National unity, reconciliation

Exactly six months ago Sri Lanka's valiant Security Forces liberated the country under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. It was the indomitable courage, inspiration and guidance of the right political leadership that led the Security Forces to crush the most ruthless terror outfit in the world.

Now, it's time for all patriotic Sri Lankans to unite, putting aside petty political differences and work towards the resurgence of the nation to reap the rewards of peace. The country belongs to all - Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and Burghers.

The heroic sons of our soil eliminated LTTE terror which had ruined the country for three decades. The victory against terrorism is not merely the defeat of the LTTE, but reaping the true rewards of peace by recouping what was lost during the conflict.

The need of the hour is to make the optimum use of peace to unite as a nation, to bring about development and prosperity that Sri Lanka richly deserves. This is the prime responsibility of all citizens.

To achieve these noble objectives, it is essential that we unite at this decisive stage in our history. All must speak in one voice that uncertainty is no more and that we are absolutely safe. We should be ready to usher in a bright and prosperous future for all Sri Lankans, irrespective of race, religion or politics.

Several local and international elements are making a desperate attempt to destabilise the country. Certain international elements who failed in their attempts to stop Sri Lanka's relentless battle against terrorism and some local opportunistic politicians in the Opposition are working surreptitiously to achieve their ulterior motives.

Instead of falling into the lap of complacency, petty rivalry and divisive politics that has often been our downfall, everybody who cares for this thrice-blessed island must unite and build a better future together.

If we are united, subversive elements cannot harm us. It is only then that the true reward of our victory over terrorism can be fully realised.

Consolidating peace, reconciliation of communities and economic revival must be the focal point of the country.

Although the military wing of the LTTE has been dismantled, its international network of sympathisers and criminal associates, and some of their military cadres still operate outside the country. If we are to make the nation secure, we must also get rid of these elements. Unless we wipe out the LTTE's international network of sympathisers and criminal associates, the Tigers may attempt to raise their heads again. Hence, we must bring about their defeat too.

The Government has taken several initiatives, such as strengthening international relations with countries to destroy the LTTE's international network. But more remains to be done. It is of paramount importance that we strengthen our international relations. That would be an impetus to Sri Lanka's efforts to dismantle the LTTE's international network.

Sri Lanka must also counter the adverse propaganda spread by LTTE sympathisers around the world to tarnish the country's image. It is vital that Western countries understand that Sri Lanka's war against terrorism was totally against a terror outfit which forcibly kept innocent civilians as a human shield. The humanitarian operation of the Security Forces was totally different to customary wars.

The West should have a greater understanding on Sri Lanka's stand against terrorism. There can't be good terrorists and bad terrorists, as President Rajapaksa has repeatedly said. Without accepting the propaganda spread by terrorist sympathisers in their corridors of power, certain countries are still attempting to exert pressure on Sri Lanka. Rather than criticising Sri Lanka's military success, it would be far better for them to learn from us how to counter terrorism. Sri Lanka has set a shining example and has first hand experience on how to eliminate international terrorism.

The Government has done everything within its power to resettle those who have been displaced due to LTTE terror. The Government has taken the initiative to restore normality to the liberated areas, expedite the resettlement process and restore democracy in those areas. It seems that certain countries in the West expect a developing country such as Sri Lanka to perform a miracle overnight, which even they themselves cannot achieve.

They expect drastic changes overnight, regardless of the bitter facts.

The Government has a proven track record of liberating civilians from the jaws of LTTE terror and resettling them in the East. The developments in the Eastern Province after it was liberated from the clutches of the LTTE is a classic example. The Government's role in development, de-militarisation and disarming of paramilitary groups is commendable.

Similar development is taking place in the North and the Government is confident that the same result can be achieved. That would lead to reconciliation and national unity. Peace is no longer a dream for Sri Lankans, due to the collective commitment of those who love Mother Lanka.

The need of the hour is collective commitment and an effort to drive the country towards economic prosperity and development.

Our theme should be 'One country and one nation in harmony', progressing towards prosperity under the illustrious leadership of President Rajapaksa.

People who have been resettled in the East are now making a laudable contribution to the national economy.

Soon, their counterparts in the North would do likewise. If we can muster people living in the North too to play a significant role in national production, as in the past, realising President Rajapaksa's dream of winning the 'economic war' too would not be far off.