Australia alarmed by political crisis; calls to resolve issues through Parliament

Australia has expressed alarm about the deepening political crisis in Sri Lanka, with Foreign Minister Marise Payne warning "democratic principles must be upheld in the country" and called to resolve the constitutional crisis through Parliament.

"It is important that issues be addressed expeditiously through Parliament and that democratic principles and freedoms are upheld," Foreign Minister Payne said.

Thousands of supporters of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe protested in Colombo on Tuesday (30) as political turmoil on the island entered its fifth day. 

Payne said Australia was concerned about the developments in Sri Lanka, and urged all parties to refrain from violence. 

"We encourage all parties to continue to resolve differences peacefully, and refrain from confrontation and violence," she said.