Khurshid: Resume talks to ensure implementation of 13th amendment

Khurshid stressed that India was committed to upholding the the unity,sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka.

As Sri Lanka awaits Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs decision on whether he will attend the CHOGM summit,India,on Monday,nudged the Lankan leadership to work for genuine reconciliation and called for an early resumption of the dialogue process to address the issue of implementation of the 13th amendment in a timely manner.

Responding to a question posed by The Indian Express about the possible time-frame,External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said,We cant put time-frames…we cant decide for them,but we are available for advice.

Khurshid stressed that India was committed to upholding the the unity,sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. It is our hope that the vision and leadership that resulted in the end of armed conflict and holding of elections to the Northern Province,will now be employed to work for genuine reconciliation … we will continue to work with Sri Lanka,and help in whatever way we can, he said.

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He added,We hope that the successful culmination of the elections will usher a new beginning towards a better future for the people in the North.

India has been calling for an early political settlement and national reconciliation through meaningful devolution of powers,to ensure that all citizens of Sri Lanka,including the Tamil community,would lead a life marked by equality,justice,dignity and self-respect. Khurshids Sri Lankan counterpart,G L Peiris was,however,cautious: Consensus is important for the constitutional reform,and the only way to arrive at the consensus is through the parliamentary select committee.

While Colombo prepares for the CHOGM summit next month,all eyes are on the Delhis indecision on its participation. Khurshid refused to commit,saying,The announcement will come from the PMO,we will let you know when we are ready.