PM calls for inter party unity for "nation"

[TamilNet, Thursday, 05 July 2001, 20:51 GMT]
Prime Minister Mr.Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said that "discussions are now underway with main opposition, United National Party, JVP and other political parties in a bid to agree a common strategy for the welfare of the country and the nation." In an interview with ITN Television he said, "the debate on the no-confidence motion has also been postponed to continue these discussions in a conducive atmosphere".

The main objective of these discussions is to find a consensus among political parties to avoid unnecessary disputes in and outside parliament. "A new political culture will also be found as a result of these discussions," the Prime Minister said.

Mr.Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said, "The effort in this regard started several days ago when the UNP's no confidence motion against the government was submitted in parliament. Alternative measures have been taken to safeguard the country, as majority of parliamentarians are not in favour of the extension of state of emergency. Government will not betray the country and it is committed to peace and security of the country."

"I will make a special announcement in this regard in parliament tomorrow (Friday). The motion on extending the State of Emergency will not be brought to the parliament Friday to facilitate smooth discussions between political parties. The no-confidence motion also has been postponed with the same expectations." Prime Minister said.

He appealed to the media"to act with a sense of responsibility at this juncture and refrain from carrying incorrect reports"

"All political parties will be able to act according to a common strategy. The discussions with other political parties will be made public very soon. All members of the parliamentary group of the Peoples' Alliance are united in this regard," the Prime Minster said.

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