Unconditional talks between the Government and LTTE- Government of Sri Lanka neither agreed nor was consulted by the Norwegian facilitator [Wednesday, September 13, 2006- 8.20 GMT]

Norwegian Special Envoy Mr. Erick Solheim was quoted by local and international media as saying that both the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE have agreed today for unconditional talks with immediate effect, much to the surprise of the Government. Mr. Solheim has reportedly announced that the talks would take place in Oslo, first week of October.

The Government of Sri Lanka is highly disturbed with regard to the statement made by the Norwegian facilitator, as the government neither agreed to unconditional talks nor was consulted. Thus the co-chairs, the international community and the general public have been misled.

Mr. Solheim has also made reference to the North and East merger. However, de-merger is a matter constitutionally vested with the general public of the country through a referendum. Furthermore, the 1987 Indo-Lanka peace accord deals with this issue in detail. The matter is also currently being challenged before the Supreme Court. Under these circumstances the facilitator making any statement with regard to an internal matter of Sri Lanka is unacceptable.

During the Geneva Talks I, the Government of Sri Lanka consented to talks with the LTTE and continues with maximum commitment for a peaceful settlement of the issue, despite a series of violations of the CFA by the LTTE.

The LTTE's attempted assassination of the Army Commander, claiming the life of Major General Parami Kulatunge, attempted attacks on the Pearl Cruiser, Jet Liner Cruiser and mass massacre of innocent civilians in Kebithigollewa are few salient CFA violations by the LTTE.

Government subsequently resorted to defencive military action in order to protect the national interests and the sovereignty of the land. [Statement by the Co_Chairs]

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Last Updated Date: September 13, 2006 -8.20 GMT