The United States strongly condemns the July 7 suicide bombing at Kollupitiya police station. We extend our condolences to the families of the victims of this senseless attack.

Although no one has claimed responsibility for the bombing, the incident bears the hallmarks of an LTTE attack. The United States has consistently called on the Tigers to renounce terrorism and cease
terrorist acts, including political assassinations, and to comply with the terms of the ceasefire agreement that they signed.

The United States also calls upon the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to take all possible steps to halt the recent violence in Eastern Sri Lanka.

The United States is encouraged that the ceasefire between the LTTE and the Government remains in effect. We continue to encourage the LTTE and the Government to follow through on their stated intention to reopen formal negotiations as soon as possible.