The Government of India has condemned unreservedly the tragic assassination of Honourable Lakshman Kadirgamar, the Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka. A statement issued in New Delhi this morning said:

We have learnt with deep shock and profound grief of the brutal assassination of Sri Lanka’s distinguished Foreign Minister and long-standing friend of India, Lakshman Kadirgamar. This has been a heinous act and we condemn it unreservedly. We hope that the perpetrators of this terrorist crime will be brought to justice.

We have every confidence that Government and friendly people of Sri Lanka will rise to the challenge and defeat the forces which seek to undermine Sri Lanka’s unity and political stability. India will, as always, extend its full support to our friendly neighbour in its hour of need. The Government of India's support for the unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka remains constant and undiluted.

We convey the sincere condolences of the Government and people of India to Mrs Kadirgamar and the entire Kadirgamar family on their irreparable loss. Our prayers are with them in their moment of sorrow.

New Delhi