Ceylon Chamber urges transparency on disputed US agreements

A top Sri Lankan business chamber on Wednesday entered the debate of disputed agreements with the United States which has triggered concern that it opens the doors to US troops landing here at will.

“A commitment to transparency by all parties will ensure a fair and balanced discussion among relevant stakeholders on the merits of Sri Lanka moving forward with these agreements,” the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) said in a public statement on Wednesday.

It said it was raising concern with regard to the increasing levels of speculation among its membership and society at large on the consequences surrounding the proposed Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Agreement.

“Accordingly, the Ceylon Chamber requests the Government of Sri Lanka to provide an enhanced level of transparency with respect to these agreements and their potential consequences and also to clarify the exact position with regards to the current status of the negotiations and/or execution of these agreements,” the statement said.

The chamber also said: “It would also add value to provide comfort to key stakeholders and the public at large, that due process including the securing of policy and legislative approvals, has and will be followed with respect to the processing and execution of these agreements. While it is inevitable that differences in opinion will prevail, compliance with due process combined with a transparent process encompassing stakeholder consultation will ensure that the national interest is protected.” - ENDS -