Archives

Diplomats pledge support for development of Jaffna peninsula

From Manjula Fernando in Jaffna

The diplomatic community pledged their fullest assistance to the government yesterday in its efforts to revive infrastructure facilities in the Jaffna peninsula, which is estimated to cost approximately US $ 300 million.

Foreign Affairs Minister Tyronne Fernando led 39 delegates from 34 diplomatic missions and foreign NGOs yesterday to Jaffna to seek their support to develop the priority areas in the peninsula such as the Jaffna Teaching Hospital, Jaffna Library and the Kankasanthurai and Point Pedro Harbours under an accelerated project.

Minister Fernando said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe amidst a lot of pressure and bitter criticism of a secret pact with the LTTE took a bold decision to go ahead with the peace process with the blessings of the President. Four full months have expired since the ceasefire agreement without a single breach.

He said: "Prabhakaran had been our antagonist for so long but now it is apparent that he is also making a constant effort to achieve peace. We will not let go of his out stretched hand and are also hopeful that he will no do so too."

British High Commissioner Linda Duffield said this was an ideal opportunity for her to see the needs for rehabilitation in the Northern areas. She will return to Jaffna in 2-3 weeks with a team of officials from the embassy's development department and the British Council to follow up on further projects.

"There is clearly a new chance to move the peace process forward. Many countries are stepping up their support, both social and financial," she added.

Pakistani Ambassador Ashraf Qureshi said so far Pakistan had been extending moral and other support to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. "We welcome the cessation of hostilities agreement between the government and the LTTE towards a lasting peace."

The GTZ which has done a feasibility study for upgrading the Kankasanthurai harbour had estimated that at least US $ 10 million is required for the full project which includes reconstruction of the breakwater and jetty. The Jaffna Teaching hospital requires a new three storeyed building to house 1000 beds.

The tour organised by the Foreign Ministry with a view to giving the diplomatic corps an opportunity to see the situation for themselves included visits to K.K.S.Harbour, Jaffna Public Library, Teaching Hospital and Point Pedro Jetty.

They will file reports shortly to the respective governments to consider providing assistance for development projects in the Jaffna peninsula.

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries |

Produced by Lake House
Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager