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.

'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

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

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.

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.

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

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 Rajapaksa

UN 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 Nambiar 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, Bhutan, 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 first 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.

"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

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 23^rd 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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-employment 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 Fernando 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 ceasefire

European 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.

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.

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

Suicide bomber came on a motorcycle; No remains found

Suicide bomber came on a motorcycle; No remains found

Police suspects that the suicide bomber who exploded himself at the Jumma mosque in Godapitiya, Akuressa today (10) morning, came on a motorcycle.Police media spokesman SSP Ranjith Gunasea said to Lanka-e-News that the bomber attacked from the rear side of the ministers? motorcade as they were getting down the vehicles at the entrance of the mosque to take part in the function held there. The explosion occurred around 10.20 AM.

Hours before Discovery launch...

Hours before Discovery launch...

US space shuttle Discovery sits on launch pad 39A on March 10, 2009 at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Discovery is scheduled to launch March 11, 2009 at 9:20pm (0200 GMT). AFP PHOTO

LTTE suicide bomber attacks Milad Festival - Akurassa

LTTE suicide bomber attacks Milad Festival - Akurassa

The death toll of the brutal terrorist attack at the national Milad Festival in Sri Lanka , has risen to 14 while 46 others including a government minister were injured.
An LTTE suicide bomber attacked the Jumma mosque at Godapitiya, in Akurassa , in the Matara district around 10.30 , this morning (Mar 10). According to the primary investigations , the suicide bomber had arrived at the place on a pushbike and exploded himself among the Islamic devotees proceeding to the mosque in a procession.
The targeted civilians were attending to the national Milad-Un-Nabi celebration , held at the mosque. The festival marking the birthday of the Prophet Mohammed is celebrated as a national festival in Sri Lanka.
Meanwhile , hospital sources said Minister Mahinda Wijesekara who was also attending the celebration suffered serious injuries in the explosion. The sources added that another 46 people with injuries were admitted to the government hospital Matara and elsewhere. Five other government ministers; AHM Fowzie, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Pandu Bandaranaike, Chandrasiri Gajadeera, and Minister Amir Ali had narrow escapes. Among the deceased and injured were several local government representatives

Pakistan seeks quick answers from India

Pakistan seeks quick answers from India


ISLAMABAD, Mar 8 (APP): Pakistan on Sunday sought the quick Indian response over its questions forwarded to New Delhi regarding progress in ongoing investigation of the Mumbai terror attacks. “Indian authorities should share the information details asked by Pakistan regarding progress in probe,” Advisor to Prime Minister on Interior Affairs, Rehman Malik said in a press conference.
He was flanked by Interpol Chief Ronald Noble, who is here on visit of Pakistan.
He said Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had requested the Indian authorities to reply 30 questions based on investigations but it was yet to receive Indian response.
“India should provide evidence and investigation details as soon as possible to ensure successful prosecution and bring culprits to justice,” Malik said.
The Ministry of Interior had already passed on the information to Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on January 16 and its team submitted the full report on February 3.
Senator Malik said DNA test information was very much important and necessary for conducting the investigation of terror attacks. And now only 13 days have been left in remand of the terror culprits.
Briefing about the progress made by Pakistan, he said the case has already been registered and eight people booked, while four including Hammad Amin, Zaki Rehman Naqvi, Zarar Shah and Al Quoma were being interrogated in police custody following their remand.
Pakistan has continuously being assuring India of full cooperation from the very first day of the Mumbai attacks. Besides, it would also further approach Interpol for information about the terrorists, Malik added

Pakistan President Zardari and Prime minister Gilani express sympathy with Sri Lankan leadership

Zardari, Gilani express sympathy with Sri Lankan leadership


ISLAMABAD, (APP):

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani have expressed sympathy with their Sri Lankan counterparts over the terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore. In his message to Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa, President Asif Ali Zardari said, "I am deeply saddened on the terrorist attack that took place in Lahore in which some members of the Sri Lankan cricket team suffered injuries and a number of security officials lost their lives."

He said Pakistan unreservedly condemns this depraved and cowardly act of terrorism.
Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka are victims of terrorism and today's attack is one of its worst manifestations, he said adding the government of Pakistan reaffirms its resolve to bring the perpetrators of this despicable act to justice.
"I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration," Zardari said.
In his message to Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayaka, Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said, "I was greatly shocked and saddened to learn about the terrorist attack in which some members of the Sri Lankan cricket team suffered injuries and several security personnel lost their lives."
The government and people of Pakistan strongly condemn this heinous act of terrorism, he added.
The Prime Minister said, "the government has redoubled its resolve to combat the menace of terrorism and we will spare no effort to bring the perpetrators to justice."
"I would like to convey my sincere sympathies to the families of the injured players and pray for their early recovery. Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration."


Some clues found; No allegations without proof: Governor




LAHORE, March 3, (APP): Governor Punjab Salman Taseer has said that some clues into attack on Sri Lankan team here this morning have been found but no allegations would be levelled against anybody without solid proofs. Addressing a press conference here Tuesday night, he said, “Progress has been made into the gruesome incident and preliminary investigation would be completed within 48 hours and if any security lapse is found, strict action would be taken against those to be found responsible.” He said thorough investigation would be conducted with cool mind in professional and methodologically way by taking all concerned agencies on board instead of making accusations without solid evidence. Commenting on the remarks of Indian Home Minister that the incident was result of major security lapse, he said,”Our police officials reacted immediately and saved lives of Sri Lankan players by laying down their lives and we are proud of them while in case of Mumbai attacks Indian commandos had reached seven hours after terrorists struck .” He said, “We don’t compare efficiency of personnel of our law enforcing agencies with that of India but Indian leaders must avoid giving suck remarks. Unlike India, we do not want to level allegations without solid proofs. “ Lamenting statements by PML‑N Leaders Nawaz Sharif and Shahbaz Sharif about the incident, he said, politicising such a sensitive issue involving national security and prestige is regrettable and condemnable. He said a number of terrorist incidents occurred during Mian Shahbaz Sharif’s tenure as Chief Minster, “But we never politicised the same.” Underling the need for national unity to face the monster of terrorism, he said,”It is huge challenge and we have to face it by forging national unity.However, regrettable,some opportunist politicians give such statements,just for their petty political gains, which amount to playing in the hands of anti‑state elements.” Express Dismay over the statement of Nawaz Sharif that the incident occurred because governor was busy in horse trading, he said, he (Nawaz Sharif) had been Prime Minster twice and it did not behove of him. He said though some high level transfers and postings had been made in the province following disqualification of Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif by the court but home secretary was not changed to ensure continuity of the security system. Expressing sympathy with Sri Lankan players, people of Sri Lanka and their Cricket Board on behalf of government and people of the Punjab, he said “We are greatly shocked and grieved over the incident.” He thanked the government of Sri Lanka for sending its team for playing here when no other country was ready to send its team to Pakistan. He recalled that after World Cup 96, when West Indies and Australia had refused to visit Sri Lanka due to blasts there, Pakistan and Indian Cricket Teams had visited to play matches there. He said immediately after the incident, he visited the Sri Lankan team “they were in shock but save. They are going back to their country tonight. Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani has asked me to see them off and I would go to the airport to bid them farewell.” To a question, he said, attackers were highly trained and equipped with sophisticated weapons but valiant police officials by laying down their lives foiled their bid to inflict heavy losses on visiting team.

President Rajapaksa’s Visit sees the Signature of Two Landmark Agreements between Nepal and Sri Lanka

President Rajapaksa’s Visit sees the Signature of Two Landmark Agreements between Nepal and Sri Lanka


President Mahinda Rajapaksa undertook a State Visit to Nepal from 2-4 March 2009 at the invitation of the President of Nepal Dr. Ram Baran Yadav. This visit was hailed as landmark in Nepal as it was the first by a Head of State or Government to Nepal since Nepal’s political transformation as a Republic. The visit was also undertaken in President Rajapaksa’s capacity as current Chairperson of SAARC.

President Rajapaksa was accorded full state honours on arrival in Kathmandu on 2 March by at an official welcome ceremony held at Rastrapati Bhawan. Following the official welcome ceremony, President Rajapaksa and President Dr. Ram Baran Yadav exchanged compliments and discussed the current political developments in Sri Lanka and Nepal including matters pertaining to strengthening cooperation between the two countries. Later in the day President Rajapaksa and delegation were hosted to a State Banquet by President Yadav.

Official bilateral talks were held between President Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ on 3 March. The talks covered a range of issues including a proposed Free Trade Agreement between the two countries, promotion of tourism, investment, trade in services, information technology, cultural relations and education.

Two important bilateral agreements on Air Services and the establishment of a Joint Commission between Sri Lanka and Nepal were signed during the visit by the Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama and Nepalese Cultural Minister Hisila Yammi. The two Agreements signed hold the potential to enhance cooperation between the two countries including increasing trade. The Ministerial level Joint Commission that will soon meet upon the signature of the Agreement will explore ways for the enhancement of economic, trade and cultural relations. The Bilateral Air Service Agreement will improve connectivity between the peoples of the two countries at all levels and also increase tourism. During the discussions between President Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Dahal, special reference was made to steps being taken by Sri Lanka towards the development of Lumbini and measures being taken to develop the monastery and pilgrims rest in Lumbini.

President Rajapaksa also held discussions with Vice President Parmananda Jha and the leader of the main opposition Party Girija Prasad Koirala.

President Rajapaksa also visited the historic Ananda Kuti Vihara in Kathmandu and attended a religious ceremony organized by the chief incumbent priest of the temple.

As Chairperson of SAARC, President Rajapaksa visited the SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu on 3 March and met with Secretary General Dr Sheel Kant Sharma and the staff of the Secretariat. He also planted a sapling symbolizing his first visit to Nepal and to the SAARC Secretariat.

President Rajapaksa was accompanied on the State Visit by Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, External Trade Minister G.L.Peiris, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Additional Foreign Secretary Prasad Kariyawasam and senior officials of the Foreign Ministry.

SAARC Film Festival in Abu Dhabi UAE

SAARC Film Festival in Abu Dhabi UAE
The Association of Ambassadors of SAARC countries based in Abu Dhabi, UAE will be organizing a film festival at the Abu Dhabi Cultural Centre from 7th to 11th March 2009. The two movies from Sri Lanka will be screened on 11th March. “Samanala Thatu” produced by Mrs. Renuka Balasuriya and “Nostalgia” produced by Mrs. Neeta Fernando wil be screened during this festival. Mr. Jayantha Dharmadasa who is the Chairman of the National Film Festival will attend as the Chief Guest on the Sri Lankan day of the festival.
The Association of Ambassadors of SAARC countries based in Abu Dhabi established recently to promote culture and tourism in UAE.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Abu Dhabi

South Asia can weather economic crisis- ADB

South Asia can weather economic crisis- ADB

MANILA, March 9 (Xinhua) -- South Asian countries can weather the global financial crisis by taking both short- and long-term measures to stimulate their economies, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) said in a study released on Monday.
The study, titled The Impact of the Global Economic Slowdown on South Asia, said that the sub region has been hit by capital outflows and weaker commodity prices, and faces a sharp slowdown in exports and remittances as the global troubles worsen.
A number of short-term measures have been taken to cushion the impact of the crisis, including monetary easing and fiscal stimulus packages, said the report, adding that there is further room for interest rate reductions, particularly in India and Sri Lanka

MINISTER OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFIARS of PAKISTAN’ PARTICIPATE IN THE SAARC 31ST COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING IN COLOMBO

MINISTER OF STATE FOR FOREIGN AFFIARS of PAKISTAN’ PARTICIPATE IN THE SAARC 31ST COUNCIL OF MINISTERS MEETING IN COLOMBO


Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan, will lead the Pakistan delegation to the 31st Session of the SAARC Council of Ministers meeting to be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 27-28 February 2009.The meeting has been preceded by the meetings of the Standing Committee (25-26 February) and the Programming Committee (23-24 February).The meeting is expected to review the implementation of decisions taken at earlier Summits and discuss additional measures to promote regional cooperation. The occasion would also be utilized for bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the Council.Over the years, SAARC has made notable progress in a number of areas including trade, finance, poverty alleviation and environment. The meeting would provide a useful opportunity for SAARC Foreign Ministers to review the progress in the above-mentioned and other areas under the ambit of SAARC.Pakistan attaches great importance to SAARC and its activities. Pakistan has contributed meaningfully to the establishment, institutionalization and progress of the body. Pakistan has played a proactive role to reinvigorate SAARC by providing substantive inputs Pakistan has hosted the 4th (1988) and the 12th (2004) SAARC Summits and a number of ministerial and technical level meetings. Speaking at the the 36th Session of the SAARC Standing Committee Foreign Secretary, Mr. Salman Bashir emphasized the need to strengthen regional cooperation to mitigate the effects of the current global financial crisis and enhance cooperation in financial matters. He underlined the need to strengthen SAARC regime to effectively combat the menace of terrorism. He highlighted the need for cooperation among the Saarc countries to focus on Science and Technology to consider multilateral energy cooperation to cope with the energy deficiency in the region and focus on water conservation issues and commissioning a scientific study on melting of glaciers In his remarks, the Foreign Secretary also proposed that a global summit be convened to address the problems arising out of the global financial crisis.

Pakistan, India foreign secretaries meet in Colombo

Pakistan, India foreign secretaries meet in Colombo

Indian Foreign Secretary Shivshankar Menon has informed Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir that India would be responding soon to the queries raised by Pakistan in the context of the Mumbai incident. The issue was discussed in a meeting between Foreign Secretary of Pakistan Salman Bashir and his Indian counterpart Shivshankar held in Colombo on Thursday on the sidelines of the SAARC Standing Committee.
The meeting, which was the first between the two foreign secretaries after the Mumbai incident, was held in a cordial atmosphere. High Commissioner of Pakistan to India Shahid Malik was also present.
The two Foreign Secretaries exchanged views on broader issues of regional cooperation and agreed to continue their efforts to promote cooperation under the SAARC auspices.
They affirmed the importance of promoting regional peace, stability and prosperity, according to a press release issued by the Office of FO Spokesman here on Thursday.
The Foreign Secretaries also discussed various aspects of bilateral relations. They agreed to keep the official channels of communication open.
Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir underscored the importance that Pakistan attaches to preserving the gains made in the Composite Dialogue Process.
He reiterated the need to resume the process as soon as possible with the view to promoting substantive engagement on all issues including Kashmir, for establishing friendly and good neighborly relations.

We are with a double-edged mission to combat terrorism and global Financial meltdown – President Rajapaksha

We are with a double-edged mission to combat terrorism and global Financial meltdown – President Rajapaksha

"We are nations entrusted with a double-edged mission. And, we must re-double our efforts in combating terrorism and global financial meltdown individually and collectively. We need courage to take firm action to overcome terrorism. Sadly, the instability caused by the global financial crisis can be considered quite similar to the threat caused by terrorism to our societies and to our region,” said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the SAARC Foreign Ministers’ Conference in Colombo today. [Pix : By dailly mirror]

"The depression in the commodity market is adversely affecting most of us, even negating the gains resulting from the declining oil prices. Trade flows, production lines and the service sector are suffering from the domino effect of this crisis and there are looming liquidity problems,” the President added

Kashmir Solidarity Day

Kashmir Solidarity Day

The Kashmiris and Pakistanis all over the world are observing Kashmir Solidarity day on 5^th February to express unity with the people of Kashmir.
The Pakistani nation remains all set to express its unshakable commitment to the just cause of Kashmiris who are struggling against the Indian occupation of their motherland

.In a message the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari said that we observe Kashmir Solidarity Day every year to express our unwavering political, moral and diplomatic support to the just struggle of our Kashmiri brethren for their right of self determination, as enshrined in the UN Charter and relevant UN resolutions.

Kashmir Solidarity Day is also an occasion to pay tribute to the countless sacrifices of the valiant people of Kashmir who have remained resolute and steadfast in the face of oppression spanning more than six decades.He further said that I wish to reassure my Kashmiri brethren that Pakistan remains firmly committed to finding a just and peaceful solution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Kashmir . For more than six decades, the Kashmir issue remains on the agenda of the UN as an unfulfilled obligation. We will continue to support the Kashmiri people in their quest for realizing their right to self determination. Pakistan calls for an end to the human rights violations in the Indian Occupied Kashmir.He reiterated that Pakistan would continue to pursue a resolution of the Kashmir dispute based on the wishes of the Kashmiri people. To that end, we believe that Kashmiris should be associated with the Dialogue process. We are in no doubt that ultimately, Kashmiris would be the final arbiter of their destiny.

I take this opportunity to reiterate to our Kashmiri brethren our pledge that they have Pakistan ’s full moral, diplomatic and political support. Their goals are our goals. Their dreams are our dreams. May Allah grant us the strength to continue our joint struggle.

liberate Visuamadu Town; battles enter last phase at Mullaittivu

liberate Visuamadu Town; battles enter last phase at Mullaittivu

Troops of the 58 Division after hours of fierce fighting that ensued with LTTE have reached the Visuamdu junction, this afternoon (Jan 28). According to latest reports received, troops have now gained total control over the Visuamadu town, following initial search and clearing operations conducted in the area, security sources said.

LTTE resistances were rattled during the multi-frontal military assault, ground sources said adding that scores of terrorists were killed and many injured during the fighting.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090128_09

Mullaittivu liberated; LTTE main garrison captured

Mullaittivu liberated; LTTE main garrison captured

Sri Lanka Army announced that troops of 59 Division, lead by Brigadier Nandana Udawatta, entered into the LTTE's main garrison town Mullaittivu, have gained total control over the Mullaittivu Township after completing the mop up operations conducted in the area by this evening, 25 January.

Recapturing the Mullaittivu town which had been dominated by the LTTE terrorists for last 13 years marks the significant milestone of war against terrorism launched to free the entire country from LTTE.

On July 18, 1996 the LTTE terrorists launched an attack on Sri Lanka Army base at Mullaittivu town on the north eastern coast and captured it as troops tactically withdrawn from the town. Since then LTTE terrorists established its main military and administrative bases there.

According to the battlefield sources, troops of 593 Brigade lead by Colonel Jayantha Gunarathne have made a surprise attack across the Nanthikandal lagoon and entered the Mullaittivu town area this morning. Infantrymen of 7 Gemunu Watch (7 GW) lead by Lieutenant Colonel Chaminda Lamahewa have been in first to enter the town amid heavy terror resistance, the sources said. The Mullaittivu town is situated in a narrow stretch of a land between Nanthikandal lagoon and the Indian Ocean.

Announcing the victory, Army Commander Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka requested the people to celebrate the victory with dignity by hoisting the national flag.

Give me back my child

Give me back my child

A woman, whose child died from drinking tainted milk, holds a sign reading 'Give me back my child' outside Shijiazhuang Intermediate People's Court, Hebei province. REUTERS

LTTE creates 'humanitarian catastrophe'

LTTE creates 'humanitarian catastrophe


According to defence.lk web 'LTTE terrorists have blasted off the Kalmadukulam Tank bund Jan 24th morning in a desperate attempt to stall the multi-frontal military surge towards Visuamadu area, latest reports from the Mullaittivu battlefront said. "This is totally an inhuman act with least respect to the lives of innocent Tamil civilians entrapped in the area", a defence official said while urging worldwide condemnation for the terrorist act.

Terrorists have used high explosives and triggered the detonation flooding a section of the A-35 Pranthan - Pooneryn main road, Ramanatpuram, Dharmapuram and Visuamadu. LTTE terrorists had resorted to this cheap tactic after suffering heavy beating by the security forces during intense fighting that erupted since Friday (23), Northeast of Kalmadu and Nethiliaru, security sources said. Terrorist resistances were beaten comprehensively in the ground battles, which left its fighting formations in total disarray, security sources said.

Sri Lanka: Media must be allowed to work freely and safely -Amnesty International

Sri Lanka: Media must be allowed to work freely and safely -Amnesty International

Sri Lankan authorities must ensure that the country's media are allowed to work without restriction and in safety, Amnesty International said today.

"The Sri Lankan authorities are doing little to ensure the safety of the country’s media, or to prosecute those responsible for murdering or attacking them. They are also directly responsible for subjecting journalists to harassment and interrogation, " said Yolanda Foster, Amnesty International' s Sri Lanka Researcher.

Sandaruwan Senadheera, editor of 'Lanka-e-news' (www.lankaenews.com)was questioned for six hours today by officers from the special wing of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) at their headquarters in Colombo Fort about a complaint lodged by the Defense Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse.

The complaint concerned an article posted on the website on 21 February 2008 headlined 'International intelligence service suspends providing information to Sri Lanka; Gota is responsible for the losses since December 31.' Mr Senadheera was told that officers would visit his office next week for further questioning.
Picture-Lasantha Wicramatunge and his body
This comes a day after an assault on Upali Tennakoon, chief editor of the Rivira weekly newspaper, and his wife Dhammika, and follows the fatal shooting earlier this month of Lasantha Wickramatunga, editor of the Sunday Leader newspaper.

At least 14 media workers have been unlawfully killed in Sri Lanka since the beginning of 2006. Others have been arbitrarily detained, tortured and allegedly disappeared while in the custody of security forces. More than 20 journalists have left the country in response to death threats.

"Without a free media that is able to express alternative views and offer the opportunity for public scrutiny, abuses can flourish under a veil of secrecy and denial. Sri Lanka's climate of impunity for attacks on the media has made it impossible to get an accurate impartial picture of what is happening in the country. By threatening journalists with the risk of arrest, and failing to protect them from attack, the government is failing its citizens," said Yolanda Foster.

Special team to probe media attacks - Anura Yapa

Special team to probe media attacks - Anura Yapa

President has instructed the IGP to appoint a special Police team to probe attacks on media, following the assault on Rivira Editor Upali Tennakoon and his wife.

RIVIRA newspaper editor attacked

RIVIRA newspaper editor attacked


Editor of Rivira newspaper Upali Tennakoon has been assaulted and stabbed this morning, stated staff members of Rivira. hIS WIFE ALSO ASSAULTED AND CAR DAMAGED BY A gang.Mr. Tennakoon has been admitted to a hospital.

U.N. protests Tamil Tiger refusal of safe passage

U.N. protests Tamil Tiger refusal of safe passage
The United Nations said on Thursday Tamil Tiger rebels had violated international law for refusing to allow local staff and their families to leave Sri Lanka's war zone.

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are now cornered in less than 400 sq km in northern Sri Lanka along with what aid agencies say are around 230,000 people trapped between the separatist rebels and a massive Sri Lankan military onslaught.

"The United Nations in Sri Lanka has issued its strongest possible protest to the LTTE for their refusal to allow U.N. national staff and dependents to return from the Vanni with the present U.N. convoy," a U.N. statement.

The convoy went into the war zone, a region known as the Vanni, on Jan. 16 and was only able to leave on Thursday, the U.N. statement said.

"The LTTE's denial of safe passage is a clear abrogation of their obligations under international humanitarian law," the U.N. office in Sri Lanka said.

The LTTE could not be reached for comment.

Rights groups say the Tigers have forced civilians to stay in the war zone to provide a human shield, and is making some fight or work to build defences. The rebels have denied that.

(Reuters)