U.S. Warns Sri Lankan secessionists

In a loud and clear message, the U.S. Government has thrown its weight behind the democratic government of Sri Lanka which is facing resumption of hostilities by the LTTE, the Sri Lankan secessionists. US ambassador Jeffrey Lunstead said recently “Through our military training and assistance programmes, including efforts to help with counter-terrorism initiatives and block illegal financial transactions, we are helping to shape the ability of the Sri Lankan government to protect its people and defend its interests.” He added, ” Let me be clear, our assistance is not given because we anticipate or hope for a return to hostilities. We want peace. We support peace. And we will stand by the people of Sri Lanka who desire peace.” “If the LTTE chooses to abandon peace, however, we want it to be clear, they will face a stronger, more capable and more determined Sri Lankan military,” said the ambassador. He charged the LTTE with misleading the Tamils and said that it was blocking the path of Tamils to peace and development.