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| Thursday, 13 May 2004 |
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Security | Today's Top Story | |
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Ceasefire will hold, all views will be heard Pramod de Silva in Washington D.C. Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, in an interview with CNN's Asia Today, Tuesday, asserted that the ceasefire was in no danger of collapsing. Minister Kadirgamar, in Washington on a four-day official visit, told CNN that there was absolutely no doubt about the continuation of the Government-LTTE ceasefire. "There is no doubt about it. The ceasefire will hold," he stressed. "There are good indications from the LTTE that they are for continuing the ceasefire. We have the political will to hold it. So there is no danger of the ceasefire collapsing," he said. He pointed out that "inclusivity" would be a major difference between the peace processes carried out by the previous Government and the present Government. "The last process was an exclusive one. There was not much public participation. This will be wide open. All views will be heard," he explained. Asked to give a date for the re-commencement of peace talks, Minister Kadirgamar said an exact date would be difficult to predict. "Talks have been stalled for a year. Many things must fall into place for talks to get back on track." He said face-to-face talks would need at least a couple of months more to get started. The Minister emphasised that Norwegians would continue their role as facilitators, not mediators. "We have invited them to resume their role. They are the go-betweens between the Government and the LTTE. They should facilitate the process." The Minister said his visit to the US reinforces the strong links between the two countries and thanked the US for its "positive role" in the peace process. He would discuss several vital issues with US leaders and officials, including the peace process, trade and the Millennium Challenge Account under which Sri Lanka qualifies for enhanced US aid. Later, the Minister met Deputy US Trade Representative Jossette Shiner and Assistant Trade Representative Ashley Wills, a former US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, at the US Trade Representative's Office. A wide range of issues pertaining to bilateral trade were discussed. He was due to meet National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice. |
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