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Intransigence of the LTTE impediment to progress of peace says Sri Lankan FM [Wednesday , June 14, 2006- 8.45 GMT]
The Ministers discussed a wide range of issues centered on further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries. It was pointed out that since the commencement of Norwegian facilitation in 1999, matters relating to the peace process have taken precedence in the relationship. At this meeting the Ministers reaffirmed the need to consolidate the bilateral relations specifically in the field of economic and development cooperation. Minister Samaraweera reiterated President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s commitment to a negotiated settlement and pointed out that it was the intransigence of the LTTE that is an impediment to the progress of the peace process as demonstrated by their actions in Oslo last week. Minister Samaraweera pointed out that the international community must take a firm stand on calling upon the LTTE to renounce violence and acts of terrorism and return to the negotiating table. The listing of the LTTE by the European Union was seen as a positive measure in support of the peace process. The LTTE must be told in no uncertain terms by the international community that violence does not pay and terrorism in all its aspects must be condemned unreservedly, said the Sri Lankan FM. He also said the Government has always ensured the safety and security of the SLMM and will continue this policy. According to the Norway Post newspaper the Norwegian Foreign Minister had told Minister Samaraweera that Norway would shy away from presenting any new mediation or peace initiatives in Sri Lanka’s civil conflict, saying Norway had no part in the conflict, but was only a facilitator for negotiations.
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Sri Lankan Foreign
Minister Mangala Samaraweera commenced an official visit to Norway by
meeting his counterpart Jonas Gahr Store last morning in Oslo.
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