Member of Parliament Dilith Jayaweera has requested an adjournment debate in Parliament over the treatment of Thai Deputy Prime Minister Suphajee Suthumpun during her visit to Sri Lanka to attend the religious ceremony marking the unveiling of the pinnacle (Kotha) and crest-gem (Chudamanikya) of the Mihindu Maha Stupa at the Mihintale Rajamaha Viharaya.
In his motion, Jayaweera questioned whether the government had extended the appropriate diplomatic protocol, recognition and security to Suthumpun during her visit.
Highlighting the longstanding historical and religious ties between Sri Lanka and Thailand, rooted in Theravada Buddhism, he noted that the arrival of Buddhist monks from Siam (Thailand) to re-establish the ‘Upasampada’ tradition in Sri Lanka was a testament to the close relationship between the two countries.
Jayaweera expressed concern that any shortcomings in diplomatic protocol could undermine bilateral relations and affect religious harmony.
He stressed that the government had a duty and responsibility to address any such shortcomings and ensure that established procedures were followed in diplomatic affairs.
