'Local mechanism for lasting reconciliation'
Chaminda PERERA
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Yasushi Akashi
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Japanese Special Envoy Yasushi Akashi yesterday underscored the
importance of a local mechanism to reach lasting reconciliation and
economic development in the country.
Akashi said that the subject of accountability could not be included
in the whole process of reconciliation. "Accountability should be a
separate item but leading to genuine reconciliation. In my opinion
national initiative is very often more effective and appropriate than an
international approach", he said.
The Japanese special envoy was speaking at a press conference at the
Japanese ambassador's residence in Colombo at the conclusion of his
five-day visit to Sri Lanka. Akashi said that if there are
accountability issues, those issues should first be investigated by a
national body. "The accountability issues need to be addressed by a
local body and there is no precise demarcation on which point that needs
international mediation.
Akashi said that Japan is proud to co-finance Sri Lanka's first
Expressway along with the ADB. He said that Japan has been extending
social and economic assistance for the development of Sri Lanka for over
60 years. "The opening of Expressway will turn a new page of a peaceful
and harmonious Sri Lanka after the conflict," Akashi said. He said that
President Mahinda Rajapaksa expressed his commitment to national
reconciliation and economic development in Sri Lanka when he met the
President during his visit.
He said that the discussion with the President also focused on a
gamut of issues including the resettlement of IDPs, reintegration of ex-LTTE
cadres, and rehabilitation and reconstruction in the North and East.
Akashi said that Japan hopes that Sri Lanka will make the LLRC report
public soon and its recommendations will be implemented to ensure
lasting reconciliation in the country.
He said that Sri Lanka is blessed with tremendous opportunities for
prosperity and development and Japan will continuously stand by Sri
Lanka for its social and economic development. |
