India is the neighbour of Sri Lanka while China is a good ally: Maithri

President Maithripala Sirisena said  that India is the neighbour of Sri Lanka while China is a good ally with  the foreign policy of the present government to win the backing of all countries by sticking to the nonaligned policy. He said the government is in the process of promoting goodwill with the United Nations. President Maithripala Sirisena stated this when he met UK Secretary of State for Defence Mr. Michael Fallon today. The foreign policy of the country has given a novel face and ties with the regional countries will be further strengthened under it. While pointing out that the people of Sri Lanka elected him to power to create an atmosphere for the people to live without fear and suspicion. President Maithripala said he would also minimize the revenue gap between the rich and poor. President Maithripala said that Sri Lanka expects the support of Britain in the international arena as well as in the UN Human Rights Council. The President added he hopes to gain the cooperation of Britain to eradicate the drug menace, which has become an immense challenge for the country. The present situation of the North and East was also discussed. President Maithripala pointed out that although five years have passed after defeating terrorism friendship and goodwill have not been promoted between the people in the North and South. Therefore, it is the objective of the present government to create understanding, trust and consensus between all communities. Speaking at the meeting, UK Defence Secretary Mr. Michael Fallon said his country is ready to support Sri Lanka to eradicate the drug menace if the country is enlightened on the routes of drug smuggling. The UK could take effective steps to curb drug smuggling by exchange of information law enforcement authorities, he said. He also praised the programme carried out by the President for the betterment of the people in North and East. The Defence Secretary also requested President Maithripala Sirisena to deploy Sri Lankan Army personnel for peacekeeping activities.