Ms. Agnes Van Hoeven, Minister of Development Co-operation of the Netherlands congratulated Sri Lanka for what it has accomplished so far towards achieving sustainable peace for the country. Ms. Hoeven pledged fullest co-operation of her country when she met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in New York on 15th September 2002 and also promised to grant aid for areas such as reconstruction of war affected areas, and rehabilitation of people affected by war.

Ms. Hoeven further stated that landmines caused great hindrance for re-establishing of displaced persons and recommencement of agricultural and economic activities. Therefore, Ms. Hoeven stated that she will encourage her government to offer the services of expert of the Netherlands for de-mining