While stating that no other state has worked harder than the USA to promote human rights, he added that although the ‘wheels of justice may not turn as rapidly as all of us would wish, the foundation for establishing justice has been prepared.’

Meanwhile Japan, UK and Botswana also expressed their hopes for real change in Sri Lanka.

Addressing the high- level segment, Takashi Uto, the Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan said they welcome the constructive dialog between the Sri Lankan government and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).

"At the same time, we welcome that the constructive dialogue is being had between Sri Lanka and OHCHR and expect that such actions will lead to genuine reconciliation, a goal towards Japan will as much cooperation as possible," the Japanese representative said.

Baroness Anelay, UK Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office, said the UK supports the Human Rights High Commissioner's recommendation that the Council defer discussions on Sri Lanka and consideration of his office's report on the investigation on Sri Lanka's mandated by the UNHRC resolution, which was co-sponsored by the UK along with the US and 40 other countries.

She said the UK agrees with the High Commissioner that the report should be published no later than September.

Botswana Foreign Affairs and International Corporation Minister Pelonomi Venson Moitoi, congratulated Sri Lanka on the outcome of its Presidential election and expressed their willingness to work with the new government.

She said that it’s an opportunity to make further progress and further strengthen efforts towards democracy and resolve outstanding human rights issues.(PMU)