Govt. determined to eliminate terrorism - PM

Shirley WIJESINGHE

The Government is determined to eliminate terrorism which is holding back the development of the country, Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka said.

He told visiting Chinese Minister of Construction Wang Guangtao at his office yesterday, that the humanitarian operation started by the Government was really not against the Tamil community.

On the contrary it was only an operation to protect the rights of the majority peace loving Tamils, he said.

"We were able to carry out development activities in almost all districts while confronting terrorism. The rights of the innocent Tamil majority should be protected from challenges posed by the terrorists," the Premier reiterated.

He appreciated the economical aid provided by the Chinese Government for the development activities and said the agreements signed between the two countries, especially the one enabling direct involvement of the Chinese Government in the construction sector was of utmost benefit to Sri Lanka.

Minister Guangtao spoke about the common problems faced by the two countries such as urbanisation and rural development and reiterated that China looked forward to further cooperation in political, cultural and economic fields.

"China is ready to involve itself in your construction sector contracts with latest technology we have. We are also happy to celebrate our 50 year relationship with your country this year," the Chinese Minister added.

Urban Development and Sacred Area Development Minister Dinesh Gunawardane was also present.