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The British Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs Peter Hain will arrive tomorrow in Sri Lanka for a two day visit to build a personal relationship with the government. According to a British High Commission press release, the visit will be the minister's very first by a British Foreign Minister since the late Derek Fatchett visited in 1998. Mr. Hain is hoping to call on President Kumaratunga, the Prime MinisterRatnasiri Wickremanayake, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister of Constitutional Affairs and Industrial Development Professor G.L. Peiris, members of the opposition and representatives from civil society and a cross-section of communities. He will also give a speech at the British Council to explain British policy on devolution and the Northern Ireland peace process and suggest lessons for helping to resolve the bitter north-east conflict. He will also launch a Sunera Trust project on community building and conflict resolution. "I am looking forward to building a personal relationship with the new Sri Lanka Government, and will take the opportunity of my visit to hear the view of all communities," he said. "I recognize the historical tensions in Sri Lanka. From my own experience, both in Britain, and my childhood home, South Africa, I am convinced that the only way to solve ethnic conflicts through dialogue, not violence. Our own experience in Northern Ireland has important lessons for Sri Lanka". "Britain continues to urge both sides to cease hostilities and seek a long-term solution through dialogue in a peaceful climate, addressing the hopes and concerns of all of the Tamil people within a united Sri Lanka". "The role Norway is playing in facilitating that dialogue is very important. Britain completely supports their efforts, and stands by to help, if asked by both sides".
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