The Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) began peace talks today in Thailand. Commenting on the start of the talks, Foreign Office Minister Mike O'Brien said:
'I welcome the peace talks between the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE which started today. There is still a long way to go in resolving the internal conflict in Sri Lanka but I hope these talks will prove to be a turning point. They reflect a new optimism in Sri Lanka. I call on both sides to work together towards a negotiated settlement that meets the aspirations of all communities.
'Both sides should be commended for taking this step. The important role the Norwegian Government are playing as facilitators and the co-operation of the Thai Government who have agreed to host the talks, are also very welcome. The British Government gives its strong support to the peace process.'

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