Following a successful conclusion to the second round of peace talks between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Mike O'Brien said:
"I warmly welcome the positive and constructive outcome of the second round of talks between the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE. The two sides agreed immediate steps to ease tensions in the east. Looking to the future they have agreed to establish three sub-committees dealing with humanitarian and rehabilitation needs, political issues and de-escalation. This should provide a mechanism for helping to ensure a return to normality and to create the basis for a lasting peace.
"I particularly welcome the emphasis placed by both sides on the need to meet the aspirations of all communities including the protection of human rights.
"We now look forward to the Oslo Conference on 25 November. We recognise that this will provide a good opportunity to add further impetus to the process of humanitarian and relief action in the north and the east. Clare Short, Secretary of State for International Development, will attend the Oslo Conference to offer her support to the peace process and to consider the humanitarian and rehabilitation issues facing the country.
"The British Government remains fully committed to supporting the peace process in Sri Lanka. We commend both sides for the flexibility they have shown in recent negotiations and the Norwegian government for their important role. We look forward, with optimism, to the next round of talks in December."
Notes for Editors
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Violations Committed
by the GOSL - 351
