Sept 06, Colombo: Sri Lanka while admitting some human rights violations are taking place in the country said that ‘the international community should understand the context in which these abuses taking place.’

Minister of Investment Development, Prof. G.L. Peiris, who is currently in London to promote investments told media that as a government Sri Lanka has a duty to protect civilians from ‘explosions and such kind of incidents.’

The comment came as Sri Lanka is preparing to submit the application to European Union before 31 October for GSP+, a concession offered to 15 developing countries for next three years period.

Media reports quoting Prof. Peiris said “The criteria are complex and multiple. Sri Lanka’s strongest elements have to do with moral and ethical standards which prevail in government factories. No child labour or sweat shops in Sri Lanka, the minister added, and the country has adhered to the standards with regard to the environment.”