http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110929_02
Gov. to release over 1800 Ex-combatants
The Government will release over 1800 ex-combatants after the successful completion of rehabilitation programme tomorrow (30 Sep).
Accordingly, 1717 male and 99 female ex-combatants will be reintegrated to society at Temple Trees under the patronage of HE the President.
They will be handed over to their family members in the same
Thursday, September 29, 2011
http://www.island.lk/index.php?page_cat=article-details&page=article-details&code_title=35729
Canada declares war on bogus asylum seekers, LTTE ops to be targetedSeptember 28, 2011, 10:52 pm
Canada is pushing for tougher laws to cripple organized human smuggling operations carried out in several countries, including Sri Lanka. In spite of strong opposition by various NGOs involved in the lucrative human smuggling operations, the Canadian government is keen to introduce new laws as part of their overall measures to curb human smuggling.
The LTTE has abused Canadian laws to its advantage even after the conclusion of the conflict in May 2009. National Post carried the following piece by Minister of Immigration, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Jason Kenney in its Sept. 27 issue last week: The House of Commons began debating a bill to crack down on the dangerous crime of human smuggling.
Unfortunately, this bill has been widely misunderstood and even misrepresented by special interest groups, and by the opposition, who are effectively filibustering it. I am confident that when the hyperbole and inaccuracies are cleared away, Canadians will support the balanced approach the government is taking to address this threat to our generous immigration system.
Canada contributes generously to the United Nations refugee programme, which provides physical protection, food and medical care to genuine refugees at regional centres, while the United Nations processes their cases and prepares them for orderly travel to Canada and other countries that have committed to resettling them.
Canada receives more than one in 10 refugees resettled worldwide through this system. And, in 2010, the Harper government announced that, as part of our Balanced Refugee Reform Act, we would increase the number of resettled refugees by 20%, solidifying Canada’s position as the most generous recipient of resettled refugees in the developed world. Tens of thousands of refugees have come to Canada this way, including through our recent special programme to resettle Iraqi refugees and the Vietnamese ‘boat people’ 30 years ago.
Contrary to the propaganda of ‘No One Is Illegal’ and other radical organizations, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has recognized that this resettlement program is the proper path for genuine refugees, not illegal human smuggling operations. Because human smugglers are concerned only with profit, and will happily exploit their ‘clients,’ whom they treat as little more than live cargo, Bill C-4 hits them where it hurts.
Bill C-4 creates a new offence for people involved in mass human smuggling operations, increases fines for boat owners to $1-million, and imposes mandatory sentences of 10 years for smugglers who endanger the lives of passengers for profit. The most misrepresented element of Bill C-4 is its detention provision. Taken out of context, ‘detention’ may sound harsh for the legitimate refugees who may be among the illegal arrivals.
But we believe that humane and temporary detention, which will last up to a year or until a refugee’s claim can be verified, is the only reasonable and responsible approach to the broader problem of human smuggling. Temporary detention means that people fleeing brutal persecution will be safe, with access to generous food, housing and medical care while their refugee claims are heard swiftly ‘ within three months after arrival under forthcoming changes to our asylum system. It also means the violent criminals and terrorists we know will be among the same group of arrivals will not be released into Canadian communities. This balanced approach is less stringent than the detention of virtually all illegal migrants in the United Kingdom, Australia and similar countries.
Bill C-4 is specifically designed to limit the pull factors for migrants who would abuse Canada’s generosity. One of the reasons migrants are willing to pay as much as $50,000 and risk a dangerous sea voyage is because, if they are able to get status in Canada, they can immediately turn around and sponsor their families and, eventually, extended families to come to Canada as well.
When family sponsorship is factored in, $50,000 can suddenly look like a pretty good investment. This is why Bill C-4 limits irregular migrants’ ability to sponsor family members for five years, and requires a review of their status at that time, before they are put on the path to citizenship.
Take a minute to think about the route the human smugglers took with the MV Sun Sea, a ship carrying 497 Tamils to Canada in 2010. Think of all the countries that were much closer and that would have been much less risky than a trans-pacific voyage in a rickety boat.
They could have gone to New Zealand, Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Fiji or even Hawaii. But they didn’t. They targeted Canada, halfway around the world. And, until we crack down on these human smuggling operations, they will continue to target us. Bill C-4 sends the message around the world that Canada will no longer be the world’s doormat. I therefore call on the opposition to join the government in standing on guard for Canada.
Canada declares war on bogus asylum seekers, LTTE ops to be targetedSeptember 28, 2011, 10:52 pm
Canada is pushing for tougher laws to cripple organized human smuggling operations carried out in several countries, including Sri Lanka. In spite of strong opposition by various NGOs involved in the lucrative human smuggling operations, the Canadian government is keen to introduce new laws as part of their overall measures to curb human smuggling.
The LTTE has abused Canadian laws to its advantage even after the conclusion of the conflict in May 2009. National Post carried the following piece by Minister of Immigration, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Jason Kenney in its Sept. 27 issue last week: The House of Commons began debating a bill to crack down on the dangerous crime of human smuggling.
Unfortunately, this bill has been widely misunderstood and even misrepresented by special interest groups, and by the opposition, who are effectively filibustering it. I am confident that when the hyperbole and inaccuracies are cleared away, Canadians will support the balanced approach the government is taking to address this threat to our generous immigration system.
Canada contributes generously to the United Nations refugee programme, which provides physical protection, food and medical care to genuine refugees at regional centres, while the United Nations processes their cases and prepares them for orderly travel to Canada and other countries that have committed to resettling them.
Canada receives more than one in 10 refugees resettled worldwide through this system. And, in 2010, the Harper government announced that, as part of our Balanced Refugee Reform Act, we would increase the number of resettled refugees by 20%, solidifying Canada’s position as the most generous recipient of resettled refugees in the developed world. Tens of thousands of refugees have come to Canada this way, including through our recent special programme to resettle Iraqi refugees and the Vietnamese ‘boat people’ 30 years ago.
Contrary to the propaganda of ‘No One Is Illegal’ and other radical organizations, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has recognized that this resettlement program is the proper path for genuine refugees, not illegal human smuggling operations. Because human smugglers are concerned only with profit, and will happily exploit their ‘clients,’ whom they treat as little more than live cargo, Bill C-4 hits them where it hurts.
Bill C-4 creates a new offence for people involved in mass human smuggling operations, increases fines for boat owners to $1-million, and imposes mandatory sentences of 10 years for smugglers who endanger the lives of passengers for profit. The most misrepresented element of Bill C-4 is its detention provision. Taken out of context, ‘detention’ may sound harsh for the legitimate refugees who may be among the illegal arrivals.
But we believe that humane and temporary detention, which will last up to a year or until a refugee’s claim can be verified, is the only reasonable and responsible approach to the broader problem of human smuggling. Temporary detention means that people fleeing brutal persecution will be safe, with access to generous food, housing and medical care while their refugee claims are heard swiftly ‘ within three months after arrival under forthcoming changes to our asylum system. It also means the violent criminals and terrorists we know will be among the same group of arrivals will not be released into Canadian communities. This balanced approach is less stringent than the detention of virtually all illegal migrants in the United Kingdom, Australia and similar countries.
Bill C-4 is specifically designed to limit the pull factors for migrants who would abuse Canada’s generosity. One of the reasons migrants are willing to pay as much as $50,000 and risk a dangerous sea voyage is because, if they are able to get status in Canada, they can immediately turn around and sponsor their families and, eventually, extended families to come to Canada as well.
When family sponsorship is factored in, $50,000 can suddenly look like a pretty good investment. This is why Bill C-4 limits irregular migrants’ ability to sponsor family members for five years, and requires a review of their status at that time, before they are put on the path to citizenship.
Take a minute to think about the route the human smugglers took with the MV Sun Sea, a ship carrying 497 Tamils to Canada in 2010. Think of all the countries that were much closer and that would have been much less risky than a trans-pacific voyage in a rickety boat.
They could have gone to New Zealand, Australia, Japan, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Fiji or even Hawaii. But they didn’t. They targeted Canada, halfway around the world. And, until we crack down on these human smuggling operations, they will continue to target us. Bill C-4 sends the message around the world that Canada will no longer be the world’s doormat. I therefore call on the opposition to join the government in standing on guard for Canada.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110929_08
50 UK asylum seekers arrive at BIA: gives lie to C-4 news stunt
Giving lie to certain controversial British news reports the group of 50 Sri Lankans who were deported from UK have arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport this morning (Sep 29, 2011). According to our defence correspondent at the BIA, 42 men and 8 women were among the deported asylum seekers who had arrived.
However, Channel-4 the cynical British media station yesterday (Sep 28) reported, "a UK court judge had held the deportation of failed asylum seekers to Sri Lanka". In yet another attempt to fulfill its debt to LTTE financial rumps, the Channel-4 media outlet pegged a news titled, 'Last-minute court order halts Sri Lankan deportation' by Jonathan Miller, its Foreign Affairs Correspondent on Thursday.
At the time of reporting the deported asylum seekers were engaged with Airport authorities following clearance formalities.
50 UK asylum seekers arrive at BIA: gives lie to C-4 news stunt
Giving lie to certain controversial British news reports the group of 50 Sri Lankans who were deported from UK have arrived at the Bandaranaike International Airport this morning (Sep 29, 2011). According to our defence correspondent at the BIA, 42 men and 8 women were among the deported asylum seekers who had arrived.
However, Channel-4 the cynical British media station yesterday (Sep 28) reported, "a UK court judge had held the deportation of failed asylum seekers to Sri Lanka". In yet another attempt to fulfill its debt to LTTE financial rumps, the Channel-4 media outlet pegged a news titled, 'Last-minute court order halts Sri Lankan deportation' by Jonathan Miller, its Foreign Affairs Correspondent on Thursday.
At the time of reporting the deported asylum seekers were engaged with Airport authorities following clearance formalities.
http://www.newsnow.lk/top-story/73-top-story/921-nz-1st-with-qlies-agreed-uponq
NZ became the first country where Sri Lanka government's documentary film "Lies - Agreed Upon", countering the many allegations of war crimes orchestrated in the UK Channel 4 Documentary, was screened in a National Parliament.
This happened at the Beehive (NZ Parliament) theater at 1pm on Tuesday the 28th September. It was the successful culmination of a concerted campaign carried out by the United Sri Lanka Association spearheaded by it's spokesperson Dr. Chula Rajapakse & Sri Lanka's Hon Consul in NZ, Mr. Aruna Abeygoonesekera, in response to campaigns being carried out by Tiger Diaspora.
Present at the screening were Chairman of the NZ Sri Lanka parliamentary group, national party (government) MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi & Labour Opposition front bench MP's Maryan Street Foreign affairs spokesperson & Rajan Prasad.
Securing their attendance was all the more of an achievement as the Parliament is in the last 10 days of sitting before dissolution for the November general election.
Several MP's sent in their apologies on account of work associated with this. Many MP's have also been supplied with personal copies of the film.
(By: United Sri Lanka Association- NZ)
NZ became the first country where Sri Lanka government's documentary film "Lies - Agreed Upon", countering the many allegations of war crimes orchestrated in the UK Channel 4 Documentary, was screened in a National Parliament.
This happened at the Beehive (NZ Parliament) theater at 1pm on Tuesday the 28th September. It was the successful culmination of a concerted campaign carried out by the United Sri Lanka Association spearheaded by it's spokesperson Dr. Chula Rajapakse & Sri Lanka's Hon Consul in NZ, Mr. Aruna Abeygoonesekera, in response to campaigns being carried out by Tiger Diaspora.
Present at the screening were Chairman of the NZ Sri Lanka parliamentary group, national party (government) MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi & Labour Opposition front bench MP's Maryan Street Foreign affairs spokesperson & Rajan Prasad.
Securing their attendance was all the more of an achievement as the Parliament is in the last 10 days of sitting before dissolution for the November general election.
Several MP's sent in their apologies on account of work associated with this. Many MP's have also been supplied with personal copies of the film.
(By: United Sri Lanka Association- NZ)
http://news.nationalpost.com/2011/09/29/ex-tiger-tax-collector-called-war-criminal/
Adrian Humphreys Sep 29, 2011 – 6:00 AM ET Last Updated: Sep 28, 2011 10:22 PM ET
A man who worked as a tax collector in the Tamil Tigers’ finance department while the terrorist group engaged in crimes against humanity has been branded a war criminal and ordered out of Canada in a court ruling that holds office clerks just as culpable as the armed insurgents they enable.
Puvanesan Thurairajah, 36, is a citizen of Sri Lanka and of Tamil ethnicity who, before coming to Canada, worked for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a group on Canada’s official list of designated terrorist organizations, the Federal Court of Canada heard.
After finishing school, he worked for his brother in a factory in Jaffna. The factory was charged a tax by the LTTE and when Tigers came to collect they tried to recruit him but he refused, Mr. Thurairajah told Canadian officials.
In late 1992, the LTTE took him to a camp by force, beat him and threatened to kill him, he said. After being held for three weeks, he agreed to work for them. He worked in the records office at an LTTE camp in Tinnevelly for a year and was paid a salary. He was then promoted to the finance department at the camp in Chankanai for two years, where he was responsible for collecting taxes for the Tigers, which funded the civil war.
While working in these camps he was always allowed to go home in the evenings, court heard. He stopped working for the LTTE when the Sri Lankan army won control of the Jaffna peninsula. In 2000, on a trip to the capital Colombo, he was arrested and accused of supporting the Tigers. He was released after six days after paying a bribe, he said.
He fled to Britain where his claim for asylum was rejected. In 2007, he arrived in Canada using a fake Canadian passport, settled in Montreal and claimed refugee protection.
That claim was rejected by the Immigration & Refugee Board (IRB) after an adjudicator found reasonable grounds to believe he committed a war crime or crime against humanity under Article 1F of the United Nations’ convention on refugees.
Mr. Thurairajah appealed that decision in court, arguing it was unreasonable to hold him to account for the actions of a group he was forced to join.
“The position he held within the Finance Department for the Tigers was by and large negligible. He never carried a weapon or participated in the commission of crimes against humanity,” say court documents summarizing his position.
His plea drew little judicial support. “An exclusion based on Article 1F of the Convention is a serious matter which could affect the refugee claimant for the rest of his life,” Justice Luc Martineau acknowledged before doing just that.
“The applicant admitted that the Tigers participated in many crimes against humanity and that they are an organization directed to a limited, brutal purpose,” the judge wrote in his decision.
“The [IRB] panel found the Tigers committed crimes against humanity at the time when the applicant belonged to it; that is, between 1992 and 1995…. The panel also found the applicant was complicit in crimes committed by the Tigers.”
Justice Martineau found the IRB’s decision to be reasonable.
“The collection of taxes financing the Tigers cannot be qualified as a negligible or passive participation in the organization,” he wrote.
Myriam Harbec, Mr. Thurairajah’s lawyer, said she was disappointed with the decision but not entirely surprised.
“No matter what involvement they had with the LTTE, that’s the way the Federal Court is thinking right now,” Ms. Harbec said in an interview.
“But in Sri Lanka and in some African countries, people were forced to cooperate with these groups.”
Luc Labelle, spokesman for Canada Border Services Agency, declined to discuss the case, but said crimes against humanity cases are among the agency’s top priorities.
National Postahumphreys@nationalpost.com
Ex-Tiger tax collector called war criminal
Adrian Humphreys Sep 29, 2011 – 6:00 AM ET Last Updated: Sep 28, 2011 10:22 PM ET
A man who worked as a tax collector in the Tamil Tigers’ finance department while the terrorist group engaged in crimes against humanity has been branded a war criminal and ordered out of Canada in a court ruling that holds office clerks just as culpable as the armed insurgents they enable.
Puvanesan Thurairajah, 36, is a citizen of Sri Lanka and of Tamil ethnicity who, before coming to Canada, worked for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a group on Canada’s official list of designated terrorist organizations, the Federal Court of Canada heard.
After finishing school, he worked for his brother in a factory in Jaffna. The factory was charged a tax by the LTTE and when Tigers came to collect they tried to recruit him but he refused, Mr. Thurairajah told Canadian officials.
In late 1992, the LTTE took him to a camp by force, beat him and threatened to kill him, he said. After being held for three weeks, he agreed to work for them. He worked in the records office at an LTTE camp in Tinnevelly for a year and was paid a salary. He was then promoted to the finance department at the camp in Chankanai for two years, where he was responsible for collecting taxes for the Tigers, which funded the civil war.
While working in these camps he was always allowed to go home in the evenings, court heard. He stopped working for the LTTE when the Sri Lankan army won control of the Jaffna peninsula. In 2000, on a trip to the capital Colombo, he was arrested and accused of supporting the Tigers. He was released after six days after paying a bribe, he said.
He fled to Britain where his claim for asylum was rejected. In 2007, he arrived in Canada using a fake Canadian passport, settled in Montreal and claimed refugee protection.
That claim was rejected by the Immigration & Refugee Board (IRB) after an adjudicator found reasonable grounds to believe he committed a war crime or crime against humanity under Article 1F of the United Nations’ convention on refugees.
Mr. Thurairajah appealed that decision in court, arguing it was unreasonable to hold him to account for the actions of a group he was forced to join.
“The position he held within the Finance Department for the Tigers was by and large negligible. He never carried a weapon or participated in the commission of crimes against humanity,” say court documents summarizing his position.
His plea drew little judicial support. “An exclusion based on Article 1F of the Convention is a serious matter which could affect the refugee claimant for the rest of his life,” Justice Luc Martineau acknowledged before doing just that.
“The applicant admitted that the Tigers participated in many crimes against humanity and that they are an organization directed to a limited, brutal purpose,” the judge wrote in his decision.
“The [IRB] panel found the Tigers committed crimes against humanity at the time when the applicant belonged to it; that is, between 1992 and 1995…. The panel also found the applicant was complicit in crimes committed by the Tigers.”
Justice Martineau found the IRB’s decision to be reasonable.
“The collection of taxes financing the Tigers cannot be qualified as a negligible or passive participation in the organization,” he wrote.
Myriam Harbec, Mr. Thurairajah’s lawyer, said she was disappointed with the decision but not entirely surprised.
“No matter what involvement they had with the LTTE, that’s the way the Federal Court is thinking right now,” Ms. Harbec said in an interview.
“But in Sri Lanka and in some African countries, people were forced to cooperate with these groups.”
Luc Labelle, spokesman for Canada Border Services Agency, declined to discuss the case, but said crimes against humanity cases are among the agency’s top priorities.
National Postahumphreys@nationalpost.com
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/30/sec01.asp
Ex-LTTEers praise President’s exemplary leadership
S Thillainathan
Two Tamil youths, Kumaravel Sasikumar and Gunasingham Visaban who underwent immense suffering due to LTTE atrocities, in an exclusive interview, praised President Mahinda Rajapaksa for his exemplary leadership in completely eradicating LTTE terrorism from our motherland.
They also said that if the President had not given directions to the Armed Forces to end this 30-year-old terrorist war despite mounting foreign pressure, Sri Lanka would have continued to be in turmoil even today.
Kumaravel Sasikumar
Gunasingham Visaban
Ex-LTTE cadres, 21-year-old Kumaravel Sasikumar was born in Homagama. Thereafter his parents who are from Vavuniya settled in the Vanni area.
Sasikumar said that in 2006 when the A9 road was completely closed down due to mounting LTTE violence, he was trapped in Visvamadu. During this period, the LTTE started to replenish its depleting cardres by forcefully dragging innocent boys and girls, ignoring their unwillingness to join the LTTE cadres.
He said that due to the protest made by young person’s like him, they were mercilessly assaulted and thereafter given military training.
Once the training was over they were forcibly sent to the frontline to fight the Sri Lankan army.
‘Senior LTTE cadres sent us to the frontline while they were safe in their respective camps. Due to this selfishness of the senior cadres many young fighters sacrificed their lives,” he said.
At the Mannar Mulankavil front he and several young fighters were seriously injured. Thereafter he was hospitalized in Kilinochchi.
Sasikumar said that due to his inability to fight, the senior LTTE cadres kept him under detention.
Thereafter during the last stages of the war, he ran away from the LTTE captivity, joined the civilians and went to the government controlled area and surrendered to the army. Since he was under 18 years he was treated kindly and was rehabilitated by the army.
Sasikumar further said that today due to the compassion shown by our President Mahinda Rajapaksa he and several other rehabilitated LTTE cardres are enjoying the freedom to live in Sri Lanka. ‘I also wish to thank the Defence Secretary and Armed Forces for making our future life happy.’ Another ex-LTTEer Gunasingham Visaban was also interviewed.
Ex-LTTEers praise President’s exemplary leadership
S Thillainathan
Two Tamil youths, Kumaravel Sasikumar and Gunasingham Visaban who underwent immense suffering due to LTTE atrocities, in an exclusive interview, praised President Mahinda Rajapaksa for his exemplary leadership in completely eradicating LTTE terrorism from our motherland.
They also said that if the President had not given directions to the Armed Forces to end this 30-year-old terrorist war despite mounting foreign pressure, Sri Lanka would have continued to be in turmoil even today.
Kumaravel Sasikumar
Gunasingham Visaban
Ex-LTTE cadres, 21-year-old Kumaravel Sasikumar was born in Homagama. Thereafter his parents who are from Vavuniya settled in the Vanni area.
Sasikumar said that in 2006 when the A9 road was completely closed down due to mounting LTTE violence, he was trapped in Visvamadu. During this period, the LTTE started to replenish its depleting cardres by forcefully dragging innocent boys and girls, ignoring their unwillingness to join the LTTE cadres.
He said that due to the protest made by young person’s like him, they were mercilessly assaulted and thereafter given military training.
Once the training was over they were forcibly sent to the frontline to fight the Sri Lankan army.
‘Senior LTTE cadres sent us to the frontline while they were safe in their respective camps. Due to this selfishness of the senior cadres many young fighters sacrificed their lives,” he said.
At the Mannar Mulankavil front he and several young fighters were seriously injured. Thereafter he was hospitalized in Kilinochchi.
Sasikumar said that due to his inability to fight, the senior LTTE cadres kept him under detention.
Thereafter during the last stages of the war, he ran away from the LTTE captivity, joined the civilians and went to the government controlled area and surrendered to the army. Since he was under 18 years he was treated kindly and was rehabilitated by the army.
Sasikumar further said that today due to the compassion shown by our President Mahinda Rajapaksa he and several other rehabilitated LTTE cardres are enjoying the freedom to live in Sri Lanka. ‘I also wish to thank the Defence Secretary and Armed Forces for making our future life happy.’ Another ex-LTTEer Gunasingham Visaban was also interviewed.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
http://www.news.lk/news/sri-lanka/297-us-fingerprint-database-used-to-identify-ltte-suspects
U.S. fingerprint database used to identify LTTE suspects
The United States has told Canadian authorities that two migrants who arrived off the B.C. coast in 2009 aboard a smuggling ship are suspected LTTE carders, according to a senior American counter-terrorism official.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security identified the suspected LTTE carders during fingerprint checks of 76 Sri Lankan asylum seekers who sailed to Canada from Southeast Asia two years ago aboard the cargo ship Ocean Lady.
The database searches “identified two subjects as known or suspected terrorists and members of the LTTE,” John Cohen, principal deputy Co-Ordinator for counterterrorism, told the U.S. House Sub Committee on Border and Maritime Security.
He said the Canada Border Services Agency had worked with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement attaché at the U.S. embassy in Ottawa to identify the men using their fingerprints, which were fed into a DHS database called NPPD/US-VISIT.
The two migrants flagged as suspected LTTE carders were in the system because they had applied for U.S. visas in 2008, he said. The information was shared pursuant to an existing agreement between CBSA and DHS. “Both subjects were denied asylum in Canada.”
The Ocean Lady was the first of two migrant ships that ferried almost 600 Sri Lankans to Canada from Thailand and Indonesia in 2009 and 2010. Both the Ocean Lady and the MV Sun Sea were organized by criminal syndicates based in Bangkok.
The arrival of the ships prompted the Conservatives to draft an anti-human smuggling bill that critics say unfairly targets would-be refugees who flee to Canada aboard ships. But the Canadian government says the measures are needed to deter human smugglers, who charge tens of thousands of dollars for passage to Canada on unsafe vessels.
The RCMP arrested four suspected organizers of the Ocean Lady in June. An investigation into the Sun Sea organizers is still underway. Canadian Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said this summer as many as four “fairly advanced” attempts to smuggle migrants to Canada by sea had been disrupted in the past year and smugglers were continuing to collect down payments, reported National Post.
U.S. fingerprint database used to identify LTTE suspects
The United States has told Canadian authorities that two migrants who arrived off the B.C. coast in 2009 aboard a smuggling ship are suspected LTTE carders, according to a senior American counter-terrorism official.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security identified the suspected LTTE carders during fingerprint checks of 76 Sri Lankan asylum seekers who sailed to Canada from Southeast Asia two years ago aboard the cargo ship Ocean Lady.
The database searches “identified two subjects as known or suspected terrorists and members of the LTTE,” John Cohen, principal deputy Co-Ordinator for counterterrorism, told the U.S. House Sub Committee on Border and Maritime Security.
He said the Canada Border Services Agency had worked with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement attaché at the U.S. embassy in Ottawa to identify the men using their fingerprints, which were fed into a DHS database called NPPD/US-VISIT.
The two migrants flagged as suspected LTTE carders were in the system because they had applied for U.S. visas in 2008, he said. The information was shared pursuant to an existing agreement between CBSA and DHS. “Both subjects were denied asylum in Canada.”
The Ocean Lady was the first of two migrant ships that ferried almost 600 Sri Lankans to Canada from Thailand and Indonesia in 2009 and 2010. Both the Ocean Lady and the MV Sun Sea were organized by criminal syndicates based in Bangkok.
The arrival of the ships prompted the Conservatives to draft an anti-human smuggling bill that critics say unfairly targets would-be refugees who flee to Canada aboard ships. But the Canadian government says the measures are needed to deter human smugglers, who charge tens of thousands of dollars for passage to Canada on unsafe vessels.
The RCMP arrested four suspected organizers of the Ocean Lady in June. An investigation into the Sun Sea organizers is still underway. Canadian Immigration Minister Jason Kenney said this summer as many as four “fairly advanced” attempts to smuggle migrants to Canada by sea had been disrupted in the past year and smugglers were continuing to collect down payments, reported National Post.
http://www.news.lk/news/sri-lanka/311-ambassador-shavendra-silva-is-protected-by-diplomatic-immunity
Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by diplomatic immunity
It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of External Affairs that an attempt has been made by an agent to deliver summons issued by a New York Court on the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka’s Mission to the United Nations in New York Major General Shavendra Silva.
The Ministry is of the view that Ambassador Shavendra Silva as the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York enjoys diplomatic immunities and privileges accorded under the Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations as well as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Therefore, Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by the relevant international treaties on diplomatic relations, immunities and privileges and accepted diplomatic practices.
Consequently, it would be the responsibility of the host nation and the United Nations to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of Sri Lanka is not hindered in any way by such disruptive activities. The Ministry of External Affairs will take all necessary measures to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of the Government of Sri Lanka is protected.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his meeting with the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon while attending the 66th United Nations General Assembly Sessions in New York brought this issue to the notice of the Secretary General and requested him to extend all possible facilities and protection under the UN mandate to Ambassador Shavendra Silva to enable him to discharge his diplomatic duties efficiently and effectively during his tenure of office in New York.
Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by diplomatic immunity
It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of External Affairs that an attempt has been made by an agent to deliver summons issued by a New York Court on the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka’s Mission to the United Nations in New York Major General Shavendra Silva.
The Ministry is of the view that Ambassador Shavendra Silva as the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York enjoys diplomatic immunities and privileges accorded under the Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations as well as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Therefore, Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by the relevant international treaties on diplomatic relations, immunities and privileges and accepted diplomatic practices.
Consequently, it would be the responsibility of the host nation and the United Nations to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of Sri Lanka is not hindered in any way by such disruptive activities. The Ministry of External Affairs will take all necessary measures to ensure that Ambassador Shavendra Silva’s ability to conduct his duties as a diplomat of the Government of Sri Lanka is protected.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his meeting with the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon while attending the 66th United Nations General Assembly Sessions in New York brought this issue to the notice of the Secretary General and requested him to extend all possible facilities and protection under the UN mandate to Ambassador Shavendra Silva to enable him to discharge his diplomatic duties efficiently and effectively during his tenure of office in New York.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/28/news01.asp
Devaluation rumour quashed:
Sri Lanka’s financial situ stable - CB Governor
Shirajiv SIRIMANE
Central Bank Governor, Ajith Nivard Cabraal yesterday quashed speculation that the rupee would be devalued. He stressed that there is no imminent danger in this regard.
He said that the country was in a very stable financial situation and there was no reason for the rupee to be depreciated.
Ajith Nivard Cabraal
The fluctuation of currency is dependant on several internal and external factors and could not be manipulated by the Central Bank or the government, he said. Currency fluxion is decided, firstly, by the exporters and the importers, the borrowers and the lenders, the people who are affected by the cost of living, the people who are buying oil and a wide range of stakeholders who have an interest in the fluctuation of the currency in a country, the Governor said. “Different groups have different ideas as to where the exchange rate should be based on their own views and own benefits,” he said.
“The exporter would want to see the rupee depreciated as much as possible while the importer would like it to be high. The person who is borrowing the rupee would want it to be on a lower level while at the time they are repaying they would like it to be appreciated. There are many ways that this can be playing itself up,” Cabraal said.
“So as far as the Central Bank is concerned we try to provide the structure which gives stability. We have a responsibility by law to provide stability to the economy.
“Sometimes there may be a glut of foreign exchange. We will buy it and absorb it and release them in stages at a time when it is needed for the market. This is all a question of cash flow,” he said. “We have done this very successfully and would continue to do so.”
He said that all over the world people are grumbling that there is no financial stability and when in Sri Lanka we have stability there is no reason to destabilize it.
He said that they went to the IMF in a bid the develop Sri Lanka’s reserves which were at around US $ 3 to 3.5 billion.
“Today we have eight billion and have developed ourselves to a high level.” “We have the strength, ability and capacity to provide financial stability as we never had before.
So we are expected to use that ability and strength to provide stability to the country, which we would do,” he added.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/28/news30.asp
World leaders admire President's speech - PM
'Under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa the nation was able to eradicate thirty years of terrorist activities.
"Sri Lanka was capable of achieving such a marvelous victory which any other country could not achieve.
"The speech delivered by the President in New York was admired by world leaders. It was a very important speech,' said Prime Minister D M Jayaratne.
He mentioned this addressing the fifth Buddhist Literary Ceremony at the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress on September 26. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Asgiri Chapter Mahanayake most Ven Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera.
The prime minister said that, to achieve this victory, the blessings of the Maha Sangha and the strength of the people were very helpful.
'As a nation we have to go a very long way. To rise as a great nation, the government expects the blessings of the Maha Sangha, he said.
Holding Buddhist literary ceremonies are very important to uplift spiritual values.
Under the guidance of Arahath Mahinda Thera, the country got a very good civilization. The country's literature had a great influence of the teachings of the Buddha,' the prime minister said.
World leaders admire President's speech - PM
'Under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa the nation was able to eradicate thirty years of terrorist activities.
"Sri Lanka was capable of achieving such a marvelous victory which any other country could not achieve.
"The speech delivered by the President in New York was admired by world leaders. It was a very important speech,' said Prime Minister D M Jayaratne.
He mentioned this addressing the fifth Buddhist Literary Ceremony at the All Ceylon Buddhist Congress on September 26. The ceremony was held under the patronage of Asgiri Chapter Mahanayake most Ven Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera.
The prime minister said that, to achieve this victory, the blessings of the Maha Sangha and the strength of the people were very helpful.
'As a nation we have to go a very long way. To rise as a great nation, the government expects the blessings of the Maha Sangha, he said.
Holding Buddhist literary ceremonies are very important to uplift spiritual values.
Under the guidance of Arahath Mahinda Thera, the country got a very good civilization. The country's literature had a great influence of the teachings of the Buddha,' the prime minister said.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/28/news03.asp
New courts in former Eelam courts complex
Ishara MUDUGAMUWA
Two courts in Kilinochchi and Vavuniya will be opened tomorrow said Justice Ministry Secretary Suhada Gamlath at a press conference yesterday at the ministry auditorium. The new courts c omplex is being built at the same location where the destroyed Eelam Courts and the Law College of the LTTE terrorists were located,” he said.
The Ministry also hopes to set-up courts in Mullaitivu, Point Pedro and Mannar. The Point Pedro court was completely destroyed by the LTTE and the ministry plans to re-establish it, the Secretary, said.
Meanwhile the Justice Ministry will establish a Juvenile Court in Jaffna to ensure the justice for children. He also said that the President has ordered the Treasury Secretary to provide funds to establish juvenile courts, throughout the country.
He also said that it is necessary to pay attention not to harm young minds when children’s courts are created. According to international standards there is a special structure to set up children’s courts. A. Children’s Court is a child-friendly court to hear and determine cases involving children in an equitable manner. The Justice Ministry has already established a children’s court in Battaramulla.
New courts in former Eelam courts complex
Ishara MUDUGAMUWA
Two courts in Kilinochchi and Vavuniya will be opened tomorrow said Justice Ministry Secretary Suhada Gamlath at a press conference yesterday at the ministry auditorium. The new courts c omplex is being built at the same location where the destroyed Eelam Courts and the Law College of the LTTE terrorists were located,” he said.
The Ministry also hopes to set-up courts in Mullaitivu, Point Pedro and Mannar. The Point Pedro court was completely destroyed by the LTTE and the ministry plans to re-establish it, the Secretary, said.
Meanwhile the Justice Ministry will establish a Juvenile Court in Jaffna to ensure the justice for children. He also said that the President has ordered the Treasury Secretary to provide funds to establish juvenile courts, throughout the country.
He also said that it is necessary to pay attention not to harm young minds when children’s courts are created. According to international standards there is a special structure to set up children’s courts. A. Children’s Court is a child-friendly court to hear and determine cases involving children in an equitable manner. The Justice Ministry has already established a children’s court in Battaramulla.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/28/news02.asp
President returns after successful tour
President Mahinda Rajapaksa returned to the country yesterday morning after successfully concluding his visit to New York, USA where he attended the 66th sessions of the UN General Assembly. He was accompanied by First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa and the other members of the delegation.
A press release by the President’s Media Division said President Rajapaksa met a wide range of world leaders and other dignitaries during his stay in New York on the sidelines of the Assembly sessions and held wide ranging bi-lateral discussions with them on a range of issues.
On September 20 President Rajapaksa attended the Clinton Global initiative at which he was warmly welcomed by former US President Bill Clinton.
The same evening he met Kyrghystan President Mrs Roza Otunbayeva, Slovenian President Dr Danilo Turk and Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and held bilateral talks with them. He also met US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert O’ Blake and held discussions with him.
On September 21 President Mahinda Rajapaksa met Nepalese Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, Columbian President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and held bilateral talks with them.
On September 22 President Rajapaksa met three other world leaders and held bi lateral talks with them. They are Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa, Uganda’s Vice President Edward Ssekandi and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
During these discussions President Rajapaksa briefed them on Sri Lanka’s achievements in the economic sector and the on-going mega development schemes which have opened up vast opportunities for foreign direct investment. He also dwelt on the vast progress made in the demining programme in the North and East as well as the success of the re-settlement programme of displaced persons.
These world leaders congratulated President Rajapaksa on the achievements made by Sri Lanka during a short span following the total eradication of terrorism. The President was also able to strike new mutual friendships with a host of new states during his stay.
President Rajapaksa after addressing the 66th UN General Assembly sessions on September 23 met Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and discussed a range of important issues pertaining to the region. President Rajapaksa also met the Maldivian Vice President Mohamed Wahid Hassan and Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma and held vital discussions.
On September 24 President Rajapaksa had a breakfast meeting with US congress members Caroline B. Maloney and Robert Aderholf.
President Rajapaksa who met UN Secretary General Ban-ki-Moon the same afternoon expressed Sri Lanka’s displeasure about the Secretary General’s decision to send the controversial Darusman reports to Human Rights Commissioner Navaneetham Pillai without informing the Sri Lanka mission in the UN or the Sri Lanka government.
This action which was contrary to accepted diplomatic traditions and norms would create a negative influence on the confidence placed in the UN and its mechanisms, President Rajapaksa pointed out.
The two parties which agreed that there had been a communication lapse on the part of the UNSG team decided to work towards better progress through needed reconciliation.
The other members of the President’s delegation included External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris, Environment Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Parliamentarian Sajin Vaas Gunawardene, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Presidents Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath.
President returns after successful tour
President Mahinda Rajapaksa returned to the country yesterday morning after successfully concluding his visit to New York, USA where he attended the 66th sessions of the UN General Assembly. He was accompanied by First Lady Shiranthi Rajapaksa and the other members of the delegation.
A press release by the President’s Media Division said President Rajapaksa met a wide range of world leaders and other dignitaries during his stay in New York on the sidelines of the Assembly sessions and held wide ranging bi-lateral discussions with them on a range of issues.
On September 20 President Rajapaksa attended the Clinton Global initiative at which he was warmly welcomed by former US President Bill Clinton.
The same evening he met Kyrghystan President Mrs Roza Otunbayeva, Slovenian President Dr Danilo Turk and Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and held bilateral talks with them. He also met US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert O’ Blake and held discussions with him.
On September 21 President Mahinda Rajapaksa met Nepalese Prime Minister Dr. Baburam Bhattarai, Columbian President Juan Manuel Santos Calderon and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and held bilateral talks with them.
On September 22 President Rajapaksa met three other world leaders and held bi lateral talks with them. They are Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa, Uganda’s Vice President Edward Ssekandi and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.
During these discussions President Rajapaksa briefed them on Sri Lanka’s achievements in the economic sector and the on-going mega development schemes which have opened up vast opportunities for foreign direct investment. He also dwelt on the vast progress made in the demining programme in the North and East as well as the success of the re-settlement programme of displaced persons.
These world leaders congratulated President Rajapaksa on the achievements made by Sri Lanka during a short span following the total eradication of terrorism. The President was also able to strike new mutual friendships with a host of new states during his stay.
President Rajapaksa after addressing the 66th UN General Assembly sessions on September 23 met Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and discussed a range of important issues pertaining to the region. President Rajapaksa also met the Maldivian Vice President Mohamed Wahid Hassan and Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma and held vital discussions.
On September 24 President Rajapaksa had a breakfast meeting with US congress members Caroline B. Maloney and Robert Aderholf.
President Rajapaksa who met UN Secretary General Ban-ki-Moon the same afternoon expressed Sri Lanka’s displeasure about the Secretary General’s decision to send the controversial Darusman reports to Human Rights Commissioner Navaneetham Pillai without informing the Sri Lanka mission in the UN or the Sri Lanka government.
This action which was contrary to accepted diplomatic traditions and norms would create a negative influence on the confidence placed in the UN and its mechanisms, President Rajapaksa pointed out.
The two parties which agreed that there had been a communication lapse on the part of the UNSG team decided to work towards better progress through needed reconciliation.
The other members of the President’s delegation included External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris, Environment Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Parliamentarian Sajin Vaas Gunawardene, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and Presidents Chief of Staff Gamini Senarath.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110926_02
Six charged with terrorism offences - UK
Specialist police teams searched properties in the city
Six men have been charged with terrorism offences, including a suspected suicide bombing campaign, West Midlands Police have said.
Four of the men were charged with preparing for an act of terrorism in the UK, and two with failing to disclose information.
It follows a police operation in Birmingham last week.
The six, all from Birmingham and aged between 25 and 32, will appear at West London Magistrates' Court on Monday.
Irfan Nasser, 30, of Sparkhill, and Irfan Khalid, 26, of Balsall Heath, are accused of preparing for an act of terrorism, including travelling to Pakistan for training in terrorism, making a martyrdom video and planning a bombing campaign.
They are accused of constructing a home-made explosive device for terrorist acts and stating an intention to be a suicide bomber.
Seventh man
Ashik Ali, 26, of Balsall Heath, is accused of preparing for an act of terrorism, which involved planning a bombing campaign, providing premises for the planning of terrorist attack and stating an intention to be a suicide bomber.
Rahin Ahmed, 25, of Moseley, is accused of helping fund terrorist acts.
Mohammed Rizwan, 32, and Bahader Ali, 28, both of Sparkbrook, are both charged with failing to disclose information about potential acts of terrorism.
It is alleged that between 29 July and 19 September this year, both had information which they knew may help prevent the commission of an act of terrorism but did not disclose the information.
Mr Ali is also charged with providing money for the purposes of terrorism.
The offences are alleged to have taken place between Christmas Day 2010 and 19 September this year.
A seventh man from the city, aged 20, who was arrested on Thursday, continues to be questioned. Officers have until 29 September to charge, release or apply for further time.
The men were arrested as part of an operation carried out by the West Midlands Counter Terrorism Unit. The arrests were unarmed, pre-planned and intelligence-led.
Courtesy: BBC
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110927_03
French ambassador for HR applauds child soldier rehabilitation in SL
Sri Lanka has made real progress in reintroducing former child soldiers into regular society, France's Ambassador for Human Rights Francois Zimeray said. "The right of a child to his or her childhood must be established and enforced as must the clear, unequivocal idea that the recruitment of children for military ends is a war crime," he told AFP.
This was one of the issues that Zimeray was to raise yesterday at a meeting at the United Nations on the sidelines of the General Assembly, which will focus on follow-up to a 2007 Paris conference on ways to end the use of child soldiers.
States and armed groups that refuse to stop recruiting child soldiers must be subject to tougher pressure in the form of sanctions, he said.
France's Foreign Ministry funds several operations aimed at demobilizing child soldiers forced to fight and helping those youths return to normal life.
He cited Uganda as a recent success story, and said Sri Lanka had made real progress in reintroducing former child soldiers into regular society.
"On the ground in Myanmar, Colombia, Sri Lanka and DR Congo, there are different approaches," he said, highlighting the usefulness of the exchange of "best practices" between nations
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110926_01
President reminds Ban Ki-moon of Darusman Panel assurance
.The Government was taking every action to prevent terrorism
from raising it head again said President Mahinda Rajapaksa to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who was reminded of his assurance about the actual purpose of the Darusman Advisory Panel.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was reminded of the assurance he gave President Mahinda Rajapaksa almost one year ago, that the Darusman Panel had been appointed solely to advice the UN Secretary General on developments in Sri Lanka in the final stages of the operation to defeat the LTTE and the immediate post-conflict situation, and would in no way be engaged in carrying out any inquiry or investigation into the relevant situation in Sri Lanka.
This recall of the assurance by Mr. Ban Ki-moon given on September 27, 2010 when he met with the Sri Lankan President took place at the first meeting between them since then, which took place at the United Nations on 24th Sep. The UNSG was informed of the minutes of the meeting in September last year, clearly recording his assurance.
In discussing the current situation in the North of Sri Lanka, President Rajapaksa apprised the UNSG that all but a few thousands of the Internally Displaced Persons had been resettled by now, and those remaining would be resettled within the coming year.
In discussing the presence of the Security Forces in the North, President Rajapaksa said the number of troops in the North had been largely reduced, and those present were engaged in the massive reconstruction and development work taking place there, in addition to security functions; similar to what the Security Forces were being deployed for in other parts of the country, too.
President Rajapaksa stated that the Government was giving the highest priority to ensuring national security in the context of post-conflict needs, and that every action was being taken to prevent terrorism from raising its head again in Sri Lanka.
Associated with the President in the discussions held on the sidelines of the current 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly were the Minister of External Affairs Prof GL Peiris, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga and the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka at the UN Dr. Palitha Kohona. Mr. Ban Ki-moon was accompanied by key members of his staff.
Courtesy: President Media Unit
President reminds Ban Ki-moon of Darusman Panel assurance
.The Government was taking every action to prevent terrorism
from raising it head again said President Mahinda Rajapaksa to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who was reminded of his assurance about the actual purpose of the Darusman Advisory Panel.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was reminded of the assurance he gave President Mahinda Rajapaksa almost one year ago, that the Darusman Panel had been appointed solely to advice the UN Secretary General on developments in Sri Lanka in the final stages of the operation to defeat the LTTE and the immediate post-conflict situation, and would in no way be engaged in carrying out any inquiry or investigation into the relevant situation in Sri Lanka.
This recall of the assurance by Mr. Ban Ki-moon given on September 27, 2010 when he met with the Sri Lankan President took place at the first meeting between them since then, which took place at the United Nations on 24th Sep. The UNSG was informed of the minutes of the meeting in September last year, clearly recording his assurance.
In discussing the current situation in the North of Sri Lanka, President Rajapaksa apprised the UNSG that all but a few thousands of the Internally Displaced Persons had been resettled by now, and those remaining would be resettled within the coming year.
In discussing the presence of the Security Forces in the North, President Rajapaksa said the number of troops in the North had been largely reduced, and those present were engaged in the massive reconstruction and development work taking place there, in addition to security functions; similar to what the Security Forces were being deployed for in other parts of the country, too.
President Rajapaksa stated that the Government was giving the highest priority to ensuring national security in the context of post-conflict needs, and that every action was being taken to prevent terrorism from raising its head again in Sri Lanka.
Associated with the President in the discussions held on the sidelines of the current 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly were the Minister of External Affairs Prof GL Peiris, Secretary to the President Mr. Lalith Weeratunga and the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka at the UN Dr. Palitha Kohona. Mr. Ban Ki-moon was accompanied by key members of his staff.
Courtesy: President Media Unit
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110925_03
Sri Lanka has fulfilled its obligations
UN Secretary General (UNSG) Ban Ki-moon, in his opening address at the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Wednesday, stressed "the need to serve the planet, lifting people out of poverty and advancing economic growth".
Emphasising the need to face these challenges, the UNSG said that these three factors "are one and the same fight". He highlighted the importance of a collective global effort to address these issues. Ki-moon also spotlighted several other issues facing the world today - particularly the spread of communicable diseases, empowering women, food security and climate change. He exhorted world leaders to focus attention on climate change, support nations transitioning to democracy in the Arab world and push for advances in the stalled Mideast peace process.
Significantly, the three main issues pointed out by the UN chief have already been addressed by Sri Lanka, which is now heading towards new economic horizons with terrorism being a thing of the past. Of the 100 world leaders who attended the 66th UNGA, President Mahinda Rajapaksa had the singular honour of being the only Head of State who had proved beyond a shadow of doubt that terrorism could be eradicated to make the world a safer place to live in.
This feat was indeed a rare, milestone achievement for President Rajapaksa and Sri Lanka which even the so-called big countries are still striving hard to emulate. While most countries in the West and some in South Asia are still making a desperate attempt to eradicate terrorism, Sri Lanka stands out as a shining example, having crushed the world's most ruthless terrorist outfit within three years. This significant and landmark achievement was made possible due to the immense sacrifices by the country's valiant Security Forces and the far-sighted political sagacity of President Rajapaksa.
Hence, Sri Lanka could be proud of its outstanding achievement and is worthy of emulation by UN member countries. Sri Lanka may be a small country territory-wise, but it nonetheless has added a better value for the UN's principles and become a world leader in eradicating global terrorism.
If one were to analyse the three main factors stressed by UNSG Ki-moon, Sri Lanka has taken tangible steps to protect the environment and the planet in which we all live in. While embarking on massive development projects countrywide, environment protection has been given topmost priority.
The Government has paid special emphasis on poverty alleviation by generating more employment opportunities and life skills programs. Nearly half a million people who had been rescued from the jaws of LTTE terror in the North and the East have been provided ample opportunities to revert to their normal livelihoods - be it fishing, cultivation or animal farming.
What is all the more significant is that people living even in remote areas have enhanced chena cultivation and poultry farming.
The resettled civilians in the North and the East, especially, have begun to make an active contribution to the national economy, thereby increasing their purchasing power. These developments would pave the way to help people overcome poverty.
To cap it all, President Rajapaksa did not abandon major development work even during the 2006-2009 period when the country had to spend a colossal sum of money on its battle against terrorism. Though the budgetary allocations on national security were relatively high, the Government still found the wherewithal needed for some of the mega development projects such as the Southern Highway, Katunayake Expressway, Colombo-Kandy Highway, Mattala International Airport, Magampura International Harbour, Moragahakanda Reservoir, Uma Oya project, Kumbukkan Oya project, Upper Kotmale Hydropower project, Kerawalapitiya power project, Norochcholai Coal Power plant, Pallekele International Stadium, Sooriyawewa International Stadium and the construction of nearly 10 flyovers to ease traffic congestion in the capital and its suburbs.
Would any other country battling a deadly war against terror have even dreamt of embarking on such development projects of this magnitude simultaneously? President Rajapaksa had a clear-cut vision to develop the country and, moreover, a commitment to save the nation from the clutches of terrorism which had brought the country to a state of ruin for three decades. LTTE terror put a spoke in the country's forward march.
Nevertheless, the eradication of terrorism has enabled Sri Lanka to march towards new economic horizons triumphantly. At a time when the world's top most economies failed and recession in the West had a negative impact on most countries, Sri Lanka steadfastly beat all overwhelming odds to maintain steady economic growth.
Sri Lanka has maintained an overall economic growth rate of nearly eight percent and it could look even brighter in the years to come. With the dividends of peace contributing in no small measure to boost the national economy, the country could look forward to better economic growth. Although many political opponents and the Opposition criticised the Government's economic policies, it were the sound principles envisioned in the Mahinda Chinthana which helped Sri Lanka to record such encouraging economic growth, notwithstanding the concocted reports emanating from many countries.
This alone speaks volumes and is indeed a positive sign when most countries are struggling to maintain a steady economic growth. Sri Lanka's economic growth would soon be on par with China and India, which are now enjoying the most booming economies in the world. Hence, Sri Lanka could be proud of the fact that it has already achieved sound economic growth as pointed out by the UNSC. In essence, Sri Lanka has already fulfilled most aspects that Ki-moon has been stressing before the international community - the august international assembly.
Hence, the world should not look upon Sri Lanka as a small Third World country in the Indian Ocean that is grappling for economic survival. Sri Lanka has come a long way, especially during the past five to six years.
One could with justifiable pride say that Sri Lanka is enjoying its best ever socio-economic era in its near 26-century history. One should not view this achievement from a political perspective and debunk it because these landmark achievements came about during President Rajapaksa's UPFA Government's tenure in office. The benefits of the Mahinda Chinthana would reach each and every citizen of this country, irrespective of his or her political or religious affiliations. All Sri Lankans could rejoice over the country's steady economic growth and forward march as a truly independent nation.
Courtesy: Sunday Observer
Sri Lanka has fulfilled its obligations
UN Secretary General (UNSG) Ban Ki-moon, in his opening address at the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Wednesday, stressed "the need to serve the planet, lifting people out of poverty and advancing economic growth".
Emphasising the need to face these challenges, the UNSG said that these three factors "are one and the same fight". He highlighted the importance of a collective global effort to address these issues. Ki-moon also spotlighted several other issues facing the world today - particularly the spread of communicable diseases, empowering women, food security and climate change. He exhorted world leaders to focus attention on climate change, support nations transitioning to democracy in the Arab world and push for advances in the stalled Mideast peace process.
Significantly, the three main issues pointed out by the UN chief have already been addressed by Sri Lanka, which is now heading towards new economic horizons with terrorism being a thing of the past. Of the 100 world leaders who attended the 66th UNGA, President Mahinda Rajapaksa had the singular honour of being the only Head of State who had proved beyond a shadow of doubt that terrorism could be eradicated to make the world a safer place to live in.
This feat was indeed a rare, milestone achievement for President Rajapaksa and Sri Lanka which even the so-called big countries are still striving hard to emulate. While most countries in the West and some in South Asia are still making a desperate attempt to eradicate terrorism, Sri Lanka stands out as a shining example, having crushed the world's most ruthless terrorist outfit within three years. This significant and landmark achievement was made possible due to the immense sacrifices by the country's valiant Security Forces and the far-sighted political sagacity of President Rajapaksa.
Hence, Sri Lanka could be proud of its outstanding achievement and is worthy of emulation by UN member countries. Sri Lanka may be a small country territory-wise, but it nonetheless has added a better value for the UN's principles and become a world leader in eradicating global terrorism.
If one were to analyse the three main factors stressed by UNSG Ki-moon, Sri Lanka has taken tangible steps to protect the environment and the planet in which we all live in. While embarking on massive development projects countrywide, environment protection has been given topmost priority.
The Government has paid special emphasis on poverty alleviation by generating more employment opportunities and life skills programs. Nearly half a million people who had been rescued from the jaws of LTTE terror in the North and the East have been provided ample opportunities to revert to their normal livelihoods - be it fishing, cultivation or animal farming.
What is all the more significant is that people living even in remote areas have enhanced chena cultivation and poultry farming.
The resettled civilians in the North and the East, especially, have begun to make an active contribution to the national economy, thereby increasing their purchasing power. These developments would pave the way to help people overcome poverty.
To cap it all, President Rajapaksa did not abandon major development work even during the 2006-2009 period when the country had to spend a colossal sum of money on its battle against terrorism. Though the budgetary allocations on national security were relatively high, the Government still found the wherewithal needed for some of the mega development projects such as the Southern Highway, Katunayake Expressway, Colombo-Kandy Highway, Mattala International Airport, Magampura International Harbour, Moragahakanda Reservoir, Uma Oya project, Kumbukkan Oya project, Upper Kotmale Hydropower project, Kerawalapitiya power project, Norochcholai Coal Power plant, Pallekele International Stadium, Sooriyawewa International Stadium and the construction of nearly 10 flyovers to ease traffic congestion in the capital and its suburbs.
Would any other country battling a deadly war against terror have even dreamt of embarking on such development projects of this magnitude simultaneously? President Rajapaksa had a clear-cut vision to develop the country and, moreover, a commitment to save the nation from the clutches of terrorism which had brought the country to a state of ruin for three decades. LTTE terror put a spoke in the country's forward march.
Nevertheless, the eradication of terrorism has enabled Sri Lanka to march towards new economic horizons triumphantly. At a time when the world's top most economies failed and recession in the West had a negative impact on most countries, Sri Lanka steadfastly beat all overwhelming odds to maintain steady economic growth.
Sri Lanka has maintained an overall economic growth rate of nearly eight percent and it could look even brighter in the years to come. With the dividends of peace contributing in no small measure to boost the national economy, the country could look forward to better economic growth. Although many political opponents and the Opposition criticised the Government's economic policies, it were the sound principles envisioned in the Mahinda Chinthana which helped Sri Lanka to record such encouraging economic growth, notwithstanding the concocted reports emanating from many countries.
This alone speaks volumes and is indeed a positive sign when most countries are struggling to maintain a steady economic growth. Sri Lanka's economic growth would soon be on par with China and India, which are now enjoying the most booming economies in the world. Hence, Sri Lanka could be proud of the fact that it has already achieved sound economic growth as pointed out by the UNSC. In essence, Sri Lanka has already fulfilled most aspects that Ki-moon has been stressing before the international community - the august international assembly.
Hence, the world should not look upon Sri Lanka as a small Third World country in the Indian Ocean that is grappling for economic survival. Sri Lanka has come a long way, especially during the past five to six years.
One could with justifiable pride say that Sri Lanka is enjoying its best ever socio-economic era in its near 26-century history. One should not view this achievement from a political perspective and debunk it because these landmark achievements came about during President Rajapaksa's UPFA Government's tenure in office. The benefits of the Mahinda Chinthana would reach each and every citizen of this country, irrespective of his or her political or religious affiliations. All Sri Lankans could rejoice over the country's steady economic growth and forward march as a truly independent nation.
Courtesy: Sunday Observer
Sunday, September 25, 2011
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ht8GOv-KE4k
President Mahinda Rajapakse will address the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly www.srichannel.com
http://www.priu.gov.lk/news_update/Current_Affairs/ca201109/20110923president_apprises_worl_%20leaders.htm
President apprises world leaders of development in Sri Lanka
President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his stay in New York to attend the 66th UN General Assembly met with the Heads of State of Qatar, Uganda and Palestine yesterday (Sep 22).
He appraised the world leaders of the economic and social growth achieved by Sri Lanka after eliminating terrorism, and also of the current development endeavours in the country.
He also elaborated on the progress of demining work and resettlement of IDPs in the Northern and Eastern regions of the country.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani the ruling Emir of the State of Qatar said to President Rajapaksa that his country is ready to invest in the fields of agriculture and tourism in Sri Lanka.
The President’s discussion with Vice President of Uganda Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi focused attention on many bilaterally important topics.
The Sri Lankan president also met with his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas yesterday. President Rajapaksa has made a great contribution to the development of Sri Lanka, President Abbas said.
President apprises world leaders of development in Sri Lanka
President Mahinda Rajapaksa during his stay in New York to attend the 66th UN General Assembly met with the Heads of State of Qatar, Uganda and Palestine yesterday (Sep 22).
He appraised the world leaders of the economic and social growth achieved by Sri Lanka after eliminating terrorism, and also of the current development endeavours in the country.
He also elaborated on the progress of demining work and resettlement of IDPs in the Northern and Eastern regions of the country.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani the ruling Emir of the State of Qatar said to President Rajapaksa that his country is ready to invest in the fields of agriculture and tourism in Sri Lanka.
The President’s discussion with Vice President of Uganda Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi focused attention on many bilaterally important topics.
The Sri Lankan president also met with his Palestinian counterpart Mahmoud Abbas yesterday. President Rajapaksa has made a great contribution to the development of Sri Lanka, President Abbas said.
http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=15146
President’s speech was regarded as voice of the developing world’
September 25, 2011 05:02 pm
The common reaction of most of the delegations that heard the speech delivered by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, at the 66th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, was that it embodied values and attitudes that go far beyond Sri Lanka, says External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris.“Of course he was speaking for Sri Lanka as the leader of Sri Lanka.” That was the primary focus and emphasis, he pointed out. However the President’s speech had a broader significance, because it articulated ideas and perceptions that were common to the entire developing world, said the Minister who was part of the President’s delegation to New York. “So it was regarded as the voice of the developing world.”“And that comment was made to us by many delegations.” he asserted in an exclusively interview to Ada Derana from New York.President Mahinda Rajapaksaa addressed the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Friday (September 23) touching on several important topics pertaining to the island nation. There is no need to be confrontational or to be aggressive, all that is required in a very calm reflective manner to present the facts relating to the Sri Lankan situation, Minister Peiris explained of the composed manner in which the gathering was addressed by the President. And that was done in the most effective way possible and we are very pleased with what leaders of other countries had to say about President Rajapaksa’s presentation, he added.“He was congratulated by many world leaders yesterday and there is no doubt that (the speech) made a profound impact on the very distinguished gathering that he addressed in the general assembly.” G.L. Peiris told the Ada Derana representative in New York.
President’s speech was regarded as voice of the developing world’
September 25, 2011 05:02 pm
The common reaction of most of the delegations that heard the speech delivered by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, at the 66th session of the UN General Assembly in New York, was that it embodied values and attitudes that go far beyond Sri Lanka, says External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris.“Of course he was speaking for Sri Lanka as the leader of Sri Lanka.” That was the primary focus and emphasis, he pointed out. However the President’s speech had a broader significance, because it articulated ideas and perceptions that were common to the entire developing world, said the Minister who was part of the President’s delegation to New York. “So it was regarded as the voice of the developing world.”“And that comment was made to us by many delegations.” he asserted in an exclusively interview to Ada Derana from New York.President Mahinda Rajapaksaa addressed the 66th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Friday (September 23) touching on several important topics pertaining to the island nation. There is no need to be confrontational or to be aggressive, all that is required in a very calm reflective manner to present the facts relating to the Sri Lankan situation, Minister Peiris explained of the composed manner in which the gathering was addressed by the President. And that was done in the most effective way possible and we are very pleased with what leaders of other countries had to say about President Rajapaksa’s presentation, he added.“He was congratulated by many world leaders yesterday and there is no doubt that (the speech) made a profound impact on the very distinguished gathering that he addressed in the general assembly.” G.L. Peiris told the Ada Derana representative in New York.
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/25/new01.asp
Tough and consistent approach against terrorism vital
* Terrorism - greatest threat to stability and progress of nations
*Extend a hand of friendship and goodwill to Sri Lanka, says President
President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s call at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) for a consistent approach to eradicate world terrorism has struck a responsive chord with the international community, especially countries facing the threat of terrorism.
In a landmark address to the UNGA on Friday, President Rajapaksa said that terrorism remained the greatest threat to stability and progress of nations worldwide.
The President’s speech received wide acclaim within the UN and in the wider international community, as no other leader had elaborated in such extensive detail about the menace of terrorism.
Several leaders who met the President on the sidelines of the UNGA had commended him for his frank and forthright views on the subject. The UN News Centre was among the media outlets that gave prominence to the speech, under the headline “At UN, Sri Lanka urges tough and consistent global approach against terrorism”.
The UN News Centre highlighted several significant passages from the speech. In his hard-hitting speech, the President said that “recent experience the world over amply demonstrates that inconsistent standards and discriminating approaches can unintentionally give a fresh lease of life to the forces of terror”.
“An explicit and uniform response which refuses to recognise political shades of terrorism is necessarily required.
Terrorism threatens all countries, rich and poor,” he said. “It must be remembered as well that terrorist groups frequently operate under the guise of front organisations.
Conferring legitimacy on these has the inevitable effect of providing comfort and encouragement to the merchants of terror.”
The President called for both practical actions at the ground level and a “loud and clear” collective message to the world about terrorism. “Terrorism presents a threat from which not even the wealthiest and most powerful of nations are immune.”
The President said he was aware that “the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror.
After terrorism was eradicated my government has turned its undivided attention to building anew the foundations of a unified and vibrant nation and drawing upon the inherent strengths of our country and in particular, the unique calibre of our human potential.”
“We ask our friends in distant lands to drop pre-conceived notions. We strongly believe in home-grown solutions for them to be sustainable.
It is clearly impractical to conceive of universal remedies for problems which afflict our societies,” the President said.
The Armed Forces are engaged in development of the infrastructure destroyed by the terrorists during three decades.
Contrary to the malicious propaganda, the numbers of the Armed forces present in the Northern province are at a minimal level.
“It is worthy of note that all these developments have taken place within a brief space of 30 months – an achievement all the more significant because of our strong emphasis on reconciliation.
Important as economic development is, we have attached the highest priority to fostering the spirit of inclusivity and removing any remnants of bitterness from the hearts and minds of all our people,” he told world leaders at the UNGA. He called upon the international community to extend a hand of friendship and goodwill to Sri Lanka, based on the understanding of the nation’s determination to confront with courage the challenge of a new era in its history. “My country, as it comes out of the darkness of the last three decades into the light and promise of the future, must be afforded the time and space to seek its destiny in accordance with the wishes of its people.”
Tough and consistent approach against terrorism vital
* Terrorism - greatest threat to stability and progress of nations
*Extend a hand of friendship and goodwill to Sri Lanka, says President
President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s call at the UN General Assembly (UNGA) for a consistent approach to eradicate world terrorism has struck a responsive chord with the international community, especially countries facing the threat of terrorism.
In a landmark address to the UNGA on Friday, President Rajapaksa said that terrorism remained the greatest threat to stability and progress of nations worldwide.
The President’s speech received wide acclaim within the UN and in the wider international community, as no other leader had elaborated in such extensive detail about the menace of terrorism.
Several leaders who met the President on the sidelines of the UNGA had commended him for his frank and forthright views on the subject. The UN News Centre was among the media outlets that gave prominence to the speech, under the headline “At UN, Sri Lanka urges tough and consistent global approach against terrorism”.
The UN News Centre highlighted several significant passages from the speech. In his hard-hitting speech, the President said that “recent experience the world over amply demonstrates that inconsistent standards and discriminating approaches can unintentionally give a fresh lease of life to the forces of terror”.
“An explicit and uniform response which refuses to recognise political shades of terrorism is necessarily required.
Terrorism threatens all countries, rich and poor,” he said. “It must be remembered as well that terrorist groups frequently operate under the guise of front organisations.
Conferring legitimacy on these has the inevitable effect of providing comfort and encouragement to the merchants of terror.”
The President called for both practical actions at the ground level and a “loud and clear” collective message to the world about terrorism. “Terrorism presents a threat from which not even the wealthiest and most powerful of nations are immune.”
The President said he was aware that “the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror.
After terrorism was eradicated my government has turned its undivided attention to building anew the foundations of a unified and vibrant nation and drawing upon the inherent strengths of our country and in particular, the unique calibre of our human potential.”
“We ask our friends in distant lands to drop pre-conceived notions. We strongly believe in home-grown solutions for them to be sustainable.
It is clearly impractical to conceive of universal remedies for problems which afflict our societies,” the President said.
The Armed Forces are engaged in development of the infrastructure destroyed by the terrorists during three decades.
Contrary to the malicious propaganda, the numbers of the Armed forces present in the Northern province are at a minimal level.
“It is worthy of note that all these developments have taken place within a brief space of 30 months – an achievement all the more significant because of our strong emphasis on reconciliation.
Important as economic development is, we have attached the highest priority to fostering the spirit of inclusivity and removing any remnants of bitterness from the hearts and minds of all our people,” he told world leaders at the UNGA. He called upon the international community to extend a hand of friendship and goodwill to Sri Lanka, based on the understanding of the nation’s determination to confront with courage the challenge of a new era in its history. “My country, as it comes out of the darkness of the last three decades into the light and promise of the future, must be afforded the time and space to seek its destiny in accordance with the wishes of its people.”
http://www.sundayobserver.lk/2011/09/25/sec01.asp
LTTE extortion case - Dutch Court judgement on October 7
by Manjula FERNANDO
The judgement in the case heard in a Dutch Court against five LTTE suspects accused of extorting money for the terror outfit, will be delivered on October 7.
“The Justice authorities in The Netherlands are confident that they could win the case,” a spokesperson for the Sri Lankan mission in Belgium told the Sunday Observer .
The investigations codenamed Koninck were initiated by law enforcement authorities in The Netherlands and the five suspects are being prosecuted for being members of a terror outfit apart from other charges.
Defence lawyer Victor Koppe who is also watching the interests of the LTTE in a separate case filed by him to get the group delisted from EU’s designated organisations, argued that the LTTE members were ‘freedom fighters’.
It is reported that based on his submissions the court will decide if the LTTE is a terror outfit or freedom fighters.
He submitted that the suspects were collecting funds for the victims of those fighting and drew parallels with the Libyan rebels who battled to oust Qaddafi and received support from the international community, the Associated Press reported from The Hague.
A spokesperson for the Sri Lanka mission in Belgium said the State has not intervened in this case since it was filed by law enforcement authorities of The Netherlands who arrested the suspects on charges of extortion and supporting a terror outfit.
A team of investigating officers from The Netherlands arrived in Sri Lanka and interrogated several LTTE suspects whoever in detention here in connection with the case. Norway based Perinpanayagam Sivaparan, one of the top leaders of the LTTE’s international network was also interrogated as part of the investigations.
A Foreign Ministry official said it will be hard to draw any parallels between the LTTE and the Libyan rebels because the Libyans never used LTTE terror tactics such as suicide bombings, civilian massacres and assassinations of State leaders.
On September 16 the Channel 4 video was screened in the Court room with another video ‘My Daughter the Terrorist’. This second video had been screened previously in The Netherlands and was found in a defendant’s house. The spokesperson from Belgium said the video had been screened to establish the link between the LTTE and the fronts in The Netherlands and to establish the connection with the defendants with the LTTE.
LTTE extortion case - Dutch Court judgement on October 7
by Manjula FERNANDO
The judgement in the case heard in a Dutch Court against five LTTE suspects accused of extorting money for the terror outfit, will be delivered on October 7.
“The Justice authorities in The Netherlands are confident that they could win the case,” a spokesperson for the Sri Lankan mission in Belgium told the Sunday Observer .
The investigations codenamed Koninck were initiated by law enforcement authorities in The Netherlands and the five suspects are being prosecuted for being members of a terror outfit apart from other charges.
Defence lawyer Victor Koppe who is also watching the interests of the LTTE in a separate case filed by him to get the group delisted from EU’s designated organisations, argued that the LTTE members were ‘freedom fighters’.
It is reported that based on his submissions the court will decide if the LTTE is a terror outfit or freedom fighters.
He submitted that the suspects were collecting funds for the victims of those fighting and drew parallels with the Libyan rebels who battled to oust Qaddafi and received support from the international community, the Associated Press reported from The Hague.
A spokesperson for the Sri Lanka mission in Belgium said the State has not intervened in this case since it was filed by law enforcement authorities of The Netherlands who arrested the suspects on charges of extortion and supporting a terror outfit.
A team of investigating officers from The Netherlands arrived in Sri Lanka and interrogated several LTTE suspects whoever in detention here in connection with the case. Norway based Perinpanayagam Sivaparan, one of the top leaders of the LTTE’s international network was also interrogated as part of the investigations.
A Foreign Ministry official said it will be hard to draw any parallels between the LTTE and the Libyan rebels because the Libyans never used LTTE terror tactics such as suicide bombings, civilian massacres and assassinations of State leaders.
On September 16 the Channel 4 video was screened in the Court room with another video ‘My Daughter the Terrorist’. This second video had been screened previously in The Netherlands and was found in a defendant’s house. The spokesperson from Belgium said the video had been screened to establish the link between the LTTE and the fronts in The Netherlands and to establish the connection with the defendants with the LTTE.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110923_05
The might of powerful nations cannot prevail against justice and fair play - President at UNGA
"Deeply mindful that the battle for peace I every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror"
"Whilst clash of ideas, opinions and values continues we have clarly to recognize that dialogue, deliberation and consensus offer only viable means for resolving differences. The might of powerful nations cannot prevail against justice an fair play"' said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the 66th Session of the United Nations General Assembly at New York today (23).
President Rajapaksa said "I am deeply mindful ... that the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror. After the eradication of terrorism, my government has turned its undivided attention to building anew, the foundations of a unified and vibrant nation and drawing upon the inherent strengths of our country and in particular, the unique caliber of our human potential.
"The most significant challenge to stability and progress in the modern world is posed by the menace of terrorism. Recent experience the world over amply demonstrates that inconsistent standards and discriminating approaches can unintentionally give a fresh lease of life to the forces of terror. An explicit and uniform response, which refuses to recognize political shades of terrorism, is necessarily required," he said.
"Terrorism presents a threat from which not even the wealthiest and most powerful of nations are immune. It must be remembered, as well, that terrorist groups frequently operate under the guise of front organizations. Conferring legitimacy on these has the inevitable effect of providing comfort and encouragement to the merchants of terror."
"We ask our friends in distant lands to drop pre-conceived notions. We strongly believe in home-grown solutions for them to be sustainable. It is clearly impractical to conceive of universal remedies for problems which afflict our societies," the President added.
Here is the text of President Rajapaksa's address:
Mr. President of the Sixty Sixth Session of the General Assembly, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with great pleasure that I congratulate Your Excellency Nassir Abdul Aziz Al-Nasser on your assumption of the Presidency. I must also congratulate His Excellency Ban-ki-Moon warmly on his re-election as Secretary-General and we look forward to working with him constructively.
As we gather here today, it is appropriate to reflect on the values and ideals which inspire the United Nations system. One of the principal attributes is the spirit of flexibility which has always been a feature of the United Nations.
We must acknowledge the need for that spirit of openness and adaptability today, more than at any other time. This is because the foundations of the world order, are being transformed dramatically and fundamentally. At the heart of these changes is the need to protect smaller countries in the developing world and to advance their interests vigorously.
In the midst of uncertainty there are some things which must remain constant. These reflect our esteemed beliefs and convictions. Despite repeated references in this Assembly by many member countries on the right of the Palestinian people to a State of their own within secure borders, we still have not been able to make it a reality.
It is a matter for profound disappointment that this has not yet happened. There is a window of opportunity now and we must make use of it before it is too late. It is time for decisive action rather than more discussion. This will be in the interest of the security and the well being of the entire region including Israel.
The need for sustained support for countries of the African Continent at this critical time is also worthy of mention.
It is important to remind ourselves that every country cherishes the values and traditions, and deeply held religious convictions it has nurtured over the centuries. These cannot be diluted or distorted under the guise of human rights, by the imposition of attitudes or approaches which are characteristics of alien cultures.
If this were done, it would amount to a violation of human rights in a fundamental sense. It must also be pointed out that even where sanctions are imposed, extreme care has to be taken to ensure that the people at large, men, women and children yet to be born, are not harmed by such action. I would also express, once again, my solidarity with the people of Cuba and I wish them all success.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
Whilst clash of ideas, opinions and values continues we have clearly to recognize that dialogue, deliberation and consensus offer the only viable means for resolving differences. The might of powerful nations cannot prevail against justice and fair play.
In the troubled times in which we live, we can derive guidance from the wise words of Gautama the Buddha who advised the Lichchavi Princes, whose energies were being consumed by bitter disputes among them, that the way forward consists of meeting, discussing and departing in an atmosphere of amity and goodwill. This represents the essential spirit of the United Nations, particularly relevant today.
The most significant challenge to stability and progress in the modern world is posed by the menace of terrorism. Recent experience the world over amply demonstrates that inconsistent standards and discriminating approaches can unintentionally give a fresh lease of life to the forces of terror. An explicit and uniform response which refuses to recognize political shades of terrorism, is necessarily required.
Terrorism presents a threat from which not even the wealthiest and most powerful of nations are immune. It must be remembered, as well, that terrorist groups frequently operate under the guise of front organizations. Conferring legitimacy on these has the inevitable effect of providing comfort and encouragement to the merchants of terror.
As the leader of a nation which has paid a heavy price due to terrorism over a quarter of a century, I would underline that we must firmly resolve to rid the world of terrorism. We need to have solid practical action on the ground, and send out our collective message on this issue loud and clear universally.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
The interest of the developing world needs to be protected in another significant respect. It is vitally important to insist that the structures and procedures of multilateral organizations are uniform and consistent and devoid of discrimination.
My country has reason for concern with approaches tainted by an unacceptable degree of selectivity, which we have brought to the notice of the organizations in question in recent weeks. The developing world must keep a vigil against these irregular modalities which should be resisted through our collective strength.
After three decades of pain and anguish, today, Sri Lankans of all ethnicities, living in all parts of Sri Lanka, are free from LTTE terror and no longer live in a state of fear.
However, I am deeply mindful that the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror. After the eradication of terrorism, my government has turned its undivided attention to building anew, the foundations of a unified and vibrant nation and drawing upon the inherent strengths of our country and in particular, the unique caliber of our human potential.
It is justifiable for us to be proud of our nation's achievements during the brief span of thirty months which have elapsed since the beginning of the post-conflict phase. The resettlement of more than 95% of internally displaced persons, who constituted the largest number of civilians forcibly held by a terrorist group at any time, while continuing even today to clear the mines laid by terrorists in extensive areas is a proud achievement.
Today, in the Northern province, the Armed Forces are engaged in development of the infrastructure which were destroyed by the terrorists during a period of three decades. Contrary to malicious propaganda, the numbers of the Armed forces present in the Northern province is at a minimal level.
Revival of the economy has enhanced incomes and improved livelihoods, ex-combatants and other cadres after exposure to programmes of vocational training and counseling have been re-integrated into society, electoral process has been restored after decades making possible the emergence of a democratic leadership. These are among our valued accomplishments.
The remarkable growth of 22% of the economy of the Northern Province is a clear indication of the success achieved by the government's initiatives with regard to development in that part of the country. The GDP growth of the country has been consistent at 8 percent, unemployment at a record low of 4.5 percent and it is also worthy of mention that in the assessment by the World Economic Forum in its Global Competitiveness Report for 2011 - 2012 Sri Lanka shows dramatic improvement, moving up to 52nd from 79th rank over a span of two years.
It is worthy of note that all these developments have taken place within the brief space of 30 months - an achievement all the more significant because of our strong emphasis on reconciliation. Important as economic development is, we have attached the highest priority to fostering the spirit of inclusivity and removing any remnants of bitterness from the hearts and minds of all our people.
Over the last thirty months, we have recruited 669 Tamil police officers bringing the total number of Tamil officers to 1143 while plans are afoot to recruit more this year and in the future.
After more than two decades, a census is being conducted in the Northern province as a part of the national census, to provide a firm basis for our initiatives.
As a result of these achievements what we see in Sri Lanka today is a self-reliant nation, with robust hope for the future, and a strong economy, strengthened by inward investment flows, unprecedented expansion of tourism and significant growth of volumes of international trade.
Towards consolidation of these trends, leaving behind us, the trauma of the past, we ask of the international community the hand of friendship and goodwill, based on understanding of our nation's determination to confront with courage the challenge of a new era in our history.
We ask our friends in distant lands to drop pre-conceived notions. We strongly believe in home-grown solutions for them to be sustainable. It is clearly impractical to conceive of universal remedies for problems which afflict our societies.
My country, as it comes out of the darkness of the last three decades into the light and promise of the future, must be afforded the time and space to seek its destiny in accordance with the wishes of its people. It is in keeping with the values enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the whole body of international law which governs us.
A further consideration that the international community should take into account is the vulnerability of developing nations and make provision, by means of appropriate institutional arrangements, for their protection.
As I observed when inaugurating the fiftieth anniversary meeting of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee in Colombo three months ago, dumping of commercial and industrial goods manufactured in developed countries imperils the economies of many Asian and African countries represented here.
Mr. President, Excellencies,
In conclusion, let me say that the use of substantial subsidies by Treasuries and Reserve Banks to support agricultural production in the developed world, and other forms of protectionism, cause serious distortion of the interplay of market forces, and reduce to a great extent the ability of farmers in many developing countries to access international markets for their export products on an equitable basis.
The disproportionate pollution of the environment by industrialized countries, and the resultant impact on global warming and climate change, cannot be remedied with any semblance of justice by imposing harsh restraints on developing countries which have contributed very little to aggravation of the problem. These circumstances heighten the importance of social equity at the international level.
May the Noble Triple Gem bless you all! Theruwan Saranai!
Courtesy : President media
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/26/news11.asp
Scores of LTTEers likely to be indicted: GL
Scores of hardcore LTTEers are likely to be prosecuted on charges including mass murder for crimes committed during the three decade conflict that ended in 2009, External Affairs Minister Prof GL Peiris told The Associated Press.
The Tigers are among some 11,500 fighters who were captured or surrendered after the war’s end. Prof Peiris said all but about 3,000 of them had already been released from military-run rehabilitation camps and were re-integrating into society.
Interviewed in New York where he attended the UN General Assembly opening session this past week, Peiris said that of those remaining, “less than 2,000” hardcore tigers were expected to be indicted, and that court proceedings were likely to begin next year.
Peiris denied that Lankan troops targeted civilians during the conflict.
But he said it was within the mandate of a reconciliation commission appointed by the President last year to review the conflict and learn lessons from it, and to also look into allegations of rights violations. If the commission found reliable evidence that any individual had committed serious crimes, they would be indicted in a Sri Lankan court.
“They (the commission) cannot fulfill their mandate if they exclude from consideration these issues,” he said.
He said, for example, the commission would examine British TV footage purporting to show atrocities by troops.
The commission is due to submit its final report by November 15.
Peiris accused several Western nations, including Britain, Australia and Canada of being unduly critical of Sri Lanka’s efforts to recover from the war and using the island nation as a “political football.”
“Sri Lanka has to be given the time and space to resolve its issues. It’s premature for any kind of intervention by the international community,” the minister said.
Peiris did not comment on the video’s authenticity, but said the reconciliation commission “has indicated that even matters like the Channel 4 footage will be looked at by them.”
Peiris said progress would take time and refused to set deadlines for a settlement. But he said provincial council elections would be held in early 2012.
He said the government has cleared 440,000 landmines since the end of the conflict and has resettled 95 percent of the 300,000 Tamils displaced by the conflict.
Scores of LTTEers likely to be indicted: GL
Scores of hardcore LTTEers are likely to be prosecuted on charges including mass murder for crimes committed during the three decade conflict that ended in 2009, External Affairs Minister Prof GL Peiris told The Associated Press.
The Tigers are among some 11,500 fighters who were captured or surrendered after the war’s end. Prof Peiris said all but about 3,000 of them had already been released from military-run rehabilitation camps and were re-integrating into society.
Interviewed in New York where he attended the UN General Assembly opening session this past week, Peiris said that of those remaining, “less than 2,000” hardcore tigers were expected to be indicted, and that court proceedings were likely to begin next year.
Peiris denied that Lankan troops targeted civilians during the conflict.
But he said it was within the mandate of a reconciliation commission appointed by the President last year to review the conflict and learn lessons from it, and to also look into allegations of rights violations. If the commission found reliable evidence that any individual had committed serious crimes, they would be indicted in a Sri Lankan court.
“They (the commission) cannot fulfill their mandate if they exclude from consideration these issues,” he said.
He said, for example, the commission would examine British TV footage purporting to show atrocities by troops.
The commission is due to submit its final report by November 15.
Peiris accused several Western nations, including Britain, Australia and Canada of being unduly critical of Sri Lanka’s efforts to recover from the war and using the island nation as a “political football.”
“Sri Lanka has to be given the time and space to resolve its issues. It’s premature for any kind of intervention by the international community,” the minister said.
Peiris did not comment on the video’s authenticity, but said the reconciliation commission “has indicated that even matters like the Channel 4 footage will be looked at by them.”
Peiris said progress would take time and refused to set deadlines for a settlement. But he said provincial council elections would be held in early 2012.
He said the government has cleared 440,000 landmines since the end of the conflict and has resettled 95 percent of the 300,000 Tamils displaced by the conflict.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/26/news02.asp
Politicians, professionals hail President’s UN speech
Rasika SOMARATHNA
President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s stirring speech to the UN General Assembly, in which (among other matters), he called on the international community to drop pre-conceived notions and help the country achieve sustained development and peace, is being hailed by both politicians and professionals alike as a resounding success and a speech in which the President had put the record straight fearlessly.
Senior government member and Minister of Irrigation and Water Management Nimal Siripala de Silva yesterday described the speech as an eye-opener for powerful nations to rethink their approach towards issues in smaller countries.
”The President has put the record straight by emphasizing that it is clearly impractical to conceive of universal remedies for problems which afflicts our societies and that we strongly believe in home-grown solutions for them to be sustainable,” he added.
“The President’s comments on terrorism and his calling for a cohesive and sustained approach globally to counter it, is both timely and is of paramount importance for all nations to give due consideration on an urgent basis,” he added.
The minister also praised the President for bringing up the Palestine matter within the forum fearlessly where the President reiterated that the right of the Palestinian people to a State of their own within secure borders should be recognized. The minister said that the President in his speech also clearly outlined before the international community Sri Lanka’s achievements during the brief span of 30 months since the Lankan conflict ended.
Senior Lawyer Dr. Jayatissa de Costa PC said that the President in his speech had given voice to various concerns harboured by smaller countries and developing nations.
Dr. Costa said that most importantly the President in his speech had called for international friendship in not only to help relevant nations in their hour of need but also to combat the scourge of terrorism collectively.
The President by saying ‘I am deeply mindful that the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror’ has emphatically relayed the message that the government fully understands the magnitude of the task at hand and is committed and prepared to face it.
National Language and Social Integration Minister Vasudeva Nanayakkara said that unlike some other speeches at the UN President Rajapaksa’s one had garnered wide interest all round the globe.
The President had given a clear message that nations should do away with inconsistent standards and discriminating approaches when it came to dealing with terrorism, he added.
The minister also praised the President for bringing the attention of the world body to the importance of safeguarding the interests of developing countries.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/26/news01.asp
President tells Ban Ki-moon:
Substantial progress in SL since end of conflict
* Reminds UN Chief of Darusman Panel assurance
* Agreement to move forward with reconciliation
President Mahinda Rajapaksa met with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, yesterday. President briefed the Secretary General on the progress since the end of the conflict in Sri Lanka including the massive infrastructure development in the North and the resettlement of the IDPs. President also explained the measures taken by the government to expedite the reconciliation process including the continuing talks with the Tamil political parties, Presidential Spokesman Bandula Jayasekera said in a release from New York.
The release adds: UN Secretary General expressed satisfaction at these developments. President Mahinda Rajapaksa reminded the Secretary General that when the two met in 2010, the Secretary General gave an assurance that the panel was established only to provide advice to the Secretary General personally and that it had no investigative role.
The Sri Lankan side read verbatim the minutes kept during the meeting held in 2010 when they last met. The President also reminded that the assurances given were not honoured by the panel. President Mahinda Rajapaksa also brought to the attention of the Secretary General, the fact that so called Darusman Report had been conveyed to the Commissioner of Human rights, Navi Pillay without informing the Mission in New York or the government of Sri Lanka.
President expressed his dissatisfaction at this breach of protocol, absence of due process and procedure which also undermines credibility of the UN system.
Secretary General’s team acknowledged that there had been a lapse in communication and both sides agreed to leave this behind and to move forward with the essential aspects of reconciliation.
Secretary General also raised the issue of the emergency regulations. He was advised that emergency regulations had been lifted entirely and the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was required to be maintained due to practical necessity such as the need to continue the proscription of the LTTE.
When the question of the military presence in the north was raised President Mahinda Rajapaksa said only a relatively small number of troops continue to stay in the North and they were deployed mainly for infrastructure development, particularly since there was paucity of civilian labour in the area.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa was joined by Minister of External Affairs G L Pieris, MP Sajin Vass Gunewardane, and Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Chief of Staff Gamini Senerath, Permanent Representative Palitha Kohona and Ambassador Jaliya Wickremasuriya.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was joined by Chief of Staff Vijay Nambiar and Lyn Pascoe, Under Secretary General for Political Affairs.
President tells Ban Ki-moon:
Substantial progress in SL since end of conflict
* Reminds UN Chief of Darusman Panel assurance
* Agreement to move forward with reconciliation
President Mahinda Rajapaksa met with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, yesterday. President briefed the Secretary General on the progress since the end of the conflict in Sri Lanka including the massive infrastructure development in the North and the resettlement of the IDPs. President also explained the measures taken by the government to expedite the reconciliation process including the continuing talks with the Tamil political parties, Presidential Spokesman Bandula Jayasekera said in a release from New York.
The release adds: UN Secretary General expressed satisfaction at these developments. President Mahinda Rajapaksa reminded the Secretary General that when the two met in 2010, the Secretary General gave an assurance that the panel was established only to provide advice to the Secretary General personally and that it had no investigative role.
The Sri Lankan side read verbatim the minutes kept during the meeting held in 2010 when they last met. The President also reminded that the assurances given were not honoured by the panel. President Mahinda Rajapaksa also brought to the attention of the Secretary General, the fact that so called Darusman Report had been conveyed to the Commissioner of Human rights, Navi Pillay without informing the Mission in New York or the government of Sri Lanka.
President expressed his dissatisfaction at this breach of protocol, absence of due process and procedure which also undermines credibility of the UN system.
Secretary General’s team acknowledged that there had been a lapse in communication and both sides agreed to leave this behind and to move forward with the essential aspects of reconciliation.
Secretary General also raised the issue of the emergency regulations. He was advised that emergency regulations had been lifted entirely and the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) was required to be maintained due to practical necessity such as the need to continue the proscription of the LTTE.
When the question of the military presence in the north was raised President Mahinda Rajapaksa said only a relatively small number of troops continue to stay in the North and they were deployed mainly for infrastructure development, particularly since there was paucity of civilian labour in the area.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa was joined by Minister of External Affairs G L Pieris, MP Sajin Vass Gunewardane, and Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Chief of Staff Gamini Senerath, Permanent Representative Palitha Kohona and Ambassador Jaliya Wickremasuriya.
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon was joined by Chief of Staff Vijay Nambiar and Lyn Pascoe, Under Secretary General for Political Affairs.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/09/23/news03.asp
Anti-Lanka move defeated
The Australian government and the Opposition voted together yesterday to defeat a motion moved in the Senate by Australian Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon (Senator for New South Wales) to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth, states the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra.
Speaking on the motion, a representative for the Australian government said that they do not believe that complex foreign policy issues can be resolved through motions such as the one mooted by Senator Rhiannon. Senator Rhiannon also convened a closed door round-table discussion earlier in the week, the participants for which included pro-LTTE lobby group representatives and critics of the Sri Lankan government.
No invitation was extended by the Senator for any Sri Lankan government representative to participate in this discussion.
Senator Rhiannon recently requested the Australian Immigration and Citizenship Minister to provide details of those that had applied for visas to Australia to attend the forthcoming CHOGM meeting as a part of the Sri Lanka delegation.
The minister declined to provide that information.
Several articles have appeared in the Australian media on the attempts by the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) and the Australian Tamil Congress (ATC) calling on governments including Australia to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth and to seek to prevent the participation of the Sri Lanka delegation at the forthcoming CHOGM meeting in Perth.
The sole aim of these groups is to resurrect the militarily defeated LTTE terrorists and their cause of creating a separate mono-ethnic state of Tamil Eelam in the North and East of Sri Lanka. The efforts of these groups have concentrated in the aftermath of the war in targeting key Sri Lankan government officials and damaging their reputations internationally. Their calls are being ignored worldwide.
Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to Australia Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe has given extensive interviews to the Australian Associated Press (AAP) and ABC Radio Australia this week countering allegations made against Sri Lanka.
Anti-Lanka move defeated
The Australian government and the Opposition voted together yesterday to defeat a motion moved in the Senate by Australian Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon (Senator for New South Wales) to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth, states the Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra.
Speaking on the motion, a representative for the Australian government said that they do not believe that complex foreign policy issues can be resolved through motions such as the one mooted by Senator Rhiannon. Senator Rhiannon also convened a closed door round-table discussion earlier in the week, the participants for which included pro-LTTE lobby group representatives and critics of the Sri Lankan government.
No invitation was extended by the Senator for any Sri Lankan government representative to participate in this discussion.
Senator Rhiannon recently requested the Australian Immigration and Citizenship Minister to provide details of those that had applied for visas to Australia to attend the forthcoming CHOGM meeting as a part of the Sri Lanka delegation.
The minister declined to provide that information.
Several articles have appeared in the Australian media on the attempts by the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) and the Australian Tamil Congress (ATC) calling on governments including Australia to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth and to seek to prevent the participation of the Sri Lanka delegation at the forthcoming CHOGM meeting in Perth.
The sole aim of these groups is to resurrect the militarily defeated LTTE terrorists and their cause of creating a separate mono-ethnic state of Tamil Eelam in the North and East of Sri Lanka. The efforts of these groups have concentrated in the aftermath of the war in targeting key Sri Lankan government officials and damaging their reputations internationally. Their calls are being ignored worldwide.
Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to Australia Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe has given extensive interviews to the Australian Associated Press (AAP) and ABC Radio Australia this week countering allegations made against Sri Lanka.
http://www.asiantribune.com/news/2011/09/22/international-groups-attempt-revive-separatism-country-minister-basil-rajapaksa
International groups attempt to revive separatism in the country - Minister Basil Rajapaksa
.Colombo, 22 September, (Asiantribune.com):
Minister Basil RajapaksaMinister of Economic Development Mr. Basil Rajapaksa, declaring opening the Negombo Water Supply Project, said that President Mahinda Rajapaksa made the country peaceful for everyone to live on equal status and the International Groups and NGOs which do not like to see a conflict free country in Sri Lanka are making various baseless allegations to revive ethnic tensions and separatism in the country.
The Minister pointed out that the Mahinda Chintana policy statement has given the pledge that this country will be transformed to a nation in which everyone can live in any part of the country without any discrimination on the devoid of parochial matters such as ethnicity, religion, caste and creed.
He said that the government is enduring the provide equal facilities to all areas and treat the people all alike, and it has spent Rs. 7288 Million for the Negombo Water Supply Scheme. He said that Negombo Water supply scheme will benefit several thousand people in the Gampaha district.
He said that the government has already allocated funds for implementing 10 large scale water supply schemes by 2012. The Minister pointed out that although Gampaha was the district adjacent to the Colombo district the previous governments neglected the district and only under this government it is being developed to become on par with the Colombo district.
The government of Netherland has provided Rs. 5775 Million as assistance for the Negombo Water Supply project and the balance amount has been spent by the government.
Minister of Water Supply and Drainage Mr. Dinesh Gunawardene, Deputy Minister Mrs. Nirupama Rajapaksa, State Enterprises Development Minister Mr. Sarath Gunaratne, Parliamentarian Dr. Mrs. Sudarshani Fernando Pullai and several others attended this meeting
International groups attempt to revive separatism in the country - Minister Basil Rajapaksa
.Colombo, 22 September, (Asiantribune.com):
Minister Basil RajapaksaMinister of Economic Development Mr. Basil Rajapaksa, declaring opening the Negombo Water Supply Project, said that President Mahinda Rajapaksa made the country peaceful for everyone to live on equal status and the International Groups and NGOs which do not like to see a conflict free country in Sri Lanka are making various baseless allegations to revive ethnic tensions and separatism in the country.
The Minister pointed out that the Mahinda Chintana policy statement has given the pledge that this country will be transformed to a nation in which everyone can live in any part of the country without any discrimination on the devoid of parochial matters such as ethnicity, religion, caste and creed.
He said that the government is enduring the provide equal facilities to all areas and treat the people all alike, and it has spent Rs. 7288 Million for the Negombo Water Supply Scheme. He said that Negombo Water supply scheme will benefit several thousand people in the Gampaha district.
He said that the government has already allocated funds for implementing 10 large scale water supply schemes by 2012. The Minister pointed out that although Gampaha was the district adjacent to the Colombo district the previous governments neglected the district and only under this government it is being developed to become on par with the Colombo district.
The government of Netherland has provided Rs. 5775 Million as assistance for the Negombo Water Supply project and the balance amount has been spent by the government.
Minister of Water Supply and Drainage Mr. Dinesh Gunawardene, Deputy Minister Mrs. Nirupama Rajapaksa, State Enterprises Development Minister Mr. Sarath Gunaratne, Parliamentarian Dr. Mrs. Sudarshani Fernando Pullai and several others attended this meeting
http://www.news.lk/news/sri-lanka/248-motion-to-suspend-sri-lanka-from-the-commonwealth-defeated-in-the-australian-senate
Motion to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth defeated in the Australian Senate
Thursday, 22 September 2011 17:40
The Australian Government and the Opposition voted together today to defeat a motion moved in the Senate by Australian Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon (Senator for New South Wales) to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth.
Motion to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth defeated in the Australian Senate
Thursday, 22 September 2011 17:40
The Australian Government and the Opposition voted together today to defeat a motion moved in the Senate by Australian Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon (Senator for New South Wales) to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth.
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110921_02
Who will pay for LTTE's crimes? - Island Editorial
In a timely editorial posted on Wednesday (Sep 21), The Island daily questions possibilities of prosecuting alleged LTTE sympathizers including fund raisers and groups for the staggering crimes perpetrated by the terrorist outfit for over three decades.
Also pointing out the irony of polarization of global politics the Editorial extracts the Sri Lanka scenario as a case study: "Sri Lanka, which eliminated the military muscle of a bloodthirsty terrorist outfit banned in over 32 countries, is being persecuted instead of being praised and helped with its reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. When Sri Lanka's war on terror reached its closing stages in 2009, Britain and France sent posthaste their foreign ministers, David Miliband and Bernard Kouchner, respectively, to stop military operations purportedly on humanitarian grounds. But, British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy rushed to Tripoli the other day to pledge solidarity with the Libyan rebels. They never so much as expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis in that country".
Full text of the Island Editorial on 21st September 2011.
In Libya, the anti-Gaddafi forces are shelling the remaining pockets of resistance with tens of thousands of civilians trapped in them. NATO continues air strikes in spite of heavy civilian casualties in a desperate bid to put an end to the war and get out of the place as soon as possible.
While the Libyan rebels are being assisted by a collective of western governments to the hilt in unleashing hell on enemy positions in their hunt for a dictator on the run regardless of the staggering human cost, Sri Lanka, which eliminated the military muscle of a bloodthirsty terrorist outfit banned in over 32 countries, is being persecuted instead of being praised and helped with its reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. When Sri Lanka's war on terror reached its closing stages in 2009, Britain and France sent posthaste their foreign ministers, David Miliband and Bernard Kouchner, respectively, to stop military operations purportedly on humanitarian grounds. But,
British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy rushed to Tripoli the other day to pledge solidarity with the Libyan rebels. They never so much as expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis in that country!
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has sought to counter the on-going malicious propaganda campaign against its military and political leaders by engaging its detractors in what may be called a diplomatic offensive. A delegation of US-based Sri Lankan diplomats including Ambassadors Dr. Palitha Kohona and Maj. Gen. Shavendra Silva has met some Human Rights Watch bigwigs recently. Sri Lankan envoys have pointed out, inter alia, the lopsided nature of the on-going campaign for a war crimes probe and stressed the fact that though the LTTE military arm is no more, those who aided and abetted its terror campaign are at large in the western world and they should be dealt with.
Heinous crimes the LTTE committed for over two and a half decades against civilians are only too well known and it is those atrocities, besides narcotics trade, gun running and money laundering, that compelled the US, the EU (especially the UK), Canada and many other countries to ban the outfit as a foreign terrorist organisation. Even the UN named and shamed the LTTE for crimes against children.
The LTTE's military leaders may be long dead but their confederates must be held answerable for those barbaric crimes, as the Sri Lankan diplomats have cogently argued. Vishvanathan Rudrakumaran actively involved in LTTE activities, is a US citizen. He champions LTTE's cause openly with impunity. The late Anton Balasingham's wife, Adele, believed to have served at Prabhakaran's 'suicide bomb factory', where hundreds of men, women and children were brainwashed and turned into 'children of fire' or human bombs, has found sanctuary in Britain. Thousands of other terror backers who made Prabhakaran's terrorist war possible by raising funds for lethal weapons and explosives continue to operate freely in western capitals hobnobbing with senior politicians and manipulating political institutions there.
Therefore, the US and the UK, being two countries campaigning hard for a probe into unsubstantiated allegations of war crimes against the Sri Lankan military ought to take action against the LTTE activists, especially the likes of Adele, as there is prima facie evidence of war crimes against them. Let Washington and London prove their bona fides by arresting the LTTE backers and pressing war crimes charges against them.
Will AI, HRW etc call for the arrest of terror backers who assisted the LTTE in committing war crimes? They have welcomed the UNSG's advisory panel report, haven't they? It contains 'credible evidence' of the LTTE's war crimes. So, before asking the Sri Lankan government to act on what is stated in that report, they have to do so themselves.
Courtesy: The Island
Who will pay for LTTE's crimes? - Island Editorial
In a timely editorial posted on Wednesday (Sep 21), The Island daily questions possibilities of prosecuting alleged LTTE sympathizers including fund raisers and groups for the staggering crimes perpetrated by the terrorist outfit for over three decades.
Also pointing out the irony of polarization of global politics the Editorial extracts the Sri Lanka scenario as a case study: "Sri Lanka, which eliminated the military muscle of a bloodthirsty terrorist outfit banned in over 32 countries, is being persecuted instead of being praised and helped with its reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. When Sri Lanka's war on terror reached its closing stages in 2009, Britain and France sent posthaste their foreign ministers, David Miliband and Bernard Kouchner, respectively, to stop military operations purportedly on humanitarian grounds. But, British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy rushed to Tripoli the other day to pledge solidarity with the Libyan rebels. They never so much as expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis in that country".
Full text of the Island Editorial on 21st September 2011.
In Libya, the anti-Gaddafi forces are shelling the remaining pockets of resistance with tens of thousands of civilians trapped in them. NATO continues air strikes in spite of heavy civilian casualties in a desperate bid to put an end to the war and get out of the place as soon as possible.
While the Libyan rebels are being assisted by a collective of western governments to the hilt in unleashing hell on enemy positions in their hunt for a dictator on the run regardless of the staggering human cost, Sri Lanka, which eliminated the military muscle of a bloodthirsty terrorist outfit banned in over 32 countries, is being persecuted instead of being praised and helped with its reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts. When Sri Lanka's war on terror reached its closing stages in 2009, Britain and France sent posthaste their foreign ministers, David Miliband and Bernard Kouchner, respectively, to stop military operations purportedly on humanitarian grounds. But,
British Prime Minister David Cameron and French President Nicolas Sarkozy rushed to Tripoli the other day to pledge solidarity with the Libyan rebels. They never so much as expressed concern about the humanitarian crisis in that country!
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has sought to counter the on-going malicious propaganda campaign against its military and political leaders by engaging its detractors in what may be called a diplomatic offensive. A delegation of US-based Sri Lankan diplomats including Ambassadors Dr. Palitha Kohona and Maj. Gen. Shavendra Silva has met some Human Rights Watch bigwigs recently. Sri Lankan envoys have pointed out, inter alia, the lopsided nature of the on-going campaign for a war crimes probe and stressed the fact that though the LTTE military arm is no more, those who aided and abetted its terror campaign are at large in the western world and they should be dealt with.
Heinous crimes the LTTE committed for over two and a half decades against civilians are only too well known and it is those atrocities, besides narcotics trade, gun running and money laundering, that compelled the US, the EU (especially the UK), Canada and many other countries to ban the outfit as a foreign terrorist organisation. Even the UN named and shamed the LTTE for crimes against children.
The LTTE's military leaders may be long dead but their confederates must be held answerable for those barbaric crimes, as the Sri Lankan diplomats have cogently argued. Vishvanathan Rudrakumaran actively involved in LTTE activities, is a US citizen. He champions LTTE's cause openly with impunity. The late Anton Balasingham's wife, Adele, believed to have served at Prabhakaran's 'suicide bomb factory', where hundreds of men, women and children were brainwashed and turned into 'children of fire' or human bombs, has found sanctuary in Britain. Thousands of other terror backers who made Prabhakaran's terrorist war possible by raising funds for lethal weapons and explosives continue to operate freely in western capitals hobnobbing with senior politicians and manipulating political institutions there.
Therefore, the US and the UK, being two countries campaigning hard for a probe into unsubstantiated allegations of war crimes against the Sri Lankan military ought to take action against the LTTE activists, especially the likes of Adele, as there is prima facie evidence of war crimes against them. Let Washington and London prove their bona fides by arresting the LTTE backers and pressing war crimes charges against them.
Will AI, HRW etc call for the arrest of terror backers who assisted the LTTE in committing war crimes? They have welcomed the UNSG's advisory panel report, haven't they? It contains 'credible evidence' of the LTTE's war crimes. So, before asking the Sri Lankan government to act on what is stated in that report, they have to do so themselves.
Courtesy: The Island
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110921_03
A Post-Mortem of the War by a German National
By Mathias Keittle
Sri Lanka eliminated a dreaded terrorist group, with intricate global links, but receives little credit for it! Unlike elsewhere in the world, Sri Lanka has succeeded in resettling 300,000 IDPs. There are no starving children for the NGOs to feed but this gets ignored!
Sri Lanka has avoided mass misery, epidemics and starvation but the West takes no notice of this.
Sri Lanka has attained enviable socio-economic standards for a developing country while eliminating terrorism but gets no acknowledgement!
The Government of Sri Lanka and its President continue to enjoy unprecedented popular approval through democratic elections but this is dismissed!
The economy continues to boom, but remains unencouraged by the West.
Background
After 27 years of bloody conflict Sri Lanka's internal mayhem came to an end with the comprehensive defeat of the Tamil Tigers. In an Alice in Wonderland scenario, the country changed from an environment of unconstrained fear and uncertainty to peace and utter relief overnight.
Thousands poured out on to the streets to celebrate in an outpouring of incomparable joy and restaurant keepers spontaneously distributed food to all passersby along busy thoroughfares. Over the following months approximately 300,000 IDPs were returned to their own towns and villages, admittedly not to the best of living conditions.
But one has to remember that their circumstances were hardly comfortable under the iron rule of the LTTE for close to 27 years or as they were herded from one tent camp to another as a human shield and a bargaining chip by the retreating LTTE. The retreating LTTE had also removed roofing material from houses to prevent the return of their human shield to their homes. The captured child soldiers (approximately 600) have undergone rehabilitation and have returned to their communities. The UNICEF documented 5700 child recruits by the LTTE. Of the 11,700 former LTTE combatants, over 7000 have been returned to their communities after rehabilitation despite the real risk of some returning to the only profession that they had been trained in - that of being trained killers.
The risk is magnified by the fact that caches of buried weapons continue to be unearthed in the North and the Tamil militants in the West continue to drum up separatism and violence from their safe havens.
The continued presence of the military in the North is naively criticized, but the above background factors are ignored. Only a fraction of the detainees will face trial as the evidence against the rest may not be adequate to satisfy the evidential requirements of the courts. A vast effort has been undertaken to restore the economy of the North and huge sums are being pumped in for the purpose.
All this receives hardly a mention in the West while an intense campaign is being orchestrated to pin down individuals allegedly guilty of war crimes and human rights violations. This must surely be the only case in history that a winner in a conflict has been hounded in this manner to account for alleged war crimes and breaches of human rights in the process of winning the conflict - leave alone defeating a ruthless terrorist group.
There have been no such demands made following World War II, or after the Korean Conflict, after Vietnam, after Gulf War 1, the continuing occupation of Afghanistan or Iraq.
Remarkably, all sorts of people have flocked together to demand accountability from Sri Lanka, the Elders, Prime Minister Cameron, Hillary Clinton, the SG, Bernard Kouchner, David Milliband, the aging Ed Mortimer, et al. It cannot simply be that they all were encouraged by the sexiness of the subject or simply by the nobility of advancing humanity's highest ideals.
The Reasons
It is difficult to pin down one reason for this attitude of a number of key Western countries and some high profile individuals. Were pure principled attachment to humanitarian standards the reason, then Sri Lanka would, in their view, appear to be the one egregious offender in the whole world. This obviously cannot be the case. But Sri Lanka is certainly a developing country from the non-Western world and hence easier to beat up.
Sri Lanka also was unusual in not responding positively to intense pressure when a number of Western leaders demanded a ceasefire towards the very end of the conflict and this refusal set an uncomfortable precedent. Bernard Kouchner, David Miliband and Hillary Clinton, all demanded a cease fire which Sri Lanka rejected. Both sides had good reasons for the approaches that they adopted.
Sri Lanka had the Tamil Tigers on their haunches and victory after 27 years of brutal bloodshed was temptingly within grasp. The Western leaders were under intense pressure to intervene from the Tamil diaspora, which wielded enormous financial and some political clout.
Cities like Toronto, London, Melbourne and Sydney were brought to a standstill by massive Tamil demonstrations. During his visit to Sri Lanka in the middle of May 2009, David Miliband was told in no uncertain terms to butt out and mind his business by the Sri Lankan leadership and may not have forgiven this slight by the former colonial minion.
The US proposed an evacuation of the trapped civilians and, perhaps the LTTE leadership, using its navel assets and this was rejected both by India and the Sri Lankan Government.
There were predictions of a blood bath and, at the time, no one claimed that it actually happened. (Subsequently and, suspiciously, evidence began to be produced by interested parties to establish that a blood bath did actually happen!). Interestingly, allegations of war crimes and human rights violations have emerged from countries that have provided refuge to massive numbers of Sri Lankan Tamils. Many have used the then existing violence as a basis for their claims for refugee status.
The LTTE raised large amounts of money from the diaspora to fund the war effort. Today these funds are used to advance their cause. Tamils for Clinton contributed substantially to her campaign until this was brought to public attention and the funds were returned. The LTTE has quietly funded politicians in many Western countries and continue to do so. The US lawyer, Bruce Fein, is funded by the Tamil diaspora. The liberal end of Western politics, ever ready to champion the underdog, was a willing champion of the Tamil diaspora cause. The shadow LTTE incessantly targets the media and the diplomatic community in Colombo.
The availability of funds, articulate advocates, the liberal tendency to take up the causes of apparent underdogs, horror stories, real or concocted, sympathetic journalists who were ever ready to use their privileged position in the Western media to support the cause, the sense of unhappiness with Sri Lanka among liberal political leaders in the West, the slow pace with which Sri Lanka countered some of the issues, were a cogent mix to activate the major humanitarian NGOS in the West. Many Western journalists unashamedly adopted the Tamilnet version of the conflict and were willing to use influential Western newspapers (London Times, Sydney Morning Herald, The Age) to propagate the version fed by the Taminet.
It would also seem that a not so subtle campaign is being mounted against the Sri Lankan leadership, orchestrated by elements of the Tamil diaspora and picked up by the Western media. The settling of scores by using the international community, now that the battle on the ground has been lost, appears to be the major objective. Efforts persist to pin charges of war crimes and human rights violations, on the basis of unsubstantiated allegations and innuendo. This powerful surge is further augmented by allegations of abuses, corruption and nepotism. If these allegations stick, it would be a short step to drag Sri Lankan leaders before international tribunals. Recent history suggests that some allegations get a life of their own by the simple process of repetition.
The Machiavellian story line is simple. "The Sri Lankan Government deliberately set about using its military to target the Tamil population of the North and killed thousands in the process". This line is repeated for effect while the authenticated history of the LTTE's murderous bombing campaign targeting civilians over a period of 27 years and killing thousands, the recruitment of thousands of children as child soldiers, the murder of dozens of moderate Tamil leaders, the extortion of millions from Tamils around the world, the ethnic cleansing of the Northern Province, the deliberate destruction of UNESCO protected places of worship, the deliberate and cynical use of thousands as a human shield, the human trafficking and the drug trafficking are air brushed as the frenzied campaign is cranked up using NGOs, eminent persons and the media to establish human rights violations and war crimes by the Government.
The focus is deliberately shifted from the murderous Tigers to the Government and these allegations are designed to stay around for a long while. The one goal of this campaign appears to be to punish the Government leadership, in order to avenge the defeat of the murderous Tigers, if not today than at some later time.
A lie repeated often enough acquires a life of its own. This also gradually contributes to causing feelings of discomfort and doubt in the minds of ordinary Sri Lankans whose confidence in their Government, unshakable at present, could falter in time giving rise to prospects of regime change possibilities.
Some Elementary Fallacies - Were Thousands Killed in the Final Stages of the War.
Were thousands of civilians killed in the final stages of the conflict? Was the number 1000? 7000 (as claimed in an internal UN document, later denied)? 20,000 as claimed by Jeremy Page in the London Times? 40,000 as claimed in the Cage by Gordon Weiss (commonly known as Gordon the Unwise) and referred to in the Darusman Report to the UNSG? or higher. The exact number will never be known just as much as we will never know the exact number of civilians killed in Afghanistan and Iraq following the intervention by Western governments. (The Lancet claimed in 2005 that already over 500,000 civilians had been killed).
But certain established facts cannot be ignored. In the final weeks of the conflict, the ICRC with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Navy evacuated approximately 7000 injured and the sick, including pregnant women, and over 8000 others from the last holdout of the LTTE. Is it likely that if there had been other injured, the ICRC would have left them behind and ferried out 8000 healthy persons? Experience and records of other recent conflicts would suggest that the number killed must be substantially lower than the number injured. This is a fact derived from experience.
Most importantly, at the end of the conflict both sides were hell bent on fighting to the end leaving no time to bury the dead. In the circumstances, the LTTE is unlikely to have had the time to bury the alleged large numbers of dead. The Sri Lankan army never found large numbers of dead bodies either. But what is a fact is that in April and May 2009, close to 300,000 civilians streamed out of the LTTE enclave to seek the protection of the Government Security Forces. Importantly, the Government which adopted a zero civilian casualty policy had learned from the experience of other armies fighting amongst civilians in region that indiscriminate attacks on civilians only result in producing more volunteer martyrs.
In early 2009, the Committee to Coordinate Humanitarian Assistance (CCHA) to the North was working on the figure that there were approximately 121,000 people in Kilinochchi and 127,000 in Mullaitivu for the purpose of directing relief supplies to the North. It is quite likely that the LTTE took with them around 100,000 from Mannar.
Considering that around 60,000 escaped to Government controlled areas in the previous year, the numbers detained by the LTTE settles around the number accommodated in the Government organized refugee camps in May 2009. It is also on record that the Government adopted a zero civilian casualty policy and consciously adopted an infantry based approach. This resulted in 6000 deaths of security personnel as the final battles were fought by infantry when more devastating approaches could have been adopted. The allegation of deliberate targeting of civilians by the military and the large numbers killed appears to be a convenient and Machiavellian story to pin a charge of crimes against humanity.
Was the Tamil Community the Target of the Security Forces?
This is an accusation which could be dismissed outright if not for the seriousness with which it is expressed. The majority of the Tamils of Sri Lanka do not live in the North or the East. The vast majority lives among the majority community, the Sinhalese. It is estimated that 41% of the population of the capital, Colombo, is Tamil. In Colombo, the Tamil community has schools, temples, flourishing businesses and a significant number of Tamils are successful professionals and businessmen in Colombo. Many business houses in Colombo are Tamil owned. The UN has acknowledged that for over 27 years, the Government funded the health services and the schools in the LTTE controlled areas and sent food supplies to those areas. The food requirements were determined by the Government agents stationed in the District capitals, although in fact under the control of the LTTE.
The CCHA which consisted of the Ambassadors of the US, EU, Japan, Norway and the ICRC, in addition to senior representatives of key ministries, monitored the supply of essentials to the North on a weekly basis.
In the circumstances, to suggest that the Tamil community was targeted by the Government's security forces, as was done in the Ch 4 documentary, is a base attempt to exacerbate ethnic divisions and create a negative impression of the Government. It also appears to be part of a insidious scheme to pin a charge of crimes against humanity on the security forces and its leadership in addition to aggravating and perpetuating latent ethnic tensions. No armed conflict is a game played in the school yard leave alone a terrorist war unleashed by a brutal proscribed group. Civilians do get hurt in war. Elsewhere this is referred to as "collateral damage", and we know of wars in the wider region where collateral damage can be counted in the thousands.
But the Government of Sri Lanka adopted a policy of minimizing civilian casualties and to denigrate this approach now is reprehensible. It was because of the adherence to this policy that the Security Forces incurred over 6000 deaths by approaching the last pockets of the LTTE on foot. Perhaps, it is also convenient for the thousands of Tamils who went to the West claiming discrimination and oppression to maintain this facade until their refugee claims have been processed.
To acknowledge anything else may result in being sent back. It is also a fact that thousands who have received refugee status and travel documents from Western countries have travelled back to Sri Lanka to reclaim their properties and visit family and have not suffered any harassment.
Mathias Keittle A German researcher in Colombo hailing from Statalendorf.
A Post-Mortem of the War by a German National
By Mathias Keittle
Sri Lanka eliminated a dreaded terrorist group, with intricate global links, but receives little credit for it! Unlike elsewhere in the world, Sri Lanka has succeeded in resettling 300,000 IDPs. There are no starving children for the NGOs to feed but this gets ignored!
Sri Lanka has avoided mass misery, epidemics and starvation but the West takes no notice of this.
Sri Lanka has attained enviable socio-economic standards for a developing country while eliminating terrorism but gets no acknowledgement!
The Government of Sri Lanka and its President continue to enjoy unprecedented popular approval through democratic elections but this is dismissed!
The economy continues to boom, but remains unencouraged by the West.
Background
After 27 years of bloody conflict Sri Lanka's internal mayhem came to an end with the comprehensive defeat of the Tamil Tigers. In an Alice in Wonderland scenario, the country changed from an environment of unconstrained fear and uncertainty to peace and utter relief overnight.
Thousands poured out on to the streets to celebrate in an outpouring of incomparable joy and restaurant keepers spontaneously distributed food to all passersby along busy thoroughfares. Over the following months approximately 300,000 IDPs were returned to their own towns and villages, admittedly not to the best of living conditions.
But one has to remember that their circumstances were hardly comfortable under the iron rule of the LTTE for close to 27 years or as they were herded from one tent camp to another as a human shield and a bargaining chip by the retreating LTTE. The retreating LTTE had also removed roofing material from houses to prevent the return of their human shield to their homes. The captured child soldiers (approximately 600) have undergone rehabilitation and have returned to their communities. The UNICEF documented 5700 child recruits by the LTTE. Of the 11,700 former LTTE combatants, over 7000 have been returned to their communities after rehabilitation despite the real risk of some returning to the only profession that they had been trained in - that of being trained killers.
The risk is magnified by the fact that caches of buried weapons continue to be unearthed in the North and the Tamil militants in the West continue to drum up separatism and violence from their safe havens.
The continued presence of the military in the North is naively criticized, but the above background factors are ignored. Only a fraction of the detainees will face trial as the evidence against the rest may not be adequate to satisfy the evidential requirements of the courts. A vast effort has been undertaken to restore the economy of the North and huge sums are being pumped in for the purpose.
All this receives hardly a mention in the West while an intense campaign is being orchestrated to pin down individuals allegedly guilty of war crimes and human rights violations. This must surely be the only case in history that a winner in a conflict has been hounded in this manner to account for alleged war crimes and breaches of human rights in the process of winning the conflict - leave alone defeating a ruthless terrorist group.
There have been no such demands made following World War II, or after the Korean Conflict, after Vietnam, after Gulf War 1, the continuing occupation of Afghanistan or Iraq.
Remarkably, all sorts of people have flocked together to demand accountability from Sri Lanka, the Elders, Prime Minister Cameron, Hillary Clinton, the SG, Bernard Kouchner, David Milliband, the aging Ed Mortimer, et al. It cannot simply be that they all were encouraged by the sexiness of the subject or simply by the nobility of advancing humanity's highest ideals.
The Reasons
It is difficult to pin down one reason for this attitude of a number of key Western countries and some high profile individuals. Were pure principled attachment to humanitarian standards the reason, then Sri Lanka would, in their view, appear to be the one egregious offender in the whole world. This obviously cannot be the case. But Sri Lanka is certainly a developing country from the non-Western world and hence easier to beat up.
Sri Lanka also was unusual in not responding positively to intense pressure when a number of Western leaders demanded a ceasefire towards the very end of the conflict and this refusal set an uncomfortable precedent. Bernard Kouchner, David Miliband and Hillary Clinton, all demanded a cease fire which Sri Lanka rejected. Both sides had good reasons for the approaches that they adopted.
Sri Lanka had the Tamil Tigers on their haunches and victory after 27 years of brutal bloodshed was temptingly within grasp. The Western leaders were under intense pressure to intervene from the Tamil diaspora, which wielded enormous financial and some political clout.
Cities like Toronto, London, Melbourne and Sydney were brought to a standstill by massive Tamil demonstrations. During his visit to Sri Lanka in the middle of May 2009, David Miliband was told in no uncertain terms to butt out and mind his business by the Sri Lankan leadership and may not have forgiven this slight by the former colonial minion.
The US proposed an evacuation of the trapped civilians and, perhaps the LTTE leadership, using its navel assets and this was rejected both by India and the Sri Lankan Government.
There were predictions of a blood bath and, at the time, no one claimed that it actually happened. (Subsequently and, suspiciously, evidence began to be produced by interested parties to establish that a blood bath did actually happen!). Interestingly, allegations of war crimes and human rights violations have emerged from countries that have provided refuge to massive numbers of Sri Lankan Tamils. Many have used the then existing violence as a basis for their claims for refugee status.
The LTTE raised large amounts of money from the diaspora to fund the war effort. Today these funds are used to advance their cause. Tamils for Clinton contributed substantially to her campaign until this was brought to public attention and the funds were returned. The LTTE has quietly funded politicians in many Western countries and continue to do so. The US lawyer, Bruce Fein, is funded by the Tamil diaspora. The liberal end of Western politics, ever ready to champion the underdog, was a willing champion of the Tamil diaspora cause. The shadow LTTE incessantly targets the media and the diplomatic community in Colombo.
The availability of funds, articulate advocates, the liberal tendency to take up the causes of apparent underdogs, horror stories, real or concocted, sympathetic journalists who were ever ready to use their privileged position in the Western media to support the cause, the sense of unhappiness with Sri Lanka among liberal political leaders in the West, the slow pace with which Sri Lanka countered some of the issues, were a cogent mix to activate the major humanitarian NGOS in the West. Many Western journalists unashamedly adopted the Tamilnet version of the conflict and were willing to use influential Western newspapers (London Times, Sydney Morning Herald, The Age) to propagate the version fed by the Taminet.
It would also seem that a not so subtle campaign is being mounted against the Sri Lankan leadership, orchestrated by elements of the Tamil diaspora and picked up by the Western media. The settling of scores by using the international community, now that the battle on the ground has been lost, appears to be the major objective. Efforts persist to pin charges of war crimes and human rights violations, on the basis of unsubstantiated allegations and innuendo. This powerful surge is further augmented by allegations of abuses, corruption and nepotism. If these allegations stick, it would be a short step to drag Sri Lankan leaders before international tribunals. Recent history suggests that some allegations get a life of their own by the simple process of repetition.
The Machiavellian story line is simple. "The Sri Lankan Government deliberately set about using its military to target the Tamil population of the North and killed thousands in the process". This line is repeated for effect while the authenticated history of the LTTE's murderous bombing campaign targeting civilians over a period of 27 years and killing thousands, the recruitment of thousands of children as child soldiers, the murder of dozens of moderate Tamil leaders, the extortion of millions from Tamils around the world, the ethnic cleansing of the Northern Province, the deliberate destruction of UNESCO protected places of worship, the deliberate and cynical use of thousands as a human shield, the human trafficking and the drug trafficking are air brushed as the frenzied campaign is cranked up using NGOs, eminent persons and the media to establish human rights violations and war crimes by the Government.
The focus is deliberately shifted from the murderous Tigers to the Government and these allegations are designed to stay around for a long while. The one goal of this campaign appears to be to punish the Government leadership, in order to avenge the defeat of the murderous Tigers, if not today than at some later time.
A lie repeated often enough acquires a life of its own. This also gradually contributes to causing feelings of discomfort and doubt in the minds of ordinary Sri Lankans whose confidence in their Government, unshakable at present, could falter in time giving rise to prospects of regime change possibilities.
Some Elementary Fallacies - Were Thousands Killed in the Final Stages of the War.
Were thousands of civilians killed in the final stages of the conflict? Was the number 1000? 7000 (as claimed in an internal UN document, later denied)? 20,000 as claimed by Jeremy Page in the London Times? 40,000 as claimed in the Cage by Gordon Weiss (commonly known as Gordon the Unwise) and referred to in the Darusman Report to the UNSG? or higher. The exact number will never be known just as much as we will never know the exact number of civilians killed in Afghanistan and Iraq following the intervention by Western governments. (The Lancet claimed in 2005 that already over 500,000 civilians had been killed).
But certain established facts cannot be ignored. In the final weeks of the conflict, the ICRC with the assistance of the Sri Lanka Navy evacuated approximately 7000 injured and the sick, including pregnant women, and over 8000 others from the last holdout of the LTTE. Is it likely that if there had been other injured, the ICRC would have left them behind and ferried out 8000 healthy persons? Experience and records of other recent conflicts would suggest that the number killed must be substantially lower than the number injured. This is a fact derived from experience.
Most importantly, at the end of the conflict both sides were hell bent on fighting to the end leaving no time to bury the dead. In the circumstances, the LTTE is unlikely to have had the time to bury the alleged large numbers of dead. The Sri Lankan army never found large numbers of dead bodies either. But what is a fact is that in April and May 2009, close to 300,000 civilians streamed out of the LTTE enclave to seek the protection of the Government Security Forces. Importantly, the Government which adopted a zero civilian casualty policy had learned from the experience of other armies fighting amongst civilians in region that indiscriminate attacks on civilians only result in producing more volunteer martyrs.
In early 2009, the Committee to Coordinate Humanitarian Assistance (CCHA) to the North was working on the figure that there were approximately 121,000 people in Kilinochchi and 127,000 in Mullaitivu for the purpose of directing relief supplies to the North. It is quite likely that the LTTE took with them around 100,000 from Mannar.
Considering that around 60,000 escaped to Government controlled areas in the previous year, the numbers detained by the LTTE settles around the number accommodated in the Government organized refugee camps in May 2009. It is also on record that the Government adopted a zero civilian casualty policy and consciously adopted an infantry based approach. This resulted in 6000 deaths of security personnel as the final battles were fought by infantry when more devastating approaches could have been adopted. The allegation of deliberate targeting of civilians by the military and the large numbers killed appears to be a convenient and Machiavellian story to pin a charge of crimes against humanity.
Was the Tamil Community the Target of the Security Forces?
This is an accusation which could be dismissed outright if not for the seriousness with which it is expressed. The majority of the Tamils of Sri Lanka do not live in the North or the East. The vast majority lives among the majority community, the Sinhalese. It is estimated that 41% of the population of the capital, Colombo, is Tamil. In Colombo, the Tamil community has schools, temples, flourishing businesses and a significant number of Tamils are successful professionals and businessmen in Colombo. Many business houses in Colombo are Tamil owned. The UN has acknowledged that for over 27 years, the Government funded the health services and the schools in the LTTE controlled areas and sent food supplies to those areas. The food requirements were determined by the Government agents stationed in the District capitals, although in fact under the control of the LTTE.
The CCHA which consisted of the Ambassadors of the US, EU, Japan, Norway and the ICRC, in addition to senior representatives of key ministries, monitored the supply of essentials to the North on a weekly basis.
In the circumstances, to suggest that the Tamil community was targeted by the Government's security forces, as was done in the Ch 4 documentary, is a base attempt to exacerbate ethnic divisions and create a negative impression of the Government. It also appears to be part of a insidious scheme to pin a charge of crimes against humanity on the security forces and its leadership in addition to aggravating and perpetuating latent ethnic tensions. No armed conflict is a game played in the school yard leave alone a terrorist war unleashed by a brutal proscribed group. Civilians do get hurt in war. Elsewhere this is referred to as "collateral damage", and we know of wars in the wider region where collateral damage can be counted in the thousands.
But the Government of Sri Lanka adopted a policy of minimizing civilian casualties and to denigrate this approach now is reprehensible. It was because of the adherence to this policy that the Security Forces incurred over 6000 deaths by approaching the last pockets of the LTTE on foot. Perhaps, it is also convenient for the thousands of Tamils who went to the West claiming discrimination and oppression to maintain this facade until their refugee claims have been processed.
To acknowledge anything else may result in being sent back. It is also a fact that thousands who have received refugee status and travel documents from Western countries have travelled back to Sri Lanka to reclaim their properties and visit family and have not suffered any harassment.
Mathias Keittle A German researcher in Colombo hailing from Statalendorf.
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