Statement by Joint Apparel Association Forum (JAAF)

The violence that erupted on the streets of Colombo and in other parts of Sri Lankaon Monday, and the resultant loss of life is both unfortunate and deeply saddening. We empathize with the people’s distress over the extraordinary adverse impact ofthe economic crisis on their lives and livelihoods. However, violence that costsprecious human lives deserves our utmost condemnation.

We call upon leaders and authorities to immediately restore political stability acrossthe country. They should also ensure a safe living and working environment for allpeople, as we collectively navigate through this very di$cult crisis.

By the same token, we strongly support the efforts taken by the Bar Association of Sri Lanka to ensure a peaceful, democratic transition of power. It is critical that a new government be appointed urgently to all the current political vacuum.

We will also support the e&orts of all other organizations that seek the sameoutcome: an end to the crisis, to the potential violence and a return to politicalstability.