MT104

14 July 1995

SRI LANKA: ETHNIC CONFLICT

In response to the resumption of hostilities, the Sri Lankan Government launched a major military offensive against the LTTE in the north of the country on 9 July.

The Australian Government's hope was, and remains, that further armed conflict could be avoided, but accepts it is unreasonable to expect the Sri Lankan Government to acquiesce in the face of the use of force by the LTTE.

The Australian Government urges both the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE to exercise utmost care to prevent civilian casualties in the current heavy fighting.

We are concerned at reports of the bombing on 9 July of a church in Navali, near Jaffna, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of 65 civilians and injury to some 150. The Australian High Commissioner in Colombo, Mr Bill Tweddell, has sought clarification of the circumstances of the incident and expressed Australia's concerns to the Sri Lankan Government about the reported loss of life and injury of civilians.

The Australian Government welcomes President Kumaratunga's announcement of a full investigation into this incident and the establishment of a special Task Force to ensure the welfare of civilians in the affected areas, including those displaced by the fighting.

The resumption of full-scale fighting in Sri Lanka underlines the urgent need for a negotiated political settlement to the longstanding ethnic conflict, which will require restraint and compromise on both side. Australia urges a return to the negotiating table and a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible.

Australia remains prepared to consider assisting a genuine peace process in any way that would be useful and acceptable to both sides.

Further information: John Flannery, (06) 277 7420