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The twenty five member states of the European Union (EU) will soon evaluate the situation in the North and East and the escalation of violence to decide on future action. In an interview with Sunday Observer staffer Jayantha Sri Nissanka, EU Head of Delegation and Ambassador Julian Wilson condemned the brutal suicide attack on Army Commander Lt.General Sarath Fonseka by the LTTE.

Following are excerpts of the interview.

Q: What are the observations of the European Union (EU) on the present situation in Sri Lanka?

A: I wish to refrain from making any comments on the present situation in Sri Lanka. Co-Chairs and EU unreservedly condemn the attack on Lt. General Sarath Fonseka. We express our condolences to the families of those who were killed in that attack.

In our statements, we clearly urged the LTTE to denounce violence and suicide attacks. We understand that the Government had bombed certain clear targets in limited operations. We heard that the situation is now quiet. We do not know whether Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission and the Red Cross have access to these areas. We feel that both sides should work towards peace.

Q: What is EU's position on the escalating level of violence?

A: We are seriously concerned about the deaths and suffering of civilians as a result of this dispute. It should not spread to a level of collateral damage. We still don't know the damage caused. It cannot be known until we see it for ourselves.

Q: Do you think that the LTTE is genuinely interested in talks?

A: We received the news that both sides will reaffirm their commitment to the Ceasefire Agreement and remain committed to continue to talk. This is a very positive move. We simply hope that both sides will realize, this is the time to stop further violence and focus on the Geneva second round. There is no alternative for Sri Lanka.

Q: Though the LTTE claim that they stick to the CFA, yet they continue acts of violence and have killed many soldiers and civilians after the Geneva talks. Therefore, how do you say that the LTTE is committed to uphold the CFA and Geneva declaration?

A: I wish to refrain from making any statement as a diplomat to your question. But I would turn to the SLMM who is the official body to monitor the CFA. My understanding is, while both sides remain committed to the CFA, it will remain intact. I would not only await the report on the recent incidents but also a comprehensive report that may be presented if the next Geneva talks take place.

Q: The LTTE had conscripted 5300 children since 2001 according to UNICEF reports. They believe still 1300 child soldiers are with the LTTE. LTTE signed an Action Plan in 2003 to release them but so far they have failed to adhere to the agreement. What can the EU do about it?

A: First we can work and operate within the Co-Chairs structure and assist the facilitator. The International community will do its utmost to help Sri Lanka. We will be fully behind Norway and its efforts. We absolutely condemn using children for armed conflict and we are with Norway's position.

Now we await the SLMM report to see whether commitments have been met by both parties. We are concerned about the escalation of violence and child soldiers issues.

Q: The EU imposed a travel ban on the LTTE after the assassination of former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar. If the LTTE continues such acts what kind of EU action will they have to face in future?

A: We issued a statement last week stating that we are opposed to their violent actions. We do not know what they would do in the future. This is a matter for member states to discuss and arrive at a decision.

Q: Do you mean that the EU will not take any immediate action?

A: We are very concerned about recent developments and member states are closely monitoring the situation. They are considering action in this regard. But that would take time and it will be done by the 25 member states.

Q: As a member of the international community do you think that there is optimism for peace in Sri Lanka with the escalation of violence?

A: It is sad to see more deaths and suffering during the last three weeks. Of course we are concerned because we care for Sri Lanka which has a massive potential for development. But, today we see that potential is in question with the return to violence. However, there is always optimism when you examine the way both sides speak about peace. They should play to that optimism with concern towards a commitment to the Geneva first round.

They should return to Geneva second round to meet and talk fundamental and real problems in the North and East.

Q: In case if the LTTE refuse to go to Geneva for the second round giving excuses, will the fund raising and other activities of the LTTE be banned in EU countries?

A: There is a clear process to measure the progress of peace talks. Number one is the Geneva first round commitments and number two is the report to be presented to Geneva second round and general observations on the progress.

The member states are reviewing these issues and they will take their decision in due course based on the actions of parties concern.

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