SG/SM/10080
8 September 2005

UN Consultations in Sri Lanka Meant to Reinforce Norwegian Efforts in Support of Peace Process

NEW YORK, 7 September (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

In the aftermath of the assassination of Sri Lanka's former Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar, the international community is exploring all options to help the Government of Sri Lanka stabilize the situation and put the peace process back on track. 

In this context, at the request of the Secretary-General, Lakhdar Brahimi just completed a four-day visit to Colombo.  He held consultations with government officials as well as a broad spectrum of people in the country.  The heightened attention by the United Nations is meant to reinforce, and in no way to replace, the ardent efforts of Norway to facilitate the peace process.  The Secretary-General reiterates his full support for the Norwegian-led efforts to advance the peace process.

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