'SL resettlement effort commendable'

USAID Deputy Director Trekor Hublin said Sri Lanka has made tremendous progress in the field of resettlement.

He made these observations at a meeting with Resettlement Minister Gunaratna Weerakoon at the ministry, on Monday.

Minister Weerakoon said the government's policy for resettlement is clear. Development of resettled people's livelihood and provision of permanent houses are priority areas of the government.

He said all Sri Lankans residing in foreign countries can return to the country any time. People in Tamil Nadu are being used by politicians for their political gains.

In next three months, all IDP camps will be closed, he said.

The USAID Deputy Director expressed willingness to help the resettlement effort through USAID.

Ministry Secretary W M Bandusena, Regional Refugee Coordinator Amada Jacobsan and political officer of US Embassy Jacob Chiriqui were also present.