National Chamber welcomes President's initiative to form National Government

CONSENSUS: The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka welcomes the President's invitation to all political parties to form a National Government.

This is particularly significant at this critical juncture where the country is facing deterioration in the security situation.

The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka reiterates its position that a permanent solution to the conflict could only be reached through a negotiated settlement.

In order to achieve this, it is of utmost importance that all political parties particularly the main opposition party, reaches agreement with the Government and speaks with one voice when addressing this major national issue, resolution of which is fundamental to the peace and stability of the country.

The need of the hour is unity where all parties rise above the attempt to gain political mileage from this crisis, and work together in the interest of the country.

Civil society including the business community has consistently advocated a National Government or at least a Southern consensus as essential, if we are to reach a sustainable solution to the ethnic conflict.

As such the Chamber hopes that all parties will set aside their differences and respond positively to this invitation at this hour of need, a NCCSL release said.