Several Sri Lankans who were stranded in Myanmar, Russia, Dubai, and Oman due to having fallen victim to human trafficking have been rescued, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya said.
The State Minister said as a result of negotiations with Myanmar and Thailand, the Foreign Ministry has secured the release of 28 of the 55 Sri Lankans imprisoned in Myanmar for cyber crimes.
“We are continuing efforts to secure the release of the remaining individuals as swiftly as possible,” he said.
State Minister Balasuriya further said that the Ministry has facilitated the return of approximately 70 retired war heroes who joined the Russian army. “We have ensured they receive the benefits to which they are entitled” he added.
He also revealed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had worked to repatriate Sri Lankans who, having travelled to countries such as Dubai and Oman on tourist visas, found themselves in distressing situations.
“Effective foreign policy is crucial for these activities, and having a competent team is essential. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has ensured that our Ministry can engage this team in Foreign Service free from political influence, allowing us to fully leverage the country’s foreign policy,” the State Minister added.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya made these remarks during a press conference held at the Presidential Media Centre on Wednesday. (Newswire)