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Sri Lanka
Talks (Peace Talks):2002
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Date
Incidents
January - 2 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran wrote to Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik, asking him to continue acting as a facilitator between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan government to find a peaceful settlement to the ethnic conflict, reports on January 3 said.
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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran wrote to Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik, asking him to continue acting as a facilitator between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan government to find a peaceful settlement to the ethnic conflict, reports on January 3 said.
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January - 20 
Following the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) extending its cease-fire on January 20, which was due to end on the midnight of January 24, by another month, the Sri Lankan government also extended the cease-fire with the LTTE rebels by another month on January 21.
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Following the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) extending its cease-fire on January 20, which was due to end on the midnight of January 24, by another month, the Sri Lankan government also extended the cease-fire with the LTTE rebels by another month on January 21.
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February - 8 
According to government sources, the Norwegian delegation on February 8, has finalised a draft agreement between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) which will pave the way for a permanent cease-fire. Sources said that the delegation held a last minute meeting with Constit
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According to government sources, the Norwegian delegation on February 8, has finalised a draft agreement between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) which will pave the way for a permanent cease-fire. Sources said that the delegation held a last minute meeting with Constitutional Affairs Minister Prof. G L Peiris and Minister Milinda Moragoda on the draft at Visumpaya before leaving the country ending their two-day deliberations with senior leaders of the government. They also met Prime Minister Ranil Wickremsinghe on February 7. Addressing the weekly Cabinet press briefing on February 7, Peiris said that the agreement would specifically mention the responsibilities of both sides with regard to the conditions of a permanent cease-fire. The agreement is to be signed before February 24, the date on which the ongoing period of unilateral cessation of hostilities ends.
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February - 22 
The Norwegian Foreign Minister, Jan Petersen, in a press conference at Oslo formally announced a ‘Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cessation of Hostilities’ between the Sri Lankan government and the rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on February 22. Norway has been playing the role of
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The Norwegian Foreign Minister, Jan Petersen, in a press conference at Oslo formally announced a ‘Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cessation of Hostilities’ between the Sri Lankan government and the rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on February 22. Norway has been playing the role of a mediator between the government and the LTTE in the peace process. The MoU formalises the unilateral cease-fires being observed by the two parties since December 24, 2001. The announcement was made after the Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Jon Westborg, had obtained the signatures of the LTTE chief Velupillai Prabhakaran on February 21 and the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on February 22 at separate locations. On February 21, the Norwegian Ambassador had been flown in a government Air Force helicopter to the LTTE’s political administrative office in Kilinocchi where the LTTE chief, Velupillai Prabhakaran signed the agreement. He then returned to Vavuniya where the Prime Minister signed the Agreement on February 22. A committee comprising Scandinavian countries - Norway, Sweden, Denmark and Finland - as well as representatives of the government and LTTE will monitor the implementation of the agreement. During his press conference announcing the cease-fire which took effect from 00:00 hours on February 23, the Norwegian Foreign Minister said that "The overall objective of the parties (to the cease-fire) is to find a negotiated solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka…Through this formalized ceasefire the parties commit themselves to putting an end to the hostilities. They commit themselves to restoring normalcy for all the inhabitants of Sri Lanka, whether they are Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims or others. And they commit themselves to accepting an international monitoring mission, led by Norway, which will conduct on site monitoring". Giving details of the agreement, the statement said that: "First, it outlines the modalities of the ceasefire, including the total cessation of all offensive military operations, the separation of forces and increased freedom of movement for unarmed troops on both sides. Second, measures to restore normalcy for all the inhabitants of Sri Lanka - Sinhalese, Tamils, Muslims and others - putting an end to hostile acts against civilians, allowing the unimpeded flow of non-military goods, opening roads and railway lines and a gradual easing of fishing restrictions. Third, a small international monitoring mission, led by Norway. The mission will conduct international on-site monitoring of the fulfilment of the commitments made by the parties. Let me underline, however, that it is up to the parties to respect the agreement and to impose sanctions on those individuals on either side who act contrary to the agreement."
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March - 6 
Another report said Ven. Samitha Thera, a Buddhist monk who was elected Member of Parliament, incidentally the first to be so—elected, has asked clerics and everyone across the country to support the peace process initiated by Prime Minister Ranil lWickremasinghe, the state-owned Daily News said, on
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Another report said Ven. Samitha Thera, a Buddhist monk who was elected Member of Parliament, incidentally the first to be so—elected, has asked clerics and everyone across the country to support the peace process initiated by Prime Minister Ranil lWickremasinghe, the state-owned Daily News said, on March 6. The Ven. Thera said, the Lanka Sama Samaj Party (LSSP) which he represented had never wavered on its position as regards devolution. He observed that the cease-fire agreement should be operative only for a limited period so that real peace talks should commence speedily.
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March - 6 
At an hour-long meeting with the Norwegian chief cease-fire monitor and retired Army General Trond Furuhovede in Killinochci, northern Sri Lanka, on March 6, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabhakaran praised the untiring efforts of Norway to bring peace to Sri Lanka. He a
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At an hour-long meeting with the Norwegian chief cease-fire monitor and retired Army General Trond Furuhovede in Killinochci, northern Sri Lanka, on March 6, Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabhakaran praised the untiring efforts of Norway to bring peace to Sri Lanka. He added that the cease-fire agreement laid a strong foundation for the peace process and a negotiated settlement. Prabhakaran urged for speedy opening up of the main A 9 Highway and assistance in the LTTE‘s massive project to de-mine the Vanni region so as to help resettlement and rehabilitation of displaced Tamils.
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March - 14 
Media reports also indicate that LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in the last week of this month. March, to meet LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and discuss the modalities of the peace talks.
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Media reports also indicate that LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in the last week of this month. March, to meet LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and discuss the modalities of the peace talks.
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March - 14 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) termed as "a bold step on the part of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe" about his decision to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on permanent cessation of hostilities, though President Chandrika Kumaratunga holds the position of the Commander-in-Chief
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) termed as "a bold step on the part of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe" about his decision to sign the Memorandum of Understanding on permanent cessation of hostilities, though President Chandrika Kumaratunga holds the position of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. Karikalan, the deputy leader of LTTE’s political wing for Ampara and Batticaloa districts, in a media interview stated that the move gave them confidence that further bold steps of similar nature would emerge during the peace talks. Speaking further, he refuted the allegation by some parties that the LTTE was using the cease-fire period to strengthen itself. "We didn't go for peace talks neither at a weaker position nor to strengthen ourselves. Peace signals were sent to the government only after capturing the Elephant Pass Army Base by chasing out Jayasikuru forces" he added. Referring to statements made by Tamil paramilitary groups about their safety in the absence of arms, he said those who don't wish to hand over arms should leave the North-East. Regarding the proposal to hold the peace talks in India, he said he hopes India would agree.
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March - 18 
Spokesperson of President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Harim Peiris, on March 18, allayed suspicions expressed in certain quarters to the effect that the President was not serious in her commitment to the peace process. The suspicions arose after the President expressed her inability to meet visiting US A
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Spokesperson of President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Harim Peiris, on March 18, allayed suspicions expressed in certain quarters to the effect that the President was not serious in her commitment to the peace process. The suspicions arose after the President expressed her inability to meet visiting US Assistant Secretary of State Christina Rocca. Peiris reminded in a statement that it was the President who had initiated the peace process in the mid-1990s and added that Rocca sought an appointment at a very short notice, and the President already had prior commitments.
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March - 20 
The state-run Daily News said, on March 21, quoting Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando, that the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were set to discuss the venue of the proposed peace talks. Reports indicate that Thailand is emerging as a likely venue, with the LTTE having pro
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The state-run Daily News said, on March 21, quoting Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando, that the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were set to discuss the venue of the proposed peace talks. Reports indicate that Thailand is emerging as a likely venue, with the LTTE having proposed it. The LTTE had earlier also suggested India as a possible venue. The LTTE has yet not given up hopes of India permitting one its cities as the venue. Other reports, meanwhile, said LTTE ideologue and theoretician Anton Balasingham would be leaving from London where he established residence for some time now, on March 22, and reach Maldives on his way to Sri Lanka. He is likely to reach the LTTE headquarters in Vanni on March 25.
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March - 24 
Media reports said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator Anton Balasingham had a historic meeting in Oslo on November 24, ahead of the meeting of 40 countries convened on November 25 to provide aid to war-torn Sri Lanka for rehabilitation of
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Media reports said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator Anton Balasingham had a historic meeting in Oslo on November 24, ahead of the meeting of 40 countries convened on November 25 to provide aid to war-torn Sri Lanka for rehabilitation of displaced persons and for reconstruction.
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March - 25 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham returned to the LTTE-controlled Vanni on March 25 from London via Maldives in a seaplane, which landed on the Iranamadu irrigation tank. Facilitator in the peace process, Norway arranged his arrival in Sri L
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham returned to the LTTE-controlled Vanni on March 25 from London via Maldives in a seaplane, which landed on the Iranamadu irrigation tank. Facilitator in the peace process, Norway arranged his arrival in Sri Lanka with the assistance of the Maldivian and Sri Lankan governments. Soon after arrival he went into a meeting with LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran, their first one-on-one in three years. LTTE’s naval wing, the Sea Tigers, chief Soosai received Balasingham. Special Advisor in the Norwegian Foreign Ministry Erik Solheim, the Norwegian Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jon Westborg, Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission chief Trond Furohovde and another member of the SLMM, meanwhile, arrived in Kilinochchi and had discussions with, Balasingham and LTTE political wing chief Tamil Chelvam. The two and Prabhakaran are due to meet with the Norwegian delegation and discuss the ongoing ‘permanent cease-fire’ as well as other political issues.
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March - 26 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels gave their consent to hold peace talks with the government soon after normalcy is restored, pro-Tamil sources said, on March 26.The consent was conveyed at a meeting in Kilinochchi between the LTTE top-leadership and Norwegian facilitators. The meet
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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels gave their consent to hold peace talks with the government soon after normalcy is restored, pro-Tamil sources said, on March 26.The consent was conveyed at a meeting in Kilinochchi between the LTTE top-leadership and Norwegian facilitators. The meeting was attended by LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran, chief negotiator Anton Balasingham and political-wing leader Tamil Chelvam and a Norwegian delegation, including Norway’s Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jon Westborg, Special Advisor to Norwegian Foreign Minister Erik Solheim, Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission chief Trond Furohovde. A Finnish official, too, participated in the talks. Reports also said LTTE leaders expressed disappointment at the slow pace of implementation of certain terms of the truce agreement with the government. The LTTE once again reiterated that de-proscription was an essential pre-requisite for peace talks to resume. The LTTE and the peace facilitators are scheduled to meet again on April 17, reports added.
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March - 29 
Thailand on March 29 is reported to have agreed to host the face-to-face talks between the Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Media reports claimed that the Norwegian-brokered talks, aimed at finding a lasting political solution to the North-East conflict, are exp
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Thailand on March 29 is reported to have agreed to host the face-to-face talks between the Sri Lankan Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Media reports claimed that the Norwegian-brokered talks, aimed at finding a lasting political solution to the North-East conflict, are expected to take place in May. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando thanked the Thai Government for helping Sri Lanka to hold peace talks on their soil. Earlier, the LTTE had requested to hold peace talks in another country and had suggested India or the Maldives. However, these two countries had rejected this request.
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March - 31 
Norway’s Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen said the agenda for the talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was more important than the date of the talks. He was speaking to the Sinhala language service of the BBC, The Island, a Sri Lankan newspaper said, whi
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Norway’s Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen said the agenda for the talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was more important than the date of the talks. He was speaking to the Sinhala language service of the BBC, The Island, a Sri Lankan newspaper said, while quoting him on March 31. Soon after announcing that Thailand would be the venue for the talks, the first face-to-face since 1995, Helgesen denied there was any link between the choice of the country for talks and the LTTE allegedly having a tiny base in Thailand. Adding that Norway, Thailand, Sri Lanka and the LTTE will consult with one another and decide on the location for the talks, he said, "The date will follow the agenda… Until and unless the confidence building measures and conditions set out by the cease-fire agreement are fulfilled, talks will not commence".
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April - 4 
The Chief of the Sri Lanka Cease-fire Monitoring Mission, Major General Trond Furuhovde, is expected to meet the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leadership on April 7 and take up issues relating to cease-fire violations, especially relating to extortion, provocation and forced entry into mil
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The Chief of the Sri Lanka Cease-fire Monitoring Mission, Major General Trond Furuhovde, is expected to meet the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leadership on April 7 and take up issues relating to cease-fire violations, especially relating to extortion, provocation and forced entry into military areas by the LTTE in the East of Sri Lanka. According to media reports quoting cease-fire monitors, 33 violations were recorded in March alone with 31 of them in the Eastern Batticaloa region and the other two in Mannar and Vavuniya respectively.
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April - 4 
The Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Jon Westborg on March 3 held another round of discussions with the head of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)'s political wing S P Thamil Chelvam and the Chief Negotiator, Anton Balasingham, in Mullaitivu to discuss the arrangements regarding the forthc
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The Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Jon Westborg on March 3 held another round of discussions with the head of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)'s political wing S P Thamil Chelvam and the Chief Negotiator, Anton Balasingham, in Mullaitivu to discuss the arrangements regarding the forthcoming meeting between Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen and LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran. The Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister is scheduled to visit Vanni on April 17 to meet Prabhakaran and hold discussions on direct negotiations between the LTTE and the Government.
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April - 5 
Sri Lanka's main minority Muslim party the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on April 5 agreed to hold talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) after the latter apologised for the ethnic cleansing of thousands of Muslims in their bid to create a separate state, according to media report
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Sri Lanka's main minority Muslim party the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) on April 5 agreed to hold talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) after the latter apologised for the ethnic cleansing of thousands of Muslims in their bid to create a separate state, according to media reports.
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April - 13 
According to media reports dated April 16, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has assured the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), that it would no longer compel Muslims in the Eastern Province for funds. LTTE also agreed for the participation of SLMC representatives in the peace talks between
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According to media reports dated April 16, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has assured the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), that it would no longer compel Muslims in the Eastern Province for funds. LTTE also agreed for the participation of SLMC representatives in the peace talks between the Government and LTTE scheduled to be held in Thailand in May. The assurance was reportedly given by the LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran to Rauff Hakeem in Killinochchi on April 13.
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April - 13 
In an agreement signed by the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on April 13 it was decided that the two sides would co-operate on affairs related to Sri Lanka's Muslim community, the head of the largest Muslim party Mr. Rauf Hakeem, who is also a Minist
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In an agreement signed by the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on April 13 it was decided that the two sides would co-operate on affairs related to Sri Lanka's Muslim community, the head of the largest Muslim party Mr. Rauf Hakeem, who is also a Minister in the Government told a press conference in Colombo on his return from Killinochchi on April 13. It was decided during the talks that a joint committee comprising representatives of LTTE and SLMC would be appointed to co-ordinate affairs related to the return of displaced Jaffna Muslims to their own homes. Hakeem described the three and a half hours of talks which centred around several problems faced by Muslims in the Northeast as friendly and productive. SLMM delegation flew into the LTTE-held town of Kilinochchi on April 13 morning for discussions with the LTTE delegation led by the Vellupillai Pirapaharan.
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April - 25 
Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Member of Parliament W.D.J. Seneviratne, who gad headed a committee of the party that made a detailed study of the current happenings on the peace front, was quoted on April 25 in the state-run Daily News as having said that the report had been submitted to President C
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Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Member of Parliament W.D.J. Seneviratne, who gad headed a committee of the party that made a detailed study of the current happenings on the peace front, was quoted on April 25 in the state-run Daily News as having said that the report had been submitted to President Chandrika Kumaratunga before she left for India on a visit.
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April - 29 
28 LTTE cadres from the political wing reached Jaffna on April 29 evening in accordance with the terms of the cease-fire agreement signed between the Liberation government and the LTTE.
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28 LTTE cadres from the political wing reached Jaffna on April 29 evening in accordance with the terms of the cease-fire agreement signed between the Liberation government and the LTTE.
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May - 3 
The SLFP expressed deep concern at the way the peace process is being conducted––in a arbitrary manner ignoring the President and without consulting Parliament. The SLFP suggested that a Standing Committee be formed under the joint leadership of the President and the Prime Minister and consisting of
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The SLFP expressed deep concern at the way the peace process is being conducted––in a arbitrary manner ignoring the President and without consulting Parliament. The SLFP suggested that a Standing Committee be formed under the joint leadership of the President and the Prime Minister and consisting of PA and United National Front members.
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May - 11 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political wing leader S P Tamilchelvan asked leaders of the four-party Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to ‘pressurise the government for a speedy implementation of the terms of the permanent cease-fire agreed upon between the government and the LTTE’. Pro-Tamil
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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political wing leader S P Tamilchelvan asked leaders of the four-party Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to ‘pressurise the government for a speedy implementation of the terms of the permanent cease-fire agreed upon between the government and the LTTE’. Pro-Tamil sources said the suggestion was made at a meeting between the LTTE and TNA leaders in Killinochchi, at the LTTE headquarters, on May 11. The TNA was reportedly, it might be recollected, formed with the blessings of the LTTE. Reports also said the meeting discussed, among other issues, shortcomings in implementing the cease-fire agreement, continuous detention of Tamil political prisoners under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and Emergency Regulations (ER) and the poor living conditions of the displaced people returning from the Vanni region to their own villages.
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May - 11 
Stating that peace talks would commence only after the LTTE is de-proscribed, Tamilchelvan asked TNA leaders to create awareness among Tamils of the terms of the truce agreement and also explain to the majority Sinhalese the problems being faced by the Tamils.
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Stating that peace talks would commence only after the LTTE is de-proscribed, Tamilchelvan asked TNA leaders to create awareness among Tamils of the terms of the truce agreement and also explain to the majority Sinhalese the problems being faced by the Tamils.
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May - 21 
Representatives of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government met at Kilinochchi, in the Wanni, on May 21, reports said. The meeting assumes significance in that it was held a month ahead of the peace talks between he two sides slated for June in Thailand. The LTTE team was led
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Representatives of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government met at Kilinochchi, in the Wanni, on May 21, reports said. The meeting assumes significance in that it was held a month ahead of the peace talks between he two sides slated for June in Thailand. The LTTE team was led by political-wing leader S P Tamilchelvan and the government side was headed by National Peace Secretariat chief Bernard Goonatilake. The later was quoted as saying that the talks focussed on ‘commencement of bus services on the A9 highway, repairing the road, political activities in the Northern islands and the removal of Security Forces from religious places’. Goonatilake also said, "The LTTE representatives were enthusiastic about the commencement of peace talks in Thailand..." Reports informed that the talks coincided with the ‘permanent Cease-fire Agreement between the government and the LTTE’ reaching the three months-mark (D-day+90).
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May - 24 
The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a four party-coalition that has the blessings of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), met with Prime Minister (PM) Ranil Wickremasinghe, on May 24, and presented a memorandum listing six issues to the Prime Minister. Among these were the de-proscription of
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The Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a four party-coalition that has the blessings of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), met with Prime Minister (PM) Ranil Wickremasinghe, on May 24, and presented a memorandum listing six issues to the Prime Minister. Among these were the de-proscription of the LTTE, full implementation of the permanent cease-fire agreement befire talks commenced with the LTTE and establishing an interim administration in the Northeast.
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May - 30 
Army Chief Lt. Gen. Lionol Balagalle said, on May 30, the Army would not move out from the Palaly high and Muhamalai security zones, but would consider the same after the government side and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) conclude disarmament negotiations. Fair demands of the LTTE can be
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Army Chief Lt. Gen. Lionol Balagalle said, on May 30, the Army would not move out from the Palaly high and Muhamalai security zones, but would consider the same after the government side and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) conclude disarmament negotiations. Fair demands of the LTTE can be met and not everything they asked, the Army Chief said and added, where immediate options were available for relocation the Army has already vacated school buildings.
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June - 27 
Another report said The Netherlands Ambassador in Sri Lanka Susan Blankhart met with Thamilchelvan, on June 27 at the LTTE’s political headquarters in Kilinochchi and discussed to the ongoing Norwegian peace initiative, including the ongoing implementation of the ‘permanent cease-fire’ agreement sig
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Another report said The Netherlands Ambassador in Sri Lanka Susan Blankhart met with Thamilchelvan, on June 27 at the LTTE’s political headquarters in Kilinochchi and discussed to the ongoing Norwegian peace initiative, including the ongoing implementation of the ‘permanent cease-fire’ agreement signed between government and the LTTE. The meeting that lasted for about half-an-hour also discussed development issues in areas in the North and East.
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June - 27 
The state-run Daily News said on June 27 that Norwegian facilitators to the peace process in Sri Lanka have sent a questionnaire to the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on the agenda for the proposed face-to-face peace talks between the two sides. The questionnaire has as i
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The state-run Daily News said on June 27 that Norwegian facilitators to the peace process in Sri Lanka have sent a questionnaire to the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on the agenda for the proposed face-to-face peace talks between the two sides. The questionnaire has as it its focus the formation and powers of the proposed interim administration, reports said. Already, the government said the dates for the talks would be fixed after a clear agenda is prepared. Further, reports hold that the ban on the LTTE is likely to be lifted some around 10 days ahead of the talks. The talks, it is being speculated, might be held in July or August 2002 and the government team would consist of four members.
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June - 29 
The state-run Daily News said on June 29 that the proposed talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are likely to commence on August 2,2002, in Thailand. Quoting unnamed official sources, the report said the Government has agreed to the date proposed by the LTTE.
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The state-run Daily News said on June 29 that the proposed talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are likely to commence on August 2,2002, in Thailand. Quoting unnamed official sources, the report said the Government has agreed to the date proposed by the LTTE. Already, government spokesman and Minister G.L. Peiris said, on June 27, the government and the LTTE were preparing the agenda for the forthcoming talks.
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June - 30 
News reports, on June 30, from Sri Lanka said the in Jaffna’s Kilali-Nagerkoil axis has moved closer to Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The Army has reportedly occupied positions well inside the minimum separation distance set forth in the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ signed between the
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News reports, on June 30, from Sri Lanka said the in Jaffna’s Kilali-Nagerkoil axis has moved closer to Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The Army has reportedly occupied positions well inside the minimum separation distance set forth in the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ signed between the government and the LTTE and a complaint with the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission in the regard.
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July - 3 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing senior official N Karikalan, speaking in Batticaloa at a peace conference on July 3, asked Muslims to live in amity with the Tamils. His appeal follows violence and arson, targeting Tamils, perpetrated by alleged Islamist extremists in the East
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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing senior official N Karikalan, speaking in Batticaloa at a peace conference on July 3, asked Muslims to live in amity with the Tamils. His appeal follows violence and arson, targeting Tamils, perpetrated by alleged Islamist extremists in the East of the country, in the last week of June 2002. Karaikalan said, "We (the LTTE and) the Sri Lankan Army … fought face to face in battlefields for 25 years. But today we are seated side by side as friends. All of us should explore the reasons why, while this is so, we, the Muslims and Tamils who speak the same language, are unable to live in amity". The peace conference was organised by Maj. Gen. Sunil Tennekoon, the General Officer Commanding of the 23 Division around 3 p.m. in the Charles Hall in Batticaloa town. More than a hundred civil society activists and leaders from Tamil and Muslim communities attended the conference, which was attended among others by Sri Lanka Muslim Congress senior leader and Deputy Minister for Housing Basheer Segu Dawood. Dawood said at the conference, "There have been many peace conferences between the Tamils and Muslims since 1985. But this conference is particularly unique because, unlike in the past, the [LTTE], who are the sole representatives of the Tamil people, are trying to bring about peace and harmony among the two communities and are directly involved in the effort to re-establish good will among them. There are some youths among the Tamils and among the Muslims who have quick tempers. We believe that the Liberation can prevail on such Tamil youth. Similarly I believe that Muslim parties and leaders have the power to control quick-tempered youth among the Muslims."
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July - 7 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said Parliament Members of the United National Party (UNP) led by Western Regional Development Minister M.H Mohamed and Co-operative Minister A.R.M Cader held discussions with the political wing leadership of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’s (LTTE) Eastern Province
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said Parliament Members of the United National Party (UNP) led by Western Regional Development Minister M.H Mohamed and Co-operative Minister A.R.M Cader held discussions with the political wing leadership of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’s (LTTE) Eastern Province on July 7, in Kalumanai.
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July - 15 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham in London, on July 15. LTTE sources reportedly said after the meeting that the discussions explored taking further the
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham in London, on July 15. LTTE sources reportedly said after the meeting that the discussions explored taking further the ongoing Norwegian brokered peace process. Special advisor in the Norwegian Foreign Ministry Erik Solheim, too, was present at the meeting. The current situation in Sri Lanka and the probable dates for the proposed talks in Thailand between the government and the LTTE came up for discussion.
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July - 24 
The United States (US) has extended complete support to the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said on July 24. Wickremasinghe, now on a visit to the US, met with President George Bush. Soon after the meeting, he said, "When the President says he is behind you,
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The United States (US) has extended complete support to the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said on July 24. Wickremasinghe, now on a visit to the US, met with President George Bush. Soon after the meeting, he said, "When the President says he is behind you, that means a lot." The peace process was the primary item on the agenda of the talks between the two leaders. Wickremasinghe apprised Bush of the massive reconstruction and rehabilitation presently being undertaken, following which, Bush promised to extend all possible help.
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July - 27 
Media reports said Minister for Economic Reforms Milinda Moragoda met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham in London, on July 27. Norway, which is brokering the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, said the meeting heralded a ‘new phase’ in the
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Media reports said Minister for Economic Reforms Milinda Moragoda met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham in London, on July 27. Norway, which is brokering the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, said the meeting heralded a ‘new phase’ in the peace process. Reportedly, the meeting considered a number of issues, including the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ now being implemented, preparations for direct talks between the government and the LTTE, the agenda for the talks as well as the proposed interim administration in the North East. A statement by Norway noted that this was the first meeting between the LTTE and a Minister in the Sri Lankan Cabinet since the peace process commenced formally with the truce agreement coming into force on February 23, 2002.
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July - 29 
The Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) headed by Norway said on July 29 that the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were ‘dedicated’ to finding everlasting peace in Sri Lanka. Commending both sides, the SLMM said both sides were not preparing for war, "but for lasting peace
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The Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) headed by Norway said on July 29 that the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were ‘dedicated’ to finding everlasting peace in Sri Lanka. Commending both sides, the SLMM said both sides were not preparing for war, "but for lasting peace through gradual and steady implementation of the [permanent] cease-fire agreement" signed that came into force on February 23, 2002.
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July - 30 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has invited leaders of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a four-party Tamil coalition that has the blessings of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), for a meeting at his official residence on August 2. The next day, the TNA is due to meet with LTTE leader
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe has invited leaders of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a four-party Tamil coalition that has the blessings of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), for a meeting at his official residence on August 2. The next day, the TNA is due to meet with LTTE leaders in the Wanni. Also, August 2 is the final deadline for government troops to vacate all public buildings under their occupation in the Northeast. It was agreed upon in the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ between the government and the LTTE that 160 days from February 23––when the truce terms came into force–– troops would vacate public buildings. But several buildings are still under the control of troops. Reports said, under these circumstances, the meetings between the TNA and the government and between the TNA and the LTTE assume significance. Besides, apprehension has also been expressed that the LTTE might use the August 2-deadline to call of the truce. The LTTE, pro-Tamil sources said, on July 30, is committed to peace and would not let the deadline issue affect peace prospects.
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August - 14 
According to media reports, Japan welcomed, on August 14, the commencement of peace talks between Government of Sri Lanka and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in September 2002. A statement issued by Japanese Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi expressed hope that both parties would maintain th
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According to media reports, Japan welcomed, on August 14, the commencement of peace talks between Government of Sri Lanka and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in September 2002. A statement issued by Japanese Foreign Minister Yoriko Kawaguchi expressed hope that both parties would maintain their commitment to a permanent settlement and engage in a sincere discussion to achieve lasting peace. He also pledged continued assistance for humanitarian projects in the North-Eastern region and stressed that Japan would contribute more towards reconstruction and rehabilitation of those areas once durable peace is achieved.
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August - 14 
Norway, the peace facilitator in Sri Lanka, announced on August 14 that formal direct talks between the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) would commence on some day between September 12 and 17, 2002 in Thailand. The Norwegian government will announce the precise date on which th
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Norway, the peace facilitator in Sri Lanka, announced on August 14 that formal direct talks between the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) would commence on some day between September 12 and 17, 2002 in Thailand. The Norwegian government will announce the precise date on which the meeting is to be held, a statement issued by the Norwegian Foreign Ministry said.
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August - 16 
An unnamed official of Thailand’s Foreign Ministry was quoted in Sri Lanka’s media as saying that his government has proposed a number of venues for the forthcoming September 12-17 direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels. The talks
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An unnamed official of Thailand’s Foreign Ministry was quoted in Sri Lanka’s media as saying that his government has proposed a number of venues for the forthcoming September 12-17 direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels. The talks are a further step in the ongoing peace process being facilitated by Norway, and Thailand has offered to host the peace talks, given its geographical proximity to Sri Lanka, the scene of bloody battles between the government and the LTTE rebels for over-17 years. The venue is meant to help quick travel to the rebel headquarters in the Wanni for consultations by the LTTE delegation with its leadership there. The venues proposed included Phuket, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai and Chonburi (Pattaya) and even the capital Bangkok. The first three are famous tourist destinations, reports said, and added that Pattya was known more for its infamous nightlife. The final choice of the venue is yet to be made.
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August - 16 
Inaugurating a new berth at Trincomalee Port, on August 16, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said the forthcoming September-peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) were critical for the economic development of the country. He said his government has "stre
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Inaugurating a new berth at Trincomalee Port, on August 16, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said the forthcoming September-peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) were critical for the economic development of the country. He said his government has "strengthened the ongoing peace process by laying a firm foundation for the proposed peace talks." Declaring his firm resolve to take the peace process further, he said he would not let obstacles and delays to impair the peace process. Economic progress could be achieved only if the peace process marched ahead towards permanent peace, he averred.
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August - 16 
Reports said Constitutional Affairs Minister G. L. Peiris envisaged, while speaking on August 16, that the peace talks could be held twice a month after a ceremonial opening, on September 12. He reportedly said, "We are looking at something like two meetings a month with each meeting lasting for abo
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Reports said Constitutional Affairs Minister G. L. Peiris envisaged, while speaking on August 16, that the peace talks could be held twice a month after a ceremonial opening, on September 12. He reportedly said, "We are looking at something like two meetings a month with each meeting lasting for about three days," and added that the government would be represented by a four-man-team at the talks. Reports also said that the agenda for the direct peace talks would be firmed-up after the venue is fixed.
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August - 23 
Direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) will take place between September 16 and 18, in Thailand. The facilitator in the ongoing peace process, Norway announced on August 23 that the dates were mutually agreed upon by the government and
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Direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) will take place between September 16 and 18, in Thailand. The facilitator in the ongoing peace process, Norway announced on August 23 that the dates were mutually agreed upon by the government and the LTTE in consultation with the governments of Norway and Thailand, where the talks would be held. A Norwegian government statement said, "The Norwegian government will announce the venue [city] for the negotiations and information on press access, closer to the time of the talks". In the statement, Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen was quoted as saying that he anticipated difficulties during the course of the talks, but they (the government and the LTTE) had displayed commitment to seek a durable settlement. He said, "With this step the parties continue their long road towards peace. There is no reason to conceal that there are considerable difficulties ahead. But, there is also a determination on both sides to seek a lasting political settlement of the ethnic conflict."
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August - 23 
Media reports said Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatillake, on August 23, met with the political-wing leadership of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). During talks for some two hours with political-wing chief S. P. Thamilchelvan, General Gunatillake discussed various issues
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Media reports said Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatillake, on August 23, met with the political-wing leadership of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). During talks for some two hours with political-wing chief S. P. Thamilchelvan, General Gunatillake discussed various issues, including the development of the north east province. The talks we held in LTTE-controlled Kilinochchi town.
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August - 27 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on August 27, announced its delegation for the forthcoming direct talks with the government. The first round is scheduled for three days beginning September 16, in Thailand. The LTTE team will reportedly consist of four persons. Ideologue Anton Balasin
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on August 27, announced its delegation for the forthcoming direct talks with the government. The first round is scheduled for three days beginning September 16, in Thailand. The LTTE team will reportedly consist of four persons. Ideologue Anton Balasingham will lead the LTTE delegation. In the past, too, he had been the chief negotiator for the LTTE. The other members of the LTTE delegation are LTTE legal advisor V. Rudrakumar, rehabilitation and development expert Jay Maheswaran and Balasingham’s Australian-born wife Adele Balasingham, who will be the secretary of the LTTE delegation. The government is yet to officially announce its delegation. Reports, however, indicate Constitutional Affairs Minister G. L. Peiris will head the delegation. The other probable members are Economic Reforms Minister Milinda Moragoda and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatillake. The name of a fourth probable is yet not known. But, one report indicated that Cabinet Minister and Muslim leader Rauf Hakeem of the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) could be the fourth member. The LTTE said the talks would begin with opening statements to the press by chief negotiators of the two teams. Delegates of Norway, the facilitator, and Thailand, the host, would also make opening statements. The first round would be of a preliminary nature and would be held in-camera.
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August - 27 
Visiting Sri Lankan Minister for Economic Reforms, Science and Technology Milinda Moragoda warned, in New Delhi, on August 27, that the road to peace was long and cautioned against expecting immediate dividends. The Minister, however, said, "The prospect of peace is looming very large". He said the
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Visiting Sri Lankan Minister for Economic Reforms, Science and Technology Milinda Moragoda warned, in New Delhi, on August 27, that the road to peace was long and cautioned against expecting immediate dividends. The Minister, however, said, "The prospect of peace is looming very large". He said the Lankan government was proceeding incremental steps and was trying to build trust with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Reconstruction and development, the Minister hoped "would reinforce the peace process." The government and the LTTE are scheduled to meet for three days beginning September 16, in Thailand, for direct talks.
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August - 28 
The state-run Daily News said, on August 28, the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were discussing the exchange of prisoners of war (POWs) as a confidence building measure (CBM) ahead of the direct talks scheduled to commence on September 16, in Thailand. Quoting anonymo
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The state-run Daily News said, on August 28, the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) were discussing the exchange of prisoners of war (POWs) as a confidence building measure (CBM) ahead of the direct talks scheduled to commence on September 16, in Thailand. Quoting anonymous official sources the paper said the first round of talks on the issue was held on August 23 and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) also participated in the talks. Reports also said the LTTE disclosed it has seven government troops in its custody and has sent across a list of 23 LTTE cadres who it wants to be set free. Unconfirmed reports said the prisoners-swap could take place between September 6 and 16.
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August - 29 
Media reports from Sri Lanka, on August 29, quoting Agence France Presse indicated that the direct talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), scheduled to commence on September 16, are likely to be held in Sattahip. An unnamed official said on August 28 that the Sr
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Media reports from Sri Lanka, on August 29, quoting Agence France Presse indicated that the direct talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), scheduled to commence on September 16, are likely to be held in Sattahip. An unnamed official said on August 28 that the Sri Lankan government did not wish to be made known in advance the venue or any other details, for security reasons. To recollect, Norway, the facilitator in the peace talks already announced the dates for the talks, but said a separate announcement would be made on the venue of the talks. Sattahip is the site of the Thai First Fleet naval base, and has deepwater port facilities–– useful if LTTE delegates arrive by sea, reports claimed. The town is situated about 120km south of Pattaya, a popular resort destination. Reports also claimed that the naval compound there is likely to host the talks.
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August - 31 
Media reports said, on August 31, that the exchange of prisoners between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been postponed by about 10 ten days. Consequently, it will not take place at Omanthai in Vavuniya on August 31, today, as was earlier planned. The In
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Media reports said, on August 31, that the exchange of prisoners between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been postponed by about 10 ten days. Consequently, it will not take place at Omanthai in Vavuniya on August 31, today, as was earlier planned. The International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) has been informed of the same.
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August - 31 
On August 31, Peiris reiterated that the LTTE would be de-proscribed 10 days before the commencement of the direct peace talks between the government and the LTTE, and added that the ban could be re-imposed at any time. He said, "There is no necessity to wait for a certain period of time to bring it
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On August 31, Peiris reiterated that the LTTE would be de-proscribed 10 days before the commencement of the direct peace talks between the government and the LTTE, and added that the ban could be re-imposed at any time. He said, "There is no necessity to wait for a certain period of time to bring it (the ban) back." Besides, Peiris confirmed that the talks would begin with an opening session, on September 16, and this would be open to the media. On September 17 and 18, the talks would be held behind closed-doors where the two sides would put forward the issues to be discussed. At the end, facilitator Norway would prioritise the agenda and present to the two sides for consideration. Furthermore, subsequent rounds of talks would be held twice every month for a period of six months. This elaborate mechanism is meant to ensure that the peace process is not de-railed mid-way.
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September - 2 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament representing Jaffna district M K Sivajilingam met with Brigadier Jayawardene of the 52-4 Brigade, in Point Pedro, to diffuse the tension. The TNA is a four party Tamil-coalition that has the blessings of the LTTE
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Member of Parliament representing Jaffna district M K Sivajilingam met with Brigadier Jayawardene of the 52-4 Brigade, in Point Pedro, to diffuse the tension. The TNA is a four party Tamil-coalition that has the blessings of the LTTE
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September - 3 
On September 3rd 2002, a meeting was held between the chief negotiator for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Anton Balasingham, and leader of Sri Lankan Muslim Congress, Minister Rauf Hakeem. Balasingham was accompanied by his wife Adele.
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On September 3rd 2002, a meeting was held between the chief negotiator for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Anton Balasingham, and leader of Sri Lankan Muslim Congress, Minister Rauf Hakeem. Balasingham was accompanied by his wife Adele.
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September - 5 
Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Parliamentary Party leader R. Sampanthan asked President Chandrika Kumaratunga not to get influenced by the Janata Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) while making decisions on the peace process. In a statement issued to welcome the de-proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil
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Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Parliamentary Party leader R. Sampanthan asked President Chandrika Kumaratunga not to get influenced by the Janata Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) while making decisions on the peace process. In a statement issued to welcome the de-proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on September 5, he added, "Instead it is essential for her to take decisions in the interests of the country and of finding a permanent and just solution to the ethnic conflict. The TNA is a four-part Tamil coalition that has the blessings of the LTTE.
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September - 7 
Media reports, on September 8, said veteran Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) commander and a member of the LTTE delegation at earlier rounds of peace talks with the government, Yogaratnam Yogi went to Jaffna from the Wanni on a private visit, sometime last week. Yogi, a top-ranking commande
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Media reports, on September 8, said veteran Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) commander and a member of the LTTE delegation at earlier rounds of peace talks with the government, Yogaratnam Yogi went to Jaffna from the Wanni on a private visit, sometime last week. Yogi, a top-ranking commander of the LTTE, does not any longer participate in military operations. But he is reportedly actively involved in the LTTE’s political-wing. He was member of the LTTE team that had held talks with the Indian government ahead of the signing of the 1987-Indian Peace Keeping Force Accord (IPKF Accord) between India and Sri Lanka. Also he was part of the LTTE-Premadasa government negotiations in the 1990s.
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September - 9 
Facilitator in the peace talks, Norway, made an official announcement, on September 9, that the direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) would be held at a hotel close to the Sattahip Naval Base, in Thailand. An opening ceremony would be he
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Facilitator in the peace talks, Norway, made an official announcement, on September 9, that the direct peace talks between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) would be held at a hotel close to the Sattahip Naval Base, in Thailand. An opening ceremony would be held 10.30 a.m. on September 16. Subsequently, four sessions of talks would be held at the same venue. A new release approved by both the government and the LTTE would be issued on September 18 at 2 p.m., at a news conference to be held at the conclusion of the first round of talks.
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September - 12 
Reports said Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) chief Maj. Gen. Furhovde and his delegation facilitated a meeting between Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Northern Front Forces commander Col. Theepan and Sri Lankan Army (SLA) Jaffna commander Major. Gen. Sarath Fonseka, held in the no man’
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Reports said Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) chief Maj. Gen. Furhovde and his delegation facilitated a meeting between Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Northern Front Forces commander Col. Theepan and Sri Lankan Army (SLA) Jaffna commander Major. Gen. Sarath Fonseka, held in the no man’s land in Muhamalai, on September 12. The meeting discussed opening the Pt. Pedro – Maruthankerni Road on Jaffna’s east-coast and positioning the Forward Defence Line (FDL) in the Nagar Kovil sector. The LTTE held that civilians were facing difficulties as the route is being blocked by heavily mined defence positions. The LTTE reportedly told the SLA that it was maintaining bunkers within 100m of the LTTE’s FDL, which it said was a violation of the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ signed between the government and the LTTE, in February 2002. At the meeting, both sides reportedly agreed not to build new defence positions in the Nagar Kovil sector.
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September - 16 
The first session of the talks was preceded by an opening ceremony attended by the world media and diplomats of foreign missions based in Thailand.
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The first session of the talks was preceded by an opening ceremony attended by the world media and diplomats of foreign missions based in Thailand.
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September - 16 
The government delegation comprises Cabinet spokesperson and Minister G. L. Peiris, Milinda Moragoda and Rauf Hakeem––both Cabinet Ministers––and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatilake. The LTTE delegation comprises chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, Adele Balasingham, secretary to
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The government delegation comprises Cabinet spokesperson and Minister G. L. Peiris, Milinda Moragoda and Rauf Hakeem––both Cabinet Ministers––and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatilake. The LTTE delegation comprises chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, Adele Balasingham, secretary to the delegation, Legal Advisor V. Rudrakumaran and development expert Jay Maheswaran. "As far as the Liberation Tigers are concerned, I can assure you that we are seriously and sincerely committed to peace and that we will strive our utmost to ensure the success of the negotiations," Anton Balasingham said in his opening statement at the inaugural ceremony. He also clearly stated the long-held position of the LTTE and said, "The deepest aspiration of our people is peace, a peace with justice and freedom; a permanent peace in which our people enjoy their right to self-determination and co-exist with others." Cabinet Minister Periris declared at the outset that the government did not see the negotiations "as a zero-sum game", where the gains of one are a ‘reciprocal loss to the other. He said, "We emphatically reject that premise. We acknowledge that we both have a problem, destructive of the pulsating heart of our nation, which it is in our mutual interest to resolve together. This is very much the spirit in which we conceive of, and will carry through, our role in the ensuing discussions.
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September - 16 
The Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met for the first round of direct peace talks in several years––the fourth time since conflict broke out between the two parties––at the Sattahip Naval Base in Thailand, on September 16. Both sides expressed the cautious optim
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The Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met for the first round of direct peace talks in several years––the fourth time since conflict broke out between the two parties––at the Sattahip Naval Base in Thailand, on September 16. Both sides expressed the cautious optimism that the negotiations would fructify. The two delegations, however, stuck to their known positions. The government offered maximum devolution of powers, but within a united Sri Lanka.
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September - 17 
A report in the state-run Daily News said, on September 18, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) assured it would not wage a war again. Reportedly, LTTE ideologue and chief negotiator at the ongoing peace talks Anton Balasingham, on September 16, assured the government that the LTTE has no in
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A report in the state-run Daily News said, on September 18, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) assured it would not wage a war again. Reportedly, LTTE ideologue and chief negotiator at the ongoing peace talks Anton Balasingham, on September 16, assured the government that the LTTE has no intention of resuming armed hostilities to win the rights of the Tamil people.
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September - 17 
United Nations (UN) Secretary General Kofi Annan, media reports from Sri Lanka said, on September 17, hailed the government-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) peace talks that have commenced in Thailand on September 16. Annan also hinted that the UN might play a bigger role in the peace process
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United Nations (UN) Secretary General Kofi Annan, media reports from Sri Lanka said, on September 17, hailed the government-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) peace talks that have commenced in Thailand on September 16. Annan also hinted that the UN might play a bigger role in the peace process in the days ahead. Speaking on behalf of Annan, UN spokesman Fred Eckhard said "[He hoped] these talks will lead to a political settlement of the internal conflict in Sri Lanka which will preserve the country's unity and integrity as well as take account of the needs of and interests of all its communities."
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September - 18 
Government delegation head and Cabinet Minister G L Peiris said he was happy that the LTTE was not asking for a separate state and added, "Their aspirations can be fulfilled within one country if we set about it in the proper way". He also said the proposed Interim Administration in the Northeast wa
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Government delegation head and Cabinet Minister G L Peiris said he was happy that the LTTE was not asking for a separate state and added, "Their aspirations can be fulfilled within one country if we set about it in the proper way". He also said the proposed Interim Administration in the Northeast was not the end but a part of the peace process and separation of functions. Peiris said, "If the Interim Administration should be seen as part of a process it will not stop there but will proceed to a coherent structure to accelerate the development work of the magnitude that is envisaged." Peiris also added that the two sides agreed "on how to take this forward." He said the future rounds of talks would address the post-interim administration set-up as well as core issues. At the talks, both parties agreed to constitute a Joint Task Force to undertake urgent humanitarian and reconstruction activities in the Northeast.
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September - 18 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) said, on September 18, it was now asking for maximum autonomy and self-government but not a separate state. Both the sides have agreed on the dates for three more rounds of talks in the weeks ahead. Speaking at a news conference in Sattahip, Thailand, at
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) said, on September 18, it was now asking for maximum autonomy and self-government but not a separate state. Both the sides have agreed on the dates for three more rounds of talks in the weeks ahead. Speaking at a news conference in Sattahip, Thailand, at the conclusion of the first round of government-LTTE peace talks, LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said homeland and self-determination do not mean a separate state but "self determination involves substantial autonomy in the historical areas where we live". He declared the LTTE would not disarm itself at this ‘stage’ and warned that they would fight for political independence if the peace talks failed. He said, "The question of decommissioning does not arise until a firm decision is arrived at to address the question of the Tamil minority. For the success of the talks, there should be support from the people of the South (the Sinhalese)".
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September - 19 
China’s Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jiang Qinzheng met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing head S P Tamilchelvan, on September 19, at LTTE political headquarters in Kilinochchi. The two discussed difficulties being faced by Tamils in the north and east. Qinzheng reportedly said
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China’s Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jiang Qinzheng met with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing head S P Tamilchelvan, on September 19, at LTTE political headquarters in Kilinochchi. The two discussed difficulties being faced by Tamils in the north and east. Qinzheng reportedly said his country was interested in providing aid to warn-torn areas. His visit and assurance follow a meeting in New York between Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, on the sidelines of the 57th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. At this meeting, the Foreign Minister assured China’s full support and aid for the peace process in Sri Lanka and expressed the hope that it would bring greater stability in the country in particular and the South Asian region in general.
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September - 19 
The September 16-18, 2002-peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have evoked mixed response in Sri Lanka. Sinhala chauvinist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna spokesman Wimal Weerawansa brushed aside the talks as ‘media show’. He charged that the LTTE has yet not
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The September 16-18, 2002-peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have evoked mixed response in Sri Lanka. Sinhala chauvinist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna spokesman Wimal Weerawansa brushed aside the talks as ‘media show’. He charged that the LTTE has yet not given up the demand for self-determination, self-government nor a Tamil homeland––all of which together mean a separate state. LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said at the talks that the LTTE was now making the above-mentioned demands but not a separate Eelam. He claimed that the talks were merely a means of tricking the Sinhala people in the South and speeding up the establishment of a separate state for the LTTE in a constitutional set-up. Weerawansa said, "The peace talks make no sense for people who want true peace but it has a purpose for the government and the LTTE." The LTTE’s purpose, he explained, was a separate state and the government’s purpose was single-party rule.
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September - 21 
Reports said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in a statement issued on September 21, had condemned a leaflet asking Muslims in the Mannar area to leave the place before end-September or face death. A group by the name ‘Elalan Force’, warned that ‘rivers of blood would flow’ if Muslim sch
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Reports said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in a statement issued on September 21, had condemned a leaflet asking Muslims in the Mannar area to leave the place before end-September or face death. A group by the name ‘Elalan Force’, warned that ‘rivers of blood would flow’ if Muslim schools in the district did not close down before end-September. "We strongly condemn those who are behind this leaflet, put out mischievously at a time when all are working towards peace and communal harmony", the LTTE said in its statement. It added, "We wish to take this opportunity to once again reiterate our stand that the Northeast is the homeland of the Tamils and Muslims." The LTTE asked Muslims to dismiss the threat and to prevent attempts by disruptive forces to "that are bent on opposing peace."
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September - 22 
Reports from Sri Lanka, on September 23, said 1,500 displaced families returned to their homes in Trincomalee district, following the February 2002-signing of the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). When the war was raging, these f
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Reports from Sri Lanka, on September 23, said 1,500 displaced families returned to their homes in Trincomalee district, following the February 2002-signing of the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement’ between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). When the war was raging, these families moved to the Wanni reports said. As their homes are damaged, they were being issued with free dry rations, reports further said.
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September - 26 
Reports said the LTTE Peace Secretariat would be headquartered in Kilinochchi and branches would be opened functioning in all districts of the province. Other reports said the Norwegian facilitators are holding discussions with the government and the LTTE to help establish the Joint Task Force (JTF
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Reports said the LTTE Peace Secretariat would be headquartered in Kilinochchi and branches would be opened functioning in all districts of the province. Other reports said the Norwegian facilitators are holding discussions with the government and the LTTE to help establish the Joint Task Force (JTF) on rehabilitation and reconstruction. The decision to form the JTF was taken at the now concluded first round of peace talks at Sattahip, Thailand, September 16-18.
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September - 27 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said British High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Stephen Evans, on September 27, met with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing chief S. P. Thamilchelvan in Killinochchi and held discussions on undertaking development activities in the Northeast Province.
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said British High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Stephen Evans, on September 27, met with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political-wing chief S. P. Thamilchelvan in Killinochchi and held discussions on undertaking development activities in the Northeast Province. Department of International Development director general Nicholas Brewer and other British officials accompanied Evans.
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September - 27 
Media reports said Asgiriya and Malwatte Chapters chief Prelates Udugama Sri Buddharakkhitha Maha Nayaka Thera and Rambukwelle Sri Vipassi Maha Nayaka Thera expressed their happiness at the successful conclusion of the first round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Ta
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Media reports said Asgiriya and Malwatte Chapters chief Prelates Udugama Sri Buddharakkhitha Maha Nayaka Thera and Rambukwelle Sri Vipassi Maha Nayaka Thera expressed their happiness at the successful conclusion of the first round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). They reportedly expressed the confidence that peace will dawn soon on the country. The first round of peace talks was held in Thailand at Sattahip, between September 16 and 18, 2002. The chief Prelates made these observations when chief government negotiator at the peace talks and Constitutional Affairs Minister Professor G.L.Peiris called on them to brief them on the outcome of peace talks and to receive their blessings for the second round of talks scheduled from October 31. Sri Vipassi Nayaka Thera suggested that the discussions should aim to bring in lasting peace within a unitary state under one government, safeguarding the rights of all citizens without discrimination. Buddharakkhitha Mahanayaka Thera sugested that the process must make progress taking one step at a time. He said solutions to problems would not appear suddenly and would have to be achieved gradually.
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October - 13 
Other reports said a Peace Committee comprising civic and religious leaders has been formed to defuse tensions and create a climate of peaceful coexistence between the major communities
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Other reports said a Peace Committee comprising civic and religious leaders has been formed to defuse tensions and create a climate of peaceful coexistence between the major communities
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October - 15 
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator Anton Balasingham and his wife Adele reached Wanni from London around on October 15 LTTE sources in Kilinochchi were quoted as having said. They were received in Mullaithivu LTTE political-wing chief S. P. Thamilselvan, Sea Tigers special comm
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Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator Anton Balasingham and his wife Adele reached Wanni from London around on October 15 LTTE sources in Kilinochchi were quoted as having said. They were received in Mullaithivu LTTE political-wing chief S. P. Thamilselvan, Sea Tigers special commander ‘col.’ Soosai, Tamil Eelam Police Force chief Nadesan. From Mulllaithivu they proceeded to Wanni. Balasingham’s visit comes two weeks ahead of the second round of direct peace talks between the government and the LTTE. Reports also held that LTTE spokesman Daya Master told the state-run Daily News that "Balasingham will brief [LTTE chief] Prabhakaran on the peace process and the duo will work out the LTTE stance on the second round of talks". Balasingham and Prabhakaran are expected to discuss the outcome of the first round of talks held at Pattya in Thailand, and the setting-up of a Joint Task Force agreed upon by both parties at the first round o talks, Daya Master reportedly said.
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October - 16 
The state-run Daily News said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasingham, on October 15 afternoon and again on October 16, met with LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and discussed preparations for the second round of direct peace talks with the governme
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The state-run Daily News said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasingham, on October 15 afternoon and again on October 16, met with LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and discussed preparations for the second round of direct peace talks with the government, due to be held towards the end of this month (October). An LTTE spokesman was quoted as saying "Balasingham updated Prabhakaran on the peace process…" The two were reportedly chalking out the stance that the LTTE should take on "core issues due to be discussed at the second round of talks". The spokesman also said, the core issue for the LTTE at the second round is reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Northeast, but gave no details.
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October - 18 
The delegation would be meeting with President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, members of the Peace Secretariat, the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission, several other government officials and the LTTE leadership. It is also set to meet with Leader of the Opposition Mahinda Raja
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The delegation would be meeting with President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe, members of the Peace Secretariat, the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission, several other government officials and the LTTE leadership. It is also set to meet with Leader of the Opposition Mahinda Rajapakse, civil society leaders and the business community the Royal Norwegian Embassy said in a statement issued in Colombo. The talks will focus on preparations for the second round of talks, its agenda and the formation of the Joint Task Force agreed to by at the first round of talks in Sattahip, Thailand, between government and the LTTE. Besides, the Implementation of the ‘permanent cease-fire agreement and the recent tensions in the East will also be discussed, reports said.
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October - 19 
A Norwegian delegation, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen, is expected in Sri Lanka today, October 19, to discuss instituting the Joint Task Force and the arrangements for the second round of direct peace talks in Thailand between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eela
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A Norwegian delegation, headed by Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen, is expected in Sri Lanka today, October 19, to discuss instituting the Joint Task Force and the arrangements for the second round of direct peace talks in Thailand between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The delegation will be meeting with both government officials and the LTTE. Other members of the delegation include Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jon Westborg, Second Secretary Thomas Stangeland, Special Advisor Erik Solheim, Hans Brattskar and Foreign Ministry Advisor Lisa Golden.
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October - 21 
An unnamed LTTE Political Headquarters spokesman, in Kilinochchi, was quoted as having said that LTTE chief Velupillai Prabhakaran will lead the LTTE delegation at the talks with Hegelsen Ambassador Jon Westborg and special peace envoy Erik Solheim. The LTTE delegation would consist of Prabhakaran,
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An unnamed LTTE Political Headquarters spokesman, in Kilinochchi, was quoted as having said that LTTE chief Velupillai Prabhakaran will lead the LTTE delegation at the talks with Hegelsen Ambassador Jon Westborg and special peace envoy Erik Solheim. The LTTE delegation would consist of Prabhakaran, chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, his wife Adele and LTTE political-wing chief S P Thamilchelvam.
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October - 21 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen of Norway, the facilitating country in the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, is likely to meet with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and peace delegation members, on October 21, today. He is expected to discuss with them t
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen of Norway, the facilitating country in the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, is likely to meet with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and peace delegation members, on October 21, today. He is expected to discuss with them the formation of the Joint Task Force and preparations for the second round of direct peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) due later in the month. Hegelsen is also likely to meet with Leader of the Opposition Mahinda Rajapakse today. Hegelsen has already met with some of the Ministers and government officials, besides Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) chief Maj Gen (Retd) Trond Furuhovde. The latter had briefed the former "on the implementation of the cease-fire agreement––what we have achieved yet and what have to," SLMM spokesman Teitur Torkelsson was quoted in the state-run Daily News as having said.
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October - 22 
Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen lead a delegation that met with the Government Agent in Jaffna, divisional secretaries, Mayor, heads of department of the Jaffna secretariat and others, on October 22, ahead of a meeting with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leadership, lat
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Norwegian Deputy Foreign Minister Vidar Helgesen lead a delegation that met with the Government Agent in Jaffna, divisional secretaries, Mayor, heads of department of the Jaffna secretariat and others, on October 22, ahead of a meeting with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) leadership, later in the day. Speaking at a press conference following the meeting, Helgesen said he was optimistic about the ongoing peace process in Sri Lanka, despite political turmoil and said 84 per cent of the people of the country support the peace process.
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October - 23 
Media reports said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has announced its delegation for the second round of direct peace talks with the government in Thailand, scheduled to be held later in the month. LTTE chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasimngham will continue to lead the team that
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Media reports said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has announced its delegation for the second round of direct peace talks with the government in Thailand, scheduled to be held later in the month. LTTE chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasimngham will continue to lead the team that would comprise of team secretary Adele Balasingham, LTTE legal advisor V. Rudrakumar and rehabilitation and development expert Jay Maheswaran––all of who participated in the first round of talks as well. The additional members announced for the second round are LTTE political wing chief S. P. Thamilselvan, and LTTE special commander for Batticaloa-Amparai district Col. Karuna.
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October - 29 
The government delegation to the second round of peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), that begins on October 31, is set to leave for Thailand today, October 29, the state-run Daily News said. The team leaving today includes Peace Secretariat Director General Bernard Gunatik
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The government delegation to the second round of peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), that begins on October 31, is set to leave for Thailand today, October 29, the state-run Daily News said. The team leaving today includes Peace Secretariat Director General Bernard Gunatiklake, Sri Lankan Army Major General Kottegoda,.John Gunaratne and Chanaka Jayasekera. The other members would follow them, on October 30. There were, however, no reports of the travel plans of the LTTE team. Chief among the issues to be discussed id the setting-up of the Joint Task Force to undertake reconstruction and rehabilitation work, as has already been reported.
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October - 30 
Another report said Cabinet Minister and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) chief Rauf Hakim, also a member of the government team in the peace talks with the LTTE, on October 30, met with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe. The meeting was held in the backdrop of SLMC Members of Parliament demanding
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Another report said Cabinet Minister and Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) chief Rauf Hakim, also a member of the government team in the peace talks with the LTTE, on October 30, met with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe. The meeting was held in the backdrop of SLMC Members of Parliament demanding an administrative district for the Muslims and announcing they would boycott Parliament indefinitely till their demand is met. Senior Muslim leaders too, on October 29, discussed the demand. Hakim, reports said, would after the meeting with Wickremasinghe join the government delegation in Thailand.
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October - 30 
Media reports said the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) delegations to the second round of peace talks, on October 30, left on the same plane from Colombo to Thailand. The talks commence today, October 31, and would be held for four days.
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Media reports said the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) delegations to the second round of peace talks, on October 30, left on the same plane from Colombo to Thailand. The talks commence today, October 31, and would be held for four days.
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October - 30 October - 31
Media reports from the capital Colombo said clashes occurred between Sinhala and Muslim communities on October 30. These resulted in the death of a Muslim and injuries to 12 more. A curfew was immediately clamped on the area and subsequently lifted. Meanwhile, even as the government and Liberation T
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Media reports from the capital Colombo said clashes occurred between Sinhala and Muslim communities on October 30. These resulted in the death of a Muslim and injuries to 12 more. A curfew was immediately clamped on the area and subsequently lifted. Meanwhile, even as the government and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) sat down for the second round of peace negotiations, on October 31, in Thailand, clashes recurred between the two communities and curfew was re-imposed. The clashes on the second day were reported while mourners were taking out the funeral procession of the person killed on October 30. In these clashes, a Buddhist monk was attacked, besides a Muslim wounded when police opened fire to disperse the crowd. A high-level security meeting was held in Colombo, on October 31, to assess the situation and was presided over by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe. Minister Tilak Marapone, Interior Minister John Amaratunge, the Inspector General of Police, Minister Mohamed Maharoof and top officials of the three armed forces attended the meeting. President Chandrika Kumaratunga, meanwhile appealed to people to stay calm and maintain peace. "There are people with selfish motives trying to incite the public. I appeal to you to remain calm and not be deceived by such rumours", Kumaratunga said in a statement, on October 31. She further said, "Any clash or conflict which has ethnic or religious undertones is an obstacle to national unity and progress. It is essential that we maintain a peaceful environment in and around Colombo, which is our Commercial Capital, inhabited by people of different communities and religions". Leaders of the Muslim community in Colombo, too, made appeals for peace and restraint.
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October - 31 
The Colombo High Court, on October 31, convicted and sentenced Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran to 200 years in prison for conspiring to and carrying out the bombing of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka in 1996. Five more LTTE cadres have also have been sentenced alon
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The Colombo High Court, on October 31, convicted and sentenced Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) chief Velupillai Prabhakaran to 200 years in prison for conspiring to and carrying out the bombing of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka in 1996. Five more LTTE cadres have also have been sentenced along with Prabhakaran. On January 31,1996 in the massive explosion at the Central Bank in the Fort area, in Colombo, over 78 persons were killed and extensive loss and damage was caused to private and public property under the impact of the explosion. In all, 10 persons were charged in the case on 13 counts for conspiring to commit mischief, destroying the Central Bank building using explosives and committing the murders of 78 people at the same time and on the same day, among other things. The accused had further been charged with planning, conspiring and directing terrorist and violent activities in Vauniya, Chavakachcheri, Kilinochchi and Colombo. The value of the destruction in the various incidents at the places cited was over SLR 1,050 million, the state-run Daily News said, on November 1. . Besides 1,313 persons were injured, 324 vehicles and 40 motorcycles destroyed. The names of the accused are Velupillai Prabhakaran, LTTE intelligence wing chief Pottu Amman, Charles Master, Gunaseelan, Ramesh Subramanium Wigneshwaran, Sellaiaha Nawaratne, Rajadurai Sathurukulasingham, Kandiah Sri Ganesh, Ranaiah Poopathy and Karupiah Kamalanathan. The sentence was awarded on the same day as the government and the LTTE met for the second round of peace talks in Thailand. Speaking at the venue of the talks, government negotiating team leader and Cabinet spokesperson G L Peiris said the sentencing of Prabhakaran would not affect the peace talks. He also said they did not expect the Colombo High Court judgement to disrupt the peace process. Reports of the LTTE’s reaction to the judgement were yet not available.
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October - 31 November - 1
The four-day second round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) commenced in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, on October 31. The security situation in the East was prominently discussed in the first session, the state-run Daily News reported on November 1.
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The four-day second round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) commenced in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, on October 31. The security situation in the East was prominently discussed in the first session, the state-run Daily News reported on November 1. Significant decisions on drawing a framework to undertake practicable measures to deal with potential cease-fire violations were reached on the first day, reports added. Further, the establishment of the Joint Task Force and defining High Security Zones in the North with the possibility of relaxing some of the guidelines now in force, would be discussed on November 1, today, reports said, quoting to Norwegian Peace envoy Erik Solheim. Another report said the director of the LTTE’s clandestine Voice of Tigers, S. Thamilamban, and two others came over to Thailand to cover the second session of the talks.
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November - 1 
Cabinet spokesperson and government delegation leader at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris said both sides have agreed on the structure of the Joint Task Force (JTF) that would undertake rehabilitation and reconstruction work with aid to from foreign donors.
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Cabinet spokesperson and government delegation leader at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris said both sides have agreed on the structure of the Joint Task Force (JTF) that would undertake rehabilitation and reconstruction work with aid to from foreign donors. Speaking on November 1 to the state-run Daily News on the second day of the second round of peace talks in Thailand, Peiris described the discussion on the JTF as one of the most successful in the talks held so far. The agreed structure of the JTF would have the accountability and transparency demanded by foreign donors, he disclosed. He said both the sides believed that the structure and mechanism of the JTF would satisfy international donors while also confirming with the country's legal framework. The speedy establishment of the JTF became necessary in view of the forthcoming donor conference in Oslo. Billions of rupees of aid has been promised for rehabilitation and reconstruction in the North of the country.
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November - 1 
Media reports from Sri Lanka, quoting police sources on November 2, said the Sri Lankan Navy has arrested at least six Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres while they were transporting 35 claymore mines, 17 handheld communication receivers and a satellite antenna, off Trincomalee, on Novem
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Media reports from Sri Lanka, quoting police sources on November 2, said the Sri Lankan Navy has arrested at least six Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadres while they were transporting 35 claymore mines, 17 handheld communication receivers and a satellite antenna, off Trincomalee, on November 1 night. Reports said the LTTE was moving the mines and other equipment in a boat to probably the LTTE-controlled Sampur area, near Trincomalee. The Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) has been informed of the incident and the subsequent arrests. A Trincomalee court has remanded the arrested cadres to police custody till November 15. In Killinochchi the LTTE reportedly said the arrests would have no bearing on the ongoing second round of peace talks.
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November - 2 
The second round of government-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) peace talks being held in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, moved further with both the sides on the third day of the talks, on November 2, agreeing to set up a Political Committee and a Security Committee. They have already finalised the
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The second round of government-Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) peace talks being held in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, moved further with both the sides on the third day of the talks, on November 2, agreeing to set up a Political Committee and a Security Committee. They have already finalised the structure of the Joint Task Force (JTF) that would undertake rehabilitation and reconstruction work in the North. Reports are yet not clear if a Committee on Economic Affairs would also be formed, or the JTF would function under such a Committee, or the JTF itself would take the form of Committee on Economic Affairs. The Political Committee will examine the long-term political steps that must be taken for a comprehensive settlement of the ethnic conflict. The Committee comprises government negotiating team leader and Cabinet Minister G. L. Peiris, Cabinet Minister Rauf Hakeem LTTE chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasingham and another LTTE representative who would soon be named. The Security Committee will consist of 19 members and would be chaired by Defence Secretary Austin Fernando. The government and the LTTE are due to issue a joint statement later today, November 3, at the conclusion of the four-day talks.
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November - 5 
The state-run Daily News said United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, on November 5, in a statement said he was encouraged by the progress made in the peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE and the government have already completed two round
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The state-run Daily News said United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, on November 5, in a statement said he was encouraged by the progress made in the peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The LTTE and the government have already completed two rounds of talks in Thailand. Annan's spokesman Fred Eckhard reportedly said, "He (Annan) sincerely hopes further rounds will lead to a lasting political solution to the internal conflict in Sri Lanka." Annan, atating that he felt "very encouraged by the successful conclusion" of the talks, expressed "appreciation and support for Norway's facilitation efforts in the peace process."
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November - 7 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said Cabinet spokesperson and government delegation leader at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris announced he would be maintaining direct contact with LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham. Speaking at a press briefing after a r
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said Cabinet spokesperson and government delegation leader at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris announced he would be maintaining direct contact with LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham. Speaking at a press briefing after a regular Cabinet meeting Peiris informed correspondence through letters and conversations on the telephone would be done with Balasingham during the month-long intervals between succeeding rounds of talks. This would enable to discuss matters and help in taking the negotiations further. The plenary of the regular rounds of delegation-level talks would be apprised of the developments when the two delegations meet, Peiris said. He also said the establishment of a political committee was unexpected. At the second round of talks that concluded on November 3, it was decided that three committees would be formed––political, security and economic––in the place of a Joint Task Force. The Sri Lankan government, LTTE and the Muslim community would be represented on the committees.
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November - 10 
The Sub-committee on De-escalation and Normalisation (SDN)––defence committee—of the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met on November 10. At the end of a four-hour long session the members said they were confident of making further progress in stabilising the peace process
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The Sub-committee on De-escalation and Normalisation (SDN)––defence committee—of the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met on November 10. At the end of a four-hour long session the members said they were confident of making further progress in stabilising the peace process on the ground, in Sri Lanka. The two sides discussed re-settling internally displaced persons and lifting restrictions on fishing. At the second round of peace talks that concluded on October 3, in Thailand, the two sides agreed to set up three committees to discuss economic, political and defence maters, it might be recollected. Fishing restrictions would be lifted and two entry points each would be opened in the islands of Kayts, Karainagar, Matthagal and Punguduthivu. The entry points are to be announced latest by November 13. Both the sides have decided to hold district-level meetings in Jaffna, Vavuniya, Trincomalee, Batticaloa and Ampara to publicise the decisions taken at the meeting. "As we go on, I think we will get better results out of the issues we have looked at," Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Austin Fernando said after the meeting. LTTE peace secretariat secretary Pulithevan said, "It is the wish of our leader [Prabhakaran] and our organisation [the LTTE] that normalcy should restored to ensure the well being of our people. We emphasised this at the talks…. These talks should fulfil the basic aspirations and guarantee the fundamental rights of our people." A host of LTTE political-wing leaders and military commanders, government military and naval commanders and senior police officers participated in the meeting, chaired by facilitator Norway’s Ambassador in Sri Lanka John Westborg. Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM) chief Maj Gen (Retd) Trond Furhovde participated in the meeting. The government team was led by Defence Secretary Austin Fernando and the LTTE team by senior commander col. Karuna. Both the sides agreed to meet again on December 14.
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November - 13 
The Sri Lankan security forces and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’s (LTTE) naval wing, the Sea Tigers, met in Muhamalai, on November 13, and agreed to tackle problems being faced by fishermen in the North-East. Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission chief Maj Gen (Retd) Trond Furuhovde presided over the mee
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The Sri Lankan security forces and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’s (LTTE) naval wing, the Sea Tigers, met in Muhamalai, on November 13, and agreed to tackle problems being faced by fishermen in the North-East. Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission chief Maj Gen (Retd) Trond Furuhovde presided over the meeting. Their meeting follows an earlier meeting of the Sub-committee on De-escalation and Normalisation (SDN)––defence committee—of the government and the LTTE on November 10. The Navy announced eight entry points in four islands––Kayts, Mathagala, Karainagar and Punguduthivu for fishermen for round-the clock fishing. However, the LTTE has asked Northern Navy Commander Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekera to consider other places citing incomplete resettlement of fishermen in the areas around entry points suggested by the Navy. The Navy is considering alternative entry points suggested by the LTTE. The Navy also agreed to decrease the speed of its Dovra class patrol vessels as the LTTE complained that the high speed of the vessels was damaging fishing nets. Also, the LTTE’s movement by sea from Mullaitivu to Vakarai in Batticaloa were discussed, and the LTTE asked for permission to said a mile away from the coast, instead of the prescribed three miles and for permitting moving cadres to carry weapons for self-defence. There has no agreement on the matter as yet, reports said. The problem of Indian fishermen entering Sri Lankan waters was also reportedly discussed. Northern Naval Commander Rear Admiral Sarath Weerasekera, Eastern Naval Commander Rear Admiral Ratnakeerti, Northern Air Force Commander Group Captain Kolitha Gunatilleke, Major General Shantha Kottegoda and Jaffna Deputy Commander Major General Ratnasabapathi represented the security forces. LTTE Sea Tigers deputy commander Seliyan, attack commander Sri Ram, LTTE Jaffna political wing chief Elamparithi, LTTE Peace Secretariat coordinator Pulithevan and LTTE media spokesman Daya Master represented the LTTE.
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November - 15 
Cabinet Minister Milinda Morogoda, on November 15, briefed President Chandrika Kumaratunga on the results of the second round of peace talks held between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in Thailand. The second round of talks concluded on October 3. The Presidential Se
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Cabinet Minister Milinda Morogoda, on November 15, briefed President Chandrika Kumaratunga on the results of the second round of peace talks held between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in Thailand. The second round of talks concluded on October 3. The Presidential Secretariat was quoted a s saying, after the meeting, that Kumaratunga raised concerns on the future course of the peace talks and asked the government to widen the scope of consultation with the LTTE. It has been agreed to hold further discussion on the peace process, the statement added. Reports also said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe would meet with the President and brief her on the outcome of Oslo aid meeting after his return from the same. A meeting is due later this month (October) in Oslo, the capital of peace talks facilitator Norway, and would be attended by several countries to discuss extending several billion dollars in aid to Sri Lanka. The aid would be used to undertake rehabilitation and reconstruction in the North and East. Meanwhile, Presidential advisor and former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, on November 15, accused Norway of not being impartial while discharging its role as a facilitator at the peace talks.
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November - 16 
Sri Lankan Armed Forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met on November 16, in Muhamalai, resettling displaced families in high security zones and the removal of fishing restriction in Jaffna peninsula, media reports said. The two sides agreed to meet again on November 21 and dis
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Sri Lankan Armed Forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) met on November 16, in Muhamalai, resettling displaced families in high security zones and the removal of fishing restriction in Jaffna peninsula, media reports said. The two sides agreed to meet again on November 21 and discuss opening for civilians the Nagarkovil-Point Pedro road in the Vadamarachchi area. Defence Secretary Austin Fernando led the government delegation at the talks and LTTE northern front commander col. Theepan led the LTTE team. Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission chief Major General (Retd) Trond Furuhovde participated in the discussion.
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November - 17 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said government team member at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Goonetilleke expressed the optimism that common ground on crucial matters can be reached with the LTTE. He was speaking, on Nov
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said government team member at the peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Goonetilleke expressed the optimism that common ground on crucial matters can be reached with the LTTE. He was speaking, on November 17, ahead of the first meeting, on November 18, of the Sub-Committee on Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs in the North-East in Kilinochchi,. It is among the three committees––the others being political and defence––formed to hold discussions during intervals between successive rounds of talks between the government and the LTTE. The meeting will be held at the Government Agent's Office in Kilinochchi. Several countries including the US, the UK and Japan have offered come to help in rehabilitation and reconstruction in the war torn-North and East. Later in the month, November 25, a meeting of all donor countries is due in Oslo, the capital of peace talks facilitator Norway.
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November - 18 
A meeting of the Sub-Committee on Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs of North East (SIHRN) decided, on November 18, to inaugurate on December 15, in Killinochchi, the Secretariat to handle rehabilitation, reconstruction and development activities. SIHRN is among the three sub-committees
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A meeting of the Sub-Committee on Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs of North East (SIHRN) decided, on November 18, to inaugurate on December 15, in Killinochchi, the Secretariat to handle rehabilitation, reconstruction and development activities. SIHRN is among the three sub-committees––the others being political and security––to discuss matters during intervals between successive rounds of peace talks between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government. LTTE political-wing head S.P.Thamilchelvan led the LTTE delegation and Peace Secretariat Secretary General Bernard Gunatilake led the government delegation at the meeting. Speaking during recess, Thamilchelvan said the LTTE is of the opinion that Norway is acting impartially in its role as a facilitator of the peace talks. He critcised former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar’s statement to the contrary as a reaction to the eventuality of the LTTE gaining international acceptability at the forthcoming donors conference in Oslo. Norwegian Ambassador in Sri Lanka Jon Westborg and Japanese Embassy officials were present during the meeting, reports added.
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November - 18 
A special commando unit of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been raised and its training has been completed, reports said on November 18. Speaking at the passing-out parade of the unit, LTTE Batticoloa-Amparai military section head col. Ramesh said maintaining military strength is imp
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A special commando unit of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has been raised and its training has been completed, reports said on November 18. Speaking at the passing-out parade of the unit, LTTE Batticoloa-Amparai military section head col. Ramesh said maintaining military strength is important and will influence the ongoing peace talks with the government. He emphasised that the LTTE believes that negotiations will bring peace. Hew said, "We firmly believe that we can reach a fair and just solution to our struggle through negotiations. Maintaining our military strength is vital if we are to be successful in our negotiations. We detest war. But we also believe that if we don't continue to maintain our military strength and if we fail to be in utmost readiness to meet any military threat, it will be difficult to win our rights."
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November - 19 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and officers of the Sri Lankan security forces met in Omanthai, in the no-man’s land, on November 19, to discuss problems arising from High Security Zones (HSZ) in Vavuniya, Mannar and Mullaitivu districts. There was not much progress made and the two side
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and officers of the Sri Lankan security forces met in Omanthai, in the no-man’s land, on November 19, to discuss problems arising from High Security Zones (HSZ) in Vavuniya, Mannar and Mullaitivu districts. There was not much progress made and the two sides have decided to meet again at a later date. Armed Forces head in the Wanni Major General Shantha Kottegoda led the government side at the talks, while southern military commander Colonel Jeyam led the LTTE side. Speaking to the media after the talks, Jeyam said they discussed resettling displaced persons in the areas of HSZs in Mannar and Mullaitivu districts.
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November - 19 
The Sri Lankan Army and police have agreed, on November 19, to vacate public places under their occupation, in Batticaloa, but have asked for time, until alternative accommodation was found, reports said. The assurance was given at a meeting of the Batticaloa district committee of the Sub-Committee
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The Sri Lankan Army and police have agreed, on November 19, to vacate public places under their occupation, in Batticaloa, but have asked for time, until alternative accommodation was found, reports said. The assurance was given at a meeting of the Batticaloa district committee of the Sub-Committee on De-escalation and Normalisation held in Vavunathivu, near Batticaloa. Maj. Gen. Shantha Kottegoda, who lead the security forces at the talks, was appreciative of the positive attitude exhibited by Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Batticaloa-Amparai special commander col. Karuna. Reports said security forces agreed in principle to vacate Batticaloa Fort in which the Batticaloa District Secretariat also functions and the Bar Road branch of the town’s Municipal Library which has been occupied by the Sri Lanka Police since 1990. The LTTE said it understood the difficulty of the security forces––financial constraints and accommodation availability––in vacating public places quickly, reports added. Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission Batticaloa head Heikki Hulkkonen presided over the meeting.
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November - 24 
The Sub-Committee for Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs in the North and East (SIHRN) formed after the second round of peace talks in Thailand appealed to the world community for support to rebuild the Northeast.
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The Sub-Committee for Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs in the North and East (SIHRN) formed after the second round of peace talks in Thailand appealed to the world community for support to rebuild the Northeast.
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November - 25 
At a meeting of more than 20 countries financial and political support was promised to the peace process in Sri Lanka in Oslo, on November 25, reports said. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe headed the Sri Lankan government delegation and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political ideologue
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At a meeting of more than 20 countries financial and political support was promised to the peace process in Sri Lanka in Oslo, on November 25, reports said. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe headed the Sri Lankan government delegation and Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) political ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham led the LTTE team. The US, the UK, the European Union and several other countries made financial commitments. However, the amount of financial aid that would be offered would be announced at a larger meeting in Tokyo in March 2003, reports added. Reports, however, hold that an estimated $500 million would be required for reconstruction and rehabilitation. Though Indian representatives were present at the meeting, there was no official delegation. Reportedly, India was reluctant to share the platform with LTTE as it holds that it had assassinated former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, and hence the absence of an official delegation.
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November - 26 
United States (US) Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage said at the November 25-Oslo meeting of donor countries that his country was ready ‘to play its part’ in implementing the peace agreement between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He disclosed that
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United States (US) Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage said at the November 25-Oslo meeting of donor countries that his country was ready ‘to play its part’ in implementing the peace agreement between the Sri Lankan government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He disclosed that the US has already given US$ 16 million in aid to Sri Lanka and added that it was ready to offer more. "My presence here (in Oslo) today (November 25) at this conference is a clear signal that my country stands ready to increase that aid––to be an active participant in the reconstruction of Sri Lanka," Armitage said.
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November - 29 
A possible political framework for the Northeast would be discussed at the third round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in Oslo, between December 2 and 5, the state-run Daily News said in a report on November 29. The report was quoting Cabinet sp
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A possible political framework for the Northeast would be discussed at the third round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), in Oslo, between December 2 and 5, the state-run Daily News said in a report on November 29. The report was quoting Cabinet spokesperson and government team head at the peace talks G L Peiris. Peiris further declared the LTTE cannot run its own courts and said this would also be discussed at the next round of peace talks. Peiris said, "There can be only one legal system in Sri Lanka and any court house outside that system is unacceptable". He also said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe gave clear instructions to the police to ‘demolish all LTTE court houses' in government controlled areas. Further, Peiris said the sixth round of peace talks would be held in March in Tokyo, as Japan has made such a request, and the LTTE and the government have accepted the request. He also disclosed that South Africa has requested that one of the rounds of talks be held there, and added the two sides have agreed for the same.
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December - 2 
Cabinet spokesperson G L Peiris is leading the government team at the talks, while LTTE ideologue Anton Balasingham is leading the LTTE delegation, as was done in the past two rounds.
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Cabinet spokesperson G L Peiris is leading the government team at the talks, while LTTE ideologue Anton Balasingham is leading the LTTE delegation, as was done in the past two rounds.
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December - 2 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) inaugurated its second court in the eastern province, on December 2, in Kattaiparichchan village, in Muttur east, which is under the control of the LTTE. Making a keynote speech at the inaugural, LTTE Trincomalee district political-wing head Tilak said the
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) inaugurated its second court in the eastern province, on December 2, in Kattaiparichchan village, in Muttur east, which is under the control of the LTTE. Making a keynote speech at the inaugural, LTTE Trincomalee district political-wing head Tilak said the LTTE’s courts "are established in areas in the northeast controlled by us (LTTE)." Several LTTE cadres and military and political-wing leaders participated in the event. During his speech, Tilak said until now, the LTTE’s courts have settled "more than twenty three thousand cases" in the areas under its control. He further that claimed only in "five per cent" of the cases did litigants sought to appeal to the higher level and added, Sri Lankan courts take more than two years on the average to dispose a case. But our … courts dispose cases generally within six months". Cabinet spokesperson G L Peiris is leading the government team at the talks, while LTTE ideologue Antion Balasingham is leading the LTTE delegation, as was done in the past two rounds.
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December - 2 
The third round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are set to begin today, December 2, in Oslo, the capital of peace process facilitator Norway. Issues that would be discussed include political issues that aim at arriving at a long-term solution to
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The third round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) are set to begin today, December 2, in Oslo, the capital of peace process facilitator Norway. Issues that would be discussed include political issues that aim at arriving at a long-term solution to the ethnic conflict, rehabilitation and resettlement, implementation of the ongoing truce agreement and security issues such as high security zones, besides LTTE police stations and courts, reports said.
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December - 2 
The third round of peace talks between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government commenced in Oslo, the capital of peace process facilitator Norway, on December 2. The talks will conclude on December 5, with a joint press conference to be addressed by the two sides. A notable a
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The third round of peace talks between the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government commenced in Oslo, the capital of peace process facilitator Norway, on December 2. The talks will conclude on December 5, with a joint press conference to be addressed by the two sides. A notable absentee in the government delegation at this round of talks is Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) leader Rauf Hakeem, who is beset with dissidence in his party.
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December - 2 
Reports said the government, on December 2, has agreed to hold a two-day debate in Parliament on the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Reportedly, the debate is likely to be held in the third week of January 2003. Leader of the Opposition M
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Reports said the government, on December 2, has agreed to hold a two-day debate in Parliament on the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Reportedly, the debate is likely to be held in the third week of January 2003. Leader of the Opposition Mahinda Rajapakse made the request for the debate when Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe made a special statement in the House on the November 25-Oslo donors’ meet. Reports added that a three-hour debate would be held on December 9 on the situation in the Northeast.
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December - 4 
LTTE chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasingham said, on the same day, the discussions were aimed at working out a viable framework. Meanwhile, government chief negotiator and Cabinet Minister G L Peiris termed the commencement of the political discussions as the "most significant––we have rea
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LTTE chief negotiator and ideologue Anton Balasingham said, on the same day, the discussions were aimed at working out a viable framework. Meanwhile, government chief negotiator and Cabinet Minister G L Peiris termed the commencement of the political discussions as the "most significant––we have reached the point at which the political solution can be addressed". At the same time, he admitted that there was a ‘wide gulf’ between the positions of the two sides on power sharing, and added, "It is now our task to work out the mechanisms by which power can be shared. It will be a long haul," Peiris observed, and declared, "This is the crux of the matter." Both the sides, however, said the foundation for discussions on the political issue has already been laid, with the LTTE stating that it would accept a political solution within a united Sri Lanka. While Peiris said the announcement by LTTE chief Velupillai Prabhakaran that the LTTE was seeking a solution within a united Sri Lanka, Balasingham noted that his leader's statement had "set the framework for the core issues to be dealt with." He added, "We are seeking regional autonomy within a united, integral Sri Lanka." Peiris reportedly exhibited the confidence that ‘power sharing is doable". The third round of the peace negotiations concludes today, December 5. The fourth round is likely to be held in January in Thailand, reports added.
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December - 4 
The Sri Lankan government and the delegation of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on December 4, discussed the ‘framework’ for the political solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the country, at Oslo, in Norway, at ongoing the third round of peace talks.
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The Sri Lankan government and the delegation of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on December 4, discussed the ‘framework’ for the political solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the country, at Oslo, in Norway, at ongoing the third round of peace talks.
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December - 13 
Media reports said President Chandrika Kumaratunga-led Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) has asked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe’s United National Party-led government to clarify several concepts and words being used in the statements issued during the third round of peace talks with the Liberati
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Media reports said President Chandrika Kumaratunga-led Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) has asked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe’s United National Party-led government to clarify several concepts and words being used in the statements issued during the third round of peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Oslo. The SLFP, in a press release, on December 13, asked the government to clarify terms such as "political status", "self-determination" "complete self-rule".
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December - 15 
He conceded that there were certain setbacks in implementing the Memorandum of Understanding between his government and the LTTE but added that these setbacks should not be allowed to derail the peace process. No development or economic prosperity is possible in a climate of war, the Prime Minis
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He conceded that there were certain setbacks in implementing the Memorandum of Understanding between his government and the LTTE but added that these setbacks should not be allowed to derail the peace process. No development or economic prosperity is possible in a climate of war, the Prime Minister said, and requested the cooperation of people of Sri Lanka in helping him to make progress in the peace talks. Several resolutions were adopted at the UNP convention including one which empowered the Prime Minister to find a permanent political solution to the national crisis acceptable to all communities.
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December - 15 
The Government and the LTTE on Saturday agreed to have an integrated plan of action on resettling the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in the High Security Zones in the North. Jaffna Commander Major General Sarath Fonseka will present the first such proposal for the resettlement of IDPs in a l
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The Government and the LTTE on Saturday agreed to have an integrated plan of action on resettling the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) in the High Security Zones in the North. Jaffna Commander Major General Sarath Fonseka will present the first such proposal for the resettlement of IDPs in a limited area in the high security zones in the Jaffna peninsula before December 21, for the consideration of the two parties. The two parties agreed on this following the second meeting of the Sub Committee on De-escalation and Normalisation(SDN) held on Saturday in Muhamalai.
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December - 16 
Maldives, on December 16, expressed keenness to host the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom reportedly made the offer during the ongoing official visit to Maldives of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasing
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Maldives, on December 16, expressed keenness to host the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom reportedly made the offer during the ongoing official visit to Maldives of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe.
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December - 18 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, on December 18, asked the people and the clergy to extend support in furthering the ongoing peace process with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Addressing the International Islamic Conference on 'Justice and World Peace', in Colombo, he said, "We are
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, on December 18, asked the people and the clergy to extend support in furthering the ongoing peace process with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Addressing the International Islamic Conference on 'Justice and World Peace', in Colombo, he said, "We are now engaged in peace talks with the LTTE. We have sat down at the same table and opened our hearts out for the first time.'' He said the two sides were identifying issues and would have to find solutions to the needs of the people affected by the ethnic conflict.
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December - 23 
Cabinet Minister and government negotiating team leader in the peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris said on December 23 that the government would soon release a report giving details of broadcasting equipment given to the LTTE. He said this wo
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Cabinet Minister and government negotiating team leader in the peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) G L Peiris said on December 23 that the government would soon release a report giving details of broadcasting equipment given to the LTTE. He said this would put at rest rumors being spread by elements opposed to the peace process that the security of the country was at stake. "We will never act against the interests of our motherland. We are saddened by the false propaganda spread by these forces," he said. He also said that, ahead of the fourth round of talks in early January 2003, matters agreed to by the sub-committee on de-escalation and normalizaton (SDN) on security issues will be discussed. Reports also said political issues––devolution of power––as well as humanitarian issues––human rights and child combatants––would be discussed at the fourth round of peace talks.
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December - 25 
Sri Lanka Freedom Party general secretary Maithripala Sirisena said his party vehemently opposes the federal system envisaged for the North-East and as agreed between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the state-run Daily News said on December 25, while speaking at a par
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Sri Lanka Freedom Party general secretary Maithripala Sirisena said his party vehemently opposes the federal system envisaged for the North-East and as agreed between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), the state-run Daily News said on December 25, while speaking at a party gathering in Pollanaruwa. He said, "Sri Lanka is a unitary country. We will never allow the federal system in this country. Under the guise of peace, federalism is just an attempt to divide the country and allow the North-East to separate. Arguing that LTTE-run army, police, banks and judiciary are operating in the Northeast, he said federalism would only facilitate separation of the country and held that the government was helping the LTTE to create a separate country. Sirisena went on to say, "In the past, the president [Chandrika Kumaratunga] had many executive powers. But currently many of them are powers in name only. In the future, the president may have to use her authority, otherwise the division of the country will become a dangerous reality."
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December - 29 
Resettlement of internally displaced persons and normalisation of conditions in the areas they inhabit will form the main agenda at the fourth round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE), said Anton Balasingham, chief negotiator and ideologue of the LTT
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Resettlement of internally displaced persons and normalisation of conditions in the areas they inhabit will form the main agenda at the fourth round of peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE), said Anton Balasingham, chief negotiator and ideologue of the LTTE, on December 29. The talks would be held between January 3 and 6, 2003, in Thailand. He reiterated what he said earlier and noted that the Sub-Committee on De-escalation and Normalisation (SDN) has been rendered defunct because the Army failed to vacate public places in its occupation, contrary to the cease-fire agreement. Therefore, this has turned into a hurdle in the functioning of the Sub-Committee on Immediate Humanitarian and Rehabilitation Needs (SIHRN), he added. Stating that resettlement and rehabilitation are the "urgent and cardinal" issues of the Tamil people, he declared that, unless this was made possible, the peace process cannot progress.
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December - 30 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga met with a group of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leaders and held a discussion, on December 30, on the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), disagreements over withdrawal of forces from High Security Zones and g
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga met with a group of Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) leaders and held a discussion, on December 30, on the ongoing peace talks between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), disagreements over withdrawal of forces from High Security Zones and general security matters. Reportedly, JVP propaganda secretary Weerawansa accused the Norwegian Embassy of as supporting the LTTE and asked Kumaratunga to safeguard the country.
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