about the welfare of thousands of migrant workers in the region and the broader geopolitical implications.

In a series of statements posted on X following the discussions, Herath said he had exchanged views with Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani on the evolving regional developments.

“Sri Lanka underscores the importance of de-escalation and diplomacy in safeguarding regional stability. I deeply appreciate the Kingdom’s care for our migrant community,” he posted.

Herath also held a discussion with Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al Ahmad Al Sabah, during which both sides reviewed the evolving regional situation and reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and security.

“We urged restraint and de-escalation through diplomacy and expressed deep appreciation for Kuwait’s continued support to the Sri Lankan community,” the Minister noted.

He also spoke with Lebanese Foreign Minister Youssef Raggi, where both sides shared perspectives on current developments in the region.

“We reaffirmed our joint commitment to de-escalation and the protection of civilians through sustained diplomatic engagement,” Herath said.

In another call, the Minister spoke with Jordan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi.

The two leaders exchanged views on the evolving regional situation and agreed that restoring peace in the region must remain a top priority.