LTTE delegation in Oslo

Nadesan said that the Head of the LTTE peace sectariat was agreeable to talk to the head of the government peace sectariat Dr.Palitha Kohona but the LTTE could not use the opportunity of having talks with the government delegation as they had already left the hotel on Friday.

He said they had discussions with the Sri Lanka Monitoring Mission (SLMM), and Norwegian officials but not with the Sri Lankan delegation.

Asked why LTTE was playing double standards once saying they did not come to Oslo to talk with the Sri Lankan government officials and now saying they wanted to talk, Nadesan said that LTTE requested that representatives from both peace secretariats should meet for discussions but was rejected.

Norway has blamed the LTTE for refusing to participate in talks with the government delegation.

Nadesan said that they are concerned about and surprised to hear Norway putting the blame on them.

Asked if the LTTE has not betrayed the Tamil population by making lame excuses Nadesen said that not only the Tamils but also the Sinhalese will be disappointed with what has happened.

When questioned regarding the future of the peace process Nadesen said that the LTTE is committed to finding a solution through talks.

Further probed on the LTTE reluctance to sit at the negotiating table Nadesan said that the LTTE has never refused talks and it is unfortunate that avenues for talks are being obstructed .

Commenting on allegations that the LTTE is responsible for obstructing the peace process Nadesan said though both parties should take the responsibility it's mainly the fault of the government.