The Norwegian delegation visiting Sri Lanka met with members of the Government in the afternoon of Monday, October 21, 2002. The Norwegian delegation comprised Deputy Foreign Minister, Vidar Helgesen; Special Advisor, Erik Solheim; Hans Brattskar and Advisor Lisa Golden from the Norwegian Foreign Ministry; and Ambassador, Jon Westborg. The Government delegation consisted of Ministers G L Peiris and Milinda Moragoda, and Director General of the Peace Secretariat, Bernard Goonatillake.

After the luncheon meeting held at the residence of the Norwegian Ambassador, the two groups met with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in the evening. Also present at this meeting with the Prime Minister were Minister Rauf Hakeem and Secretary to the Prime Minister, Mr Bradman Weerakoon.

Among the matters discussed was the establishment of a Joint Task Force for the reconstruction of the northern and eastern provinces, and its terms of reference. During the discussion, it was accepted that there is a need for the Task Force to be associated with a government institution, such as the Prime Minister’s Office. This would be a prerequisite for legal authority to receive, disburse and be accountable for funds received from donors.

Another issue discussed was the donor conference to be held in Oslo on November 25, 2002. A number of countries have been invited to this conference, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, India, Japan,
Nordic countries, People’s Republic of China, Republic of Korea, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States of America.

Arrangements for de-mining activities were conferred upon as well as the issues related to ratification of the Ottawa Convention on anti-personnel mines.

Among other issues brought up were demonstrations and hartals, which have led to civil disturbances in the North and East, and the political situation in the South.

The Norwegian delegation departed to Jaffna this morning (October 22) from where they will proceed to the Wanni. The delegation is expected to return to Colombo on Wednesday (October 23).

SCOPP Communications Unit