US adds to the growing support for JM

The United States is the latest country to declare its support for the proposed joint mechanism envisaging a systematic framework for post tsunami reconstruction in Sri Lanka. China, Japan, India and the European Union have already endorsed the setting up of the Joint Mechanism or Post Tsunami Operational Management Structure (PTOMS).

US Secretary of State Dr. Condoleeza Rice at a meeting with Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar at the State Department on Friday said the US Government remained committed to assist Sri Lanka as it recovers from the effects of the tsunami.

Rice said the US Government supports Sri Lanka in its effort to evolve a Joint Mechanism in completing the massive task at hand and that the US recognised and applauded Sri Lanka's commitment to democracy.

Kadirgamar emphasised that while the Joint Mechanism was not part of the peace process, the Government was conscious that its successful implementation could serve as a confidence building measure between the Government and the LTTE.

The Foreign Minister also said although there was opposition from some quarters to the Joint Mechanism, Sri Lanka being a democracy the President was currently engaged in a process of consultation, but the time will come when process of consultations will have to end and for the leadership to lead.

Kadirgamar said it was important that to work together, the LTTE must also act in a manner that was respectful to Sri Lanka's democratic tradition.