Presidency of the European Union is concerned that the recent escalation of violence can endanger the positive step taken by the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to resume peace talks in Switzerland on 28-29 October 2006. The Presidency urges both sides to cease all hostilities immediately and create an environment for constructive discussion. The Presidency reiterates its full support to Norway's important facilitation work and to the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM).

The Presidency is deeply concerned about the increasing violations of human rights and international humanitarian law. The Presidency urges the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to ensure that humanitarian aid deliveries be granted a free access to conflict affected areas and that the security of humanitarian workers will be guaranteed.

Source: http://www.eu2006.fi