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| Monday, 21 January 2002 |
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Editorial | |
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THE OBSERVER The Oldest English Newspaper in
South Asia Extended ceasefire The LTTE has once again unilaterally extended the ceasefire that currently prevails between it and the Sri Lankan armed forces. This will be welcomed by all, both in this country and internationally.The ceasefire this past month has not seen any violations. On the contrary, it has set in motion a renewed attempt to negotiate a political settlement of the secessionist war. The government, on the basis of ensuring the integrity and unity of the country, is now participating in a process of exchanges with the LTTE, via the Norwegian government, to relaunch peace talks.The LTTE’s extension of its ceasefire by another month is certain to be reciprocated by the Government which, in its Norwegian-facilitated exchanges with the LTTE, has been endeavouring to bring, about a more stable cessation of hostilities over a longer period. Numerous Government spokespersons have pointed out the advantages of a stable, longer term ceasefire that is put in place with a mutual agreement between the two sides. A mutual agreement, such as a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ (MoU) will provide for mutually beneficial safeguards and will lay down agreed parameters to ensure a ceasefire over a fixed period that could extend for a considerably longer term than the current month’s duration.Rather than unilateral, ad hoc and short term declarations by either side, a mutually agreed cessation of hostilities with agreed conditions, will ensure greater security for both sides. A longer period of guaranteed quiet on the battlefront will create the necessary environment for progress in political negotiations. |
 
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