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Virus pushes SAARC leaders to hold video conference
View(s):Acting on a proposal made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, SAARC leaders will hold a video conference this evening to discuss a roadmap to fight the challenge posed by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Admiral Jayanath Colombage, Additional Secretary to the President on Foreign Relations, told the Sunday Times last night that arrangements were being finalised for the video conference.
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday responded positively to the proposal Mr Modi made on Twitter on Friday for the leadership of SAARC nations to come together to chalk out a strong strategy to fight the coronavirus.
“We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy. Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet,” Mr Modi proposed.
Responding to the Indian Prime Minister on Twitter, President Rajapaksa thanked Mr Modi for his initiative and said Sri Lanka was ready to join the discussion.
“Thank you for the great initiative Shri @narendramodi – #LKA is ready to join the discussion & share our learnings & best practices and to learn from other #SAARC members. Let’s unite in solidarity during these trying times and keep our citizens safe,” Mr Rajapaksa stated.
Mr Modi last night announced on Twitter that the conference will take place at 5p.m. local time.
“Tomorrow at 5p.m., leaders of SAARC nations will discuss, via conferencing, a roadmap to fight the challenge of COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus. I am confident that our coming together will lead to effective outcomes and benefit our citizens,” the Indian Premier said, terming the development “Timely action for a healthier planet.” Pakistan Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Aisha Farooqui stated on Twitter that her country had communicated that it too would participate in the conference. Pakistan is expected to be represented at the conference by Zafar Mirza, who is the Special Assistant to Pakistan Prime Minister on Health.
SAARC leaders have not met since the Katmandu summit in 2014 because of the disputes between India and Pakistan.