Government-LTTE begin talks in Sattahip
[September 16, 2002  - 12.15 GMT]

The delegations face each other across the table as the talks begin

The third direct peace talks between the Sri Lanka government and the LTTE got underway at the Sattahip Naval Base, Thailand today.

The opening ceremony of the Peace Talks was held at the Ambassador City Hotel, Jomtien, Thailand this morning attended by diplomats in Thailand, representatives of NGOs and over 300 media personnel.

“Together we repudiate today a legacy of rancour and hatred, which has torn asunder the fabric of our nation for decades,'' Prof. G.L. Peiris, head of the Sri Lanka delegation said in his opening speech.

"A sea change is necessary now the tempest has abated," he said, describing the 19 years of ethnic war as "unique in its ferocity".

"We turn our backs on war as an instrument for realising a dream of a nation," he added.

LTTE Chief negotiator, Anton Balasingham, said the LTTE would do their utmost to make the talks a success.

"A firm foundation has been laid for peace negotiations by the principal parties in the conflict," he said.

The first round of talks will be held from 16 – 18 September.

Speech delivered by Pro.G.L. Peiris

Speech delivered by Anton Balasingham

For more information: www.peaceinsrilanka.org

PRINT THIS STORY

Contact Information: Send mail to webmaster@priu.gov.lk with questions or comments about this web site. 
Last Updated Date: September 16, 2002  - 12.10 GMT.