The Government of Japan has decided to grant 122 million Japanese Yen (approximately US$ 1.5 million) through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for reintegration and reconciliation of the former conflict-affected communities in Northern Province.

The Japanese Embassy in Colombo in a statement said the funds will contribute to human security and stability of Sri Lanka by catalyzing the process of reintegrating ex-combatants and conflict-associated vulnerable groups into society through community based projects and community reconciliation programs etc.

The Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka Nobuhito Hobo and Chief of Mission, IOM Sri Lanka, Richard Danziger have signed the grant agreement on Thursday at the Embassy.

Japan's assistance to the Northern Province covers a wide range of areas to promote development and continuously address humanitarian needs as well.

Ongoing projects supported by Japan in the Northern Province include the improvement of the central functions of Jaffna Teaching Hospital, construction of Vavuniya-Kilinochchi Transmission Line, demining assistance, development planning in Jaffna and Mannar districts and livelihood assistance.

"Japan hopes that these initiatives would benefit the people in the Northern Province as well as surrounding areas, and assist them to restore their livelihoods," the Embassy said in the statement.

"The Government of Japan will continue its proactive support for the speedy recovery in the North, and the overall development of Sri Lanka in cooperation with the Government of Sri Lanka as well as the international community and NGOs," it further said.