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“Only with the implementation of the CFA we can sit peacefully for further negotiations.”

Mr. Erik Solheim, Norwegian special envoy and Norwegian Minister for international development, met with the Tamil National Leader in Kilinochchi today, 25th January 2006.

The Norwegian delegation led by Mr. Solheim included Mr. Hans Brattskar, Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Mr. Odd Naustdal Deputy Director from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Sondre Bjotvedt, an Executive Officer from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Second Secretary to the Norwegian Ambassador, Mr. Tom Knappskog. The LTTE delegation consisted of Tamil National Leader, Mr Vellupillai Prabaharan, Chief Negotiator Dr. Anton Balasingam, Mrs. Adele Balasingam, Political Head, Mr. S. P. Tamilselvan, and Chief of Police, Mr. Nadesan.

Excerpts from statement made by Dr. Balasingam at the press conference that followed the meeting is as follows.

“On the request of the Norwegian peace negotiators, the LTTE leadership has agreed to participate in the peace talks to be held in Geneva. We have also agreed to commence the peace talks sometime in the middle of February. We could not fix the date yet because other modalities have to be worked out, but we want to have the peace talks as early as possible.”

“At the same time we also insisted that there should be a congenial condition conducive for peace talks. That is, there should be a cessation of violence. On our part we have pledged that there will not be any acts of violence. At the same time we want the Government of Sri Lanka to ensure that its armed forces desist from any violence against civilians. A conducive atmosphere and a peaceful environment is essential to resume peace negotiations. And most importantly, at the initial stage, the talks will be centered on the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.”

“The present escalation of violence arises as a consequence of the failure of security forces to implement the terms and conditions of the ceasefire. Only with the stabilization of the ceasefire agreement we can sit peacefully for further negotiations.”

25 January 2006

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