Govt for negotiated settlement

COLOMBO: The Government for its part remains committed to the continuation of talks with the LTTE, on both the ceasefire and substantive issues relevant to the peace process, a Government communique said yesterday.

It is the fervent hope of the Government that the LTTE will take into account the expressed view of the international community and desist from further acts of violence and engage constructively in the peace process, it said.

The Government remains convinced that a solution to the issues at hand has to be sought only through political means and not through military means, and rejects any suggestion that these measures by the international community would encourage any military option by anyone.

The Government appreciates the continued and constructive engagement of the EU as a member of the Co-Chairs in the peace process facilitated by Norway. The Government also looks forward to the continued role of the SLMM.

The President and the Government are resolved to continue the consensus building process with the participation of all political parties seeking participation of all communities in the governance of the country to fulfil their aspirations and to ensure human rights, democracy and pluralism.