President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh held a cordial discussion on bilateral relations, the recent developments and regional issues yesterday (29 April). During the discussion President Rajapaksa briefed Dr Manmohan Singh on the government’s plans to reach a political settlement with the Tamil community, which will include the setting up of a panel of eminent persons to examine all relevant issues.

The President detailed the move to set up an Upper House in Parliament that would ensure greater representation to all ethnic communities and add weight to the move towards a political settlement, quoting an Indian Foreign Ministry official, the Hindu reported.

In a 30-minute meeting in Thimphu President Rajapaksa said he would also consult with all sections of the Tamil community, including those not represented in Parliament, to infuse a sense of participation and equality in the nation’s re-building process after the end of conflict between the armed forces and the LTTE, the Hindu reported.

The two leaders also discussed the continuation of high-level exchanges, which will include a visit by President Rajapaksa to India within a couple of months. Prime Minister Singh said he looked forward to the visit which would further contribute to strengthening relations.

The Prime Minister congratulated the President on his victory in the Presidential elections, which was followed by a comprehensive win by his party in the recently held Parliamentary polls.