Mar 16, Colombo: Sri Lanka says the unanimous adoption of the country's periodic review at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Friday was a clear acknowledgement of the post-war progress the country made in human rights.

Sri Lankan President's Human Rights Envoy Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe said the unanimous decision taken by the members of the UNHRC session to approve the Universal Periodic Review on Sri Lanka despite many powerful countries speaking against displays that Sri Lanka has achieved a clear progress on protection of human rights.

Ahead of a crucial resolution to be moved by the United States next week, the UNHRC Friday adopted the outcome of the Universal Periodic Review on Sri Lanka.

At the debate on UPR many countries praised Sri Lanka's efforts to improve its human rights which they said is a reflection of the seriousness of the Sri Lankan government in protecting and promoting human rights of its people.

Sri Lanka had accepted 113 out of 204 recommendations received, and had also made 19 voluntary commitments. Sri Lanka was currently evaluating the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights.

Speaking to the state-run radio SLBC from Geneva, Minister said Samarasinghe said for the first time in the history it became possible to present lengthy and elaborate details about the cruelties of the Tamil Tiger terrorists.

In his closing remarks the Minister brought to the attention of the Council the atrocities committed by the Tamil Tigers killing thousands of people and evicting thousands of Muslims out of their homes in the North.

The Minister pointed out to the Council that all the talk about killings and atrocities must be balanced and includes also those committed by the Tamil Tigers.

The United States in a statement expressed their disappointment over Sri Lanka's rejection of the all UPR recommendations from States that called upon it to implement the LLRC recommendations.

Meanwhile, the UNHRC session has given time for the United States to present its resolution against Sri Lanka until next Tuesday (19) but the Minister expects it to be submitted by Monday evening.

Minister Samarasinghe stressed that it is Sri Lanka's unwavering position not to accept the proposed resolution.

Noting that Sri Lanka has made a long march during the last three years after eliminating terrorism from the country, the Minister emphasized that these resolutions are only a hindrance to the current humanitarian process and not going to help it in any manner.