Solheim to stand aside

OSLO: Norway's International Development Minister Erik Solheim said yesterday he will stand aside as a special peace envoy of Sri Lanka but keep overall responsibility for Oslo's mediation effort.

The 51-year-old, who has often visited Sri Lanka in the past six years as peace envoy, said Oslo would soon name a successor. Solheim is due to mediate a round of peace talks between the Sri Lankan Government and Tamil Tigers in Geneva next month.

"You can't do this day and night and look after my other Government responsibilities," he said. Officials said he would have overall responsibility for mediation efforts and attend any peace talks. Solheim is a member of Norway's socialist party and became development minister in addition to being Sri Lanka peace envoy after a centre-left coalition won power in a parliamentary election in September.

"I will continue to be involved as it will take sometime for the new person to know the politics and the people," he said.

He did not name a successor but said the appointment would take place shortly.

"It's always good to bring in some fresh blood and it may help the cause too," he said.

NORWAY, Thursday, Reuters.