In a further demonstration of the UK's support for the Sri Lankan peace process, Foreign Office Minister Mike O'Brien today met the Sri Lankan Government Chief Negotiator and Minister for Constitutional Affairs, Professor GL Peiris.

Welcoming the progress made during last week's talks in Japan, Mike
O'Brien said:

'I very much welcome the opportunity to discuss with Professor Peiris the most recent developments in the peace process. Remarkable progress has been made since direct talks between the Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) began last September. Although much work needs to be done before a final settlement is reached, I am heartened by the success of the talks to date, and applaud both sides for their continued and constructive commitment to the negotiations.'

Notes for Editors

1. Professor Peiris is in London en route from the talks in Japan, via Washington.

2. The sixth round of talks between the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE was held at Hakone, Japan, from 18-21 March 2003. The seventh round will be in Thailand from 29 April to 2 May.