The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka has addressed media reports saying that the country did not sign the Joint Letter supporting UN Secretary General António Guterres after Israel’s Foreign Minister declared him “persona non grata.”

In a Note Verbale dated October 11, 2024, Sri Lanka expressed its intention to be a signatory to the letter, which was coordinated by the Permanent Mission of Chile in New York.

The ministry reiterated Sri Lanka's long-standing support for the Palestinian cause and solidarity with the Palestinian people, highlighting the nation's concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Sri Lanka has consistently advocated for an immediate ceasefire and backs the humanitarian efforts of the United Nations, including support for UNRWA.

Additionally, Sri Lanka condemned the recent attack on UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura, South Lebanon, which injured two Sri Lankan peacekeepers. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath emphasized the necessity of safeguarding UN personnel and the inviolability of UN premises in a statement to the diplomatic corps on October 14.

Sri Lanka also chairs the UN Special Committee to Investigate Israeli Practices Affecting the Human Rights of the Palestinian People, established by UN General Assembly Resolution 2443 in 1968. The Ministry reaffirmed its full support for the Joint Letter, defending both the Secretary General and the UN mandate.