The United National Party (UNP) has expressed concern over the continued silence of the Sri Lankan government regarding the sinking of an Iranian vessel by a U.S. submarine within Sri Lanka’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
According to a statement issued by the UNP, the party questioned whether the Sri Lankan government had been informed by the United States prior to the military action carried out in the country’s EEZ, particularly within the framework of the Colombo Security Conclave.
The UNP warned that such actions have effectively turned Sri Lanka’s EEZ into a warzone, posing risks to commercial interests.
The party also noted that shipping costs and insurance premiums are expected to rise, which could negatively impact the national economy and increase the cost of living.
The statement further urged the government to seek assurances from the United States that no further military action will be conducted in the vicinity of Sri Lanka.
It also called on authorities to engage with shipping companies and insurance providers to assess and mitigate the potential economic impact.
The statement comes following the sinking of the Iranian Navy ship ‘IRIS Dena’ off the Southern Coast of Sri Lanka this week. (Newswire)
