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Chief Sanganayake of Great Britain welcomes peace talks

Chief Sanganayake and President of the Sri Lankan Sanga Sabha in Great Britain, the Most Venerable Dr. Medagama Vajiragnana in a letter to Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has welcomed the news of the forthcoming Government-LTTE talks in Thailand.

The Ven. thera observed that the nineteen year long war had caused immeasurable damage, hardship and deprivation to all concerned and had proved to be destructive in every way.He said the time had come for looking at the problem justly and unemotionally.

Noting the tremendous hurdles that he would have to overcome to reach an amicable settlement,the Ven Vajiragnana commended the Prime Minister for his initiative in holding this dialogue and fervently hoped that this time a settlement acceptable to all would be forthcoming.

"The prelate's letter to the Prime Minister stated "I am very pleased to receive the most welcome news from our Sri Lankan High Commissioner Faisz Musthapha, PC regarding the forthcoming meeting in Thailand between the Government and the LTTE on September 16.

"It gives us great satisfaction to be able to wish you every success in your quest for a peaceful settlement on the very damaging conflict which has devastated not only our people, but also the growth of our beloved country".

The ven Vajiragnana also noted;"I am also aware that this meeting is not without its dangers. There may be some who have negative opinions and may put some kind of obstacle in the path of a peaceful outcome. Nevertheless, I believe that a satisfactory answer is not impossible, and that with your vision, courage and endurance, a happy and prosperous future is within our grasp".

Meanwhile, in a separate letter to the Prime Minister,the Ven. Galayaye Piyadassi,Head, Sri Saddhatissa Internation Buddhist Centre London expressed the wish that the upcoming negotiations will bring about peace that all communities in Sri Lanka have long yearned for.The Ven thera noted that after nearly twenty years of bloodshed the very real chance of a lasting and just peace has finally dawned .

"Whether these talks fail and the spectre of hate continues to prowl our land or succeed and usher in a period of new opportunities will to a very large extent depend on you."

"We understand that the enormous responsibilities on your shoulders the many conflicting pressures you are under and the numerous interests you have to take into account".

"May you have the courage to make the difficult decisions for the sake of peace", the letter to the Premier stated.

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