Germany assures continued development help

Manjula Fernando

COLOMBO: German Federal Foreign Minister Dr. Frank Walter Steinmeier assured continued economic co-operation to Sri Lanka when he met Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the Foreign Office in Berlin on Thursday.

The two Ministers held extensive bilateral talks on wide ranging issues with special emphasis on economic co-operation and the peace process including efforts by the Government to find a lasting solution. The Minister termed the visit as timely since he was able to address certain concerns expressed by Germany recently, a spokesperson to the Foreign Minister said.

Dr. Steinmeier was briefed by Bogollagama on the on-going efforts to evolve a southern consensus on a political solution to the ethnic issue.

Appreciating the Minister's visit, Dr. Steinmeier said it will contribute to sustain the warmth of the bi-lateral relationship the two countries have enjoyed.

German Parliamentary members overseeing aid to Sri Lanka also echoed continued assistance when they met the Foreign Minister yesterday.

Bogollagama met three hi-powered parliamentary committees - Economic Co-operation Development, Foreign Affairs and the South Asia Parliamentary Group, yesterday, on his second-day of the German tour.

During the three meetings which lasted for over four hours, the Minister explained the Government's position and strategies with regard to the peace process.

German Government members and delegates have re-affirmed their commitment to oppose terrorism.

The Minister urged for their help to bring the LTTE to agree for a peaceful settlement.

Bogollagama has expressed his commitment for transparency assuring that the message of Sri Lanka would be conveyed in a most transient manner and clarity without leaving any room for distortion of facts.

He vouched for a very vibrant awareness programme that would reflect Sri Lanka's standpoint.

The Minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona and Sri Lankan Ambassador in Germany Jayantha Palipana.