UNICEF Chief Carol Bellamy in Sri Lanka

[January 31, 2003 - 11.00 GMT]

UNICEF Chief Carol Bellamy yesterday visited Semata Sarana – a home for destitute children. Founded by Sister Berny Silva 15 years ago, it provides shelter, care, food, accommodation, education, vocational training, and healthcare for over 350 children from the North-East and the Colombo slums.

Executive Director of the United Nations Children's Fund since 1995, Carol Bellamy is a respected voice in the international community. Now in her eighth year at the helm of UNICEF Ms. Bellamy has given leadership for UNICEF to become a champion of global investment in children, arguing that efforts to reduce poverty and build a more secure world can only be successful if they ensure that children have an opportunity to grow to adulthood in health, peace and dignity.

Bellamy who arrived in Sri Lanka Thursday morning, met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and several other ministers later in the day.

She is visiting the North of Sri Lanka today, where she is scheduled to meet both Government and LTTE representatives.

Bellamy will meet President Kumaratunga tomorrow for an extended discussion on securing the rights of children affected by the armed conflict and in particular those recruited for the war by the LTTE.

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Last Updated Date: January 31, 2003  - 10.00 GMT.