By Frances Harrison BBC correspondent in rebel-held northern Sri Lanka

Tamil Tiger rebels in Sri Lanka have welcomed the government's decision to lift the ban on them in advance of peace talks later this month in Thailand.

The head of the separatists' political wing, Mr Thamilselvan, told the BBC the ban was the biggest impediment to the peace process.

Tamil hopes for long-term peace are high

This was the first reaction from the Tamil Tigers to the news that they are no longer banned as a terrorist group in Sri Lanka.

Speaking to the BBC, Mr Thamilselvan, who is in effect number two in the organisation, said this was an opportunity to move the peace process forward.

He said this time round the Tigers were hopeful and positive about the chances of success.

'Courage'

The lifting of the ban was a key pre-condition set by the Tigers for talks to start.

They consider it essential to sit at the negotiating table as the legitimate representatives of the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka.

Mr Thamilselvan said this time the Tamil Tigers see a very graphic difference in the attitude of the Sri Lankan Government towards negotiations.

He spoke of a courage and strength of will demonstrated by the government of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

And he said on the whole the steps taken to implement the permanent ceasefire agreement both sides signed in February were encouraging.

'Positive'

Mr Thamilselvan said the underlying spirit showed it could be done.

These are the most positive comments yet from the Tamil Tigers about the current peace process.

Their thoughts are echoed by ordinary people in rebel controlled territory who say they now feel more confident about the talks due to take place in Thailand in 10 days time.