Sri Lanka: Statement by the Tokyo Co-Chairs
International efforts to persuade the LTTE to allow the civilians freedom of movement have failed. There remains only a short period before the LTTE loses control of all areas in the North. The LTTE and the GOSL should recognize that further loss of life - of civilians and combatants - will serve no cause.
To avoid further civilian casualties and human suffering, the Co-Chairs:
- call on the LTTE to discuss with the Government of Sri Lanka the modalities for ending hostilities, including the laying down of arms, renunciation of violence; acceptance of the Government of Sri Lanka's offer of amnesty; and participating as a political party in a process to achieve a just and lasting political solution; and
- call on the GOSL and the LTTE to declare a temporary no-fire period to allow for evacuation of sick and wounded, and provision of aid to civilians.
The Co-Chairs will work with the Government of Sri Lanka, India, the United Nations and others to ensure:
- the internally displaced people from the north are transferred to temporary camps where UN agencies, the ICRC, and humanitarian organizations will have full access and the IDPs will be treated according to the international standards and resettled in their original homes as soon as possible; and
- an inclusive dialogue to agree on a political settlement so that lasting peace and reconciliation can be achieved.