Discussions on the possible deployment of Sri Lankan troops to Haiti under the proposed Gang Suppression Force (GSF) were held during high-level meetings between Sri Lanka and the United Nations in New York.
The talks focused on operational readiness, compliance with UN standards, and meeting all required human rights obligations for the proposed mission.
A Sri Lankan delegation led by Defence Secretary Sampath Thuyacontha held several meetings with senior UN officials as part of ongoing negotiations on a Memorandum of Understanding related to the deployment.
The delegation included Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN Jayantha Jayasooriya, the Military Advisor to the UN, and other senior officials.
During the visit, the Defence Secretary met with Atul Khare, Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support, Michael Mulinge Kitivi, Director of the Uniformed Capabilities Support Division, and representatives of UN human rights bodies.
A major topic of discussion was the need for a strong and transparent human rights screening process for all personnel selected for deployment.
Sri Lanka informed the UN that the government is currently developing a comprehensive national human rights vetting mechanism for all troops participating in UN field missions, including the proposed Haiti mission.
Sri Lanka also reaffirmed that it is working closely with the UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka to implement this framework in line with UN guidelines and international best practices.
The discussions highlighted Sri Lanka’s commitment to accountability and responsible participation in international peace support operations.
