CG calls for intervention to help Sri Lankan Tamils under LTTE threat

"Sri Lanka Consul General, Jayasekera noted that it was unfortunate that the role played by some Canadian politicians had a negative impact on efforts to finding a lasting and peaceful solution to the conflict in Sri Lanka. Mr. Rae, in response stated that although the attitude of some politicians towards the Sri Lanka situation was negative, their position did not have much impact on Canadian Government policy."
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(April 24, Toronto, Sri Lanka Guardian) The Sri Lankan Consul General in Toronto, Bandula Jayasekera has sought the intervention of Canada’s Shadow Foreign Minister Robert (Bob) Keith Rae, to help Canadian Tamils of Sri Lankan origin in the Toronto area who are harassed and threatened by the LTTE and its sympathizers. He made this call during a meeting with the Opposition Liberal Party MP in Toronto last Monday, (21st April 2008).

The Consul General told Mr. Bob Rae that the Canada should play a constructive role and work with the Sri Lankan Diaspora to effect a positive change, Mr. Rae agreed on the need to work closely with the Sri Lanka Diaspora for reconciliation between the different communities.

Sri Lanka Consul General, Jayasekera noted that it was unfortunate that the role played by some Canadian politicians had a negative impact on efforts to finding a lasting and peaceful solution to the conflict in Sri Lanka. Mr. Rae, in response stated that although the attitude of some politicians towards the Sri Lanka situation was negative, their position did not have much impact on Canadian Government policy.

He agreed with the Consul General that there was a need for pluralism within the Canadian Tamil community of Sri Lankan origin. The Consul General pointed out that the LTTE, which is a banned terrorist organization in Canada should be distinguished from the Tamil community. Mr. Rae said that there is an ongoing debate within the Tamil community in Canada and also a greater awareness of the factual situation in Sri Lanka.

The Consul General asserted that the Government was not pursuing a military solution to the conflict and that the present military campaign in the North was meant to free the country from LTTE terrorism. He pointed out that the President and the Government of Sri Lanka are deeply committed to reaching a durable political solution, which would address the genuine grievances of minority communities in Sri Lanka, acceptable to all sections of the people.

The Canadian Shadow Foreign Minister accepted an invitation extended by the Consul General to visit Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Guardian