COLOMBO, March 15 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lanka on Sunday called for the immediate de-escalation of tensions in the Middle East and West Asia and urged all parties to return to negotiations amid the rapidly escalating conflict in the region.

In a statement, Sri Lanka's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism said the government was deeply concerned about the worsening situation, warning that it poses a direct threat to the civilian population.

Sri Lanka expressed sorrow over the loss of civilian lives and condemned any attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, stressing that protecting civilians is a fundamental obligation under international humanitarian law.

The statement said Sri Lanka was closely monitoring developments, in view of the grave humanitarian crisis and the direct impact on the global economy and international trade with repercussions for all countries.

Sri Lanka reiterated the importance of respecting the principles and purposes of the United Nations Charter, including the prohibition on the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.

Calling for restraint, Sri Lanka urged all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and take decisive steps to de-escalate tensions, given the serious threat posed to stability, peace and security in the region and beyond. ■