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Possibilities of a memorandum of understanding between the government and the LTTE had been the focal point, during last week's series of meetings between Norway's peace envoy Erik Solheim and the Sri Lankan political leaders before Mr. Solheim's departure to London on Saturday. According to political sources, Mr. Solheim had met the President, the Opposition Leader, Minister Kadirgamar, Minister G.L. Peiris and the American and Indian envoys in Colombo. In the MOU the LTTE is said to have expressed willingness to stop offensive military action or attacks in provinces other than the north and east in return for the lifting of the economic embargo. However, the government had constantly denied that there is no such economic embargo as sufficient food and supplies have been reaching the north east areas. The LTTE has been held responsible for looting and thieving food supplies meant for civilians during transportation to north and east. When journalists visited Wanni last year army officials had revealed that civilians seeking refuge in government held areas have complained that LTTE cadres in Wanni region were being 'nourished' by the food sent by the government for civilians. According to lorry drivers transporting kerosene and diesel supplies to the north east the LTTE was accused of taking a 'considerable portion' of the quantities of diesel and kerosene during transportation. Meanwhile, the LTTE had been insisting to increase supply of foodstuffs to the north east to alleviate the shortages currently suffered by civilians in the area while continuing to withhold food rations from civilians who do not attend daily military training conducted by the LTTE. Political sources said that Mr. Solheim has had extensive talks regarding certain sections of the MOU with Anton Balasingham in London before arriving in Colombo. Finally the LTTE had agreed for certain sections which Mr. Solheim has highlighted during his discussions with the government. Meanwhile, Mr. Solheim is scheduled very soon to discuss further with LTTE theoretician Anton Balasingham. According to diplomatic sources the initial talks will commence in Oslo at an auspicious date and time, before the April Sinhala and Tamil New Year, after the MOU is signed by both parties. Mr. Solheim is expected in Colombo very soon after he brief his government on the latest developments in the peace process.
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