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by Rashomi Silva

Japan yesterday pledged enhanced financial assistance to Sri Lanka in tandem with the progress of the peace talks.

Special Envoy Yasushi Akashi said the Japanese government will host a major aid conference in mid next year to provide assistance for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the North-East.

"We don't have a concrete benchmark to measure the progress of the peace process, but we will decide sooner or later," the envoy told the media in Colombo.

The purpose of Akashi's visit to Sri Lanka in response to an invitation from the government, is to gain first hand information on the latest situation in the country the and to exchange views with Sri Lankan political figures including LTTE leaders.

During his stay Akashi had discussions with President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Defence Minister Thilak Marapana, Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando, Port and Shipping Minister Rauf Hakeem and members of the peace delegation of the government and the LTTE on the ground situation.

Referring to the November 25 donor conference in Oslo, Akashi said the government and the LTTE should mutually agree on the priority areas.

"We have our own system and procedures to follow in providing resources to the foreign countries. However we will streamline the procedures as the needs of Sri Lanka are urgent and critical." 

He expressed optimism about the progress of the peace process and praised both sides for their enthusiasm and commitment for achieving lasting peace. He also praised Norwegian facilitators for their dedication.

"There are difficulties in reaching lasting peace. Hard work and commitment are called for to iron out the remanning difficulties.

There is much to be done in confidence building, since the parties had been at war for the last two decades," he said.

"I am highly impressed by the enthusiasm of the LTTE about the peace process. Thamilselvan and the other LTTE political leaders expressed their satisfaction on the outcome of the recently concluded peace talks."

He said the government and the LTTE should strive to maintain the ceasefire.

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