brand logo

Talks commence on reforming ‘politicised’ diplomatic service

14 Oct 2022

  •  Justice Minister admits politically influential persons have been appointed over experts
  •  Notes dialogue initiated on formulating International Relations policy
BY Mirudhula Thambiah Minister of Justice Dr. Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe (PC) yesterday (13) said that a dialogue had been initiated to reform the politically influenced diplomatic service, and that the relevant authorities are seeking to formulate a State policy connected to international relations. “We have started a dialogue on reforming the diplomatic service. We will have to do it and as a country we will have to go forward. We are trying to work out a State policy connected to foreign relations,” he added while addressing a press conference and in response to a question posed by The Morning.  Dr. Rajapakshe noted that he has to admit, albeit unwillingly, that the country’s foreign service is very weak and that instead of experts, most politically influential persons are obtaining appointments.  “We will have to confess unwillingly that our foreign service is very weak. Instead of experts who should be there in places like High Commissions and as diplomats, most of them have been appointed due to their political affiliations or their relationship to their political party or leader. We will have to get rid of that system. We are struggling to do it,” he added. He also said that the country’s foreign policy changes when Presidents and Governments change, thereby causing trouble.  “We have to be genuine. However, from time to time, whenever presidents and governments are changed, they change the stance of the country. This is how we have landed in trouble. There is no foreign policy, as it depends on the person elected President, or the current Government. When you make continuous changes, people lose confidence in the country. We have to build trust among the international community,” he emphasised. 


More News..