Following close coordination with the Sri Lankan side and immediate and extensive security measures implemented by the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of Public Security, and related agencies, the United States lifted the security alert on the Arugam Bay area yesterday, said Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized in a statement that Sri Lanka takes security alerts serious and that, in response, authorities swiftly put in place a number of coordinated security measures in the area to protect tourists, foreigners, and residents from possible threat.
““Before the tourist season, Sri Lanka is a peaceful, beautiful friendly destination.” – Foreign Ministry”
Sri Lanka Police issued specific directives to ensure security in the Arugam Bay area while emphasising the significance of safeguarding tourists’ freedom. According to the report, the Sri Lanka Police received close cooperation from the locals in the affected districts, as well as from owners of tourist attractions and all persons else engaged in the tourism industry.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and representatives from all relevant defence and public security agencies briefed the heads of diplomatic missions directly involved regarding the extensive measures taken by Sri Lanka at a meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also urged the removal of the security alert and associated travel advisories.
Yesterday, Foreign Minister Herath reiterated this request. According to the statement, the United States values its “strong partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka and law enforcement,” which is why it rescinded the security alert yesterday afternoon.
Ahead of the upcoming tourist season, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that Sri Lanka is a peaceful, beautiful, friendly travel destination.
