Norway condemns in the strongest terms the most recent incidents of violence in Sri Lanka. Altogether 519 people have been killed since December 2005. These include Muslims, Singhalese and Tamils. The continual attacks on civilians are exacerbating the already critical situation in Sri Lanka.

Today’s attack brings the violence in Sri Lanka to a new level. A busload of civilians was the target of a mine attack that was ruthlessly planned and carried out. So far, 63 people are reported to have been killed and 45 injured. This is the bloodiest attack on civilians since the parties to the peace process in Sri Lanka signed the ceasefire agreement in 2002.

“This is a gruesome attack on innocent civilians, including children. We send our deepest condolences to their families and to the wounded,” says Minister for International Development Mr Erik Solheim.

“We are witnessing a spiral of worsening violence, which is bringing Sri Lanka towards full civil war. Norway requests an immediate halt of all violence in Sri Lanka,” says Minister Solheim.