President was steadfast that war could be won - Senior Minister Amunugama

Rasika Somarathna

At a time when all others described the war against the LTTE terrorists as unwinnable, it was only President Mahinda Rajapkasa who said that it could be won, which later was proven to be right, said Senior Minister for International Monetary Cooperation Sarath Amunugama at an event to mark the 67th United Nations Day at UN premises yesterday.

"Everybody said the war cannot be won except President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Only the President said the war can be won and we won it" the Minister said addressing Ambassadors, High Commissioners, members of Diplomatic Corps, UN staff and political leaders.

Highlighting some of the gains made by the country in the post conflict era the Minister said that at times a wrong impression is being created among a section of the international community due to efforts by some to showcase only the problems faced by the country without mentioning anything about the successes.

"Sri Lanka's successes far outweigh her problems. These people should not only highlight the country's problems, but should also show our successes" the minister said.

Speaking about the UN, the minister said it was a gathering of member states and as such it was important for UN's affiliated agencies to work in close cooperation with the government of the relevant country they work.

He said that Sri Lanka from the very beginning has been a very committed member of the UN and has made valuable contributions in many fields towards its efforts. As example the Minister pointed out to the contributions made by Sri Lankan security forces to the UN Peace Keeping forces located in various parts in the globe and added that their contributions have been described by all as exemplary.

In solving her problems the Minister said that Sri Lanka was always prepared to work closely with her international partners but emphasised that thinking on solutions to such matters should come from within home.