In brief

Sangaree expresses surprise

TULF leader V. Anandasangaree expressed surprise at comments made by TNA parliamentarian N. Srikantha, to 'reconsider his (Anandasangaree's political priorities to the Tamil cause') and charged that Srikantha had never once condemned the LTTE for killing civilians.

LTTE training base destroyed

An LTTE training base was destroyed yesterday in an air raid carried out by SLAF fighter jets, North East of Vishwamadukulama in Iranamadu, Mullaitivu.

According to SLAF sources the enemy target had been under constant surveillance and the latest air reconnaissance information revealed intensified terrorist activity in the area.

The LTTE training facility was left in rubbles as pilots returned following the precision air sortie around 6.10. a.m.

Flood threats ruled out

Officials ruled out flood threats in the North Central Province, despite heavy rains in the area during the past several days.

The Meteorological Department said that though there was low rain yesterday, there will be more rain in the future.

Bangladesh calls for more grants

Bangladesh has called for increased and unconditional grants from international financial institutions, particularly from the World Bank, to assist least developed countries in achieving the millennium development goals.

Limited offensives continue

Limited offensives continued on Friday amidst torrential rains as the SLA inched forward ahead of LTTE defences destroying five LTTE bunkers and killing three in pitched fighting which erupted along the Mannar front, security sources said.

Russia questions double standards

Russia said it is open for a human rights dialogue with interested states, both in a bilateral format and in international organisations but questioned the demonstration of "double standards".