The present ethnic crisis needs a political solution but terrorism has to be defeated first to ensure that solution would be a success, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the first anniversary of the Federation of Self Employed Persons held at Temple Trees, Colombo yesterday (14).

He also said certain sections are trying to destabilize the south at a time when the armed forces are successfully conducting operations to rid the motherland of terrorism. The Government understands the problems faced by the workers and those who resort to trade union action at this juncture are only fulfilling the aspirations of the terrorists, he added.

The President also commended the exemplary communal harmony displayed by persons belonging to all communities who are engaged in trade in the city of Colombo .