<b>LTTE wants Oslo out?</b>

The Island

The LTTE was believed to have indicated to the government that proposed talks in Thailand can take place without Norwegian mediation, informed sources said.

The issue came up for discussion last week when senior government and opposition representatives met, the sources said, adding that both the government and the SLFP-led PA want the Norwegians to continue their role in the process.

The sources expressed the belief that the Norwegians will have a key role in the process and their participation is vital for success in the proposed talks.

The Norwegians have repeatedly said that they would remain in the process as long as both sides want their presence. (SF)

-The Island