The United Nations should not interfere in Sri Lanka but only offer suggestions and ideas in dialogue with the Government, Japanese Special Envoy Yasushi Akashi stated yesterday (20 June).

He added that the proposed UN panel to advise Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon should be to offer insights and views to the Sri Lankan Government if needed, which has also created its own Commission of Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation.

Akashi made these statements at a press briefing yesterday (20 June) ending his 20th visit to the country.

Welcoming the appointment of the Commission as a positive step towards peace building and reconciliation, Akashi pledged Japan’s support in these efforts.

Akashi also expressed optimism of the positive changes taking place in the post conflict Sri Lanka, adding that it was a great opportunity for national and ethnic reconciliation.

He noted that he was quite struck by the changes in the North. ‘The alleviation of tension and the disappearance of an atmosphere of fear, which prevailed earlier, was quite evident’, he said.

The progress of IDP resettlement was also commended. He added that more needs to be done to improve their livelihoods. Replying to media queries regarding the negative attitude of certain governments, NGO and sections of the Tamil expatriates, Akashi noted that they should be equipped with relevant knowledge about what is taking place in Sri Lanka, Daily News reported.

“If they come here and take a first hand look at what is happening, they too would be impressed,” he observed.

Akashi added that Japan would always try to bridge this perception gap and build mutual understanding by engaging in constant dialogue with the relevant parties.

Answering a query on LTTE detainees Akashi said the Government had genuine security concerns in this regard and added that he was confident that authorities would take action to help them.

Commenting on the outcome of his meeting with President Mahinda Rajapaksa, Akashi said that the President was very keen on bringing in necessary constitutional and other changes to supplement the ethnic reconciliation and peace building process.

Akashi also stated that Sri Lanka had every reason to be confident and satisfied with the ongoing efforts and look to the future with optimism and hope. ‘They can count on the goodwill and support of the international community, including Japan in this endeavour’, he added.