NewsGram Staff Writer

Chennai: Reiterating the Narendra Modi government's stand on relationship with neighboring countries, union Urban Development Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said on Saturday that India has to maintain friendly relations with its neighbor.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of loan distribution function under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana in Chennai, Naidu further said that Tamil Nadu has every right to pass a decree urging India to bring about a strong resolution against Sri Lanka at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC).

However, Naidu mentioned that BJP, being a national party and leading the central government, will have to see the national and international ramifications of actions relating to Sri Lanka.

Speaking on the issue of credible enquiry on the alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka, Naidu said, Sri Lanka must ensure that the truth is unearthed and justice is delivered to the people.

An appropriate response would be given by the government at an appropriate time at the UNHRC, said Naidu.

Naidu said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken up the issue of Lankan Tamils with Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramesinghe during the latter's recent visit to India.

The BJP leader said India is firm on it stand that there should be devolution of powers to all provinces in Sri Lanka.

(With inputs from IANS)