Statement by Shri Jaswant Singh, External Affairs Minister in the Parliament on the situation in Sri Lanka

May 04, 2000

Recent developments in Northern Sri Lanka are a matter of serious concern to India. The Government is closely monitoring the evolving situation. The Government of Sri Lanka has also been in touch with the Government of India. Our High Commissioner to Sri Lanka was, therefore, called to New Delhi earlier this week for consultations on the developing situation.

2. The Government of India will be guided by its continued commitment, to a negotiated peaceful resolution of the conflict, within the framework of Sri Lanka's unity and territorial integrity; a united Sri Lanka where all communities can realize their aspirations. It is India's hope that peace will soon return to Sri Lanka, a country which is a close and friendly neighbour.

3. The Government of India has received some requests from the Government of Sri Lanka in the context of the present situation. Naturally, all these requests are receiving the urgent consideration of the Government.

4. The conflict in Northern Sri Lanka continues to cause serious hardship to civilians in the area. As Hon'ble Members are aware, there are nearly 100,000 Sri Lankan refugees in India, including about 30,000 outside the refugee camps. On humanitarian grounds, India continues to look after these refugees. In consonance with this, India will work to mitigate the hardship inflicted upon civilians by the conflict and will render such humanitarian assistance as may become necessary. As and when need arises such assistance will be decided upon only in consultation with Sri Lanka.