"Anyone who has had the privilege of visiting Sri Lanka is profoundly affected by the warmth and generous spirit of its people.

That was why there was such universal goodwill and support for the brave steps taken by the current Prime Minister, Ranil Wickremesinghe, and the LTTE in launching a peace process to end the terrible conflict in which 65 000 people have lost their lives, many thousands have been maimed, and untold harm was inflicted on the economy and indeed the quality of life of the Sri Lankan people.

In Tokyo in June 2003, the international community pledged USD 4.5 billion to underpin the peace process. It is therefore tragic that a constitutional crisis has occurred between the President and the Prime Minister, threatening to derail the peace process.

I deeply regret the actions of President Chandrika Kumaratunga. I would appeal to her to pause and reflect on the consequences. I do so because I am aware that despite the personal tragedies she has experienced at the hands of the LTTE, she courageously initiated moves which paved the way for the current peace initiative. She invited the Norwegian Government to become involved as far back as 1997. She presented a draft constitution with proposals for devolution in 2000. I believe that history will justifiably acknowledge her contribution, if the present negotiations bring permanent peace.

Bi-partisanship in both the British and Irish Parliaments has been fundamental to the continuation of the Irish peace process, particularly when there were difficulties. It is equally important to ensure that similar bi-partisanship exists in its Sri Lankan counterpart.

Through its actions today, the European Parliament, in sending once again a message of goodwill to Sri Lanka, is also expressing its wish for the President and the Prime Minister to work together in the national interest. We remain willing to assist them in the search for permanent peace in their beautiful country."