GL stresses importance of post-war Shangri-La investment after CIABOC questions him

Former External Affairs Minister G. L. Peiris has stressed the significance of investing in post-war Shangri-La projects, after questions from the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC). Addressing the media, Peiris noted that he was not apprehensive about being arrested when summoned by CIABOC to provide a statement on the investigation.

He affirmed that his family never sought wealth from others, but instead contributed to their welfare. Peiris, an internationally respected scholar, stated that he did not accept lucrative opportunities abroad but remained dedicated to serving the public in Sri Lanka.

When approached by the top management of the Shangri-La Hotel project, Peiris had raised the matter to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who promptly gave the green light. Shangri-La, which had over 100 hotels at the time, was eager to open a hotel in Sri Lanka, and the government quickly capitalized on this opportunity. Peiris, appointed External Affairs Minister just a year after the end of the war with the LTTE in May 2009, highlighted the importance of foreign investment, especially following the massive devastation caused by the conflict.

He also expressed his opposition to silencing political opponents, yet acknowledged the necessity of investigating waste, corruption, and irregularities.

When asked about the recent opening of ITC Ratnadeepa in late April 2024, Peiris emphasized the importance of foreign investment in Sri Lanka, particularly in the wake of the prolonged war. As the Minister responsible for attracting such investments, he worked in accordance with the broader government policy.