Sri Lanka condemns, unequivocally and in the strongest terms, the assassination of the Ambassador for the Russian Federation to the Republic of Turkey, in Ankara, on 19 December. The Government of Sri Lanka extends deepest condolences to the family of Ambassador Andrey Karlov, and the Government and people of the Russian Federation.

Sri Lanka denounces terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. No cause or reason justifies terrorism, and we condemn this dastardly act as a heinous assault on the rights and immunities of all diplomats to represent their nations in safety and security around the world. While urging the authorities concerned to take all necessary action to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice we emphasize the need for the international community to work together to uphold and safeguard the rights and immunities of diplomats of all nations and international organisations in carrying out their work.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Colombo

20 December 2016