President Mahinda Rajapaksa has written to His Majesty the King of Saudi Arabia, appealing for clemency with respect to the Sri Lanka national Ms. Rizana Nafeek, who was convicted and is facing execution as an outcome of the case related to the death of an infant entrusted to her care.
It may be recalled that Ms. Rizana Nafeek had arrived from Sri Lanka in Saudi Arabia in April 2005. The unfortunate death of the child took place a month later in May that year. The Sri Lanka authorities, as well as several well-wishers have been involved in observing the case and facilitating her in coping with her legal issues.
The Ministry of External Affairs wishes to add in this regard that Sri Lanka and Saudi Arabia maintain excellent bilateral relations. Both countries have approached matters of bilateral and international concern with sensitivity, understanding and flexibility in the past. These sentiments continue to characterize the growing ties between the two countries.
Ministry of External Affairs
Colombo
26th October 2010