Put
war behind and look to a future where rights of all are respected –
President Kumaratunga
[February
3, 2003 - 10.30 GMT]
 President
Chandrika Kumaratunga in an Independence Day message to the nation said the
time had arrived for Sri Lankans to put war behind them and look to a future
where the rights and aspirations of every individual and of all communities
are recognised and respected.
Sri Lanka celebrates 55
years of independence from colonial rule on February 4. In her message the
Sri Lankan President commended the current peace effort but stressed, “These solutions must have
the acceptance of all our peoples and the rights of all Sri Lankans must be
protected. The solution must be
sought within a democratic framework, enshrining the indivisibility of the
State and the sovereignty of the people.”
In
a direct appeal to the LTTE not to recruit children for armed conflict,
President Kumaratunga said, “The
heritage and culture of a community of people can be carried forward only if
their children lead a normal childhood, in freedom.
Every opportunity must be theirs for blossoming forth unhindered,
with all their fundamental rights guaranteed and with adequate education.
Then they will grow up to be responsible adults, capable of leading
fruitful lives.”
President
Kumaratunga concluded with a wish for Sri Lanka to achieve the visions of
those who fought gallantly for the country’s freedom, “That of a
peaceful country, with a prosperous economy and a happy and enlightened
people.”
Full
Text of Message
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Last Updated
Date: February 03, 2003 - 10.30
GMT. |
