SLMM, SCOPP discuss monitors’ visit to Kilinochchi

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) and the Secretariat for Coordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP) yesterday discussed the ongoing visit of an SLMM delegation to Kilinochchi for talks with the LTTE Peace Secretariat.

SLMM monitors had been unable to visit Kilinochchi in the past few months because of concerns relating security and because SLMM head Retired Maj. Gen. Lars Solberg had been out of the country, SLMM told SCOPP.

The meeting was part of the regular weekly sessions between SLMM and SCOPP. The two sides agreed that the meetings so far have proved fruitful and that the parties have been able to accomplish some positive work.

This, in turn, will help both SCOPP and SLMM effectively counter negative press reports about their activities, the two sides said.

The meeting was positive and helped pave the way for a better flow of information and communications between the parties to the CFA via the SLMM.

The SLMM informed SCOPP that it has added seven new members to its staff. Four of the seven will be based in the three districts of the Eastern Province as well as Vavuniya.

The two sides discussed the importance of revitalizing the local monitoring committee meetings in the conflict affected districts in the North and the East.

SCOPP Secretary General Dr. Rajiva Wijesinha stressed the importance of clear reporting from local monitors in order to get an accurate picture of the situation on the ground in those areas.