Singapore’s foreign minister claimed that the former president of Sri Lanka did not receive immunity after fleeing his nation due to the economic crisis. The former president of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, was not given any benefits or immunity in Singapore, according to Vivian Balakrishnan, the country’s foreign minister on Monday.
Rajapaksa left his turbulent country through the Maldives the day before owing to a mass revolt that compelled him to withdraw as the island nation’s leader. He arrived in Singapore on July 14.
Not long after being granted entry into Singapore for a “private visit,” the 73-year-old leader sent an email to the Parliament Speaker announcing his resignation. Balakrishnan responded in writing to a question before the parliament on Monday, saying, “In general, the Singapore government does not provide privileges, immunities, or hospitality to former heads of state heads of government or heads of government.”
Answering a query from parliamentarian Yip Hon Weng of the People’s Action Party regarding worries that Singapore may become a “destination for political fugitives”Those passing through Singapore, according to Shanmugam, have “technically not entered” the nation if they stay in the transit zone and don’t go through immigration.
Depending on a person’s present and past position, the government may provide additional protection, the minister said. This would depend on the risk to personal safety and security as well as the safety and wellbeing of the broader public.”Foreigners who possess a valid travel document and meet entry requirements will be allowed to come into Singapore. We also, of course, reserve the right to deny entry to a foreigner if we assess that to be in our national interests,” said Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam.
“If a foreigner coming into Singapore is wanted by his government, and his government has made a request, the Government will render assistance in accordance with our laws,” he added.
Rajapaksa’s temporary permit has reportedly been extended till August 11.
According to a statement made last week by Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), travelers from Sri Lanka who come to the country on social visits will typically be given a short-term visit pass with a maximum stay of 30 days.
It stated those who need to extend their stay can apply online, and requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
