Fresh hopes for Northern Tamils

The Tamil community in the North of Sri Lanka have fresh hopes and the Government intended to make their expectations come true, Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne told visiting Indian Air Force Chief P.V. Naik, briefing the latter on post-conflict development activities in the island.

Air Chief Marshal Naik called on the Prime Minister last week at the prime Minister's Office. Discussions were focused on military matters between the two countries.

During the meeting, the Indian Air Force Chief said that India was very particular about Sri Lanka's safety. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral security. "Sri Lanka is a country with natural beauty. We see how the country moves forward with development goals after ending the war. Sri Lanka would draw a greater number of foreign tourists due to her inherited splendour," he said.The Premier appreciated the assistance extended by India to Sri Lanka.

While commending the assistance extended by India in Strengthening the defence of Sri Lanka, the premier was of the view that the two countries should explore new avenues in the cooperation with regard to defence issues.

The Premier further said that the people in the North would experience the benefits of development drives already launched. The Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Ashok K. Kantha and several others were present at the meeting.