The diplomatic chiefs in Sri Lanka have expressed their dismay in the siege of the United Nations compound in Colombo on Monday by a group led by a Sri Lankan cabinet minister. Issuing a statement the Heads of Mission of Germany, UK, US, France, Italy, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Romania, Norway and the European Union Delegation said that they are deeply dismayed by the blockade of the UN-compound this week in Colombo and the role played in it by a Government minister.
"Peaceful protest is part of any democracy, but blocking access to the United Nations - of which Sri Lanka itself is a member - as well as intimidating and harassing UN personnel is a breach of international norms and harmful to Sri Lanka's reputation in the world," the statement said.
The diplomatic corps called upon the government to take all appropriate steps to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and premises.
"We welcome the meeting scheduled on Monday between the Dean of the diplomatic corps and the Foreign Minister to discuss this issue," the statement said.
The UN said the Sri Lankan government has assured the security and safety of the UN staff and while the protest is continuing.
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