LTTE's commitment to resolve conflict by peaceful means stands- Thamilselvan

[TamilNet, Saturday, 12 July 2003, 17:15 GMT]
"We are ready to face a war if it is imposed on us with the change of a new government. But we are firm in finding a political solution to the conflict through peaceful means," said the political head of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) Mr.S.P.Thamilselvan to a twelve-member delegation of the Sri Lanka Tamil Media Alliance (STMA)Saturday evening, sources said.

The STMA delegation led by its president Mr.T.Thurairetnam. Vice president Mr.S. Thavachelvam, General Secretary Mr.Visu Karunanithi, Treasurer Mr.S.Sri Gajan and eight others were in the delegation that met with the LTTE political head at the LTTE political secretariat in Killinochchi, sources said.

LTTE political head Mr. Thamilselvan further said, "Tamil community suffered a lot under the current President Ms. Chandrika Kumaratunge's regime. There is a limit to patience."

There is a move to demarcate boundary line in the sea to avoid further ceasefire violation. The Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM)is studying this aspect, said Mr.Thamilchelvan.

There is no value in talking about the proposed interim administrative structure for the northeast with people who are against such a move. The international community and diplomats are of the view the proposed interim administrative structure should be handed over to the LTTE, said Mr. Thamilselvan.

Mr. Thamilselvan further said the LTTE is prepared to talk with the government if it submitted an interim administrative proposal with adequate political, administrative and financial powers. LTTE is participating in peace talks giving the highest priority to the welfare of the people.

He commended the Tamil media for contributing to the freedom struggle of Tamils in the country. The form of the Tamil freedom struggle could change but not the ideals, he stressed.

Referring to the question of making arrangement for the Muslims to participate as a separate entity in the peace talks, Mr. Thamilselvan said it could be decided at the appropriate time. However, he said, Muslims are now being represented in the government peace delegation.

Referring to the Anandasangaree issue in the Tamil United Liberation Front Mr. Thamilselvan said, "We will not interfere in this issue as it is an internal matter of the party."