The Government says it will not agree to an international investigation on alleged human rights abuses and will instead go ahead with a domestic mechanism.
State Minister of Defence, Ruwan Wijewardene said this after he assumed duties at his office in the Ministry of Defence, amid religious observances.
Addressing the gathering the State Minister thanked President Sirisena and Prime Minister Wickremesinghe for placing their faith and appointing him and said that he would carry out the duties assigned to him to the benefit of the country and the wellbeing its people.
While reiterating his commitment in serving to ensure the welfare of the service personnel, war heroes and their families the Minister said that steps would be taken to implement the special rewards identity card scheme that was initiated earlier.
He also noted that as a Minister of a National Government he would work with commitment and responsibility and within the legal framework.
Members of the Maha Sangha, led by Ven Banagala Upatissa Nayake Thero, Chief Sanghanayake of Japan and Ven Dr Kirinde Assaji Thero of Gangaramaya invoked blessings on the new office after a brief Anusasana (oration) by one of them. (Colombo Gazette)