Britain urges LTTE to end killings

COLOMBO: British High Commission officials yesterday urged the LTTE to bring an end to killings, intimidation, acts of violence and abductions. They raised these concerns during a meeting with the LTTE leadership.

"The meeting was an opportunity to discuss the current situation, its impact on civilians and the role of the international community.

With the representatives of the LTTE, we raised concerns about the continuing high levels of violence including the issue of child soldiers," the High Commission quoted the officials as saying.

"We stressed the importance of bringing an end to the killings, intimidation, acts of violence and abductions. The commitments made at Geneva should be fulfilled by both parties and the cease-fire adhered to. We reaffirmed our support for the vital work of the Norwegian facilitators and the important role of the SLMM."

The officials also stressed the need for dialogue. It was imperative that the parties engaged in talks at all levels in order to solve problems, overcome misunderstandings and build trust and confidence.

They have also pointed out that a dialogue was necessary if progress was to be made towards a sustainable peace settlement which addressed the aspirations of all communities in Sri Lanka.