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The procedure adopted during the arrival and the departure of Mr. Balasingham is a clear answer for those who make a huge hue and cry over the `Defacto State of the LTTE,' said Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando.

Minister Fernando, addressing the newly elected Municipal Councillors of Moratuwa during the weekend said that Mr. Balasingham entered Sri Lanka with a valid visa issued by the Sri Lankan government and his passport was stamped - both on arrival and departure - by Immigration officials.

"This incident clearly shows the fact that they still accept the Sri Lankan government and its legislative procedures," the Minister said.

Forward looking educated masses in the south should not hang on to political statements the LTTE is making. Though it was said that the President and the Prime Minister in Eelam is Mr. Prabhakaran, Mr. Balasingham himself had to follow the usual procedure that has to be followed by a normal Sri Lankan citizen, in entering Sri Lanka, most importantly in entering Vanni, he said.

"It is a very pathetic situation that learned people like Anura Bandaranaike joining the JVP bandwagon seeking mere political mileage."

The UNF, much before its election victory, made a very categorical statement that it will never divide the country, but unite a divided country. Our mission and vision is crystal clear. We should be aware of the fact that this is the last chance for peace.

Those who want to burn the country, as they did twice in the recent history are trying their best to raise the ugly heads again. It is sad to see that some of our reputed and respected politicians have also joined them. My appeal to those politicians is not to join with the devil for mere political advantages.

"We have no hidden agenda. Our aim is peace. We all must realise that the support of the opposition is necessary for any lasting solution. Therefore, not only the government, but also the opposition is also responsible for this process. We must work towards a better future set aside all political differences," he added. 

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