CALD Resolution No. 3 S. 2007

CALD Resolution No. 3 S. 2007

Noting that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam withdrew twice from peace talks arranged during the course of 2006

Recognizing that hostilities have resumed in Sri Lanka with consequent suffering to many Sri Lankans

Welcoming the efforts of the Sri Lankan forces to minimize civilian casualties during military operations, as borne out by the reports of the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission

Regretting the displacement of civilians in the Eastern Province during such operations

Noting that resettlement has proceeded swiftly with the UNHCR reporting that ‘Our staff have made several assessment missions and generally have seen that conditions are conducive for return….Most of the returnees seem happy to be home but had received little prior information about the conditions in the areas of return.’

Concerned about delays in the emergence of proposals for constitutional reform that would satisfy the aspirations of minorities and regions within a united Sri Lanka

Anxious about reports of continuing human rights problems in all parts of Sri Lanka

Condemning the reported determination of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) to recruit at least one member of each family in areas under its own control, including even families of workers for national and international NGOs despite the efforts of these organizations to prevent this

Worried about reports that the LTTE has decided to attack economic and military targets, which will contribute to intensive security measures that will adversely affect the lives of ordinary citizens

Welcoming the agreement of the international Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), following on requests by the Ministry of Defence to open the road northward for longer periods, to enhance supplies to LTTE controlled areas

Regretting the refusal of the LTTE to provide the ICRC with the required guarantees regarding sea routes that would facilitate supplies to the Jaffna peninsula

The Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats

Urges the LTTE to return to negotiations under the auspices of the Ceasefire Facilitators and the Co-Chairs, and to cease from attacks on economic targets,

Requests the Sri Lankan government to refrain from initiating military action, while respecting its right to take defensive measures

Welcomes efforts at rehabilitation and reconstruction, in which the international community should cooperate with the Government of Sri Lanka whilst paying due attention to the maintenance of human rights

Thanks the ICRC for responding positively to the GOSL request regarding road transport and ensuring the cooperation of the LTTE, and requests that similar measures be taken to facilitate transportation of people and essential goods by sea

Urges the international community to stand steadfast against any forced conscription, and to protect all families, and in particular to ensure that recruitment of children stops forthwith

For the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats:

(sgd)

Dr. J.R. Nereus O. Acosta

Secretary General
Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats

September 15, 2007 Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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