FM on peace moves

Foreign Minister, Mangala Samaraweera during his five-day official visit to Japan which commenced on May 17, told his Japanese counterpart, Taro Aso in Tokyo on Friday (19) that President Rajapakse's government was committed to achieve sustainable peace through the constructive engagement of all parties while forging a consensus among the southern polity to seek a negotiated settlement to the ethnic conflict.

Minister Samaraweera, while acknowledging Japan's commitment, also welcomed the proactive role played by the co-chairs with the other members of the international community, in taking measures to persuade the LTTE to return to the negotiating table.

He indicated that international pressure on the LTTE at this time was a paramount need in taking the peace process forward.

In response, Foreign Minister Aso pledged the fullest support of the Government of Japan to the efforts made by the Sri Lanka Government in realizing sustainable peace, through its continuing engagement as a co-chair of peace, reconstruction and development.