Mr. President,
Our delegation reiterates its rejection of interfering and selective mandates that are imposed against the will of the States concerned.
We consider that the external mechanism established for Sri Lanka is inconsistent with the principles of impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity, and with the Institution Building Package.
Such a mechanism has not and cannot deliver any tangible results. Nearly 15 million dollars and 16 officials have been allocated to it, without any benefit to the Sri Lankan people.
Only the States concerned are in a position to identify their needs and request the cooperation and technical assistance they deem appropriate to address their challenges, commensurate with their national circumstances.
The proposed text is also inconsistent with the constructive attitude and readiness for genuine cooperation and respectful dialogue demonstrated by Sri Lanka.
An example of this is the invitation to the High Commissioner for an official visit to the country, which took place in June this year.
Extending the mandate of this mechanism for a further two years, as proposed in the draft, will also not contribute to the ongoing process of unity and internal reconciliation in Sri Lanka.
The legitimate right of that nation to deal in a sovereign manner with its internal affairs, without external interference or pressure, must be respected.
We will continue to advocate that dialogue and cooperation prevail in the treatment of human rights.
For the reasons explained, Cuba disassociates itself from the consensus on draft resolution L.1 Rev.1 and, if put to a vote, will vote against it.
Thank you very much.