UN chief, Sri Lankan president discuss reconciliation process

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Thursday held talks with Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena and discussed progress in the post-war reconciliation process.

The two leaders talked about the ongoing development programs, the progress of the programs being implemented to strengthen reconciliation and the process of constitutional reforms.

Sirisena briefed the visiting UN chief about the steps taken by the government with regard to constitutional reforms, devolution and structural reforms. He also explained the steps taken by the government for resettlement and rehabilitation, release of land to the original owners and livelihood development.

The Sri Lankan president said he is looking forward to attending the UN General Assembly later this month to use the international forum for furthering his country's global interaction.

Ban expressed appreciation over the progress made by Sri Lanka in different spheres over the last one and half years and assured continuous assistance and support from the UN for the efforts of Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile Ban urged Sri Lankan youth to appreciate diversity in unity. He visited the southern town of Galle to attend an event, organized by the National Youth Services Council (NYSC), Ministry of National Policies and Economic Affairs, the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation (ONUR), and the United Nations in Sri Lanka.

The UN secretary general urged the youth to work together with young people from different neighbourhoods, ethnic groups or religions.

He also urged them to share their vision for a sustainable and peaceful future for this country and for the planet. Endit