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LTTE rules out "modifications" to ceasefire pact

V.S. Sambandan

COLOMBO: The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has ruled out the possibility of any "modifications" to the ceasefire agreement (CFA) at the coming Geneva talks. It also ruled out discussions on a political solution to the decades-long separatist conflict at the talks to be held on February 22 and 23.

Not prepared

The LTTE "is not prepared to discuss modifications to the CFA or to push the CFA aside and waste time talking about [a] political solution," its website said, reproducing an editorial from the organisation's official monthly publication, Viduthalaippulikal (Liberation Tigers).

Terming the CFA as a "foundation for peace talks and the political solution," the editorial said it was signed after it was "debated for a long period."

The LTTE's insistence that "modifications" would not be discussed by it gains significance against the backdrop of continued criticism in Sri Lanka, particularly among southern and non-LTTE parties, that the CFA requires a review.

``Speedy implementation''

The LTTE's official organ said: "At Geneva, the LTTE is only prepared to discuss the full and speedy implementation of the CFA," and that its leader, V. Prabakaran, had "emphasised this to the peace envoy and Norwegian Minister, Erik Solheim."

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