“Strategic Neutrality: How Anura Kumara’s NPP Is Redefining Sri Lanka’s Global Posture”
The President revealed in Parliament today (20) the reasons for not granting permission for Iranian naval vessels to enter Sri Lankan waters.
Speaking on the matter, the President stated that on February 26, a request had been made by Iran seeking permission for its naval vessels to visit Sri Lanka between March 9 and 13 as part of a goodwill and cooperation-building mission. Sri Lanka had been carefully studying this request.
However, on the very same day, the United States had also requested permission for two of its naval fighter aircraft to land at Mattala Airport. The President emphasized that, as Sri Lanka is a country committed to neutrality, a decision was taken not to grant permission to either party.
In his full statement, the President elaborated:
“There is an ongoing global discussion regarding the conflict situation in the Middle East and the various challenges faced by countries as a result. I appreciate those who brought this matter for debate in Parliament.
From the outset, our position on this issue has been one of neutrality. It is through maintaining neutrality that we can safeguard the dignity of our motherland, uphold justice, and ensure international recognition. Under no circumstances, and regardless of pressure, will we allow this neutrality to be compromised.
I am aware that some Members of Parliament and certain opinions suggest that we have shown bias towards one side or failed to take decisions at the appropriate time. I must clearly state that such claims are entirely false.
Firstly, regarding the Iranian vessels: on February 26, we received a request for a goodwill visit between March 9 and 13. While we were studying whether to grant approval, on that very same day, the United States requested permission for two naval fighter aircraft to land at Mattala Airport.
At that point, we had two requests before us—one from Iran to allow naval vessels entry, and another from the United States to allow military aircraft access. What decision should we take?
We made a very clear decision. Our country is committed to neutrality, especially at a time when signs of escalating conflict were already visible. Therefore, we did not grant permission to either side. That is neutrality.
I ask: what would have happened if we had allowed the Iranian vessels? Our entire position of neutrality would have been compromised. We would have been seen as siding with one party, and then we would have had to accommodate the other side as well. In that case, a distant conflict could have been drawn directly into Mattala and the Port of Colombo.
We refused to allow that to happen. Despite any pressure, we have protected our neutrality.”