Ceylon Chamber on Defeat of Terrorism

By Quintus Perera – Asian Tribune

Colombo, 22 May, (Asiantribune.com): In a statement released to the media, the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) indicated that the country celebrates the defeat of a 26 year long crusade of terrorism by the LTTE and the liberation of fellow Sri Lankans forcibly held as a ‘Human Shield’ over the last few months.

The Statement indicated that as all citizens should, they as a responsible Business Chamber express their profound gratitude to the Government

It indicated that this victory demonstrates the capabilities of the people with proper leadership. CCC indicated that with this victory the undivided attention should be turned to the economic and social progress of the country. Creating a conducive environment for all citizens of the country, irrespective of race, religion and any other such differences, to live in peace and harmony, with dignity, will continue to be a vital necessity.

The Statement said that this will be the only way to ensure that the quality of life for all Sri Lankans will improve on a sustained basis and also ensure that causes of division and friction in Sri Lankan society will not hamper national progress.

CCC indicated that they should also resolve to substantiate to the international community, that some of them were, in the recent past, misled by vicious propaganda and/or influenced by other domestic political pressures. They need to convey that, as a country motivated by liberal religious beliefs, they have, over a period of 26 years, addressed every possible form of accommodation in their dealings with the LTTE, to no avail.

It was only as a last resort and for want of an alternative that the Government was compelled to deal with them militarily, in order to finally achieve conclusive results. For this perceptive judgement, President Mahinda Rajapakse deserves credit for his leadership.

CCC implores the Government to obtain the support and assistance of Sri Lankan Diaspora and engage with willing countries in the resettlement of the displaced citizens and, thereafter, in the infrastructure development of the country.

CCC indicated that in all Diplomatic initiatives towards this end, the private sector of the country offers to play a key role by engaging with partner organisations overseas to represent the true character, spirit and values of this country.

- Asian Tribune -