An Independent and Interactive Tamil Community Web Site

02-06-2006

Join hands to resolve national issue
President appeals to all

COLOMBO: President Mahinda Rajapaksa stressed yesterday that he would evolve a solution to the ethnic problem together with all other parties and other sections of society.

"We are ready [to find a solution]. I am not going to do this alone. I will go on this path together with all other parties," President Rajapaksa told senior newspaper editors.

"Please join hands with me to find a solution to this problem. It is our problem. We will discuss with all," said the President, making a fervent appeal to all sections of the socio-political spectrum.

The President emphasised the need for a Sri Lankan model to resolve the ethnic conflict, noting that the All Party Conference has led to a Southern unity and consensus on the issue.

Problems should be solved through discussions and not war. A proper background should be created for peace.

"We need to get the LTTE involved to find a proper solution.

LTTE must talk to us. This is a good opportunity for the LTTE to talk to us. They cannot solve it by killing people," he said.

The President was emphatic that the State cannot agree to give everything the LTTE demands. But the State can come to a point where a suitable solution could be agreed upon. Such a solution could be found through honest discussions.

He said he would reiterate his commitment to a negotiated political settlement at today's All Party Conference as well. The Government would resolutely pursue this option.

Source-Daily News