Brexit opens up new opportunities for nations outside EU – Mahinda

Former President Mahinda Rajapaksa says that the recent experience of the European Union has demonstrated that political instability in one country can spread throughout a region and have a devastating impact on far off nations as well.

He said that though many have expressed dismay over Britain’s departure from the EU, many Commonwealth nations including Sri Lanka have already shown keen interest in negotiating trade agreements with Britain and this new situation undoubtedly opens up new opportunities for the larger body of nations outside the EU.

In a message congratulating Theresa May on her appointment as Prime Minister of Great Britain, Rajapaksa said she has been entrusted with “the onerous task of steering your country through the process of leaving the European Union and charting a new course in the world.”

“Given her central role in the Commonwealth, Great Britain has a major role to play in taking the lead to ensure the sovereignty, stability, territorial integrity and prosperity of Commonwealth nations,” he said.