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Sri Lanka
Statement:2001
Read more...
Date
Incidents
January - 1 
Sri Lankan Deputy Defence Minister Gen. Anuruddha Ratwatte in an interview to the Daily News on January 1 said that the troops were doing their best to weaken the LTTE militarily. According to him, "The only way of bringing the LTTE to the negotiating table to search for a fair solution to the ethni
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Sri Lankan Deputy Defence Minister Gen. Anuruddha Ratwatte in an interview to the Daily News on January 1 said that the troops were doing their best to weaken the LTTE militarily. According to him, "The only way of bringing the LTTE to the negotiating table to search for a fair solution to the ethnic problem is to weaken them militarily". He also added that the LTTE tried to strengthen their weakened military power by declaring a "deceitful unilateral cease-fire" to de-escalate the troops' successful military offensives against them in the Jaffna peninsula.
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January - 2 
Defence Ministry press release, on January 2, reported that 777 LTTE rebels have been killed and 246 injured since October 2000, in the Jaffna peninsula. 268 troops were also killed during this period. The report added that in the two stages of the Rivikirana and eight stages of the Kinihira militar
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Defence Ministry press release, on January 2, reported that 777 LTTE rebels have been killed and 246 injured since October 2000, in the Jaffna peninsula. 268 troops were also killed during this period. The report added that in the two stages of the Rivikirana and eight stages of the Kinihira military operations, troops recaptured 139 square kilometres of territory from the LTTE since September 2000.
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January - 4 
On the political front, Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister of Foreign Affairs in an interview to Time Online during his recent visit to New Delhi said that the LTTE "should first have discussed the cease-fire with the Norwegian Government's representatives who would then have consulted us". He also said
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On the political front, Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister of Foreign Affairs in an interview to Time Online during his recent visit to New Delhi said that the LTTE "should first have discussed the cease-fire with the Norwegian Government's representatives who would then have consulted us". He also said that the LTTE offer of unilateral cease-fire is a publicity stunt aimed to win credit for an international audience. He added that the offer is a transparent ploy to impede the troops in their task of clearing the Jaffna Peninsula of the LTTE presence and bringing back normalcy.
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January - 5 
According to independent Tamil news source, tamilnet.com, the Army, on January 5, in Batticoloa, threatened action against the supporters of the cease-fire initiative. The army reiterated that the ‘war will continue till the Tigers, their supporters and those who advocate secession are eliminated’.
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According to independent Tamil news source, tamilnet.com, the Army, on January 5, in Batticoloa, threatened action against the supporters of the cease-fire initiative. The army reiterated that the ‘war will continue till the Tigers, their supporters and those who advocate secession are eliminated’. The Army also reportedly distributed handbills titled ‘Parents and Children’ warning civilians of Batticoloa not to join the LTTE.
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January - 5 
Norwegian Special Envoy Eric Solheim, is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka to meet Government leaders and also travel to the Vanni region for a meeting with LTTE chief V. Prabhakaran. In an interview to Tamil Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), Solheim, on January 5, said that, ‘The government and the LTTE d
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Norwegian Special Envoy Eric Solheim, is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka to meet Government leaders and also travel to the Vanni region for a meeting with LTTE chief V. Prabhakaran. In an interview to Tamil Broadcasting Corporation (TBC), Solheim, on January 5, said that, ‘The government and the LTTE do not trust each other and due to this fact the gap is widening. Only through establishing mutual trust between both, can conditions conducive to talks be established’.
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January - 5 
Sri Lanka's Minister for Media, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, addressing a press conference in Colombo, on January 5, ruled out a positive response to the cease-fire unilaterally announced by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He stated that the rebels had not apprised the government through a
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Sri Lanka's Minister for Media, Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, addressing a press conference in Colombo, on January 5, ruled out a positive response to the cease-fire unilaterally announced by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He stated that the rebels had not apprised the government through a third party mediator such as Norway but had announced the cease-fire on their own through the media.
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January - 8 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in a televised address on January 8, said her government would call for a cease-fire if the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) agreed to sit at the negotiating table. Cease-fire could be held on through negotiations, she said. This is the first-ever response at
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in a televised address on January 8, said her government would call for a cease-fire if the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) agreed to sit at the negotiating table. Cease-fire could be held on through negotiations, she said. This is the first-ever response at the highest level to the LTTE's Christmas Cease-fire offer of the year 2000. Her government, the President said, was offering more than a cease-fire, permanent peace, to the Tamil people The President emphasised that the only way to reach that goal was for the two warring parties to agree to end the war. The government's Special Media Information Centre said distressed relatives of Tamils conscripted by LTTE rebels set fire to two LTTE offices in Kilinochhci, on January 8.
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January - 9 
In a separate development, Anandasangary, Vice President of the moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), whose nominee ahs been elected Mayor of Jaffna, asked the government to stop the war and commence talks with the LTTE. He also denied allegations that his party was in recent times acting a
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In a separate development, Anandasangary, Vice President of the moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), whose nominee ahs been elected Mayor of Jaffna, asked the government to stop the war and commence talks with the LTTE. He also denied allegations that his party was in recent times acting as a mouthpiece of the LTTE. On the other hand, he said the Eelam People's Democratic Party (EPDP), a member of the ruling People's Alliance, was actively co-operating with the government and was 'muzzling' the rights of the Tamils.
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January - 9 
In a separate development, the government rejected the LTTE's allegations that it had imposed an economic embargo on the North and East and added it was a ploy to garner international sympathy.
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In a separate development, the government rejected the LTTE's allegations that it had imposed an economic embargo on the North and East and added it was a ploy to garner international sympathy.
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January - 14 
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said at Galle Face, in the capital Colombo, while addressing wounded battle veterans that the government could not be 'pressurised' by any foreign government into declaring a cease-fire with the LTTE. The morale of the troops was very high he asserted and assu
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Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said at Galle Face, in the capital Colombo, while addressing wounded battle veterans that the government could not be 'pressurised' by any foreign government into declaring a cease-fire with the LTTE. The morale of the troops was very high he asserted and assured that it would not abandon troops who made immense sacrifice for the protection of the territorial integrity of the country.
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January - 15 
On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said the government, in view of the LTTE's past practice of scuttling peace talks when it suited them, would carefully assess the 'genuineness' of LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran's proposal for peace before committing itself to negotiat
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On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said the government, in view of the LTTE's past practice of scuttling peace talks when it suited them, would carefully assess the 'genuineness' of LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran's proposal for peace before committing itself to negotiations. Meanwhile President Chandrika Kumaratunga informed Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim that the negotiations with the LTTE could take place but there would be no cease-fire, reports stated.
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January - 16 
LTTE, in a press release from its London office stated that it had already informed the Norwegian peace envoy, Eric Solheim of the impending attack by government forces. The release added that the envoy has been urged to ‘impress upon’ the government that it would only intensify the conflict and wou
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LTTE, in a press release from its London office stated that it had already informed the Norwegian peace envoy, Eric Solheim of the impending attack by government forces. The release added that the envoy has been urged to ‘impress upon’ the government that it would only intensify the conflict and would not be in the interest of the current peace initiative.
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January - 17 
Operation Kinihara IX, a multi-pronged-assault on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) formations launched on January 16 continued on the next day too. The strategically important-areas seized by government troops included Ponnar and Avarkadu, Southeast of Kilali and Eluthumadduval. Governmen
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Operation Kinihara IX, a multi-pronged-assault on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) formations launched on January 16 continued on the next day too. The strategically important-areas seized by government troops included Ponnar and Avarkadu, Southeast of Kilali and Eluthumadduval. Government sources said in Colombo that troops have captured more than 10km of territory south of Jaffna by the afternoon, on January 17. The Sri Lankan Air Force has hit more then 50 LTTE targets. Besides, intense naval patrolling off-Vettilankerny prevented the rebels from using the seas. Monitored LTTE transmissions revealed, government sources said, that 52 rebel cadres were killed and over 70 injured. In the operations, 54 government troops, including two officers, were killed and nine officers and 227 others injured. Pro-LTTE sources, meanwhile, said more than 100 government troops and 70 LTTE cadre were killed in the operations. Besides, 400 may have been injured.
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January - 17 
Pro-Tamil sources, meanwhile, said over 10,000 students, residents and representatives of civil organisations in Jaffna staged a demonstration on January 17 urging the government to reciprocate the LTTE's Christmas cease-fire offer and commence negotiations with the rebels. The demonstration held on
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Pro-Tamil sources, meanwhile, said over 10,000 students, residents and representatives of civil organisations in Jaffna staged a demonstration on January 17 urging the government to reciprocate the LTTE's Christmas cease-fire offer and commence negotiations with the rebels. The demonstration held on the Jaffna University premises was addressed by the Vice-Chancellor among others. The demonstrators released a declaration, which said, "The government must immediately stop this war… begin meaningful and just peace talks with the Liberation Tigers. Through this process, we want to see a just solution that recognises the Tamil people’s aspirations of the recognition of the Tamil nation, recognition of our homelands and recognition of our right to self-determination. "
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January - 17 
The government, meanwhile, accused the LTTE of violating its own cease-fire offer 49 times.
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The government, meanwhile, accused the LTTE of violating its own cease-fire offer 49 times.
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January - 18 
Meanwhile, representatives of seven Tamil political parties including the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), the National Workers Congress (NWC) and the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO) called on the Ambassador of Norway and the European Union and h
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Meanwhile, representatives of seven Tamil political parties including the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), the National Workers Congress (NWC) and the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO) called on the Ambassador of Norway and the European Union and had urged them to impress upon the government to reciprocate the LTTE's cease-fire offer. They reportedly said, " …We have sought the good offices of the international community because we have lost faith in the Sri Lankan government and because we suspect its motives".
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January - 19 
LTTE's chief negotiator and ideologue, Anton Balasingham said, in London, on January 19, that the LTTE would not extend its Christmas 1999 cease-fire due to end on January 24, if troops did not stop offensives against the rebels. Balasingham said, "If the government seeks a military option and conti
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LTTE's chief negotiator and ideologue, Anton Balasingham said, in London, on January 19, that the LTTE would not extend its Christmas 1999 cease-fire due to end on January 24, if troops did not stop offensives against the rebels. Balasingham said, "If the government seeks a military option and continues the current offensive operation we will not extend our self-imposed cessation of hostilities." Continuation of hostilities vitiated the atmospherics necessary for the negotiations, he said and went on to add, "We will consider peace options only when we establish the status quo on the ground by pushing back the government troops to their previous positions."
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January - 20 
In a separate development, the Jaffna University Students' Union Secretary S. Thivian in an interview to the Sunday Observer denied that the student body was a stooge in the hands of the LTTE. He said that the people of Jaffna were looking forward to restoration of peace and, hence, wanted the gover
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In a separate development, the Jaffna University Students' Union Secretary S. Thivian in an interview to the Sunday Observer denied that the student body was a stooge in the hands of the LTTE. He said that the people of Jaffna were looking forward to restoration of peace and, hence, wanted the government to negotiate with the rebels.
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January - 20 
Military spokesperson, Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne said in Colombo, on January 20, that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels' unilateral Christmas cease-fire now in operation was "bogus and meaningless". He further said that the security forces would continue their operations whether
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Military spokesperson, Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne said in Colombo, on January 20, that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels' unilateral Christmas cease-fire now in operation was "bogus and meaningless". He further said that the security forces would continue their operations whether or not the LTTE extended its cease-fire.
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January - 22 
Sri Lankan Army claimed, on January 22, that it had recaptured all the territory earlier conceded to the rebels in their Operation Unceasing Waves 4. The ongoing operation of the government troops, code named Operation Kinihira IX-, was a complete success, the army said and added that government tro
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Sri Lankan Army claimed, on January 22, that it had recaptured all the territory earlier conceded to the rebels in their Operation Unceasing Waves 4. The ongoing operation of the government troops, code named Operation Kinihira IX-, was a complete success, the army said and added that government troops captured eight sq. km. land in Muhamalai, during Stage II of the Operation. The Army did not give details of rebel casualties but said it had not suffered any.
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January - 23 
Separately, the Army said that it has now been confirmed that 1220 LTTE rebels have been killed and another 1250 injured in clashes in Jaffna peninsula since September 2000.
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Separately, the Army said that it has now been confirmed that 1220 LTTE rebels have been killed and another 1250 injured in clashes in Jaffna peninsula since September 2000.
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January - 23 
The government's Special Media Information Centre (SMIC), meanwhile, said the LTTE is left with no option but negotiate peace and declared that the LTTE was compelled to continue with its war for a separate Eelam to safeguard its 'endangered and threatened existence'.
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The government's Special Media Information Centre (SMIC), meanwhile, said the LTTE is left with no option but negotiate peace and declared that the LTTE was compelled to continue with its war for a separate Eelam to safeguard its 'endangered and threatened existence'.
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January - 23 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced, on January 23, that it has extended the 1999 Christmas Cease-fire by another month, till February 23, 2001. In a statement from its headquarters in Vanni, the LTTE stated that its chief negotiator Anton Balasingham informed the government of its
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced, on January 23, that it has extended the 1999 Christmas Cease-fire by another month, till February 23, 2001. In a statement from its headquarters in Vanni, the LTTE stated that its chief negotiator Anton Balasingham informed the government of its decision through the Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim. The rebels also made it clear that they would enter into peace negotiations once the government reciprocated its cease-fire offer. The LTTE further urged the international community to ‘persuade’ the government to "renounce its hard-line militaristic approach and adopt the path of peace, reconciliation and dialogue".
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January - 23 
The Sri Lankan Army, in a news release, on January 23, stated that troops might have killed at least 20 LTTE rebels in Stage II of Operation Kinihara IX that was launched on January 22. Intercepted rebel transmissions confirmed that 13 rebels were killed. Two security force personnel were killed and
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The Sri Lankan Army, in a news release, on January 23, stated that troops might have killed at least 20 LTTE rebels in Stage II of Operation Kinihara IX that was launched on January 22. Intercepted rebel transmissions confirmed that 13 rebels were killed. Two security force personnel were killed and six more wounded in the confrontation.
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January - 24 
Meanwhile, the government rejected the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)'s extension of cease-fire. A government release said that ‘the government's stand on the cease-fire does not change’. It reiterated that the rebels 'must come to the negotiating table along with a durable, concrete politi
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Meanwhile, the government rejected the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)'s extension of cease-fire. A government release said that ‘the government's stand on the cease-fire does not change’. It reiterated that the rebels 'must come to the negotiating table along with a durable, concrete political solution’.
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January - 26 
Meanwhile, students at Batticaloa University, in the Eastern Province, expressed their resentment at the government's stand and sported black bands around their arms.
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Meanwhile, students at Batticaloa University, in the Eastern Province, expressed their resentment at the government's stand and sported black bands around their arms.
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January - 26 
The Special Media Information Centre (SMIC) said, on January 26, the government has rejected the extension of the cease-fire declared by the rebel LTTE. Expressing its deep disappointment, an 11-member Tamil coalition including the Tamil United Liberation Front, Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation a
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The Special Media Information Centre (SMIC) said, on January 26, the government has rejected the extension of the cease-fire declared by the rebel LTTE. Expressing its deep disappointment, an 11-member Tamil coalition including the Tamil United Liberation Front, Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation and the All Ceylon Tamil Congress, said "We cannot continue to believe that we can get a political solution from the Sri Lankan government".
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January - 27 
In a separate development, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar and Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov, in a joint statement, said in Moscow that all the countries in the world need to wage collective struggle against terrorism. They added, countries that were providing safe havens to terrorists s
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In a separate development, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar and Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov, in a joint statement, said in Moscow that all the countries in the world need to wage collective struggle against terrorism. They added, countries that were providing safe havens to terrorists should realise that they would themselves be affected by terrorism.
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January - 29 
Separately, government-owned media alleged that the LTTE was 'manipulating' and instigating protest demonstrations with a view to creating the mistaken impression in the United Kingdom that the Sri Lankan government was a war monger, and, thus, forestall Britain from declaring the LTTE a terrorist o
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Separately, government-owned media alleged that the LTTE was 'manipulating' and instigating protest demonstrations with a view to creating the mistaken impression in the United Kingdom that the Sri Lankan government was a war monger, and, thus, forestall Britain from declaring the LTTE a terrorist organisation.
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January - 31 
Army spokesperson Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne said in Colombo that the LTTE killed 296 civilians and injured another 740 in the year 2000.
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Army spokesperson Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne said in Colombo that the LTTE killed 296 civilians and injured another 740 in the year 2000.
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January - 31 
The Army also said its troops killed at least one LTTE rebel, on January 31, in the Mahumalai area ahead of the forward defence line.
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The Army also said its troops killed at least one LTTE rebel, on January 31, in the Mahumalai area ahead of the forward defence line.
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January - 31 February - 1
The Sri Lankan Army said the Sea Tigers, naval cadre of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), attacked troops manning the defence line at a ferry point in the Karativu general area, near Sangupiddy, on January 31. A search operation later revealed that two rebel cadres were killed I retaliato
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The Sri Lankan Army said the Sea Tigers, naval cadre of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), attacked troops manning the defence line at a ferry point in the Karativu general area, near Sangupiddy, on January 31. A search operation later revealed that two rebel cadres were killed I retaliatory firing by troops. Two more rebels might either have been injured or killed, the army said, on February 1.
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February - 1 
The Sri Lankan Army, on February 2, said that troops had attacked two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) bunkers a day earlier and killed three LTTE cadre in the Jaffna Peninsula. Two soldiers were wounded in the incident.
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The Sri Lankan Army, on February 2, said that troops had attacked two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) bunkers a day earlier and killed three LTTE cadre in the Jaffna Peninsula. Two soldiers were wounded in the incident.
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February - 2 
The Sri Lankan Army has said that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, on February 2, injured a soldier in Muhamalai in a mortar shelling. On the same day, two rebels were killed in the Kilaly general area while another was killed in clashes reported from Thattuwankottai, near Kilaly.
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The Sri Lankan Army has said that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, on February 2, injured a soldier in Muhamalai in a mortar shelling. On the same day, two rebels were killed in the Kilaly general area while another was killed in clashes reported from Thattuwankottai, near Kilaly.
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February - 3 
The Sri Lankan Army said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels attacked troops and injured a soldier in Nagarkovil, Jaffna, on February 3.
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The Sri Lankan Army said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels attacked troops and injured a soldier in Nagarkovil, Jaffna, on February 3.
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February - 4 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in her Independence Day address on February 4 that her government would explore prospects for achieving peace as it was receiving favourable signals from the LTTE to its invitation for negotiations. The President said, "We are willing to enter negotiations to fin
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in her Independence Day address on February 4 that her government would explore prospects for achieving peace as it was receiving favourable signals from the LTTE to its invitation for negotiations. The President said, "We are willing to enter negotiations to find a solution which will enable all the people of our country to be united and to live with equality and honour."
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February - 4 
Sri Lankan troops killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel on February 4, in the Kattiratan sector, Muhamalai general area, Jaffna peninsula, the Army said.
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Sri Lankan troops killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel on February 4, in the Kattiratan sector, Muhamalai general area, Jaffna peninsula, the Army said.
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February - 5 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a press release that further progress was made on taking the peace process forward. The release said the President and the Foreign Minister had consultations with the Norwegian peace envoy. But, there would be no cease-fire in the interim, the press release
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a press release that further progress was made on taking the peace process forward. The release said the President and the Foreign Minister had consultations with the Norwegian peace envoy. But, there would be no cease-fire in the interim, the press release announced. Other government sources, too, gave some details of the talks and said the draft of a Memorandum of Understanding between the government and the LTTE was the focal point of the talks.
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February - 8 
On the political front, the radical Sinhala nationalist party, Sinhala Urumaya, has criticised the role played by Norway in brokering a peace deal with the rebels. Speaking in the parliament, the party member of parliament Tilak Karunaratne, on February 8, criticised the government for playing into
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On the political front, the radical Sinhala nationalist party, Sinhala Urumaya, has criticised the role played by Norway in brokering a peace deal with the rebels. Speaking in the parliament, the party member of parliament Tilak Karunaratne, on February 8, criticised the government for playing into the hands of a ‘neo capitalist’ nation with vested interests behind their concern.
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February - 8 
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, meanwhile, said, in a press release, that further progress was made on taking the peace process forward. The release said the President and the Foreign Minister had consultations with the Norwegian peace envoy. But, there would be no cease-fire in the interim, the pr
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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, meanwhile, said, in a press release, that further progress was made on taking the peace process forward. The release said the President and the Foreign Minister had consultations with the Norwegian peace envoy. But, there would be no cease-fire in the interim, the press release announced. Other government sources, too, gave some details of the talks and said the draft of a Memorandum of Understanding between the government and the LTTE was the focal point of the talks.
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February - 10 
Quoting Jaffna University Students' Union President K. Arnold, the Sri Lankan media said the students were in the process of conducting a signature campaign to impress upon the British government not to impose a ban on the LTTE. Reports said Britain could announce the ban on February 19, the day the
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Quoting Jaffna University Students' Union President K. Arnold, the Sri Lankan media said the students were in the process of conducting a signature campaign to impress upon the British government not to impose a ban on the LTTE. Reports said Britain could announce the ban on February 19, the day the Prevention of Terrorism Act is due to come in to effect, or anytime thereafter. The British government is already seized of urges for and against the ban.
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February - 10 
The Sri Lankan Army said on February 10 that troops laid an ambush a day earlier in the Chunnakam area, Jaffna peninsula, and killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel. The Army also said at least 10 rebels might have been killed in clashes reported ahead of the forward defence lines
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The Sri Lankan Army said on February 10 that troops laid an ambush a day earlier in the Chunnakam area, Jaffna peninsula, and killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel. The Army also said at least 10 rebels might have been killed in clashes reported ahead of the forward defence lines near Muhamalai.
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February - 10 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops manning defences in Muhamali and Kilaly, Jaffna peninsula, killed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels on February 10.
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops manning defences in Muhamali and Kilaly, Jaffna peninsula, killed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels on February 10.
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February - 11 
On the political front, President Chnadrika Kumaratunga rejected the LTTE's contention that proscription of the LTTE by Britain would hamper the peace process, the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation said on February 11. LTTE chief negotiator and theoretician Anton Balasigham had conveyed the impress
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On the political front, President Chnadrika Kumaratunga rejected the LTTE's contention that proscription of the LTTE by Britain would hamper the peace process, the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation said on February 11. LTTE chief negotiator and theoretician Anton Balasigham had conveyed the impression on the hampering of peace process when he met Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim in London. Also, Balasingham said in an interview to a Tamil daily from his London office that he had informed Solheim of the same.
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February - 12 
The Sri Lankan Army said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) had fired mortar shells at troops manning defences in Muhamalai, Noonavil and Ariyalai areas, Jaffna peninsula on February 12. However, no casualties were reported in these incidents.
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The Sri Lankan Army said the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) had fired mortar shells at troops manning defences in Muhamalai, Noonavil and Ariyalai areas, Jaffna peninsula on February 12. However, no casualties were reported in these incidents.
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February - 13 
Pakistan had made an offer to lend US$20 million to Sri Lanka to enable the purchase of ‘vital arms’ in order to keep up its war effort against the LTTE, Army spokesperson Brig. SanathKaruanaratne said on February 13.
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Pakistan had made an offer to lend US$20 million to Sri Lanka to enable the purchase of ‘vital arms’ in order to keep up its war effort against the LTTE, Army spokesperson Brig. SanathKaruanaratne said on February 13.
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February - 14 
In a development, the Army said troops recovered, on February 14, the bodies of three LTTE rebels killed earlier in confrontations with troops in Soorangal and Manirasakulam, Trincomalee.
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In a development, the Army said troops recovered, on February 14, the bodies of three LTTE rebels killed earlier in confrontations with troops in Soorangal and Manirasakulam, Trincomalee.
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February - 14 
The Sri Lankan Army said its troops killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel on February 14, in Nagarkovil, Jaffna peninsula. On the same day, the rebels injured a soldier in Ponnar in a grenade attack. Two more were wounded in a mine explosion in the Arialai general area.
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The Sri Lankan Army said its troops killed one Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebel on February 14, in Nagarkovil, Jaffna peninsula. On the same day, the rebels injured a soldier in Ponnar in a grenade attack. Two more were wounded in a mine explosion in the Arialai general area.
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February - 15 
In an development, intelligence source said they had unearthed an LTTE- plot to assassinate Deputy Minister for Rehabilitation Premaratne Sumathipala. The disclosure came in the aftermath of the arrest and interrogation of a rebel cadre arrested earlier in Vavuniya.
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In an development, intelligence source said they had unearthed an LTTE- plot to assassinate Deputy Minister for Rehabilitation Premaratne Sumathipala. The disclosure came in the aftermath of the arrest and interrogation of a rebel cadre arrested earlier in Vavuniya.
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February - 15 
On February 15, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in an interview to the state-run ‘Independent Television Network’, urged Britain to ban the LTTE. However, she maintained that such a restriction would not affect a Norwegian-backed peace process.
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On February 15, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in an interview to the state-run ‘Independent Television Network’, urged Britain to ban the LTTE. However, she maintained that such a restriction would not affect a Norwegian-backed peace process.
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February - 15 
The Sri Lankan Army said on February 15 that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels injured a soldier in grenade shelling in Ponnar, Jaffna peninsula.
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The Sri Lankan Army said on February 15 that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels injured a soldier in grenade shelling in Ponnar, Jaffna peninsula.
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February - 15 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in the Kattiratan and Nagarkovil general areas, on February 15.
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in the Kattiratan and Nagarkovil general areas, on February 15.
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February - 16 
On the political front, on February 16, the opposition United National Party (UNP) alleged that the government itself was unclear about its policy towards the LTTE.
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On the political front, on February 16, the opposition United National Party (UNP) alleged that the government itself was unclear about its policy towards the LTTE.
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February - 16 February - 18
The Sri Lankan Army said on February 18 that troops killed three LTTE rebels in the Ponnar, Muhamalai and Eluthumadduval general areas, Jaffna Peninsula, on February 17. Also on the same day, LTTE rebels fired mortar shells at troops manning defences in Nagarkovil. The dead body of a civilian, the c
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The Sri Lankan Army said on February 18 that troops killed three LTTE rebels in the Ponnar, Muhamalai and Eluthumadduval general areas, Jaffna Peninsula, on February 17. Also on the same day, LTTE rebels fired mortar shells at troops manning defences in Nagarkovil. The dead body of a civilian, the cause of whose death is yet not known, was recovered from the vicinity of the Kokuvil railway station, on February 16, the Army said.
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February - 18 
A separate development, the Inter Religious Alliance for National Unity (IRAFNU) said LTTE leaders had assured its delegation at a meeting in Madhu, on February 18 that they would lay down arms and would live within a united Sri Lanka if conditions were created for the Tamils to live in dignity and
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A separate development, the Inter Religious Alliance for National Unity (IRAFNU) said LTTE leaders had assured its delegation at a meeting in Madhu, on February 18 that they would lay down arms and would live within a united Sri Lanka if conditions were created for the Tamils to live in dignity and freedom in any part of Sri Lanka.
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February - 18 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed two LTTE rebels, on February 18, in Vepotukerni, Kilaly general area, Jaffna peninsula. Also on the same day, three more rebels were killed in Kattiratan in confrontations reported there. Two more rebels were shot dead in Ponnarby troops manning defences, also
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed two LTTE rebels, on February 18, in Vepotukerni, Kilaly general area, Jaffna peninsula. Also on the same day, three more rebels were killed in Kattiratan in confrontations reported there. Two more rebels were shot dead in Ponnarby troops manning defences, also on February 18.
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February - 19 
The government said the purported attack on the vehicle of LTTE theoretician Balasingham in London could well have been a ploy by the LTTE to discredit Sinhalese residing in London.
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The government said the purported attack on the vehicle of LTTE theoretician Balasingham in London could well have been a ploy by the LTTE to discredit Sinhalese residing in London.
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February - 19 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops in Ponnar, Jaffna peninsula, had engaged, on February 19, a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels moving along their defences. Five rebels might have been killed in firing by troops.
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops in Ponnar, Jaffna peninsula, had engaged, on February 19, a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels moving along their defences. Five rebels might have been killed in firing by troops.
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February - 20 
On the political front, the Sinhala Urumaya said on February 20 it would ask the government to snap diplomatic ties with Britain if the latter did not proscribe the LTTE. In a related development, the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP), a member of the Ruling People’s Alliance called upon the UK and oth
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On the political front, the Sinhala Urumaya said on February 20 it would ask the government to snap diplomatic ties with Britain if the latter did not proscribe the LTTE. In a related development, the Mahajana Eksath Peramuna (MEP), a member of the Ruling People’s Alliance called upon the UK and other European countries to ban the LTTE in their respective countries. In another development, LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham and Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim met in London on February 20. Though the details of the deliberations are not know, they had reportedly discussed the likely impact of proscription by the UK of the LTTE on the peace process. Also, whether the LTTE would or not extend the ongoing cease-fire came up for discussion.
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February - 21 
A Sri Lankan Army news release said the Navy has destroyed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) logistics vessels approximately 30 nautical miles north east of Point Pedro, in the wee hours on February 21. Two fast patrol boats, too, were damaged in the attack. The new release also said the c
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A Sri Lankan Army news release said the Navy has destroyed two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) logistics vessels approximately 30 nautical miles north east of Point Pedro, in the wee hours on February 21. Two fast patrol boats, too, were damaged in the attack. The new release also said the cargo on board the LTTE logistics craft exploded and maintained that at least 10 LTTE cadres were killed in the incident.
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February - 21 February - 22
The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed three Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in the Kilaly general area, on February 21 and 22.
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops killed three Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in the Kilaly general area, on February 21 and 22.
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February - 22 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced on February 22 the second extension of the unilateral cease-fire, due to expire on February 24, by another month. The cease-fire was originally declared beginning Christmas Day 2000. The LTTE expressed its disappointment at the government not res
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced on February 22 the second extension of the unilateral cease-fire, due to expire on February 24, by another month. The cease-fire was originally declared beginning Christmas Day 2000. The LTTE expressed its disappointment at the government not responding to its offer since it was first declared. Further, the LTTE said it was prepared to enter into peace negotiations when the government responded to its cease-fire offer and agreed to implement the Norwegian proposal of de-escalation of the war. The government is yet to respond to the latest offer of extension of the cease-fire.
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February - 24 
A visiting European Parliament delegation expressed its full support to the peace process with Norwegian mediation in finding a solution to the 18 year long conflict in the country.
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A visiting European Parliament delegation expressed its full support to the peace process with Norwegian mediation in finding a solution to the 18 year long conflict in the country.
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February - 24 
The Army said, the LTTE fired mortar shells in the Muhamalai general area, in the early hours, on February 24. No casualties were, however, reported in the incident.
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The Army said, the LTTE fired mortar shells in the Muhamalai general area, in the early hours, on February 24. No casualties were, however, reported in the incident.
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February - 24 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops operating ahead of the forward defence line in Kilaly general area killed at least two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, on February 24. Four more might have been killed, too, in the sane clashes.
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops operating ahead of the forward defence line in Kilaly general area killed at least two Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, on February 24. Four more might have been killed, too, in the sane clashes.
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February - 25 
Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said, in Colombo, on February 25, that the Army had enlisted 3,500 men in recent days and added that it was in need of 7,000 more, to be recruited over a period of three years. Fresh recruitment to the Army would enable ending the war, the Prime Minister said.
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Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake said, in Colombo, on February 25, that the Army had enlisted 3,500 men in recent days and added that it was in need of 7,000 more, to be recruited over a period of three years. Fresh recruitment to the Army would enable ending the war, the Prime Minister said.
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February - 25 
The Sri Lankan Army said one soldier was killed in Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) mortar shelling in the Ponnar general area, on February 25. The Army also alleged that LTTE rebels had fired mortar shells towards the forward defence line in the Ariyali East general area, Jaffna peninsula.
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The Sri Lankan Army said one soldier was killed in Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) mortar shelling in the Ponnar general area, on February 25. The Army also alleged that LTTE rebels had fired mortar shells towards the forward defence line in the Ariyali East general area, Jaffna peninsula.
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February - 26 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in an interview to television channel that peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) could begin within the next two months, the Sri Lankan media reported on February 26. Norway would act as the facilitator for the talks the President added. Al
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in an interview to television channel that peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) could begin within the next two months, the Sri Lankan media reported on February 26. Norway would act as the facilitator for the talks the President added. Also, the President said the LTTE had pleaded for time, for two months, to enable tit to prepare for the talks.
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February - 26 
The Sri Lankan Army said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels fired mortar and artillery shells towards the forward defence lines in the Muhamalai and general area and Karativu, in the Jaffna peninsula respectively, on February 26. No casualties were, however, reported in both the incident
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The Sri Lankan Army said Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels fired mortar and artillery shells towards the forward defence lines in the Muhamalai and general area and Karativu, in the Jaffna peninsula respectively, on February 26. No casualties were, however, reported in both the incidents. Also on the same day, in the Wanni, a soldier was injured in a grenade attack by the LTTE at Asikulam in Vavuniya.
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February - 27 
On the political front, government-owned media said, on February 27, that the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC) and the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO) sought an appointment with the British Prime Minister to lobby with him not to proscribe the LTT
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On the political front, government-owned media said, on February 27, that the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), the All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC) and the Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO) sought an appointment with the British Prime Minister to lobby with him not to proscribe the LTTE. The request for a audience was turned down.
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February - 27 
The government, meanwhile, said, on February 27, the LTTE was holding training camps in Thoppigala and Kanchikuddiaru in the east and went on to add that several of the internees, including children, were being held there forcibly.
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The government, meanwhile, said, on February 27, the LTTE was holding training camps in Thoppigala and Kanchikuddiaru in the east and went on to add that several of the internees, including children, were being held there forcibly.
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February - 28 
Speaking on the eve of the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the Air Force, the Air Chief said, ""The LTTE can be defeated as demonstrated by recent successes. All these years we have been trying to match the LTTE's firepower but a change in strategy to acquiring superior arms and equipment has resulted
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Speaking on the eve of the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the Air Force, the Air Chief said, ""The LTTE can be defeated as demonstrated by recent successes. All these years we have been trying to match the LTTE's firepower but a change in strategy to acquiring superior arms and equipment has resulted in us being able to both attack and defend when the situation demands."
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February - 28 
The LTTE, meanwhile, said the British decision to proscribe the organisation would ‘impose severe restraints’ on the Norwegian peace initiative. Chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said in London, on February 28, "[the ban will] adversely affect Tamil interests and severely undermine the current peac
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The LTTE, meanwhile, said the British decision to proscribe the organisation would ‘impose severe restraints’ on the Norwegian peace initiative. Chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said in London, on February 28, "[the ban will] adversely affect Tamil interests and severely undermine the current peace initiatives [and] will encourage the repressive Sri Lankan regime to be more uncompromising, intransigent and to adopt a military path of State violence, terrorism and war."
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March - 1 
A day after the LTTE was proscribed in the United Kingdom, the British High Commission in Colombo said, on March 1, "The UK continues to believe that the only way to find a permanent solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka is through a negotiated settlement which address the aspirations of all
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A day after the LTTE was proscribed in the United Kingdom, the British High Commission in Colombo said, on March 1, "The UK continues to believe that the only way to find a permanent solution to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka is through a negotiated settlement which address the aspirations of all communities within a unitary state. The UK will continue to support the Norwegians in their efforts to facilitate peace talks. The UK strongly urges both the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to begin peace talks as soon as possible".
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March - 2 
On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar thanked his Indian counterpart for representing to the British government to ban the LTTE there. Kadirgamar also said the government was holding talks with Australia, France and Norway to get the LTTE proscribed in those countries. Talks w
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On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar thanked his Indian counterpart for representing to the British government to ban the LTTE there. Kadirgamar also said the government was holding talks with Australia, France and Norway to get the LTTE proscribed in those countries. Talks with South Africa have not yet commenced, Kadirgamar added.
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March - 7 
On March 7, the United States’ Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Ashley Willis said in a message to the residents of Jaffna that his country rejects the idea of an independent Tamil state. He further said his country regarded the LTTE as a terrorist organization, and did not believe it was the sole represent
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On March 7, the United States’ Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Ashley Willis said in a message to the residents of Jaffna that his country rejects the idea of an independent Tamil state. He further said his country regarded the LTTE as a terrorist organization, and did not believe it was the sole representative of the Tamil people.
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March - 8 
On March 8, the American Embassy in Colombo quoted its ambassador, Ashley Wills, as saying during a visit to Jaffna that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have showed signs of giving up its ‘terrorist tactics’ and the United States may reconsider a ban on them if they shed violence complet
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On March 8, the American Embassy in Colombo quoted its ambassador, Ashley Wills, as saying during a visit to Jaffna that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) have showed signs of giving up its ‘terrorist tactics’ and the United States may reconsider a ban on them if they shed violence completely. The US had proscribed the LTTE as a "foreign terrorist organisation" in October 1997.
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March - 21 
On the political front, President Chandrika Kumaratunga arrived in London and is due to meet British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Britain had recently proscribed the LTTE.
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On the political front, President Chandrika Kumaratunga arrived in London and is due to meet British Prime Minister Tony Blair. Britain had recently proscribed the LTTE.
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March - 22 
On March 22, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced that the Christmas Cease-fire they had declared in 2000 would be extended by another month till April 24. The LTTE, however, warned that its cadres would resume attacks if government troops failed to reciprocate and continued with th
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On March 22, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) announced that the Christmas Cease-fire they had declared in 2000 would be extended by another month till April 24. The LTTE, however, warned that its cadres would resume attacks if government troops failed to reciprocate and continued with their military operations. The LTTE also said that it had lost 133 cadres since its cease-fire came into effect. The LTTE said in a statement released from its headquarters in the Wanni, "The LTTE leadership has decided to extend its self-imposed truce for another month to help to generate a congenial atmosphere of peace and to provide further time and space for the Norwegian facilitatory efforts to bring the parties in conflict to the negotiating table".
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March - 22 
The United States’ Ambassador to Sri Lanka said on March 22 that he ‘did not dismiss Tamil aspirations but ruled out their demand for Eelam. He said the purpose of his speech in Jaffna was to show respect for the Tamil people by speaking honestly to them about his government's view.
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The United States’ Ambassador to Sri Lanka said on March 22 that he ‘did not dismiss Tamil aspirations but ruled out their demand for Eelam. He said the purpose of his speech in Jaffna was to show respect for the Tamil people by speaking honestly to them about his government's view.
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March - 24 
In an interview to Indian English news daily, Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim said India fully supported Norway’s facilitation in resolving the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. He also said India knew full well that peace could be established only with the LTTE’s participation in the peace talks, th
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In an interview to Indian English news daily, Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim said India fully supported Norway’s facilitation in resolving the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. He also said India knew full well that peace could be established only with the LTTE’s participation in the peace talks, though India has proscribed the organisation there. Commenting on whether the LTTE, in his opinion, has given up the demand for a separate state, Solheim said, "The conflict in Sri Lanka has lasted very long and is extremely complicated and can never be resolved by Norway. The Government and the LTTE have to talk directly and then try to find the solutions. There are no quick fixes and talks will certainly be protracted. But talking is much better than fighting".
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March - 24 
Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General R. Sampanthan said, on March 24, "The Sri Lankan government can be no longer unconcerned with the safety and security and well being of the Tamil people, particularly when (the LTTE), has extended its unilateral cease-fire for another month". He
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Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General R. Sampanthan said, on March 24, "The Sri Lankan government can be no longer unconcerned with the safety and security and well being of the Tamil people, particularly when (the LTTE), has extended its unilateral cease-fire for another month". He added, "The safety, security and the well being of the Tamil people must no longer be subordinated to the exigencies of military strategies."
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March - 29 
The Mayor of Jaffna, N Raviraj, expressed his displeasure at the speech made by the US Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Ashley Willis, at the Jaffna Public Library, earlier in March, 2001, on the rights of Tamils. Raviraja said, "We strongly condemn the US ambassador's speech that was made with a view to re
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The Mayor of Jaffna, N Raviraj, expressed his displeasure at the speech made by the US Ambassador in Sri Lanka, Ashley Willis, at the Jaffna Public Library, earlier in March, 2001, on the rights of Tamils. Raviraja said, "We strongly condemn the US ambassador's speech that was made with a view to rejecting the principle of the Tamil people's homeland".
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April - 3 
On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said in Parliament on April 3 before the month-end the government would be placed in a better position to make precise announcement on commencing talks with the LTTE. Refuting speculation that there already was an understanding with the LT
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On the political front, Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said in Parliament on April 3 before the month-end the government would be placed in a better position to make precise announcement on commencing talks with the LTTE. Refuting speculation that there already was an understanding with the LTTE, he said at the time that the talks would commence the government and the LTTE agree upon certain issues, though he did not specify what those could be.
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April - 5 
Meanwhile, the London based Human Rights group, Amnesty International, on April 5, has urged the government to prevent rape and torture of arrested LTTE suspects. In a statement, it said that two Tamil women, detained by navy and police in northern Mannar on March 19, were allegedly gang-raped by me
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Meanwhile, the London based Human Rights group, Amnesty International, on April 5, has urged the government to prevent rape and torture of arrested LTTE suspects. In a statement, it said that two Tamil women, detained by navy and police in northern Mannar on March 19, were allegedly gang-raped by members of Sri Lanka's armed forces. The navy, however, denied any involvement in the crime.
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April - 6 
On the peace front, Voice of Tigers, in its broadcast stated that on April 6, Norwegian Ambassador Jon Westborg and another senior Embassy official met S. Thamil Chelvan, leader of the Political Wing of the LTTE at Pallamadu in the Wanni region. The Norwegian envoy had initially planned to meet LTTE
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On the peace front, Voice of Tigers, in its broadcast stated that on April 6, Norwegian Ambassador Jon Westborg and another senior Embassy official met S. Thamil Chelvan, leader of the Political Wing of the LTTE at Pallamadu in the Wanni region. The Norwegian envoy had initially planned to meet LTTE leader Prabhakaran, possibly to seek a date for the commencement of negotiations. Prior to the visit, government had eased sanctions on areas held by the rebels and had removed more than 25 commodities from a list of banned items in a key concession aimed at boosting Norway's bid to broker an end to the ethnic conflict.
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April - 8 
On the peace front, Norwegian mediators, on April 8, stated that they would hold more meetings with the LTTE to discuss the fresh pre requisites demanded by the LTTE before the beginning of talks with the government.
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On the peace front, Norwegian mediators, on April 8, stated that they would hold more meetings with the LTTE to discuss the fresh pre requisites demanded by the LTTE before the beginning of talks with the government.
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April - 15 
Deputy Defence Minister Anirudddha Ratawatte, addressing supporters in his constituency, Mahaiyawa, on the occasion of the New Year, said there were clear signs of the war coming to an end and peace returning to the island during the present year.
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Deputy Defence Minister Anirudddha Ratawatte, addressing supporters in his constituency, Mahaiyawa, on the occasion of the New Year, said there were clear signs of the war coming to an end and peace returning to the island during the present year.
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April - 15 
Separately, an unnamed senior member of a Tamil paramilitary group reportedly said, on April 15, that those persons, purportedly LTTE cadres, released earlier as a god-will gesture, were, in fact, Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO) sympathizers, who were detained in the year 2000.
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Separately, an unnamed senior member of a Tamil paramilitary group reportedly said, on April 15, that those persons, purportedly LTTE cadres, released earlier as a god-will gesture, were, in fact, Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO) sympathizers, who were detained in the year 2000.
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April - 17 
On the political front, pro-Tamil sources said, quoting LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, that the LTTE was assembling a team of lawyers to appeal for de-proscription inn the United Kingdom. The organisation was proscribed there in February 2001 under the new Anti-Terrorism Act 2000. Balasing
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On the political front, pro-Tamil sources said, quoting LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, that the LTTE was assembling a team of lawyers to appeal for de-proscription inn the United Kingdom. The organisation was proscribed there in February 2001 under the new Anti-Terrorism Act 2000. Balasingham said the proscription was hampering the Norwegian facilitated peace process. "In our perspective the third party involvement is crucial even after the commencement of the negotiations", Balasingham said, in an interview to Tamil Guardian published from London. He also suggested that Norway might fit the role. This is in contrast with the stated position of Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, who does not envisage any role for Norway beyond facilitation, i.e., after the negotiations commence.
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April - 19 
Pro-Tamil sources said Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General Rajavarothiam Sampanthan urged visiting US Counsel for the International Relations Committee of the US Congress, Adolf Franco that his country be made to exert pressure on the Sri Lankan government to end the war and comme
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Pro-Tamil sources said Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Secretary General Rajavarothiam Sampanthan urged visiting US Counsel for the International Relations Committee of the US Congress, Adolf Franco that his country be made to exert pressure on the Sri Lankan government to end the war and commence negotiations with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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April - 22 
Prominent Tamil leaders on April 22 criticised Prime Minister Wickremanayake’s April 20-statement that the war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels had begun and that, not talks but war with the rebels was the only way to find a solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the co
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Prominent Tamil leaders on April 22 criticised Prime Minister Wickremanayake’s April 20-statement that the war with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels had begun and that, not talks but war with the rebels was the only way to find a solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the country. The Prime Ministers’ statement, at a time when the LTTE was making peace overtures, “proves once again that the government cannot be trusted”, said Joseph Pararajasingham, Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Member of Parliament (MP) for Batticaloa. He also warned the government not to ‘dupe the Tamil people’. Echoing similar views, Eelam People’s Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF) leader Suresh Premachndran said, “The PM’s attitude shows that the government is preparing to destroy the north and east again under the pretext of war”. Selvam Adaikalanathan, Tamil Eelam Liberation Organisation (TELO) leader and Wanni MP said it was obvious that the government has no genuine interest in starting peace talks.
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April - 23 
In a separate development, the government denied the April 23-alleagtion of the LTTE that there exists an economic embargo on the Wanni.
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In a separate development, the government denied the April 23-alleagtion of the LTTE that there exists an economic embargo on the Wanni.
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April - 23 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels declared on April 23 that they would not extend the Christmas 200 cease-fire. In a statement issued from its headquarters in the Wanni, the LTTE said, "We are compelled to make this painful decision as a consequence of the hard-line, intransigent a
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels declared on April 23 that they would not extend the Christmas 200 cease-fire. In a statement issued from its headquarters in the Wanni, the LTTE said, "We are compelled to make this painful decision as a consequence of the hard-line, intransigent attitude of the Sri Lankan government." The LTTE blamed its decision on the government’s failure to "reciprocate positively to our peace gesture…"
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April - 24 
On the political front, President Chandrika Kumaratunga on April 24 vowed to militarily defeat the LTTE, soon after the rebels announced it would not extend its unilateral cease-fire and blamed the government’s non-reciprocity for its decision. Kumaratunga, while describing the LTTE as an "unprinci
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On the political front, President Chandrika Kumaratunga on April 24 vowed to militarily defeat the LTTE, soon after the rebels announced it would not extend its unilateral cease-fire and blamed the government’s non-reciprocity for its decision. Kumaratunga, while describing the LTTE as an "unprincipled terrorist organisation", said it was too premature to make any comment on prospects for peace, but hastened to add that she was hopeful of achieving "something tangible and constructive" in the coming months. However, she maintained that the door is still not closed to the LTTE to enter negotiations.
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April - 24 
Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Member of Parliament representing Batticaloa, Pararajasingham said, "By rashly rejecting their (the LTTE’s) cease-fire and stubbornly refusing to reciprocate it, the government displayed its gross insensitivity to the agony of the Tamil people".
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Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Member of Parliament representing Batticaloa, Pararajasingham said, "By rashly rejecting their (the LTTE’s) cease-fire and stubbornly refusing to reciprocate it, the government displayed its gross insensitivity to the agony of the Tamil people".
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April - 26 
The Sri Lankan Army said, as part of Operation Agni Khiela, troops were consolidating newly captured positions in the areas south of Eluthumaduval and Muhamalai, but had to proceed at a ‘relatively slow pace’ as they are heavily mined. Also, troops were clearing pockets in the area that are under th
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The Sri Lankan Army said, as part of Operation Agni Khiela, troops were consolidating newly captured positions in the areas south of Eluthumaduval and Muhamalai, but had to proceed at a ‘relatively slow pace’ as they are heavily mined. Also, troops were clearing pockets in the area that are under the control of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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April - 28 
Meanwhile, the LTTE, in a statement issued from their headquarters in Wanni, on April 28, claimed that the Sri Lankan army suffered more than 2400 casualties and was pushed back to its original position in the early hours of the day.
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Meanwhile, the LTTE, in a statement issued from their headquarters in Wanni, on April 28, claimed that the Sri Lankan army suffered more than 2400 casualties and was pushed back to its original position in the early hours of the day.
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April - 29 
The Defence Ministry was, meanwhile, quoted by the state-owned Daily News as having made an observation that the now abandoned Operation Agni Khiela had ‘pre-empted an LTTE attack on the original forward defence lines in the Jaffna peninsula’.
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The Defence Ministry was, meanwhile, quoted by the state-owned Daily News as having made an observation that the now abandoned Operation Agni Khiela had ‘pre-empted an LTTE attack on the original forward defence lines in the Jaffna peninsula’.
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April - 30 
In a press release issued in Colombo, on April 30, the Indian High Commission there noted with concern the events of the past few days, leading to the loss of a large number of lives. Fierce clashes occurred for four days in Operation Agni Khiela hours after the unilateral cease-fire called by the L
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In a press release issued in Colombo, on April 30, the Indian High Commission there noted with concern the events of the past few days, leading to the loss of a large number of lives. Fierce clashes occurred for four days in Operation Agni Khiela hours after the unilateral cease-fire called by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ended. "It is our hope that all parties would continue with the peace process and that talks would commence early. Only this can lead to lasting peace, and a resolution of issues so that the aspirations of all elements of Sri Lankan society are met" the press release stated.
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April - 30 
In a statement on peace and the LTTE’s cease-fire that came to an end on April 24, the Information Ministry said, on April 30, the government was fully justified in launching Operation Agni Khiela. It was so because, the Ministry release held, the LTTE had not only would up its unilateral cease-fire
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In a statement on peace and the LTTE’s cease-fire that came to an end on April 24, the Information Ministry said, on April 30, the government was fully justified in launching Operation Agni Khiela. It was so because, the Ministry release held, the LTTE had not only would up its unilateral cease-fire but had also violated it on 224 occasions. The release also said reiterated the government-stand announced on December 24, 2000 that goodwill measures were not required to get along with the peace process, and went on to add that the cease-fire was not "genuine" but an act of "international deception." Meanwhile, a government release said Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim arrived in Colombo and held discussions with President Chandrika Kumaratunga. The details of the discussions have not been made public yet. Soon after arriving, Solheim said over the BBC, on April 30, "The peace moves are a definite option. However, the current military situation is a setback".
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May - 1 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in a satellite address to the people of Jaffna, on May 1, said her government has not given up efforts to find a political solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the country. She said talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels have been dela
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga, in a satellite address to the people of Jaffna, on May 1, said her government has not given up efforts to find a political solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in the country. She said talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels have been delayed as the latter came up with, and insisted on, fresh demands, and added she will ‘explore all avenues to induce the LTTE to come to talks.’
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May - 1 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in a statement from its headquarters in the Wanni, on May 1, accused the government of ‘undermining the peace process’. The LTTE said the government had, by conducting the now abandoned Operation Agni Khiela, "seriously jeopardised the Norwegian peace init
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in a statement from its headquarters in the Wanni, on May 1, accused the government of ‘undermining the peace process’. The LTTE said the government had, by conducting the now abandoned Operation Agni Khiela, "seriously jeopardised the Norwegian peace initiative."
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May - 4 
US Secretary of State General Colin Powell, on May 4, during his meeting with the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar in Washington DC, urged both the Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to stop fighting and enter into a peace process. While reaffirming the US reje
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US Secretary of State General Colin Powell, on May 4, during his meeting with the Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar in Washington DC, urged both the Government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to stop fighting and enter into a peace process. While reaffirming the US rejection of a separate state and its policy of support for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka, Powell expressed hope that a cessation of hostilities would be arranged soon. Powell also expressed support for Norway’s peace effort in the country.
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May - 10 
Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, on May 10, requested the Norwegian government to renew the peace process on an urgent basis. A Foreign Ministry news release said, "The Norwegian Government is requested to take such new initiatives as might be required for this purpose to which end the Governme
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Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, on May 10, requested the Norwegian government to renew the peace process on an urgent basis. A Foreign Ministry news release said, "The Norwegian Government is requested to take such new initiatives as might be required for this purpose to which end the Government of Sri Lanka will extend its fullest support." Meanwhile, LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham expressed surprise and concern at the government's statement suggesting that an agreement had been reached between the two sides on several matters. Reacting to Kadirgamar’s May 9-statement, the rebel spokesman described the development as ‘recklessly premature’ and ‘factually incorrect’. On May 10, Sri Lanka’s Parliament passed the motion to extend Emergency in the country.
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May - 12 
The moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), on May 12, urged both the ruling People’s Alliance and the opposition United National Party (UNP) to do everything possible to initiate peace talks that would find a solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. The solution, the TULF sai
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The moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), on May 12, urged both the ruling People’s Alliance and the opposition United National Party (UNP) to do everything possible to initiate peace talks that would find a solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka. The solution, the TULF said, could be "within the framework upon the basis of which the Norwegian initiative has commenced". TULF opponents, however, questioned the timing of the plea and said it was a ploy by the TULF that was acting at the behest of the ruling alliance to scuttle the proposed no-confidence motion to be tabled in parliament by the UNP.
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May - 17 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels’ clandestine Voice of Radio said LTTE political wing chief Tamil Chelvan met Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim, on May 17, in Mallavi in the Wanni. Chelvan categorically told him that scrapping the proscription, now in force, of the LTTE was an ‘es
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels’ clandestine Voice of Radio said LTTE political wing chief Tamil Chelvan met Norwegian peace envoy Eric Solheim, on May 17, in Mallavi in the Wanni. Chelvan categorically told him that scrapping the proscription, now in force, of the LTTE was an ‘essential pre-requisite’ for peace talks with the government to commence.
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May - 24 
Pro-Tamil sources said, on May 24, Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Senior Vice President Ananadasangaree and Secretary General Sampanthan, issued a statement in which they urged the government to lift the proscription on the LTTE and said the government should not "retard the commencement of ta
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Pro-Tamil sources said, on May 24, Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Senior Vice President Ananadasangaree and Secretary General Sampanthan, issued a statement in which they urged the government to lift the proscription on the LTTE and said the government should not "retard the commencement of talks" with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).
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May - 25 
In a separate development, on May 25, All Ceylon Tamil Teachers' Union (ACTU) Batticaloa branch President S.Tharmarajan, said, at a rally, "The war should be stopped. Tamil Students and teachers are suffering immensely because of this conflict. The Tamil people's right of self determination and thei
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In a separate development, on May 25, All Ceylon Tamil Teachers' Union (ACTU) Batticaloa branch President S.Tharmarajan, said, at a rally, "The war should be stopped. Tamil Students and teachers are suffering immensely because of this conflict. The Tamil people's right of self determination and their traditional homeland should be recognised".
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May - 26 
A Government statement issued on May 26, rejected the demands of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for a unilateral lifting of ban on the outfit. It stated that ‘the lifting or the suspension of the proscription of the LTTE cannot be accepted as a 'pre-requisite' or 'pre-condition' for the
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A Government statement issued on May 26, rejected the demands of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for a unilateral lifting of ban on the outfit. It stated that ‘the lifting or the suspension of the proscription of the LTTE cannot be accepted as a 'pre-requisite' or 'pre-condition' for the commencement of negotiations; it can, if at all, on be an outcome of the negotiating process." It termed the demand as ‘unreasonable and is intended to delay and, if possible, prevent the commencement of the negotiating process." Meanwhile, the government’s move received support from the Eelam People's Democratic Party (EPDP) and senior United Nationalist Party (UNP) politicians.
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May - 26 
A Tamil Cabinet Minister and President of the Eelam Peoples Democratic Party, Douglas Devananda, said, in Jaffna, at a press conference, on May 26, "The Government's proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is no barrier for the Tigers to make their presence felt at peace talks."
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A Tamil Cabinet Minister and President of the Eelam Peoples Democratic Party, Douglas Devananda, said, in Jaffna, at a press conference, on May 26, "The Government's proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is no barrier for the Tigers to make their presence felt at peace talks." He went on to add that if LTTE Prabhakaran was seeking to cause havoc and bloodshed with the excuse that the LTTE was the ‘sole representative’ of the Tamil people, then the people will shun the LTTE till it lays down arms. The people while exercising their franchise will decide who their representatives are, Dvnanda said, and no one can claim to be the sole representative of the people.
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May - 31 
Speaking to foreign delegates, on May 31, who had arrived in Sri Lanka to attend a seminar, President Chandrika Kumaratunga said th4e ‘greatest service that the international community could render was to bring the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels to the negotiating table. The Presiden
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Speaking to foreign delegates, on May 31, who had arrived in Sri Lanka to attend a seminar, President Chandrika Kumaratunga said th4e ‘greatest service that the international community could render was to bring the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels to the negotiating table. The President also reiterated her government’s commitment to peace and enumerated the measures taken till date I that regard. The imposing of conditions by the LTTE for the peace talks to resume and a lack of agreement in that regard had halted the peace process, she added.
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June - 3 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in Gampola, on June 3, 2201 that Liberation Tigers of Tamil (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabhakaran "of late, has begun to place ludicrous conditions before the commencement of peace talks". The President said her government would not yield to any conditions and str
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga said in Gampola, on June 3, 2201 that Liberation Tigers of Tamil (LTTE) leader Velupillai Prabhakaran "of late, has begun to place ludicrous conditions before the commencement of peace talks". The President said her government would not yield to any conditions and stressed that she would not ‘betray the trust laid in her government by all communities in the country". The LTTE had demanded that proscription of the organisaton be lifted for the peace talks to commence.
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June - 10 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on June 10, said from its headquarters in Wanni, it was pleased with Sri Lanka's "unilateral initiative to change the role and function of the Norwegian peace envoy, Erik Solheim." The LTTE further said the move was made because of Solheim’s "impeccable n
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), on June 10, said from its headquarters in Wanni, it was pleased with Sri Lanka's "unilateral initiative to change the role and function of the Norwegian peace envoy, Erik Solheim." The LTTE further said the move was made because of Solheim’s "impeccable neutrality, a rare quality that was viewed with suspicion and apprehension in Sri Lankan political discourse."
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June - 11 
Quoting Norwegian Foreign Minister Thorbjorn Jagland, reports from Sri Lanka on June 11 said, "It is clear that it has come to a stage for a stronger political engagement by Norway. I am not planning to take over from anyone else. There has been progress, but to bring the process over a hump needs o
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Quoting Norwegian Foreign Minister Thorbjorn Jagland, reports from Sri Lanka on June 11 said, "It is clear that it has come to a stage for a stronger political engagement by Norway. I am not planning to take over from anyone else. There has been progress, but to bring the process over a hump needs our high-level involvement."
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June - 11 
Reacting to earlier reports that held that two Catholic Bishops had said that the government was inclined on a military solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, the government’s Special Media Information Centre (SMIC) said, on June 11, President Chandrika Kumaratunga was committed to
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Reacting to earlier reports that held that two Catholic Bishops had said that the government was inclined on a military solution to the protracted ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka, the government’s Special Media Information Centre (SMIC) said, on June 11, President Chandrika Kumaratunga was committed to a negotiated settlement. The SMIC further said it was the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that was placing hurdles and went on to state that the LTTE’s track record on the peace process has been proved insincere.
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June - 13 
Ethnic Affairs and National Integration Minister Athauda Seneviratne said, on June 13, that a Presidential Truth Commission would soon be formed to probe the ‘vital aspects’ of the 1983 ethnic riots in the country. The modalities and terms of reference of the Commission are being formulated. The Com
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Ethnic Affairs and National Integration Minister Athauda Seneviratne said, on June 13, that a Presidential Truth Commission would soon be formed to probe the ‘vital aspects’ of the 1983 ethnic riots in the country. The modalities and terms of reference of the Commission are being formulated. The Commission will have the power to great amnesty, much as South Africa’s Truth a Reconciliation Commission had.
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June - 19 
The Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF) observed Martyr’s Day on June 19 to commemorate the assassination by the Liberation of Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) of its leader Padmanbha and 13 others, in the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai (Madras), on that day in the year 1990. Se
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The Eelam People's Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF) observed Martyr’s Day on June 19 to commemorate the assassination by the Liberation of Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) of its leader Padmanbha and 13 others, in the southern Indian metropolis of Chennai (Madras), on that day in the year 1990. Several events were held to mark the occasion.
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July - 6 
According to official sources, the move by the President, Chandrika Kumaratunga, to ban the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) by invoking regulations under the Public Security Ordinance and the Prevention of Terrorism Act has been widely welcomed by various sections of the country.
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According to official sources, the move by the President, Chandrika Kumaratunga, to ban the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) by invoking regulations under the Public Security Ordinance and the Prevention of Terrorism Act has been widely welcomed by various sections of the country.
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July - 16 
Leader of the Opposition Ranil Wickremasinghe said in Colombo, on July 16, that the Oppoisition was consulting constitutional experts and would within two weeks submit a motion for the impeachment of President Chandrika Kumaratunga.
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Leader of the Opposition Ranil Wickremasinghe said in Colombo, on July 16, that the Oppoisition was consulting constitutional experts and would within two weeks submit a motion for the impeachment of President Chandrika Kumaratunga.
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July - 17 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga said all political parties, people's organizations, religious organizations and individuals would be given an opportunity to express their views on the Constitutional reforms before arriving at a final conclusion on the new Constitution. She said in an interview, on J
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga said all political parties, people's organizations, religious organizations and individuals would be given an opportunity to express their views on the Constitutional reforms before arriving at a final conclusion on the new Constitution. She said in an interview, on July 17, that people would be given this opportunity to express their views at a Constitutional Council to be set up in the aftermath of the referendum, due later in August 2001.
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July - 20 
Carol Bellamy, Director General of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), on July 20, criticised the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for not keeping with its 1998 promise of non recruitment of child soldiers. She said, the Tamil separatist conflict continued to cause ‘immense suffering
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Carol Bellamy, Director General of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), on July 20, criticised the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for not keeping with its 1998 promise of non recruitment of child soldiers. She said, the Tamil separatist conflict continued to cause ‘immense suffering and violations of children’s rights’. The LTTE, during the May 1998 visit of the UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, Olara Otunnu, had committed that it would not recruit children below the age of 17 years and that no one below 18 years would be deployed as combatants. However, reports suggest that the terrorist organisation has used children, in some cases below 12 years, in its separatist campaign.
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July - 20 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga told a trade union delegation, in Colombo, on July 20, that a ‘new’ Constitution would be presented before the people by November 2001, after taking the opinion of all sections, including the clergy, the minorities, minor political parties and intellectuals. Ahead of
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga told a trade union delegation, in Colombo, on July 20, that a ‘new’ Constitution would be presented before the people by November 2001, after taking the opinion of all sections, including the clergy, the minorities, minor political parties and intellectuals. Ahead of the October 2000-Parliamentary elections, the Ruling People’s Alliance tabled a draft Constitution in Parliament, but had to later withdraw the same, having failed to muster the required majority to ensure a smooth passage. The October 200-draft shall not be considered while preparing the present daft, the President said. Commenting on the urgency of a new Constitution, the President said, "the country needs a new constitution to pave the way for economic development and to end the war, thus ensuring permanent peace in the country." The President also sought to allay the perception that the move was being made because the Opposition is pursuing a no-confidence motion against her government.
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July - 24 
Sri Lankan media citing a United Nations (UN) statement, reported on July 28, that the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, expressed his deep dismay at the July 24 attack on the airbase and airport in Katunayake, near Colombo, by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The General Secretary conde
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Sri Lankan media citing a United Nations (UN) statement, reported on July 28, that the UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, expressed his deep dismay at the July 24 attack on the airbase and airport in Katunayake, near Colombo, by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). The General Secretary condemned the act and the disregard shown by the LTTE for the lives of civilians. Kofi Annan also urged all sections of Sri Lankan society to make every effort to initiate and sustain a viable peace process. He reiterated his support to the efforts by Norway to facilitate a negotiated political solution to the 18-year long ethnic conflict.
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July - 24 
Sri Lankan Opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe urged President Chandrika Kumaratunga to reconvene Parliament in the wake of the July 24-Katunayake attack on an airbase and the international airport. He said the government ignored the warning by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that it
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Sri Lankan Opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe urged President Chandrika Kumaratunga to reconvene Parliament in the wake of the July 24-Katunayake attack on an airbase and the international airport. He said the government ignored the warning by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) that it (the) government has to ‘bear total responsibility for the air raids on the LTTE, which are provocative aggression and calculated escalation in the war’. Also, the Janata Vimukthi Peramuna joined the demand for reconvening Parliament.
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July - 25 
In a special address to the country, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, on July 25, called upon all political parties to join her to put an end to the challenge of terrorism. The President’s address follows the July 24-LTTE attack near Colombo, and precedes the August 21-referendum for constitutional
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In a special address to the country, President Chandrika Kumaratunga, on July 25, called upon all political parties to join her to put an end to the challenge of terrorism. The President’s address follows the July 24-LTTE attack near Colombo, and precedes the August 21-referendum for constitutional reforms. On the referendum, she said, "It is a decision for the future of our nation. It is a decision, which would remove the major obstacles to progress in this country. It is a decision that would give to this country, once again, a new Constitution where human decency, the majority will of the people and their sovereignty and the economic and social progress of this country would reign supreme." Addressing the Opposition she said, "The UNP [United National Party] more than all the others in the Opposition, must take an honest and clear decision on which side they stand - whether they stand on the side of Peace and that of our people or whether they still want to compromise with terror."
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July - 27 
Pro-Tamil sources said Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Member of Parliament for Jaffna Mavai Senathirajah, while addressing a function to commemorate fallen Tamil Elam Liberation Organisation (TELO) cadres said, "The Liberation Tigers (of Tamil Eelam-LTTE) are fighting for the freedom of the Ta
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Pro-Tamil sources said Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Member of Parliament for Jaffna Mavai Senathirajah, while addressing a function to commemorate fallen Tamil Elam Liberation Organisation (TELO) cadres said, "The Liberation Tigers (of Tamil Eelam-LTTE) are fighting for the freedom of the Tamil people. They should continue their armed struggle until the Tamil people are liberated." He was addressing a meeting in Vavuniya, on July 27, to commemorate TELO leaders massacred in the Welikada jail, Colombo, in July 1983. Addressing the gathering, TELO advisor N. Srikanth said, "The leader of the ACTC (All Ceylon Tamil Congress), Kumar Ponnambalam and the Jaffna journalist Mayilvaganam Nimalarajan were murdered by agents of the People’s Alliance (PA) government. Therefore the PA regime will not take any effort to bring the killers to book. Tamils cannot expect any justice from this government. This is why the alliance of 11 Tamil parties are opposing it"
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July - 29 
The state-run Daily News reported on July 30 that Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said the de-proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) either at home or abroad is totally out of the question. The Daily News also said, the LTTE is yet to forward their appeal to the UK Governme
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The state-run Daily News reported on July 30 that Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar said the de-proscription of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) either at home or abroad is totally out of the question. The Daily News also said, the LTTE is yet to forward their appeal to the UK Government. The United Kingdom is to consider the appeals of the proscribed organisations, which were listed in February by the Home Ministry there.
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July - 31 
The Sri Lankan Army said that government troops exploded a claymore mine and killed four among a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels advancing towards the forward defence line in the Muhamalai general area on July 31. Three more LTTE cadre were injured in the blast.
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The Sri Lankan Army said that government troops exploded a claymore mine and killed four among a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels advancing towards the forward defence line in the Muhamalai general area on July 31. Three more LTTE cadre were injured in the blast.
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August - 2 
Pro-Tamil sources said on August 2, 2001 that Janata Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva declared at a press conference that his party was prepared to extend conditional support to ruling the People's Alliance (PA) for a year, if the latter called off the August 21 referendum.
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Pro-Tamil sources said on August 2, 2001 that Janata Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) General Secretary Tilvin Silva declared at a press conference that his party was prepared to extend conditional support to ruling the People's Alliance (PA) for a year, if the latter called off the August 21 referendum.
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August - 5 
The Sri Lankan Army said government troops in Batticaloa clashed with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and killed one, in the Kumbumoolai general area, 6km southeast of Valachchenai, on August 5, 2001.
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The Sri Lankan Army said government troops in Batticaloa clashed with Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and killed one, in the Kumbumoolai general area, 6km southeast of Valachchenai, on August 5, 2001.
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August - 7 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga, on August 7, 2001, issued a proclamation postponing the referendum on constitutional reform, scheduled to be held on August 21, to October 18, 2001. News reports said that the postponement was ordered to build upon the emerging consensus. The main Opposition United N
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga, on August 7, 2001, issued a proclamation postponing the referendum on constitutional reform, scheduled to be held on August 21, to October 18, 2001. News reports said that the postponement was ordered to build upon the emerging consensus. The main Opposition United National Party needs to be carried along.
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August - 8 
The combined Opposition lead by the United National Party (UNP) declared that the government should have cancelled the plan of holding the referendum on constitutional reform rather than postponing it. The Opposition Jathika Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), on August 8, called for a reconvening of Parlia
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The combined Opposition lead by the United National Party (UNP) declared that the government should have cancelled the plan of holding the referendum on constitutional reform rather than postponing it. The Opposition Jathika Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), on August 8, called for a reconvening of Parliament and demanded that there be a "probationary" government. A spokesman of the JVP, that had twice launched unsuccessful insurrections in the past, Weerawanse said the JVP has submitted a proposal to the Sri Lankan government for the purpose. "The government should have cancelled the referendum instead of postponing it. If Parliament is reconvened it would be possible to consider the government’s proposal for setting up of a constitution planning council, he said. The combined Opposition decided to put forward three demands for immediate implementation. Two of the demands include reconvening Parliament immediately and cancellation of the referendum.
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August - 9 
According to pro-Tamil sources, the Army has, in a press release in Batticaloa, warned that it was about to launch strikes against the LTTE in the district and had asked residents to move 4km away from LTTE camps. Besides, residents had been asked to stock essential items to last for two months.
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According to pro-Tamil sources, the Army has, in a press release in Batticaloa, warned that it was about to launch strikes against the LTTE in the district and had asked residents to move 4km away from LTTE camps. Besides, residents had been asked to stock essential items to last for two months.
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August - 9 
The Sri Lankan Army said Air Force jets bombarded a base of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in Kudarappu, 5km southeast of Nagarkovil, on August 9, 2001. Details of casualties and damage are awaited.
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The Sri Lankan Army said Air Force jets bombarded a base of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels in Kudarappu, 5km southeast of Nagarkovil, on August 9, 2001. Details of casualties and damage are awaited.
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August - 9 
The state-run Daily News said on August 9, that the French government has prohibited six Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) top functionaries from entering France. The LTTE had planned to open its international headquarters in Paris after the United Kingdom proscribed the LTTE in February this
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The state-run Daily News said on August 9, that the French government has prohibited six Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) top functionaries from entering France. The LTTE had planned to open its international headquarters in Paris after the United Kingdom proscribed the LTTE in February this year. Of those debarred from entering France included the chief negotiator and theoretician Anton Balasingham and Shanthan who was designated to head the Paris office.
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August - 11 
On the political front, a delayed report said that the Sri Lanka Muslim Conference (SLMC) leader, Rauf Hakeem on August 11, called upon the government to reconvene Parliament and cancel the proposed referendum before deciding to hold talks with the LTTE to find a negotiated settlement. These demands
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On the political front, a delayed report said that the Sri Lanka Muslim Conference (SLMC) leader, Rauf Hakeem on August 11, called upon the government to reconvene Parliament and cancel the proposed referendum before deciding to hold talks with the LTTE to find a negotiated settlement. These demands were part of the resolutions passed at 17th annual delegates conference of the SLMC held at Sammanthurai on August 11. The SLMC leader also accused President Chandrika Kumaratunga and her government of subverting democracy. He added all moves should be taken towards a negotiated political settlement to ethnic problem.
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August - 16 
On August 16 the Sri Lankan media reported that the Army has acquired an infantry weapon with a chemical warhead. The Sunday Leader said that several million dollars were spent to acquire 1,000 units of the flame-thrower-type shoulder-fired RPO-A Shmel Rocket Launcher. Besides, the weapons delivered
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On August 16 the Sri Lankan media reported that the Army has acquired an infantry weapon with a chemical warhead. The Sunday Leader said that several million dollars were spent to acquire 1,000 units of the flame-thrower-type shoulder-fired RPO-A Shmel Rocket Launcher. Besides, the weapons delivered were of old stock and may have exceeded their shelf life. The US Defence Intelligence Agency says the weapon’s chemical warhead is toxic and hence dangerous even if it fails to detonate. "It is an internationally banned weapon," Lt. Col. Gajanayake told the Sunday Leader. "Officially these items cannot be negotiated via an open tender but can only be bought underground; this is a very sophisticated chemical warhead."
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August - 17 
A Member of Parliament representing Batticaloa and belonging to the moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), on August 17, accused the government of planning genocide following reports on the government acquiring chemical warheads. "The Sri Lankan government is going to deploy chemical weapons
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A Member of Parliament representing Batticaloa and belonging to the moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), on August 17, accused the government of planning genocide following reports on the government acquiring chemical warheads. "The Sri Lankan government is going to deploy chemical weapons against the Tamils in the island's north and east. The aim is to annihilate them totally. The use of this dangerous chemical weapon against the Tamil people should be strongly condemned," Joseph Pararajasingham said.
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August - 20 
The Sri Lankan Army, meanwhile, said LTTE rebels attacked the forward defence line in the Nagarkovil general area and injured a soldier, also on August 20.
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The Sri Lankan Army, meanwhile, said LTTE rebels attacked the forward defence line in the Nagarkovil general area and injured a soldier, also on August 20.
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August - 22 
A soldier was wounded in LTTE artillery firing in the Oddupeli general area some 5km south east of Kodikamam, on August 22. The Sri Lankan Army also said that the LTTE rebels had ambushed and fired at a vehicle carrying dinner for security force personnel in the Puthukulam general area, some 11km no
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A soldier was wounded in LTTE artillery firing in the Oddupeli general area some 5km south east of Kodikamam, on August 22. The Sri Lankan Army also said that the LTTE rebels had ambushed and fired at a vehicle carrying dinner for security force personnel in the Puthukulam general area, some 11km north west of Vavuniya, also on August 22, killing two soldiers and injuring three more.
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August - 25 
A news report on August 25, said that the Sri Lankan army has been improving defences in the Jaffna peninsula on a priority basis after reports indicated that the rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is preparing for a fresh offensive to regain Jaffna town. Citing the Chief of Defence Staff
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A news report on August 25, said that the Sri Lankan army has been improving defences in the Jaffna peninsula on a priority basis after reports indicated that the rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is preparing for a fresh offensive to regain Jaffna town. Citing the Chief of Defence Staff [CDS] General Rohan de S. Daluwatte, the report said that "some defences have been enhanced" and "further improvements are being made," with a view to improving security conditions in the peninsula.
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August - 26 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said on August 26, 2001 that the Opposition United National Party (UNP) was in favour of a caretaker government for a period of 12 weeks followed by elections in December this year, 2001. According to one report, "UNP leader [Ranil Wickremasinghe] has indicated he will n
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said on August 26, 2001 that the Opposition United National Party (UNP) was in favour of a caretaker government for a period of 12 weeks followed by elections in December this year, 2001. According to one report, "UNP leader [Ranil Wickremasinghe] has indicated he will not go into a national government with the [ruling] People’s Alliance [PA]". If this was not acceptable to the PA, Wickremasinghe suggested forming a national government with himself as the Prime Minister and a Cabinet of 20 Ministers. Reports said, if one of the two alternatives was not accepted, the UNP would press for the immediate dissolution of Parliament and holding of fresh elections. Negotiations between the PA and the UNP are scheduled to resume today, August 27, 2001.
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August - 26 
The Sri Lankan Army said government troops on a limited clearing operation, on August 26, 2001, ahead of the forward defence line in the Muhamalai and Kilaly general areas, Jaffna peninsula, attacked the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and destroyed a section of their first line of de
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The Sri Lankan Army said government troops on a limited clearing operation, on August 26, 2001, ahead of the forward defence line in the Muhamalai and Kilaly general areas, Jaffna peninsula, attacked the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and destroyed a section of their first line of defence. Six LTTE rebels were killed in the operation while nine more were injured. An Army officer and 11 troops, too, were wounded in the attack. While the Army said it was a ‘limited operation’, pro-Tamil sources, quoting the LTTE’s clandestine Voice of Tigers (VoT) radio, said it was, in fact, ‘heavy fighting’ that had erupted, and claimed that it was repulsed. The LTTE refuted the Army’s claims of its (LTET’s) casualties and said it had lost only one cadre.
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August - 27 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on August 27 denied issuing a note reportedly circulating in the Jaffna peninsula warning Tamil members to quit the Sri Lankan Parliament. The note is purported to have originated from an outfit, which according to government sources is a front of the LTTE
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) on August 27 denied issuing a note reportedly circulating in the Jaffna peninsula warning Tamil members to quit the Sri Lankan Parliament. The note is purported to have originated from an outfit, which according to government sources is a front of the LTTE. A notice issued by the Sangiliyan Padai (Sangiliyan Army) on August 25 said, "those who refused would not have an opportunity to regret their action." According to Anton Balasingham, chief negotiator of LTTE "the LTTE or any of its associated organisations have not issued any such statement."
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August - 28 
Reports from Sri Lanka said the final round of talks between the ruling People’s Alliance (PA) and the Opposition United National party (UNP) to find a solution to the continuing political crisis in the country reached a dead-end, on August 28, 2001. Forming a caretaker government was the focus of t
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Reports from Sri Lanka said the final round of talks between the ruling People’s Alliance (PA) and the Opposition United National party (UNP) to find a solution to the continuing political crisis in the country reached a dead-end, on August 28, 2001. Forming a caretaker government was the focus of the talks. Opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe was keen on being the Prime Minister in the proposed caretaker government and the PA was against it, reports further said. The PA’s alternative proposal was enacting a Constitutional amendment to create the new post of Vice President and elevating incumbent Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake to that post. The UNP, however, reports said, insisted on its proposal saying the PA proposal could be taken up subsequently.
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August - 28 
The Sri Lankan Army said five government troops travelling in a tractor were killed when their vehicle hit a claymore mine in the Kidachcherui general area, in Wanni, some15km northwest of Vavuniya, on August 28, 2001.
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The Sri Lankan Army said five government troops travelling in a tractor were killed when their vehicle hit a claymore mine in the Kidachcherui general area, in Wanni, some15km northwest of Vavuniya, on August 28, 2001.
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August - 29 
The government announced on August 29 that it was willing to negotiate a mutually agreed cease-fire with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Speaking at a Colombo press conference, Foreign Minister, Lakshman Kadirgamar said that the government was considering issuing a fresh invitation to t
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The government announced on August 29 that it was willing to negotiate a mutually agreed cease-fire with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Speaking at a Colombo press conference, Foreign Minister, Lakshman Kadirgamar said that the government was considering issuing a fresh invitation to the LTTE for negotiations. The LTTE has insisted on a cease-fire before talks can be held, a demand that has stalled the Norwegian-brokered peace process. The government had so far rejected this demand. He added that the government had considered making this fresh invitation as part of a joint statement with the opposition. This plan failed as the talks between the ruling People’s Alliance (PA) and the opposition United National Party (UNP) broke down on August 28 (as reported earlier).
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August - 30 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, on August 30, 2001, rejected the truce offer made by the government. The government proposed a "mutually agreed cease-fire", which the LTTE said was "a calculated political duplicity to divert the attent
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ideologue and chief negotiator Anton Balasingham, on August 30, 2001, rejected the truce offer made by the government. The government proposed a "mutually agreed cease-fire", which the LTTE said was "a calculated political duplicity to divert the attention of the people and the world from the deepening crisis in Colombo." Balasingham told a Website, "The LTTE is not prepared to enter into negotiation with a corrupt, inefficient, unstable government which does not have a majority in Parliament." "Peace talks are not a crisis management exercise to be invoked at the pleasure of a government which is on the verge of collapse," he said further. "The LTTE is not naive to jump on a sinking ship." The government’s offer was made in the wake of an unending political crisis. The government’s plans to introduce a draft new Constitution in Parliament did not fructify. Its next plan to conduct a referendum on statute reform too had to be abandoned. The Opposition is has been making one demand after the other the reconvening of Parliament, formational of a national government, general elections. Balasingham also said the Sri Lankan government had in the past consistently opposed peace moves saying it was "because of her misguided policy of militarism and conquest of Tamil lands."
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August - 30 
The moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) said, on August 30, 2001, that the cease-fire offer made to the Liberation tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) by the government was a ploy to deceive the Tamil people. TULF Member of Parliament Pararajasingham said, "…a government, which is weakened politi
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The moderate Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) said, on August 30, 2001, that the cease-fire offer made to the Liberation tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) by the government was a ploy to deceive the Tamil people. TULF Member of Parliament Pararajasingham said, "…a government, which is weakened politically and militarily," cannot "offer a cease-fire and initiate peace negotiations with the LTTE", which is "military strong". Pararajasingham added that that the government had thwarted an earlier peace move by the LTTE rebels. The Chandrika Kumaratunga government made an offer of cease-fire to the LTTE and the rebels have since rejected the offer.
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September - 5 
At a meeting with government officials ahead of the formal signing of the agreement with the JVP, President Chandrika Kumaratunga said there would no general elections in the country four two more years.
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At a meeting with government officials ahead of the formal signing of the agreement with the JVP, President Chandrika Kumaratunga said there would no general elections in the country four two more years.
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September - 6 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga has reconvened Parliament, prorogued earlier on July 10. The sessions commenced on September 6, 2001. During the debates during the day, Cabinet Minister Nimal Sripala de Silva said the Ruling People’s Alliance (PA)-United National Party (UNP) talks failed because the
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga has reconvened Parliament, prorogued earlier on July 10. The sessions commenced on September 6, 2001. During the debates during the day, Cabinet Minister Nimal Sripala de Silva said the Ruling People’s Alliance (PA)-United National Party (UNP) talks failed because the UNP insisted on executive powers for the Prime Minister, which post it had wanted for its leader in a power-sharing arrangement.
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September - 7 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga said on the state-owned television, on September 7, that the Norwegian facilitated peace process to resolve the country’s protracted ethnic conflict would continue. She, thus, set at rest apprehensions that the peace process may be relegated to the background in the
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga said on the state-owned television, on September 7, that the Norwegian facilitated peace process to resolve the country’s protracted ethnic conflict would continue. She, thus, set at rest apprehensions that the peace process may be relegated to the background in the wake of the Ruling People’s Alliance (PA) and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to bolster the PA’s strength in Parliament. "The talks with the LTTE are in no way affected," she assured. Talks with the LTTE will go on, the President said and added that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) told the Norwegians "we (the LTTE rebels) think the government is unstable we’ll see who will continue in power." Hence, the talks did not move further, the President said.
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September - 10 
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) said, on September 10, 2001, that the understanding reached between the People’s Alliance-Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) was a blow to the peace process in the country. LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said, in an interview to Tamil Guardian, one
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The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) said, on September 10, 2001, that the understanding reached between the People’s Alliance-Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) was a blow to the peace process in the country. LTTE chief negotiator Anton Balasingham said, in an interview to Tamil Guardian, one of the clauses of the Memorandum of Understanding reached between the PA and the JVP strictly forbids any discussions on proposals relating to the solution to the Tamil national question. "Is there any meaning and purpose in entering into a peace process if we cannot discuss any proposals for a negotiated settlement?" Balasingham queried in the interview. Balasingham added, "The truth is that the PA-JVP agreement has made the peace talks an impossible task."
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September - 11 
Secretary to the President Kusumsiri Balapatabendi said, according to media sources on September 11, 2001, that the Draft Bill on constituting separate commissions on Public Services, Judicial Services, Elections, and Police would be ready by today, September 11. The setting up of these commissions
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Secretary to the President Kusumsiri Balapatabendi said, according to media sources on September 11, 2001, that the Draft Bill on constituting separate commissions on Public Services, Judicial Services, Elections, and Police would be ready by today, September 11. The setting up of these commissions was agreed upon in the MoU signed between the government and the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). The Draft Bill would be placed before Parliament on September 24. An amendment will also made so as to include the setting up of the Constitutional Council apart from the four independent commissions. In the MoU the government also agreed to set up an independent commission for media within six months.
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September - 23 
The Central Working Committee of the TULF met on 23rd September to consider the proposed 17th Amendment to the constitution. "The proposed 17th amendment contains provisions for the establishment of the constitutional council and powers which inter-alia includes the appointment of several commissi
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The Central Working Committee of the TULF met on 23rd September to consider the proposed 17th Amendment to the constitution. "The proposed 17th amendment contains provisions for the establishment of the constitutional council and powers which inter-alia includes the appointment of several commissions such as the Elections Commission, the Delimitation Commission, the Human Rights Commission, the Public Service Commission, the National Police Commission, the Finance Commission and approval of recommendations made regarding the appointment of important functionaries such as judges of the Supreme Court and Appeal Court Judges, the Attorney General, the Inspector General of Police etc. "The TULF is of the view that the proposals presented do not ensure the effective representation of the minority nationalities on the constitutional council, so as to guarantee an adequate and genuine participation on behalf of the minority nationalities in the deliberations and decision making process of the council. "The constitutional council is vested with extensive authority and its determinations will have a substantial influence on the exercise by the various commissions and institutions of their wide ranging powers and duties. "The powers and duties exercised by these different commissions and institutions are inextricably linked to the recognition and enforcement of the democratic and fundamental rights of the different peoples in the country. The lack of effective representation on behalf of the minority nationalities on the constitutional council will inevitably result in the diminution of, and have an adverse impact on, the exercise of their democratic and fundamental rights by the peoples who constitute the minority nationalities. "The TULF desires to point out that this is a seriously flawed aspect of the current proposals to establish a constitutional council. Similar deficiencies exist in the provisions relating to the appointment of the different commissions. "The TULF has actively participated in the current constitutional reform process from August 1994. The TULF has always insisted that constitutional reform should predominately encompasses arrangements for the effective sharing of the powers of governance, by granting very substantial political autonomy to a region in the north-east. "The Tamil political agenda in the past fifty years has democratically and peacefully agitated for such constitutional reform. The TULF has disfavoured piecemeal constitutional reform, as this would further retard the effective sharing of the powers of governance between the Centre and a region in the north-east. "The war in which the country has been embroiled for over the past 20 years solely attributable to the failure to grant such substantial and genuine political autonomy to a region in the north-east. "Any attempt since 1994 to find a just solution to the Tamil national question has remained elusive, primarily because of the failure of the two main political parties, the Sri Lanka Freedom Party and the United National Party to adopt a bi-partisan approach towards such resolution. "The TULF has for long strongly urged the cessation of hostilities and the commencement of negotiations with the L.T.T.E. The Norwegian initiative with the acceptance of the Government and the LTTE provided the first real opportunity for this to commence. The TULF states that by misconceived actions, taken perhaps, to achieve short term political gains, opportunities for the commencement of meaningful negotiations between the Government and the LTTE were not grasped between November, 2000 and April 2001. The impasse that was thereby created has been further compounded by provisions in the memorandum of understanding between the Peoples' Alliance and the Janata Vimukthi Peramuna, which further inhibits the commencement of a credible and meaningful dialogue between the Government and the LTTE. "Piecemeal constitutional reform in this situation can only further retard the just resolution of the Tamil national question. Such piecemeal constitutional reform in the current situation is akin to attempts to refurbish a house, which is engulfed by the flames of a major fire. The primary need is to extinguish the flames and put out the fire. The people most affected by the destructive fire, which rages chiefly in the north-east, are the Tamil people. "The TULF cannot with justification partake in piecemeal constitutional reform, when no serious effort is in progress to resolve the Tamil national question. This is not to belittle the conceptual validity of the proposals for the establishment of the constitutional council etc., if framed so as to safeguard the concerns of minority nationalities also, but to emphasise the urgent and vital importance of constitutional reform that will evolve a just and national question. Towards this end, the TULF strongly urges the taking of all necessary steps without further delay, for the active revival of the Norwegian initiative and the commencement of meaningful negotiations with the LTTE. This is only means to end the bloody war and to bring peace with justice to the whole country. This has to be the first step towards the eradication of all the other ills the country faces. "This is the yearning of the vast majority of all peoples in the country."
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September - 23 
The Opposition United National Party (UNP)-sponsored no-confidence motion against the People's Alliance (PA) government is likely to be submitted to the Speaker of Sri Lanka’s Parliament, Anura Bandaranaike, on September 26, 2001. PA General Secretary and Minister D.M.Jayaretna, expressed the confi
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The Opposition United National Party (UNP)-sponsored no-confidence motion against the People's Alliance (PA) government is likely to be submitted to the Speaker of Sri Lanka’s Parliament, Anura Bandaranaike, on September 26, 2001. PA General Secretary and Minister D.M.Jayaretna, expressed the confidence, on September 22, that the motion would, however, be defeated when it is put to vote, because the PA has already secured the support of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP). "The government is now having 119 parliamentarians on its side" after the PA signed an MoU with the JVP, Jayaretna said
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October - 1 
Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry on October 1, 2001 welcomed the United Nations Security Council resolution on terrorism as historic and the most far-reaching resolution till date to combat terrorism. The Foreign Ministry also said it would on all likelihood "establish an internal Inter Ministerial C
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Sri Lanka’s Foreign Ministry on October 1, 2001 welcomed the United Nations Security Council resolution on terrorism as historic and the most far-reaching resolution till date to combat terrorism. The Foreign Ministry also said it would on all likelihood "establish an internal Inter Ministerial Committee to liase with the UN Security Council Committee", that has been constituted. The Security Council resolution has asked member states, among other things, to ‘prevent and suppress financing of terrorism, freeze funds owned or controlled directly or indirectly by terrorist groups and deny both passive and active support to terrorists by eliminating the supply of weapons.
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October - 15 
The Sri Lankan Army said government troops laid an ambush and intercepted a group of suspected Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, killing three persons and recovered a boat that was being taken towards the waters, 3km north west of Trincomalee, on October 15. One person had escaped unhu
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The Sri Lankan Army said government troops laid an ambush and intercepted a group of suspected Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels, killing three persons and recovered a boat that was being taken towards the waters, 3km north west of Trincomalee, on October 15. One person had escaped unhurt. Also on the same day, Naval troops recovered a hand grenade upon searching two persons at a check post 4km north of Trincomalee.
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October - 21 
Four Tamil political parties have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to contest in the forthcoming countrywide polls under a common symbol. Besides, the alliance has, according to a statement released by the partners, as its ‘primary objective exerting pressure on the future governm
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Four Tamil political parties have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to contest in the forthcoming countrywide polls under a common symbol. Besides, the alliance has, according to a statement released by the partners, as its ‘primary objective exerting pressure on the future government… to declare a ceasefire, lift economic embargo on Tamil areas, especially areas which do not come under the state armed forces, lift the proscription now in force on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), and to commence peace talks with the LTTE to reach an acceptable political solution to the Tamil national question through Norwegian initiative’. The partners in the alliance are Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), All Ceylon Tamil Congress (ACTC), Tamil Eelam Liberation Organization (TELO) and Eelam Peoples' Revolutionary Liberation Front (EPRLF-Suresh faction).
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November - 3 
The Eelam People's Revolutionary Front (EPRLF) Suresh Premachandran was reported on November 3 as saying that the newly formed four-member alliance of Tamil political parties would pressurize the international community to recognize the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as freedom fighters.
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The Eelam People's Revolutionary Front (EPRLF) Suresh Premachandran was reported on November 3 as saying that the newly formed four-member alliance of Tamil political parties would pressurize the international community to recognize the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as freedom fighters.
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November - 5 
Media reports from Sri Lanka on November 5 said Britain has frozen the funds of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), along with those of 24 other terrorist organistaions, which supposedly committed or pose a significant risk of committing or providing material support for acts of terrorism.
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Media reports from Sri Lanka on November 5 said Britain has frozen the funds of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), along with those of 24 other terrorist organistaions, which supposedly committed or pose a significant risk of committing or providing material support for acts of terrorism. British Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown said in a statement, "These organisations will find no haven for their assets in the UK", and added, "I expect all financial institutions to check their records and freeze the assets of those named wherever found."
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November - 12 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga on November 12 categorically ruled out lifting the proscription imposed on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for talks to commence. She was speaking at a meeting organised to release the election manifesto of her People’s Alliance political coalition for the
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga on November 12 categorically ruled out lifting the proscription imposed on the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for talks to commence. She was speaking at a meeting organised to release the election manifesto of her People’s Alliance political coalition for the forthcoming parliamentary elections. She also expressed disinclination to have any understanding with the newly founded Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a coalition of four Tamil political parties that is alleged to be having the endorsement of the LTTE. The President said, "We are unwilling to betray our country for the sake of power," in a rebuttal of the TNA promise to its constituents that it would exert pressure on future governments to lift the ban on the LTTE.
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November - 16 
Former Speaker of Sri Lanka’s Parliament, Anura Bandaranaike has alleged that a memorandum of understanding had been signed between the Opposition United National Party (UNP) and certain Tamil political parties, which is still kept a secret. He further said that statements made by Tamil political le
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Former Speaker of Sri Lanka’s Parliament, Anura Bandaranaike has alleged that a memorandum of understanding had been signed between the Opposition United National Party (UNP) and certain Tamil political parties, which is still kept a secret. He further said that statements made by Tamil political leaders P Joseph and R Sampanthan and the manifesto of the Tamil National Alliance was "more than a clear indicator of the close and deadly links between … [the UNP] and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He also claimed that in the previous general elections, there were no linkages between the UNP and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). Incidentally, he had contested as a nominee of the UNP during those elections.
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November - 21 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga told an election rally, in Hanguranketha, on November 21, that her government would fight the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) till they were "exterminated", media reports from Sri Lanka said. The President said this was necessary if the neglected rights of the
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga told an election rally, in Hanguranketha, on November 21, that her government would fight the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) till they were "exterminated", media reports from Sri Lanka said. The President said this was necessary if the neglected rights of the Tamil people were to be fulfilled and re-established. Emphasizing her government’s determination to wipe out the LTTE, the President said, "… We are determined more than at any time in our struggle to wipe out terrorism and we will continue to wage war against the Tigers to a logical conclusion". The President also declared that the LTTE had, time and again, "hoodwinked" the government and the people of Sri Lanka at peace talks and reiterated "that the … government is determined to go for a peaceful resolution on this issue".
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November - 23 
Former Sri Lankan parliament Speaker and the President’s brother, Anura Bandaranayake has claimed that his erstwhile colleague in the United National Party (UNP) Jayalath Jayawardena could be charged for treason. According to him, Jayawardena is reported to have conversed with an unnamed Liberation
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Former Sri Lankan parliament Speaker and the President’s brother, Anura Bandaranayake has claimed that his erstwhile colleague in the United National Party (UNP) Jayalath Jayawardena could be charged for treason. According to him, Jayawardena is reported to have conversed with an unnamed Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) cadre and the contents of the conversation had grave implications for the security of the state. During the alleged conversation, they reportedly planned to rig the forthcoming parliamentary elections and also planned to adopt a 10 pronged strategy with the LTTE, he claimed.
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November - 23 
Separately, a Minister, Mangala Samaraweera at a press conference in Colombo replayed a cassette containing the voice of Jayawardena and also displayed to the media a photocopy of a letter reportedly sent by Jayawardena to the LTTE political wing leader Thamil Chelvam.
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Separately, a Minister, Mangala Samaraweera at a press conference in Colombo replayed a cassette containing the voice of Jayawardena and also displayed to the media a photocopy of a letter reportedly sent by Jayawardena to the LTTE political wing leader Thamil Chelvam.
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November - 27 
Delivering an address on November 27, the Chief of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Velupillai Prabhakaran urged the majority Sinhala community of Sri Lanka to reject racist forces committed to militarism and war and to offer justice to the Tamil people to bring about peace, ethnic reconcili
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Delivering an address on November 27, the Chief of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), Velupillai Prabhakaran urged the majority Sinhala community of Sri Lanka to reject racist forces committed to militarism and war and to offer justice to the Tamil people to bring about peace, ethnic reconciliation and economic prosperity to the island. Enunciating the LTTE’s policy in his annual Heroes’ Day speech, he opined that the Tamil people wanted to live in their traditional lands with peace and dignity, determining their own political and economic life. He is also reported to have observed that this "…is the basic political aspiration of the Tamil people. This is neither separatism nor terrorism. It does not constitute a threat to the Sinhala people." The LTTE leader also said that the Sinhalese, Tamils and other communities in the island could co-exist in peace and harmony if a political settlement is reached through peaceful means. But, he is reported to have warned that the Tamils would be left with no alternative other than to secede and form an independent state if the Sinhala nation continued to refuse to resolve the conflict through peaceful means. "If racism continues to predominate as the determining force in Sri Lanka’s politics, it would certainly create the objective conditions for the emergence of an independent Tamil state," he observed. He also declared that the LTTE is sincerely committed to a negotiated political settlement. He insisted, however, that lifting of the ban on his organisation is a necessary pre-requisite for the LTTE to participate in the peace talks as the legitimate, authentic representatives of the Tamil people. Expressing regret and dismay over the decision made by some Western governments to include the LTTE in the list of international terrorist organisations, the LTTE Chief asserted that his organisation is a freedom movement fighting for the emancipation of his oppressed people. Branding the LTTE as a terrorist organisation will have a negative effect on the peace process since it would encourage the Sri Lankan government to adopt a hard-line militarist approach, he added. He also called for a clear and comprehensive definition of the concept of terrorism that would distinguish between armed liberation struggles based on the right to self-determination and blind terrorist acts based on hatred and fanaticism.
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November - 30 
Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, addressing an election rally at Homagama, claimed that if the People’s Alliance (PA) coalition, being led by him, if returned to power, the government would wipe out the LTTE within three months. He also alleged that four Tamil Parties which have
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Sri Lankan Prime Minister, Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, addressing an election rally at Homagama, claimed that if the People’s Alliance (PA) coalition, being led by him, if returned to power, the government would wipe out the LTTE within three months. He also alleged that four Tamil Parties which have formed the Tamil National Alliance were "representing the LTTE and catering to its interests."
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December - 6 
Official media sources said that two soldiers were injured when a patrol party was ambushed by Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels near Polonnaruwa on December 7. These sources added that troops intercepted a group of LTTE rebels at Meeyankulam, near Valachchenai on December 6. Troops rec
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Official media sources said that two soldiers were injured when a patrol party was ambushed by Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels near Polonnaruwa on December 7. These sources added that troops intercepted a group of LTTE rebels at Meeyankulam, near Valachchenai on December 6. Troops recovered the bodies of six slain LTTE cadres after the encounter that followed the interception. Monitored LTTE transmissions indicated that there were more casualties.
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December - 7 
Reacting to the elections, the United States’ State Department, on December 7, while condemning the violence during the polls, said that the elections were "basically free and fair." In another international reaction, the European Union (EU) Electoral Observation Mission chief, John Cushnahan also c
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Reacting to the elections, the United States’ State Department, on December 7, while condemning the violence during the polls, said that the elections were "basically free and fair." In another international reaction, the European Union (EU) Electoral Observation Mission chief, John Cushnahan also condemned the violence as well as the blocking by the army of large numbers of Tamils from voting, but endorsed the overall election result. The EU mission also criticised the PA and its ally, EPDP for being partially responsible for the violence. The Mission statement added that the "…decision of the army to close checkpoints at Vavuniya and Batticaloa prevented many thousands of people from exercising their right to vote. It would seem that there is no justification for this action and serious questions have to be raised about the political motivation behind it."
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December - 9 
A senior leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a group of four Tamil Parties, speaking to the new Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said, on December 9, that the Alliance would stick to its demands defined in its election manifesto in evolving a just and durable solution to the Tamil nation
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A senior leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), a group of four Tamil Parties, speaking to the new Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe said, on December 9, that the Alliance would stick to its demands defined in its election manifesto in evolving a just and durable solution to the Tamil national question. The new Prime Minister is from the United National Party (UNP), which with its allies, defeated the People’s Alliance (PA) of President Chandrika Kumaratunge. The TNA leader, R. Sampanthan was contacted by the Prime Minister who extended an invitation to the Alliance for talks to resolve the ethnic dispute in the country. Outlining the Alliance’s preconditions for the talks, the Alliance leader is reported to have told the Prime Minister that "the government should first declare cease-fire, lift the ban on the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) enabling it to participate in peace talks as the sole representative of Tamils and such peace talks should be held only with the LTTE through international third party mediation, according to TNA manifesto." Unconfirmed news reports said that the TNA was willing to give the new Prime Minster, six months to bring about a cessation of hostilities and lift the military embargo around the Vanni province controlled by the LTTE. Political analysts, however, were cited in news reports as saying that the Prime Minister would find it difficult to meet these conditions as the defence portfolio is still being held by President Chandrika Kumaratunga. She had ruled out, during the run-up to the elections held on December 5, a cease-fire with the rebel LTTE unless the outfit gives up separatism and arms. A statement from the President’s Secretariat on December 9, denied speculations that the Prime Minister would be appointed the Minister of Defence (MoD). An anonymous senior journalist was cited by a Tamil news source as saying, "Faced with the grim prospect of being reduced to a figurehead or being impeached by a hostile Parliament which has control over finance and legislation, the President is like to cling on to the MoD".
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December - 10 
Sri Lanka’s newly elected 12th Parliament is scheduled to meet on December 17, the Presidential Secretariat said on December 10. Meanwhile, reports added that representatives of the Ruling United National Party (UNP) and the Opposition People’s Alliance (PA) met on December 10 to consider matters of
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Sri Lanka’s newly elected 12th Parliament is scheduled to meet on December 17, the Presidential Secretariat said on December 10. Meanwhile, reports added that representatives of the Ruling United National Party (UNP) and the Opposition People’s Alliance (PA) met on December 10 to consider matters of ‘national concern’, including the peace process and agreed to meet frequently. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe and former Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickremanayake led their respective delegations.
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December - 10 
The Sri Lankan Army said government troops detected the movement of a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and attacked them in the Pahala Thoppur general area, 20km south of Trincomalee, on December 10, and killed three rebel cadres.
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The Sri Lankan Army said government troops detected the movement of a group of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels and attacked them in the Pahala Thoppur general area, 20km south of Trincomalee, on December 10, and killed three rebel cadres.
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December - 11 
The Sri Lankan Army said troops on a clearing operation in the Thanankilappu general area, near Chavakachcheri, on 11 December, recovered a huge haul of communication equipment and accessories, several rounds of ammunition and several other items, which were reportedly buried by the Liberation Tiger
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The Sri Lankan Army said troops on a clearing operation in the Thanankilappu general area, near Chavakachcheri, on 11 December, recovered a huge haul of communication equipment and accessories, several rounds of ammunition and several other items, which were reportedly buried by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) rebels for use on a later date.
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December - 12 
President Chandrika Kumaratunga on December 12 administered the oath of office to 60 members in the new Council of Ministers. Of them, 25 hold Cabinet rank. Former Attorney General Tilak Marapone has been appointed Defence Minister while K N Choksy is the new Finance Minister. Also, four new ministr
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President Chandrika Kumaratunga on December 12 administered the oath of office to 60 members in the new Council of Ministers. Of them, 25 hold Cabinet rank. Former Attorney General Tilak Marapone has been appointed Defence Minister while K N Choksy is the new Finance Minister. Also, four new ministries have been created to oversee development activities in the four regions––northwest, west, south and centre.
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December - 12 
Two newly elected senior Members of Parliament (MP) belonging to the Tamil National Alliance, R. Sampanthan and V. Anandasangaree, on December 12, urged Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Gopalkrishna Gandhi to impress upon the new government that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) be de-
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Two newly elected senior Members of Parliament (MP) belonging to the Tamil National Alliance, R. Sampanthan and V. Anandasangaree, on December 12, urged Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Gopalkrishna Gandhi to impress upon the new government that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) be de-proscribed. They said that peace talks should be held only then. They also declared that the LTTE was the sole representative of the Tamil people.
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December - 13 
Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando while indicating on December 13 that the peace process would be revived soon added that the government was awaiting a call from Norway, which is brokering the peace effort between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE). The Foreign Minister al
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Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando while indicating on December 13 that the peace process would be revived soon added that the government was awaiting a call from Norway, which is brokering the peace effort between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE). The Foreign Minister also said that India would be given a "major role" in the peace process, which he said "is a must". Fernando and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe would be visiting India between December 22 and 24 to meet the Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and other leaders.
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December - 13 
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on December 13 condemned the terrorist strike on India’s Parliament. In a message to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, Wickremesinghe said he was "shocked to hear of the terrorist attack on the Lok Sabha, the symbol of democracy in India, and condemn
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Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on December 13 condemned the terrorist strike on India’s Parliament. In a message to Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee, Wickremesinghe said he was "shocked to hear of the terrorist attack on the Lok Sabha, the symbol of democracy in India, and condemned the "senseless violence".
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December - 18 
Beginning work on reinitiating the peace process with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe addressed Cabinet Ministers on December 18, saying that three committees would be formed to take the peace process further. A press release of the rulin
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Beginning work on reinitiating the peace process with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremasinghe addressed Cabinet Ministers on December 18, saying that three committees would be formed to take the peace process further. A press release of the ruling United National Party (UNP) while disclosing this said that one committee would advise the Prime Minister on the political solution. Another would prepare the ground for the negotiations and a third, whose membership would include a cross section of the society to suggest alternative solutions. The Prime is also scheduled to meet President Chandrika Kumaratunga, the Government Agent in Vavuniya and the Indian Prime Minister, following which "the final decision on the procedures of the process will be taken…"
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December - 18 
Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando said, "The Government is prepared for unconditional talks (with the LTTE), we are more concerned about the core issue," and denied an earlier statement attributed to him, which said the LTTE has to stop the war if talks were to resume.
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Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando said, "The Government is prepared for unconditional talks (with the LTTE), we are more concerned about the core issue," and denied an earlier statement attributed to him, which said the LTTE has to stop the war if talks were to resume.
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December - 18 
Speaking on December 18, at the inaugural session of the 12th Parliament, Member of Parliament and leader of the four-party Tamil National Alliance combine, R. Sampanthan warned, if the current Parliament failed to find a "just and permanent solution" to the ethnic conflict, "No self respecting Tami
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Speaking on December 18, at the inaugural session of the 12th Parliament, Member of Parliament and leader of the four-party Tamil National Alliance combine, R. Sampanthan warned, if the current Parliament failed to find a "just and permanent solution" to the ethnic conflict, "No self respecting Tamil would enter the next parliament", reports said. Parliament also unanimously elected Joseph Michael Perera of the ruling United National Front as the Speaker.
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December - 19 
Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando on December 19 welcomed the Christmas cease-fire announced by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He said the government will, as a gesture of goodwill, respond in a few days and added that "We see the LTTE's measure as a better stand for a good start".
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Foreign Minister Tyronne Fernando on December 19 welcomed the Christmas cease-fire announced by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). He said the government will, as a gesture of goodwill, respond in a few days and added that "We see the LTTE's measure as a better stand for a good start".
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December - 19 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had extensive talks with the Foreign Minister and other senior Ministers on the LTTE's announcement. Reports said, the government is considering the LTTE announcement as a positive step.
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had extensive talks with the Foreign Minister and other senior Ministers on the LTTE's announcement. Reports said, the government is considering the LTTE announcement as a positive step.
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December - 19 
The Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Senior Vice President and Jaffna District MP V. Anandasangari said he was confident there would be some result following the developments.
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The Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF) Senior Vice President and Jaffna District MP V. Anandasangari said he was confident there would be some result following the developments.
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December - 20 
India on December 20 welcomed the month-long cease-fire called by the Liberation Tiger of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to accelerate peace talks with the newly elected government in Colombo. Speaking to the media, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Nirupama Rao said, " India welcomes the Liberation Tigers
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India on December 20 welcomed the month-long cease-fire called by the Liberation Tiger of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to accelerate peace talks with the newly elected government in Colombo. Speaking to the media, External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Nirupama Rao said, " India welcomes the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) declaration of unilateral cessation of hostilities and the positive response of the Sri Lankan government". India hoped that the cease-fire announced by the LTTE on December 19 would mark the beginning of a process "to restore lasting peace in Sri Lanka", she said.
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December - 23 
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said, on December 23, in New Delhi, that Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik would be actively involved in the peace process in Sri Lanka from January 2002, and added that there would be a ‘new development’ in the peace process. Wickremesinghe
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Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said, on December 23, in New Delhi, that Norwegian Prime Minister Kjell Magne Bondevik would be actively involved in the peace process in Sri Lanka from January 2002, and added that there would be a ‘new development’ in the peace process. Wickremesinghe also said that India has a major role to play in instilling peace in Sri Lanka and this would be the focus of his discussion with Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and President K R Narayanan. The Prime Minister added that certain steps have already been taken to initiate the peace process but cautioned that the problem is "not that easy to solve."
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December - 26 
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Colombo, on December 26, that peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) could commence any tine from March 2002. The Prime Minster said, "I want the first step slow and steady so that the foundation will be strong to go for a lasting sol
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Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said in Colombo, on December 26, that peace talks with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) could commence any tine from March 2002. The Prime Minster said, "I want the first step slow and steady so that the foundation will be strong to go for a lasting solution. He also disclosed that the economic embargo would be lifted in the un-cleared areas, beginning January 15, 2002. He further said that he had formally written to Norway to facilitate the peace talks.
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December - 27 
A Norwegian Foreign Office spokesman said that Norway was yet to receive a formal request, but Norway was willing to broker the process. She added that her government has seen media reports which said the Sri Lankan government was keen to involve Norway, but the other party to the conflict, the Libe
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A Norwegian Foreign Office spokesman said that Norway was yet to receive a formal request, but Norway was willing to broker the process. She added that her government has seen media reports which said the Sri Lankan government was keen to involve Norway, but the other party to the conflict, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was yet to make a similar gesture.
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December - 27 
Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) General Secretary Maithripala Sirisena said the People’s Alliance (PA), of which his party is a major constituent, would extend all help to the government to find a peaceful solution to the ethnic conflict. He said the LTTE should give up its demand for a separate stat
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Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) General Secretary Maithripala Sirisena said the People’s Alliance (PA), of which his party is a major constituent, would extend all help to the government to find a peaceful solution to the ethnic conflict. He said the LTTE should give up its demand for a separate state and that the unitary status of Sri Lanka should be preserved.
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December - 27 
United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Senarath Kapukotuwa said, on December 27, there was no decision on lifting the ban on the LTTE. He also said the LTTE has to prove its sincerity in wanting peace by matching deeds with its words.
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United National Party (UNP) General Secretary Senarath Kapukotuwa said, on December 27, there was no decision on lifting the ban on the LTTE. He also said the LTTE has to prove its sincerity in wanting peace by matching deeds with its words.
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December - 30 
Media reports from Sri Lanka said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has appointed a two-member committee to serve as a "political focal point" for the peace process that is being initiated once again. Cabinet Ministers G L Peiris and Milinda Moragoda will be the members of the committee and shall
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Media reports from Sri Lanka said Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has appointed a two-member committee to serve as a "political focal point" for the peace process that is being initiated once again. Cabinet Ministers G L Peiris and Milinda Moragoda will be the members of the committee and shall be assisted by a yet to be constituted secretariat of experts, which would be headed by a veteran diplomat. The committee alone has been tasked with "public interface and the dissemination of information [on the peace process] under [the] guidance" of the Prime Minister.
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