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by Vehelle Piyathilaka, Maharagama, special correspondent

It is the duty of all Sri Lankans to co-operate with the Government to achieve its objective of everlasting peace, said Tourism Minister Gamini Lokuge.

Speaking at an exercise book and school equipment distribution ceremony at Vidyaloka Maha Vidyalaya, Arawwala, Pannipitiya recently, he said for eight years, the PA could not stop the war in the North and East. "Not a single sound of a gun was heard during the last year in the North and East under the UNF Government," the Minister said.

"Without stopping this war, no development project can be implemented. If there are no development projects, there is no future for our younger generation," Lokuge said.

"Distributing books for children means making the children knowledgeable. The Nana Pahana organisation conducted by Pradeshiya Sabha member Dharmadasa Panditharatne to distribute exercise books and school equipment is an example for others too," the Minister said.

Deputy Principal of Vidyaloka Vidyalaya, Arawwala, Pannipitiya Ven. Kotapola Mahinda Thera said giving alms is the greatest task in Buddhist philosophy.

"A genuine Buddhist cannot consume meals while the neighbour is starving. Distributing books is also a meritorious act. As Buddhists, we must not help and serve only our own children but other poor children too," he said.

Seven hundred and fifty pupils attending eight schools in the locality received exercise books and school equipment.

Kesbewa Pradeshiya Sabha Chairman Nimal Ariyadasa and Assistant Divisional Secretary S. Madawalagama also spoke.

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