Major General Shavendra Silva as the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN in New York enjoys diplomatic immunities and privileges accorded under the Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations as well as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the External Affairs Ministry said today.

In a press release the ministry states that ,”It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of External Affairs that an attempt has been made by an agent to deliver summons issued by a New York Court on the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka’s Mission to the United Nations in New York Major General Shavendra Silva.”

The Ministry is of the view that Ambassador Shavendra Silva as the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York enjoys diplomatic immunities and privileges accorded under the Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations as well as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Therefore, Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by the relevant international treaties on diplomatic relations, immunities and privileges and accepted diplomatic practices, the statement adds.

The statement further adds;

Consequently, it would be the responsibility of the host nation and the United Nations to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of Sri Lanka is not hindered in any way by such disruptive activities.  The Ministry of External Affairs will take all necessary measures to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of the Government of Sri Lanka is protected.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his meeting with the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon while attending the 66th United Nations General Assembly Sessions in New York brought this issue to the notice of the Secretary General and requested him to extend all possible facilities and protection under the UN mandate to Ambassador Shavendra Silva to enable him to discharge his diplomatic duties efficiently and effectively during his tenure of office in New York.