The standards at the IDP camps where Internally Displaced are accommodated are much higher contrary to what had been reported in the US, and the international community should cooperate with the government in reconstruction efforts by increasing aid. The US Congressman Heath Shuler said so at a press briefing at the Hilton, Colombo today (29).

He also congratulated the Sri Lankan government on the victory against terrorism, and commended the remarkable work and efforts of the government in putting together the IDP camps in such a short period of time with considerable facilities available to the IDPs despite the many difficulties faced by the government.

He pointed out the importance of de-mining in order to create the conditions to allow IDPs to return to their homes safely and as quickly as possible.

In addition to touring the camps, he met with President Mahinda Rajapaksa and a number of government ministers. He said in his meeting with the President he had gained a better understanding of the situation facing the country at the conclusion of the war. He comments positively on allowing full access to the country and relief villages where the Internally Displaced are accommodated.

Shuler stated at the conclusion of his visit “I hope that my visit here is an important step in building a strong US, Sri Lankan relationship.”