2009   2008   2007   2006   2005   2004   2003

LTTE delegation winds up in Ireland with a meeting with Nobel Laureate

Mr. John Hume and Mr. Tamilselvan

The Nobel Laureate recalled his visit to Sri Lanka and his meeting with Mr. Tamilselvan in Kilinochchi and was eager to know of the current status of the peace process and general political situation. Speaking from his own experience in the Northern Ireland conflict and the peace process, Mr. Hume said, rigid polarization by the parties to the conflict should be avoided in the interest of conflict resolution and nation building. Referring to the splendid beauty of the island and the potential for development, Mr. Hume said that he, along with all those interested in peace, would encourage the government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to enter into negotiations without any further delay.

Mr. Tamilselvan explained to the host, the implications of the ISGA vis-à-vis humanitarian delivery and confidence building in a post war situation. He also recalled the bitter experience of the Tamil people with several pacts and agreements entered into with successive governments of Sri Lanka and adduced it as the reason for the Tamil people to be extra cautious in any of the political arrangements. Continuing further Mr. Tamilselvan said that the Tamil people expect from Colombo a sense of statesmanship and circumspection in utilizing the offer of support by the main opposition party and the Tamil National Alliance to restart negotiations, internal coalition constraints notwithstanding.

Mr. John Hume assured the delegation that he will make use of his parliamentary position and lobby increased assistance for humanitarian delivery in the war affected region and support for the Norwegian Government to increase momentum in its facilitatory role.

30 October 2004

Print this

Email this