Archives

by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi 

President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga remains totally committed to the process of finding a negotiated settlement to resolve the country's ethnic conflict, Presidential Media spokesman Harim Peiris asserted yesterday.

"The President wishes to give an assurance that whichever the Government in power, the process of seeking a peaceful solution through dialogue will continue," Peiris told a media briefing at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday.

He said the President wishes to give this assurance to the people of Sri Lanka including those of the LTTE.

Responding to a question, Peiris said whatever the Government of the day, the approach will have be towards a negotiated settlement " and the process would continue from there on."

Asked whether there will be a change in the attitude of the process if the Government changes, Peiris said " although it is a futuristic issue, I think in dealing with the LTTE it will be a political engagement rather than a military confrontation - which will be through negotiations and discussions. Much focus will be on the agenda and core issues."

He stressed that the present MoU should be fully and completely implemented. Peiris also noted that the President remains committed to the co-habitation Government system.

Commenting on the ongoing PA - JVP discussions to reach an alliance, Peiris said, talks will take certain time as both parties were keen in holding onto their respective policies." Both parties are engaged in the discussion on policies as they are engaged in politics of principles."

www.crescat.com

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