EU warning to SL: Delay of confidence vote could damage Sri Lanka’s international reputation and deter investors

Delaying a parliament vote on the new Sri Lankan government could damage Sri Lanka's reputation and deter investors, the European Union said. 

"The Ambassadors of the European Union, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Romania, the High Commissioner of the United Kingdom, as well as the Ambassadors of Norway and Switzerland take note of the summoning of Parliament as indicated in the Gazette," the EU said.

"We consider it essential that Parliament be allowed to demonstrate its confidence by voting immediately when reconvened in order to resolve the serious uncertainties currently facing the country. Any further delay could damage Sri Lanka’s international reputation and deter investors." 

The EU reiterated that "respect by all stakeholders for the provisions of the constitution will be important to maintain the confidence of the Sri Lankan people in democratic governance and the rule of law."