TNA ‘sincerely committed’ to talks‪

3 January 2012 09:29 am Views - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}} 23 Bookmark

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The Tamil National Alliance (TNA) today dismissed speculation that it was planning to withdraw from talks with the government and reiterated its commitment to continue the bilateral discussions.

The party also denied reports that it would launch a campaign to seek the support of the Colombo-based diplomatic community to pressure the Sri Lankan government on power devolution.

“We are sincerely committed to evolving an acceptable political solution and we will work to achieve a positive outcome that will put the country on the right track,” TNA Parliamentary Group Leader R. Sampanthan said.

Asked whether any special meetings had been sought to discuss matters pertaining to the national question with foreign missions in Colombo Mr. Sampanthan said, “We meet members of the diplomatic community regularly and there is no special reason for us to meet them now.”

TNA Parliamentarian M. A. Sumanthiran also confirmed that no specific meetings had been arranged with members of the diplomatic community to apprise them of the on-going talks with the Government.

Sumanthiran stated that his party was not swayed by comments attributed to President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Cabinet Spokesman and Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella on the TNA’s ‘war mentality’ and the non-negotiability of land and police powers, but would continue to engage in talks with a view to finding a lasting agreement.
The next round of talks will be held on January 17, 18 and 19. (Ayesha Zuhair)