Zero tolerance for child conscription- President at NY meeting with Karin Sham Poo  
[September 17, 2005 - 2.00 GMT]  

The UN Under Secretary General and Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict Ms. Karin Sham Poo called on President Chandrika Kumaratunga yesterday 16th September at her Manhattan Hotel.

During the hour long discussion they expressed their common concern for protecting the children of the world in all circumstances and in particular those affected by armed conflicts. President Kumaratunga said the recently adopted UN Security Council resolution on the use of children in armed conflict was a step in the right direction.

It was agreed there should be zero tolerance of child conscription and that it should be abhorred under all circumstances. Following the recent UN Security Council Resolution 1612, an International Task Force has been created to monitor the use of children in war around the world and stronger sanctions against the perpetrators are envisaged.

Associated with President Kumaratunga at today’s discussions were Foreign Minister Anura Bandaranaike, Foreign Secretary H M G S Palihakkara and UN Permanent Representative Prasad Kariyawasam.

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Last Updated Date: September 17, 2005 - 2.00 GMT