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Military solution not enough: Sri Lanka FM

By Zhang Ming'ai: 0 Comments Print E-mail China.org.cn, August 13, 2010

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He said the government has also taken action to restart the electoral process so that the Tamil people can elect representatives free from intimidation by the terrorists.

Sri Lankan Minister of External Affairs Gamini Lakshman Peiris delivers a speech "Terrorism and Global Security: Lessons Learnt from Sri Lanka" at the China Institute of International Studies in Beijing, Aug. 12, 2010. [Zhang Ming'ai/China.org.cn]

Peiris said Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa initiated dialogue between the government and the representatives of the Tamil people, because he does not believe that a military victory alone is sufficient.

The foreign minister said one of the most important lessons in fighting terrorism is that countries should rely on their own efforts. "It should be the military of your own country to be trusted and responsible for overcoming terrorism."

Once a country invites the army of another country to join the fight against terrorism, "what inevitably happens is that the population of your country tends to rally in support of the terrorist groups against the foreign army that is seen as an invading force," he said.

Peiris said that determined and resolute political leadership is essential to defeat terrorism. Mahinda Rajapaksa was able to unite the country and galvanize the nation into taking firm action against the terrorists, he said.

He added that foreign policy and international cooperation also played an important role.

He expressed his appreciation to China for its support in combating terrorism and promoting economic development.

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