SLFP proposals aim peace, democracy in North-East

Tamil civilians partners of power structure, says President:

COLOMBO: The Sri Lanka Freedom Party's political proposals unveiled yesterday will bring democracy to the people who have been held hostage by terrorist elements in some areas of the North-East, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said yesterday.

Addressing the SLFP May Day Rally at Town Hall grounds via a special link, President Rajapaksa said: "The Government is mindful of the workers' unstinted support to it to face the challenge of ruthless terrorism.

"It is our firm belief that the ordinary Tamil masses must be made partners in the political power structure while striving to defeat terrorism."

"I salute your unstinted cooperation in the quest to defeat terrorism and separatism, the fulfilment of aspirations of the working masses and the creation of a new Sri Lanka," the President said.

The Government has taken special measures to grant relief to Government and private sector workers in the face of the rising cost of living, he noted.

"We are already seeing the results of our determination to create a sustainable market for agricultural products, control the prices of essential items and strengthen the public transport service.

We are also confident of the success of the massive development projects launched by us to re-awaken the economy.

We will not waver from our stance of non-privatisation of State resources and properties."

The President said May Day was also an occasion for all to be firmly resolved to banish the political differences that exist among the working class.

"It is our fervent wish to establish a country that stands united sans any political differences. Such prudence and discipline are essential ingredients for victory."

"I have an intimate knowledge of the challenges facing the working class.

"We are committed to achieve a better future for the next generation," he added.

SLFP proposals to APRC