Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on Sri Lanka

The Secretary-General welcomes the conclusion of the third round of Sri Lanka peace talks, during which the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) agreed to explore a solution founded on internal self-determination based on a federal structure within a united Sri Lanka. It is his earnest hope that further progress toward a lasting settlement acceptable to all communities will be made in future rounds. The Secretary-General lauds both parties for their commitment to the peace process and Norway for its role as facilitator.