UN demands LTTE to lay down arms and free civilians immediately
The United Nations Security Council has demanded LTTE terrorists to renounce violence, lay down arms and to stop using civilians as human shield immediately.
"The LTTE is a terrorist organization and should be condemned for its use of civilian as a human shield. The LTTE should immediately lay down arms and renounce its terror tactics", said Ambassador Claude Heller, the President of the UN Security Council summing up the views expressed by the Members of the Security Council at an informal briefing on Wednesday (April 22).
According to defence observers this is a strong message to the LTTE terrorists and a denial of any breather what so ever expected by its sympathizers and its paid henchmen.
The informal briefing to the Council was a follow-up to the visit of UN Under-Secretary General Vijey Nambiar to Sri Lanka earlier this week. The Security Council unanimously agreed that the LTTE's holding civilians hostage was unacceptable and welcomed the movement of large numbers of civilians out of harms way. They called on the international community to extend all assistance to the Sri Lankan Government to deal with the influx of civilians who are fleeing from the LTTE's hold.
Significantly, the Security Council did not call for a ceasefire or a humanitarian pause believing that this would only provide a breathing space for the LTTE and prolong the civilian suffering. They concluded that the quickest way to end this conflict was for LTTE to lay down arms, surrender and let the political process proceed as there was no military solution.
At this informal interactive session held yesterday, the members also urged the government to be cautious about the civilians when taking military action to secure a safe passage for civilians. They also called on the Government to work closely with the UN in providing humanitarian assistance to the displaced civilians including those in transit.
Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to UN, Ambassador Palihakkara gave assurances to the Council Members that the military was not planning any final assault that could endanger the lives of civilians. He also recalled the assurances given by the Government that it was not firing heavy weapons into the safe zone
Declared by the government and stated that if these allegations were true the civilians would not have left in such large numbers seeking safety from the Government. He gave a detailed account of the steps taken by the Government to address the humanitarian situation in close collaboration with the UN and other humanitarian agencies on the Ground.
Meanwhile, China, Russia and other countries view that Sri Lanka's fight against terrorism as an internal problem rather than a situation for any international intervention.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
UN demands LTTE to lay down arms and free civilians immediately
UN demands LTTE to lay down arms and free civilians immediately
The United Nations Security Council has demanded LTTE terrorists to
renounce violence, lay down arms and to stop using civilians as human shield immediately.
"The LTTE is a terrorist organization and should be condemned for its use of civilian as a human shield. The LTTE should immediately lay down arms and renounce its terror tactics", said Ambassador Claude Heller, the President of the UN Security Council summing up the views expressed by the Members of the Security Council at an informal briefing on Wednesday (April 22).
According to defence observers this is a strong message to the LTTE terrorists and a denial of any breather what so ever expected by its sympathizers and its paid henchmen.
The informal briefing to the Council was a follow-up to the visit of UN Under-Secretary General Vijey Nambiar to Sri Lanka earlier this week. The Security Council unanimously agreed that the LTTE's holding civilians hostage was unacceptable and welcomed the movement of large numbers of civilians out of harms way. They called on the international community to extend all assistance to the Sri Lankan Government to deal with the influx of civilians who are fleeing from the LTTE's hold.
"The LTTE is a terrorist organization and should be condemned for its use of civilian as a human shield. The LTTE should immediately lay down arms and renounce its terror tactics", said Ambassador Claude Heller, the President of the UN Security Council summing up the views expressed by the Members of the Security Council at an informal briefing on Wednesday (April 22).
According to defence observers this is a strong message to the LTTE terrorists and a denial of any breather what so ever expected by its sympathizers and its paid henchmen.
The informal briefing to the Council was a follow-up to the visit of UN Under-Secretary General Vijey Nambiar to Sri Lanka earlier this week. The Security Council unanimously agreed that the LTTE's holding civilians hostage was unacceptable and welcomed the movement of large numbers of civilians out of harms way. They called on the international community to extend all assistance to the Sri Lankan Government to deal with the influx of civilians who are fleeing from the LTTE's hold.
'Prabhakaran cannot flee' - Navy
'Prabhakaran cannot flee' - Navy
The Navy will not leave any room for LTTE leader Prabhakaran and his associates to flee the country by sea. Highly fortified naval defence lines and a high tech system has been placed to monitor the LTTE movements, said Commander Karunarathne, acting Naval Spokesperson addressing a media briefing on Thursday (April 23.
Addressing the media yesterday, Commander Karunaratne said that the Navy had played a major role in preventing the LTTE activities and maritime operations during its last three decades.
"The Navy thwarted LTTE arms smuggling the operations and other activities in sea. This includes the destruction of more than 10 LTTE vessels in 2007. Naval troops have made a tremendous contribution in combating LTTE terrorism to-date," he added. He reiterated that the LTTE leader or any single leader will not grab an opportunity to leave the Island via sea.
The naval troops are on surveillance to track the LTTE movements round the clock.
"Using all sources and advanced technology, we have established a highly fortified defence line from the Trincomalee harbour to Kankesanthurai.
We also fixed high frequency radar to detect the LTTE cadres' movements in the Northeastern coastal belt. Therefore, the LTTE leader or his associates have 'NO' chance to flee by boat," he remarked. He further said that the naval troops on patrol are screening each and every displaced civilian coming from the uncleared areas by boat. "We know who is a terrorist and who are the innocent civilians. Once we identify the LTTE cadres, we destroy them," he added.
Around 500 boat loads of civilians who fled from LTTE captivity are under Navy custody
The Navy will not leave any room for LTTE leader Prabhakaran and his associates to flee the country by sea. Highly fortified naval defence lines and a high tech system has been placed to monitor the LTTE movements, said Commander Karunarathne, acting Naval Spokesperson addressing a media briefing on Thursday (April 23.
Addressing the media yesterday, Commander Karunaratne said that the Navy had played a major role in preventing the LTTE activities and maritime operations during its last three decades.
"The Navy thwarted LTTE arms smuggling the operations and other activities in sea. This includes the destruction of more than 10 LTTE vessels in 2007. Naval troops have made a tremendous contribution in combating LTTE terrorism to-date," he added. He reiterated that the LTTE leader or any single leader will not grab an opportunity to leave the Island via sea.
The naval troops are on surveillance to track the LTTE movements round the clock.
"Using all sources and advanced technology, we have established a highly fortified defence line from the Trincomalee harbour to Kankesanthurai.
We also fixed high frequency radar to detect the LTTE cadres' movements in the Northeastern coastal belt. Therefore, the LTTE leader or his associates have 'NO' chance to flee by boat," he remarked. He further said that the naval troops on patrol are screening each and every displaced civilian coming from the uncleared areas by boat. "We know who is a terrorist and who are the innocent civilians. Once we identify the LTTE cadres, we destroy them," he added.
Around 500 boat loads of civilians who fled from LTTE captivity are under Navy custody
LTTE a terrorist outfit, no change in position - Manmohan
LTTE a terrorist outfit, no change in position - Manmohan
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is “a terrorist organisation” and its chief Vellupillai Prabhakaran “a proclaimed offender”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Tuesday.
Two days after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi’s contentious remarks about the LTTE chief being a “friend”, Manmohan Singh said: “The LTTE is a terrorist organisation. Prabhakran is a proclaimed offender. That position has not changed.”
“Tamil Nadu chief minister has clarified his position. The Congress party spokesperson (Kapil Sibal) has explained (the) Congress position,” the prime minister told Times Now television.
Manmohan Singh was reacting to the DMK chief’s controversial remarks in a television interview in which he described Prabhakaran as a “good friend”. Karunanidhi did a U turn Monday saying the LTTE was indeed a terrorist outfit and that his remarks were taken out of context.
Sibal Monday rejected Karunanidhi’s comments as his “personal opinion” and said the Congress views Prabhakaran as a terrorist and the LTTE as an extremist outfit.
The DMK is a key ally of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
IANS
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is “a terrorist organisation” and its chief Vellupillai Prabhakaran “a proclaimed offender”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Tuesday.
Two days after Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi’s contentious remarks about the LTTE chief being a “friend”, Manmohan Singh said: “The LTTE is a terrorist organisation. Prabhakran is a proclaimed offender. That position has not changed.”
“Tamil Nadu chief minister has clarified his position. The Congress party spokesperson (Kapil Sibal) has explained (the) Congress position,” the prime minister told Times Now television.
Manmohan Singh was reacting to the DMK chief’s controversial remarks in a television interview in which he described Prabhakaran as a “good friend”. Karunanidhi did a U turn Monday saying the LTTE was indeed a terrorist outfit and that his remarks were taken out of context.
Sibal Monday rejected Karunanidhi’s comments as his “personal opinion” and said the Congress views Prabhakaran as a terrorist and the LTTE as an extremist outfit.
The DMK is a key ally of the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
IANS
Last police station and the hospital of the LTTE captured by Army; LTTE senior leader Jeyam killed
Last police station and the hospital of the LTTE captured by Army; LTTE senior leader Jeyam killed
State media said that the Army captured the last LTTE police station and the hospital in the no-fire zone as the military operations were restarted following the 24-hour time given to LTTE to surrender ended.LTTE shifted its police stations as it retreated and the station captured today was the last one they had. State media says that unconfirmed sources have reported that the LTTE senior cadre Jeyam has been killed in the battle.Army says that the 58 division that started advancing from Mannar in the west coast has reached the east coast in Puthumattalan now for the first time in the history of the Army.The photos show the civilians killed by an artillery attack of the LTTE that targeted the people escaped into the Army-controlled area. Four civilians were killed here. The photo below shows the people crossing the lagoon.
State media said that the Army captured the last LTTE police station and the hospital in the no-fire zone as the military operations were restarted following the 24-hour time given to LTTE to surrender ended.LTTE shifted its police stations as it retreated and the station captured today was the last one they had. State media says that unconfirmed sources have reported that the LTTE senior cadre Jeyam has been killed in the battle.Army says that the 58 division that started advancing from Mannar in the west coast has reached the east coast in Puthumattalan now for the first time in the history of the Army.The photos show the civilians killed by an artillery attack of the LTTE that targeted the people escaped into the Army-controlled area. Four civilians were killed here. The photo below shows the people crossing the lagoon.
58 Div troops rescue fleeing civilians: destroy LTTE cab, 4 terrorists killed - Puthumathalan
58 Div troops rescue fleeing civilians: destroy LTTE cab, 4 terrorists killed - Puthumathalan
4 LTTE terrorists were reported killed and an armor plated cab vehicle destroyed when 58 Div troops raided an LTTE gathering position East of Puthumathalan this morning (April 21).
According to our Wanni correspondent, troops had lay siege after identifying a group of heavily armed terrorists who were indiscriminately firing at civilians fleeing the area from LTTE hostage. The terrorists were continuously harassing the civilians shooting at gun point, the sources said.
Meanwhile, ground sources citing intercepted enemy communication said that an LTTE area leader was also among the terrorists killed.
4 LTTE terrorists were reported killed and an armor plated cab vehicle destroyed when 58 Div troops raided an LTTE gathering position East of Puthumathalan this morning (April 21).
According to our Wanni correspondent, troops had lay siege after identifying a group of heavily armed terrorists who were indiscriminately firing at civilians fleeing the area from LTTE hostage. The terrorists were continuously harassing the civilians shooting at gun point, the sources said.
Meanwhile, ground sources citing intercepted enemy communication said that an LTTE area leader was also among the terrorists killed.
Army enters vacated areas of NFZ; save thousands of civilian lives under terror clutches
Army enters vacated areas of NFZ; save thousands of civilian lives under terror clutches
Sri Lanka Army 58 Division soldiers this morning (Apr 21) entered into those areas of Puthumanthalam and Amapalavanpokkanai in the No Fire Zone [NFZ] , where they had rescued over 31,000 civilians yesterday (Apr 20).
According to the sources, troops rescued nearly 3000 civilians early this morning and walked into the vacated areas. Now, troops have established their positions across the NFZ from Puthumathalan to the beachhead, said the sources. The maneuver has saved lives of several thousands of civilians trapped in the area extending from Puthumathalan North to the northern border of the NFZ, the sources added.
Aerial observation yesterday revealed that a small group of terrorists had been firing indiscriminately at a group consisting of several thousands of civilians attempting to cross over to the cleared areas through the northern borders of the NFZ. Troops of 55 Division manning their defences about one kilometer short of the northern border, yesterday received 5863 of these civilians who had managed to escape the terrorist grip.
"The civilians said they were fired upon by the terrorist as they crossed over to the cleared area. They brought 3 bodies with them along with several dozens of others having gunshot injuries. They said that they had to leave behind many others gunned down by the terrorists", the defence.lk special correspondent at Chalai said.
"These civilians curse not only the LTTE but also those who support the outfit. All they request from the soldiers is to beat the Tigers soon and to rescue their kith and kin still held hostage by the terrorists", he added.
Meanwhile, defence sources in the 58 Division area said that 17 civilians were killed and 373 others including 11 children were injured yesterday as the terrorist attacked the civilians with three suicide bomb blasts and machine gunfire. The injured were rushed to the nearest hospitals while some of them under serious conditions were airlifted.
Rescue mission is continuing.
View Video;http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090421_05
Sri Lanka Army 58 Division soldiers this morning (Apr 21) entered into those areas of Puthumanthalam and Amapalavanpokkanai in the No Fire Zone [NFZ] , where they had rescued over 31,000 civilians yesterday (Apr 20).
According to the sources, troops rescued nearly 3000 civilians early this morning and walked into the vacated areas. Now, troops have established their positions across the NFZ from Puthumathalan to the beachhead, said the sources. The maneuver has saved lives of several thousands of civilians trapped in the area extending from Puthumathalan North to the northern border of the NFZ, the sources added.
Aerial observation yesterday revealed that a small group of terrorists had been firing indiscriminately at a group consisting of several thousands of civilians attempting to cross over to the cleared areas through the northern borders of the NFZ. Troops of 55 Division manning their defences about one kilometer short of the northern border, yesterday received 5863 of these civilians who had managed to escape the terrorist grip.
"The civilians said they were fired upon by the terrorist as they crossed over to the cleared area. They brought 3 bodies with them along with several dozens of others having gunshot injuries. They said that they had to leave behind many others gunned down by the terrorists", the defence.lk special correspondent at Chalai said.
"These civilians curse not only the LTTE but also those who support the outfit. All they request from the soldiers is to beat the Tigers soon and to rescue their kith and kin still held hostage by the terrorists", he added.
Meanwhile, defence sources in the 58 Division area said that 17 civilians were killed and 373 others including 11 children were injured yesterday as the terrorist attacked the civilians with three suicide bomb blasts and machine gunfire. The injured were rushed to the nearest hospitals while some of them under serious conditions were airlifted.
Rescue mission is continuing.
View Video;http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090421_05
Friday, April 17, 2009
UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon’s Chief of staff, Vijay Nambiar meets with President Rajapaksa
Ban Ki Moon’s Chief of staff, Vijay Nambiar meets President RajapaksaUN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon’s Chief of staff, Vijay Nambiar met with President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogolagama today for talks. The situation in the Safe Zone and that of UN staff prevented from leaving IDP camps in Vavuniya was believed to have figured in the discussions
Nambiar meets Defernce secratary
Mr. Vijay Nam
biar the Chief of Staff of the UN Secretary General had a discussion with Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa last evening. Mr. Nambiar was accompanied by Mr. Hitoki Den of the UN Department for Political affairs and the UN Resident Representative in Colombo Neil Buhne.
biar the Chief of Staff of the UN Secretary General had a discussion with Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa last evening. Mr. Nambiar was accompanied by Mr. Hitoki Den of the UN Department for Political affairs and the UN Resident Representative in Colombo Neil Buhne.
SAARC CULTURAL CENTRE GOVERING BOARD
SAARC CULTURAL CENTRE GOVERING BOARD
MEETS IN COLOMBO
The Governing Board of the SAARC Cultural Centre held its first meeting at Galadari Hotel in Colombo on 6-7 April 2009 with the participation of Members from Bangladesh, Bh
utan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka and officials of the SAARC Secretariat.
The Meeting followed the ceremonial opening of the Office of the SAARC Cultural Centre in Colombo on 25 March by Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama.
The delegation of Sri Lanka to the Meeting made a presentation on the construction of the building in Nawimana, Matara which will be the eventual home of the SAARC Cultural Centre. The building is designed in line with traditional architecture in the region, especially the concept of ‘touching the ground lightly’ where construction is carried out in harmony with nature.
The Director of the Centre, G.L.W. Samarasinghe, presented the programmes that the Centre plans to undertake in its first year of operation in 2010 in keeping with the mandate of the Centre which is to promote the distinctive arts of South Asia and the SAARC Agenda for Culture which was approved by the Foreign Secretaries of SAARC at their meeting in New Delhi in 2007.
The activities approved by the Governing Board for implementation by the Centre in 2010 include a Symposium on Shared Heritage of Sculpture and Decorative Arts in South Asia and a Seminar on Rituals, Ethics and Societal Stability in the SAARC region.
The Meeting was chaired by Director of the Department of Culture of Bhutan Dorjee Tshering.
MEETS IN COLOMBO
The Governing Board of the SAARC Cultural Centre held its first meeting at Galadari Hotel in Colombo on 6-7 April 2009 with the participation of Members from Bangladesh, Bh
utan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka and officials of the SAARC Secretariat.The Meeting followed the ceremonial opening of the Office of the SAARC Cultural Centre in Colombo on 25 March by Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama.
The delegation of Sri Lanka to the Meeting made a presentation on the construction of the building in Nawimana, Matara which will be the eventual home of the SAARC Cultural Centre. The building is designed in line with traditional architecture in the region, especially the concept of ‘touching the ground lightly’ where construction is carried out in harmony with nature.
The Director of the Centre, G.L.W. Samarasinghe, presented the programmes that the Centre plans to undertake in its first year of operation in 2010 in keeping with the mandate of the Centre which is to promote the distinctive arts of South Asia and the SAARC Agenda for Culture which was approved by the Foreign Secretaries of SAARC at their meeting in New Delhi in 2007.
The activities approved by the Governing Board for implementation by the Centre in 2010 include a Symposium on Shared Heritage of Sculpture and Decorative Arts in South Asia and a Seminar on Rituals, Ethics and Societal Stability in the SAARC region.
The Meeting was chaired by Director of the Department of Culture of Bhutan Dorjee Tshering.
Presidents Visits Kilinochchi -Historic visit
Presidents Visits Kilinochchi
President mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday made a surprise visit to kilinochhchi.
This is the fi
rst visit by a Head of State to this part of Sri Lanka after the first Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Mahamanya D.S. Senanayake toured the area in early 1950s.
President mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday made a surprise visit to kilinochhchi.
This is the fi
rst visit by a Head of State to this part of Sri Lanka after the first Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Mahamanya D.S. Senanayake toured the area in early 1950s.The President made this goodwill visit during the traditional Sinhala and Hindu New Year period to meet with the troops stationed there as well as IDPs and other civilians.During this historic visit President Rajapaksa praised the achievements of the security forces. the President said he was glad he was able to provide the proper political leadership[ to 
achieve the military victories.
achieve the military victories. 
"This was somthing the past governments could not do" he said.
Pictures by: SUDATH SILVA
For more details and pictures http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090416_10
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Sri Lankan peace rally in Australia attacked
Sri Lankan peace rally
in Australia attacked
An unruly situation em
erged when a group of LTTE activists in Australia tried to obs
truct a peace rally organized by a number of Sri Lankan residents in Melbourne on Saturday morning.
An association named Melbourne Lankan Students organized a peaceful demonstration in front of the Melbourne State Parliament displaying banners demanding the LTTE to Release the Human Shield, which about 2000 demonstrators took part.
The demonstration was staged for several hours before a group of LTTE activists in couple of dozen vehicles started parading the area with displaying Tiger flags, rally organizers told Daily Mirror.
A clash broke out when a group of activists in one of the vehicles came across with another group of peace rally participants which ended up in both attacking each other.
Several activists from both parties were reportedly injured whilst one of them were hospitalized. Melbourne State Police intervened and pacify the scene, eyewitnesses said. Sourse: Daily Mirror)
The High Commission of Pakistan in Srilanka celebrates Pakistan National Day
The High Commission of Pakistan in Srilanka celebrates Pakistan National Day
The people of Pakistan celebrate the 23rd of March as their National Day every year to commemorate the most outstanding achievement of the Muslims of South Asia who passed the historic “Pakistan Resolution” on this day at Lahore in 1940 which culminated in creation of our beloved country Pakistan after 7 years.
This year also The High commission of Pakistan in Sri Lanka and Pakistani community celebrated National Day of Pakistan with traditional fervor and resolve to make Pakistan a strong, dynamic progressive tolerant and democratic Islamic welfare state.
The High Commissioner of Pakistan to Sri Lanka, H.E. Mr. Shaheen A. Gilani hoisted the national flag in a ceremony held at the Pakistan High Commission here this morning to mark the occasion. Later, the messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the participants.
The High Commissioner in his message on the occasion said, it is a matter of great satisfaction that Pakistan and Sri Lanka continue to maintain their traditionally close and mutually beneficial relations in all fields. The process of bilateral cooperation has been greatly assisted by increased interaction both at the level of the people and the highest government functionaries of the two countries. We rejoice at the fact that the relationship between Sri Lanka and Pakistan is one of choice and not compulsion. It can serve as a shining example of cooperation at the bilateral, regional and international level.
The ceremony was attended by the members of the High Commission, Sri Lankan friends and Pakistani community in Sri Lanka from various walks of life including a large section of media.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
The High Commissioner of Pakistan visits The Sri lankan
The High Commissioner of Pakistan visits
The Sri Lankan Cricket team players in hospital.
The High Commissioner of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Shaheen A Gilani,accompanied by the Defence Advisor, Col.
Syed Khuram Husnain Alam, and Press Counsellor Mrs. Suriya Jamal, visited a local lhospital to meet and wish a speedy recovery to Mr. Thilan Samaraweera and Mr. Ajantha Mendis, the two Sri Lankan cricket players.
The Sri Lankan Cricket team players in hospital.
The High Commissioner of Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Shaheen A Gilani,accompanied by the Defence Advisor, Col.
Syed Khuram Husnain Alam, and Press Counsellor Mrs. Suriya Jamal, visited a local lhospital to meet and wish a speedy recovery to Mr. Thilan Samaraweera and Mr. Ajantha Mendis, the two Sri Lankan cricket players. Picture:The High Commissioner of Pakistan (H.E. Mr. Shaheen A Gilani) accompanied by Defence Advisor (Col. Syed Khurram Husnain Alam) and Press Counsellor (Mrs. Suriya Jamal) visited the local hospital to meet and wish a speedy recovery to Mr. Thilan Samaraweera and Mr. Ajantha Mendis, the two Sri Lankan cricket players. In photo the High Commissioner is seen presenting a bouquet to the Thilan Samaraweera
The High Commissioner expressed his well wishes to the players and hoped that they would get well soon. He said that we all wanted to see them in action soon. High Commissioner also presented them a bouquet on this occasion.
The High Commissioner also met with the family members and friends of the players. He said that we understand and sympathesize with them for the shock and the trauma they might have gone through
The High Commissioner expressed his well wishes to the players and hoped that they would get well soon. He said that we all wanted to see them in action soon. High Commissioner also presented them a bouquet on this occasion.
The High Commissioner also met with the family members and friends of the players. He said that we understand and sympathesize with them for the shock and the trauma they might have gone through
Friday, March 13, 2009
After fighting, Sri Lanka needs devolution: India
After fighting, Sri Lanka needs devolution: Indian Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon
Sri Lanka needs true devolution of power to minority Tamils if it wants to permanently end its long-running ethnic war, Indian Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon has said.
Menon, who was in Washington for talks, said the United States and the Sri Lankan government itself both agreed with regional power India on the need to quickly restore daily life in war-torn areas.
The Colombo government says it is on the verge of crushing the Tamil Tigers, who have been waging a campaign since 1972 to create a separate Tamil homeland on the Sinhalese-majority island.
India feels that along with reconstruction, Sri Lanka needs "to bring in the kinds of political steps including devolution which would enable the people there to feel they are in control of their own futures," Menon said.
Sri Lanka needs true devolution of power to minority Tamils if it wants to permanently end its long-running ethnic war, Indian Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon has said.
Menon, who was in Washington for talks, said the United States and the Sri Lankan government itself both agreed with regional power India on the need to quickly restore daily life in war-torn areas.
The Colombo government says it is on the verge of crushing the Tamil Tigers, who have been waging a campaign since 1972 to create a separate Tamil homeland on the Sinhalese-majority island.
India feels that along with reconstruction, Sri Lanka needs "to bring in the kinds of political steps including devolution which would enable the people there to feel they are in control of their own futures," Menon said.
LTTE loosing its last stand; continue to take heavy beating - Puthukkudiyiruppu
LTTE loosing its last stand; continue to take heavy beating - Puthukkudiyiruppu
Sri Lanka Army 53, 55 and 58 Divisions, have now entered into the final phase of the counter terrorist offensive against LTTE with soldiers getting exceptional attrition rates in the battle.
According to the battlefield reports, infantrymen of 58 Division yesterday (Mar 12) further pushed their forward boundaries east of Kombavil Kulam, 4 Km north of Puthukkudiyiruppu. Troops overwhelmed intense resistance of the terrorist with heavy artillery and mortar shells fired from the No Fire Zone and inflicted heavy damages to the terrorist.
Sri Lanka Army 53, 55 and 58 Divisions, have now entered into the final phase of the counter terrorist offensive against LTTE with soldiers getting exceptional attrition rates in the battle.
According to the battlefield reports, infantrymen of 58 Division yesterday (Mar 12) further pushed their forward boundaries east of Kombavil Kulam, 4 Km north of Puthukkudiyiruppu. Troops overwhelmed intense resistance of the terrorist with heavy artillery and mortar shells fired from the No Fire Zone and inflicted heavy damages to the terrorist.
Kandy Bishop satisfied with IDP facilities
Kandy Bishop satisfied with IDP facilities
Sri Lanka Catholic Bishops Conference Chairman and Kandy Bishop Rev. Vianney Fernando said he was happy with the facilities provided to displaced families who have crossed over to Government-controlled areas.
"The Government has treated all alike," he said after concluding his goodwill visit to Menikfarm Welfare Centre, Settikulam where displaced families are housed. The Bishop and his entourage were welcomed by Vavuniya Government Agent G.S.M. Charles at the welfare camp. They inspected the camp and saw the facilities provided to the displaced families.
About 88,000 displaced persons who have crossed over to the liberated areas, have been housed in 14 welfare centres where food, health and other welfare facilities have been provided. In addition, Vocational Training Courses and self-employmen
t projects have been provided for the youth. A school and a pre-school have been set-up for the children.
The Catholic Priests exchanged their views with the displaced.
"We were living in constant fear in Vanni. We can now live free with facilities provided by the Government. We are thankful to the Government," they told the priests.
A GCE (A/L) student said they were denied schooling due to Tiger attacks.
"We now have schools inside our camp. Despite difficulties, we will continue our studies till University entrance," the student said.
Bishop Fern
ando said they learned about the IDPs through the media.
"We however came here to get first hand experience of the situation. These people are happy today. The children are back in schools. We are happy that the Government is providing all facilities to the displaced people." Northern Governor Dickson Sarathchandra Dela also participated.
"The Government has treated all alike," he said after concluding his goodwill visit to Menikfarm Welfare Centre, Settikulam where displaced families are housed. The Bishop and his entourage were welcomed by Vavuniya Government Agent G.S.M. Charles at the welfare camp. They inspected the camp and saw the facilities provided to the displaced families.
About 88,000 displaced persons who have crossed over to the liberated areas, have been housed in 14 welfare centres where food, health and other welfare facilities have been provided. In addition, Vocational Training Courses and self-employmen
t projects have been provided for the youth. A school and a pre-school have been set-up for the children.The Catholic Priests exchanged their views with the displaced.
"We were living in constant fear in Vanni. We can now live free with facilities provided by the Government. We are thankful to the Government," they told the priests.
A GCE (A/L) student said they were denied schooling due to Tiger attacks.
"We now have schools inside our camp. Despite difficulties, we will continue our studies till University entrance," the student said.
Bishop Fern
ando said they learned about the IDPs through the media."We however came here to get first hand experience of the situation. These people are happy today. The children are back in schools. We are happy that the Government is providing all facilities to the displaced people." Northern Governor Dickson Sarathchandra Dela also participated.
EU calls for immediate ceasefire
EU calls for immediate ceasefireEuropean Parlimentarians
Members of the European Parliament have adopted a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire by the Sri Lankan army and the LTTE in order to allow
the civilian population to leave the combat zone.The Parliamentarians on Thursday condemned the LTTE’s violence and intimidation which are preventing civilians from leaving the conflict area. Parliament also condemned attacks on civilians who are trapped in the battle zone. The parliamentarians said that they were concerned about reports of serious overcrowding and poor conditions in the refugee camps established by the Sri Lankan Government
Sri Lankan troops have captured the last remaining medical facility held by Tamil Tiger rebels
Sri Lankan troops have captured the last remaining medical facility held by Tamil Tiger rebels
Sri Lankan troops have captured the last remaining medical facility held by Tamil Tiger rebels in the north, the army's military spokesman has said.
Brig Udaya Nanayakkara said that the Tiger's makeshift hospital near Puthukkudiyiruppu was captured during heavy fighting on Wednesday.
The army says it has now confined the rebels to a 37 sq km (15 sq mile) area in the north-east.
There has been no word from the Tigers over the loss of the medical facility.
But the pro-rebel TamilNet website has accused the army of killing 133 civilians - including 49 children - during shelling inside a government declared "safe zone" on Tuesday.
Sri Lankan troops have captured the last remaining medical facility held by Tamil Tiger rebels in the north, the army's military spokesman has said.
Brig Udaya Nanayakkara said that the Tiger's makeshift hospital near Puthukkudiyiruppu was captured during heavy fighting on Wednesday.
The army says it has now confined the rebels to a 37 sq km (15 sq mile) area in the north-east.
There has been no word from the Tigers over the loss of the medical facility.
But the pro-rebel TamilNet website has accused the army of killing 133 civilians - including 49 children - during shelling inside a government declared "safe zone" on Tuesday.
Abducted professor released
Abducted professor released
Professor Dhammika Ganganath Dissanayaka says that his abductors grilled him by questioning about his politics and political affiliations.
He was abducted from his residence in Kottawa on Wednesday night, and released by the abductors after questioning about a book he was supposedly writing about the president.
Speaking to BBC Sandeshaya he said that the group of people who identified themselves as police officers blind folded him and took him by a van to a location after two and a half hours journey.
“They questioned me about my political affiliations in detail but did not ill-treat me” said Professor Dissanayaka.
He was released in the early hours of the morning and found himself close to Kirindiwala in the Gampaha Distict.
He said that he was not sure of the identities of the abductors and that the local Police station at Kahathuduwa had denied any knowledge of the incident.
Dissanayaka suspects that the abduction was politically motivated as he is involved in politics with the United National Party (UNP).
He served as the Chairman of the state owned television Station Rupavahini during the United National Party (UNP) regime and currently is a lecturer at the Sri Jayewardenepura University.
Professor Dhammika Ganganath Dissanayaka says that his abductors grilled him by questioning about his politics and political affiliations.
He was abducted from his residence in Kottawa on Wednesday night, and released by the abductors after questioning about a book he was supposedly writing about the president.
Speaking to BBC Sandeshaya he said that the group of people who identified themselves as police officers blind folded him and took him by a van to a location after two and a half hours journey.
“They questioned me about my political affiliations in detail but did not ill-treat me” said Professor Dissanayaka.
He was released in the early hours of the morning and found himself close to Kirindiwala in the Gampaha Distict.
He said that he was not sure of the identities of the abductors and that the local Police station at Kahathuduwa had denied any knowledge of the incident.
Dissanayaka suspects that the abduction was politically motivated as he is involved in politics with the United National Party (UNP).
He served as the Chairman of the state owned television Station Rupavahini during the United National Party (UNP) regime and currently is a lecturer at the Sri Jayewardenepura University.
Iraq court jails Bush shoe-thrower for three years
Iraq court jails Bush shoe-thrower for three years
The Iraqi journalist who shot to fame for hurling his shoes at former US president George W. Bush was jailed for three years on Thursday, stirring outrage from his family and supporters.
Television reporter Muntazer al-Zaidi, 30, had pleaded not guilty at the Iraq Central Criminal Court to assaulting Bush during his farewell visit to Iraq last December.
"He was sentenced to three years in jail," defence lawyer Yahia Attabi said outside the Baghdad court.
The defendant shouted: "Iraq, long live Iraq," after the verdict was read out
, the lawyer told AFP.
Chief counsel Dhiya al-Saadi said the conviction was severe.
"I consider the decision harsh. He was charged with assaulting a foreign leader on an official visit, but I don't believe it was an assault," he said. "We will contest the decision and try to get the verdict overturned."
There was standing room only at the courtroom on the edge of Baghdad's high security Green Zone as some 200 family members, reporters and lawyers crowded in. The judge later cleared the court before returning his verdict.
Judge Abdulamir Hassan al-Rubaie said he had taken into consideration that Zaidi is young and it was his first offence, the defence lawyers said.
Shoe-hurling is considered an especially grave insult in the Arab and Muslim world and Zaidi had risked up to 15 years in jail on the charge of aggression against a foreign head of state.
The former president, deeply unpopular in the Arab world for ordering the 2003 invasion of Iraq, had been at a globally televised media conference with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki when Zaidi let rip with his shoes.
Bush managed to duck just in time.
When the judge asked Zaidi if he was innocent, the journalist responded: "Yes, my reaction was natural, just like any Iraqi (would have done)."
After the verdict, his 25-strong defence team emerged from the courtroom to scenes of chaos. Several family members screamed: "It's an American court... sons of dogs."
One of his brothers, Uday, said the decision to jail Zaidi was political.
"This is a political court. Muntazer is being treated like a prisoner of war. He is not a normal prisoner ... This decision has been taken by the prime minister's office."
The family said they would not only appeal but also press ahead with plans to bring torture charges against Bush, Maliki and his bodyguards at a human rights court abroad.
A Syrian lawyer told AFP she was preparing to file a complaint in Belgium or Spain.
Wearing a light-brown suit and thin-framed glasses, the journalist had been brought into a packed courtroom under a heavy police escort.
Counsel al-Saadi had argued that his client's motives were "honourable."
"He was only expressing his feelings. What he could see was the blood of Iraqis at his feet when he watched the US president speaking about his achievements in Iraq."
He also argued that although Iraqi law considered it an attack on a visiting head of state, "his throwing of the shoe did not cause any injury or damage ... His goal was to insult Bush for the pain Iraqis have suffered."
Zaidi had already been spent three months behind bars, the lawyer stressed.
The trial opened on February 19 but was adjourned to determine the nature of Bush's December 14 visit. The judge announced on Thursday that government ministers had declared it official.
The Baghdadia television reporter told the court last month that he had been outraged and was unable to control his emotions when Bush started speaking to the media.
"I had the feeling that the blood of innocent people was dropping on my feet during the time that he was smiling and coming to say bye-bye to Iraq with a dinner.
"So I took the first shoe and threw it but it did not hit him. Then spontaneously I took the second shoe but it did not hit him either. I was not trying to kill the commander of the occupation forces of Iraq."
As well as throwing the shoe, Zaidi shouted: "It is the farewell kiss, you dog," before security forces wrestled him to the ground.
Zaidi said he had been beaten and tortured in custody.
AFP
Television reporter Muntazer al-Zaidi, 30, had pleaded not guilty at the Iraq Central Criminal Court to assaulting Bush during his farewell visit to Iraq last December.
"He was sentenced to three years in jail," defence lawyer Yahia Attabi said outside the Baghdad court.
The defendant shouted: "Iraq, long live Iraq," after the verdict was read out
, the lawyer told AFP.Chief counsel Dhiya al-Saadi said the conviction was severe.
"I consider the decision harsh. He was charged with assaulting a foreign leader on an official visit, but I don't believe it was an assault," he said. "We will contest the decision and try to get the verdict overturned."
There was standing room only at the courtroom on the edge of Baghdad's high security Green Zone as some 200 family members, reporters and lawyers crowded in. The judge later cleared the court before returning his verdict.
Judge Abdulamir Hassan al-Rubaie said he had taken into consideration that Zaidi is young and it was his first offence, the defence lawyers said.
Shoe-hurling is considered an especially grave insult in the Arab and Muslim world and Zaidi had risked up to 15 years in jail on the charge of aggression against a foreign head of state.
The former president, deeply unpopular in the Arab world for ordering the 2003 invasion of Iraq, had been at a globally televised media conference with Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki when Zaidi let rip with his shoes.
Bush managed to duck just in time.
When the judge asked Zaidi if he was innocent, the journalist responded: "Yes, my reaction was natural, just like any Iraqi (would have done)."
After the verdict, his 25-strong defence team emerged from the courtroom to scenes of chaos. Several family members screamed: "It's an American court... sons of dogs."
One of his brothers, Uday, said the decision to jail Zaidi was political.
"This is a political court. Muntazer is being treated like a prisoner of war. He is not a normal prisoner ... This decision has been taken by the prime minister's office."
The family said they would not only appeal but also press ahead with plans to bring torture charges against Bush, Maliki and his bodyguards at a human rights court abroad.
A Syrian lawyer told AFP she was preparing to file a complaint in Belgium or Spain.
Wearing a light-brown suit and thin-framed glasses, the journalist had been brought into a packed courtroom under a heavy police escort.
Counsel al-Saadi had argued that his client's motives were "honourable."
"He was only expressing his feelings. What he could see was the blood of Iraqis at his feet when he watched the US president speaking about his achievements in Iraq."
He also argued that although Iraqi law considered it an attack on a visiting head of state, "his throwing of the shoe did not cause any injury or damage ... His goal was to insult Bush for the pain Iraqis have suffered."
Zaidi had already been spent three months behind bars, the lawyer stressed.
The trial opened on February 19 but was adjourned to determine the nature of Bush's December 14 visit. The judge announced on Thursday that government ministers had declared it official.
The Baghdadia television reporter told the court last month that he had been outraged and was unable to control his emotions when Bush started speaking to the media.
"I had the feeling that the blood of innocent people was dropping on my feet during the time that he was smiling and coming to say bye-bye to Iraq with a dinner.
"So I took the first shoe and threw it but it did not hit him. Then spontaneously I took the second shoe but it did not hit him either. I was not trying to kill the commander of the occupation forces of Iraq."
As well as throwing the shoe, Zaidi shouted: "It is the farewell kiss, you dog," before security forces wrestled him to the ground.
Zaidi said he had been beaten and tortured in custody.
AFP
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