President Ranil Wickremesinghe, during a significant discussion with an Israeli minister, has called for an armistice in the besieged Palestinian enclave Gaza.

Israel’s Minister of Transport and Road Safety Brig. Gen. Miri Regev called on the Sri Lankan leader on Friday (Feb.16) and discussed crucial matters concerning the safe return of Israeli hostages, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).

During the diplomatic encounter, President Wickremesinghe has reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s unwavering commitment to advocating for the safety of the hostages.

However, he went on to call for an immediate cessation of violence, while underscoring that peace and stability in the region are of paramount importance.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, President Wickremesinghe reiterated the nation’s support for the establishment of a Palestinian State.

He also emphasized the significance of ensuring Israel’s security, fostering a balanced approach to regional peace.

Accompanying the President were Chief-of-Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, and Director of International Affairs Dinouk Colombage, underscoring the significance of the discussions held between the two nations.

The meeting signifies a continued effort by Sri Lanka to engage diplomatically on pressing international issues, reflecting the country’s commitment to fostering peace and stability on the global stage, the PMD emphasized.