UN calls for dialogue amid Sri Lanka crisis

A weekend of political chaos in Sri Lanka stretched into Monday, with opposition leaders yet to agree on replacements for embattled President GotabayaRajapaksa and his prime minister whose residences remain occupied by protesters angered over the country's economic collapse. Leaders of two opposition parties held talks Monday but could not agree on their choices for president and prime minister.

FarhanHaq, Deputy Spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said "The Secretary-General continues to follow developments in Sir Lanka closely. He stands in solidarity with the Sri Lankan people and calls on all stakeholders to engage in dialogue to ensure a smooth transition of government and to find sustainable solutions to the economic crisis. The Secretary-General condemns all acts of violence and calls for those responsible to be held accountable. Underlining the paramount importance of maintaining the peace, the United Nations stands ready to support Sir Lanka and its people."

Corruption and mismanagement have left the island nation laden with debt, unable to pay for imports of food, fuel, medicine and other necessities, causing widespread shortages and despair among its 22 million people. The country is seeking help from neighboring India and China and from the International Monetary Fund.