Peace march in Colombo

[TamilNet, Saturday, 27 February 1999, 00:46 GMT]
Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Islam religious leaders took part in peace march yesterday that started at 3.00 p.m. from Campel Park in Colombo and finished at Hyde Park Corner.

One of the key organisers of the march, Prof. Thissa Vitharana from the National Alliance For Peace said while addressing the rally "the biggest crisis facing in the country today was the war and violence."

The NAP wanted to find a solution to the ethnic conflict, said Prof.Vitharana.

"Permanent peace cannot be achieved through war. Peace can be re-established only by reaching an agreement through discussion with all political parties" he said.

The Chief Sanganayake of the south, Athureliya Nayake Indraratne Thera said that Buddhism valued peace.

Bishop Kenneth Fernando praised the measures taken by the Peace Alliance party to establish peace in the country.

Sarvodaya Leader Dr.A.T.Ariyaratne pointed out that peace is necessary for society.

A message sent by the Arch Bishop of Colombo, Rt.Rev.Dr.Nichalos Marcus Fernando, was read at the rally.

Shakthivel Kurukkal addressed the rally on behalf of the Hindus while Sukriyars Moulana spoke on behalf of the Muslims.