India conveys continued support to peace process [Tuesday, July 04, 2006- 10.15 GMT]

Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran arrived in the island yesterday on a two day visit as a special envoy of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. He met with President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday as part of the ongoing consultations between the two countries.

According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Himali Arunathilake during the meeting the peace process, bilateral, regional and international issues were discussed. The Foreign Secretary conveyed a message from the Indian PM reiterating India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in finding a way forward in the peace process, which fulfills the aspirations of all communities, while protecting Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity.

Saran appreciated the continued restraint shown by the Government despite an escalation in ceasefire violations. He was also appreciative of the development work done in the North and East by the Government and through donations.

The Government said it was committed to a negotiated solution based on democracy and told India of the current progress of the All Party Conference (APC) and the setting up of a multi-ethnic advisory group of experts to help achieve maximum devolution of power in an undivided Sri Lanka.

Further the Government said it would take all necessary action to protect the people. Saran also visited the tsunami hit areas of Hikkaduwa, Galle and Peraliya.

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Last Updated Date: July 4, 2006 -10.15 GMT