National Shoora Council Calls for Recognition of Sri Lankan Muslims' War-Era Contributions

• Political & Historical Context: The National Shoora Council (NSC) welcomed President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s pledges at the 17th National War Heroes Day against racist extremism. The NSC urged the State to recognize the sacrifices of Sri Lankan Muslims and international support in resisting the 30-year separatist conflict. • Domestic Sacrifices: Sri Lankan Muslims firmly resisted the division of the country. In October 1990, the LTTE forcibly expelled 90,000 Northern Muslims. In the East, over 1,000 Muslims were killed and agricultural lands seized, including massacres in Kattankudy (147 killed) and Eravur (121 killed). Malay Muslims also served critically in key armed forces units. • International Economic & Military Aid: Muslim-majority nations provided vital assistance during crucial war stages. Pakistan and Iran supplied critical military assistance. In 2007, Iran secured US$ 525 million for the Uma Oya multi-purpose project (120 MW electricity and agriculture infrastructure for 5,000 hectares) and US$ 105 million for rural electrification. Starting January 2008, Iran provided a US$ 650 million interest-free rolling credit facility for crude oil purchases, easing severe wartime financial constraints.