Greece to ban LTTE      

[Friday, April 20, 2007 - 8.30 GMT]   
  
Greek Foreign Minister Dora Bokayannis has told her Sri Lankan counterpart Minister Rohitha Bogollagama that Greece will soon place the LTTE on the list of terrorist organizations. She has also said that Greece is presently engaged in an exchange of information with the United States and the European Union to curb terrorism. “We will do whatever is possible to not allow terrorists or their front organizations to raise funds”, she told Minister Bogollagama.

Greece with its vast experience in the field of Shipping and Naval has also assured support for the Sri Lankan Government in Coast Guard training and related fields.

Earlier, Minister Rohitha Bogollagama explained the present situation in Sri Lanka and the efforts being taken by the Government of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to bring about a negotiated settlement to the conflict. He said the Government is prepared for talks with the LTTE, but the reluctance shown by the LTTE to come to the negotiating table has hindered the peace process.

A media release issued by the Ministry of Foreign affairs on April 19 said:

“Minister Bogollagama sought the support of the international community to pressure the LTTE to return to the negotiating table and to combat all forms of terrorism including illegal arms smuggling, fund raising, drug smuggling, money laundering and human smuggling. He also noted that out of the 25 districts in Sri Lanka only two and half districts were affected by LTTE activity and therefore when countries issue travel advisories it is important to mention that the remaining areas of the country is safe to travel”.    

“Minister Rohitha Bogollagama thanked the Government of Greece for the Euro 37 million support provided during the post Tsunami reconstruction phase. He said the people are back to business and most of the reconstruction work is now completed”.

“Foreign Minister Bokayannis said the people of Greece had supported the building of hospitals, schools and fishery harbors and to provide boats for fishermen after the Tsunami devastation that hit Sri Lanka. She pledged to continue to do so”.

“The two Ministers agreed to work together and appoint a joint committee for further action in the areas of Investment, Trade, Culture, Tourism, Training and Education and Fisheries”.

“Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on Wednesday (18) met Minister of Foreign Affairs of Greece, Dora Bokayannis during his official visit to Greece.”
  

PRINT THIS STORY

Contact Information: Send mail to priu@presidentsoffice.lk with questions or comments about this web site. 
Last Updated Date: April 20, 2007 - 8.30 GMT