President Clinton commends President Kumaratunga’s nobility
[July 16, 2005 - 09.00 GMT]

Representatives from several UN agencies and countries affected by the tsunami made presentations at a Panel Discussion held in New York yesterday, 15th July, at the UN’s Economic and Social Council.

The discussion on the subject, ‘Lessons learnt from recent Indian Ocean tsunami disaster’ was led by President William J Clinton, UN Special Envoy for tsunami recovery.

At this well attended widely covered event President Clinton spoke passionately about his involvement in the work of tsunami recovery.

He praised affected countries for their commitment to recovery. However his highest praise was reserved for the President of Sri Lanka. He stated, “I don’t like to get involved in other nation’s political affairs. At this point, I don’t like to get involved in my own nation’s political affairs. But there is an issue I would like to address here and it involves a dear friend of mine. President Kumaratunga has lost her husband, father and was blinded herself in an attack, all stemming from political violence. Around the world in Rwanda, South Africa, and in Colombia we see too often that it’s those who wish to reach out to improve relations, suffer from political violence. Although she is a victim of violence she has now extended the hand of non-violence. She needs your support.”

President Clinton also made reference to P-TOMS. He said “In Sri Lanka, the problems between Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims have been now solved and they are working well together for tsunami recovery. Sri Lanka must keep the TAFREN, which is doing a good job; even after tsunami rehabilitation is done, appropriately remodeled for future disaster management.”

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Last Updated Date: July 16, 2005 - 09.30 GMT