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"Citizens for Peace" in a statement issued to the media has reaffirmed its commitment to a peaceful political solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka.

The statement signed by 50 NGOs further said that the signatories to it were pleased that the agreement taking measures to restore normalcy in the North and the East, respect international law and the human rights of civilians living in war-affected areas.

The full text:

"We have come together as citizens for peace in order to reaffirm our commitment to a peaceful political solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka at a moment in which first steps towards ending the war have been taken. We welcome the recent signing of a Ceasefire Agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and LTTE and pledge our support to all parties concerned to make peace in Sri Lanka a reality.

"We are especially pleased that the Agreement in taking measures to restore normalcy in the north and east of the island, will respect international law and the human rights of civilians living in war-affected areas. We urge the two parties to the Agreement to give highest priority to respect for human rights and human dignity in the implementation of the Agreement.

We also call on both parties to use the process of building mutual confidence that has been launched through the Ceasefire Agreement, to move towards a lasting and peaceful political solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. A strong and formal commitment from both parties to a human rights framework is critical if this is to happen.

"On this occasion, we also appeal to all southern political parties, especially the UNP and the PA, to adopt a collaborative approach towards the implementation of the present Agreement and any further talks regarding peace. Building a consensus regarding the peace process in the south is critical if the negotiations regarding a sustainable and just peace are to reflect the concerns of all Sri Lankans.

In addition, all political parties and groups in both the north of the island must commit themselves to the democratic and non-violent practice of politics and tolerance of diverse and conflicting views, if a political framework that reflects the plurality of Sri Lanka is to evolve."

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