We must overcome terrorism - PM

COLOMBO: Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake yesterday stated that the main challenge before all countrymen is safeguarding the Motherland from the heartless and mindless terrorists. Issuing a New Year message, the Premier stated: "Let this be a peaceful New Year for all. Let all our hopes for peace and prosperity be fulfilled in the coming year."

"Our hope and our duty should be to ensure a peaceful and prosperous country not only for us today but also for future generations."

"The main challenge before us today is the safeguarding of our motherland from the heartless and mindless terrorists. We should not forget that our dedicated Armed Forces have already gone far towards achieving much in this direction.

The Government too, as a responsible Government has not neglected its duty to carry forward the development work despite all obstacles and obstructions. The Government has also succeeded in tending confrontational politics. "Let the New Year give added strength to our valiant Armed Forces."

"Let us all wish a happy and prosperous New Year for all our people."