During a discussion held with Sir John Holmes, the United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator this morning, President Rajapaksa said the security forces have already been instructed to carry out the operations with minimum harm to the civilians.
The UN envoy has expressed hope that the Sri Lankan government would ensure the welfare of the civilian displaced due to the conflict in the north.
Speaking on last night's failed LTTE air attack over Sri Lanka capital Colombo, President pointed out the LTTE is ceaselessly attempting to attain their aims by using the civilians. Yesterday's air attack by the LTTE is the most recent example of this unfortunate situation, President said.
Accepting President Rajapaksa's views, UN Envoy expressed his deepest sympathy for the innocent people who were killed and injured due to the LTTE air attack.
The meeting followed the visit of UN envoy to the IDP camps at Vavuniya yesterday, to see first hand the facilities, provided to them and the arrangements made for the reception and care of the civilians by the government.
The UN official urged both sides to ensure the safety of the 100,000 people trapped in the battle areas.
President Rajapaksa assured Holmes that all communities in the island will be treated equally and the Tamil civilians would not be discriminated by his government.
Sir John Holmes said the UN was donating a further US$ 10 million for the welfare of the IDPs, in addition to nearly US$ 145 million given recently. Holmes said he looks forward to a continuing dialogue between Sri Lanka and the UN on the matters affecting the IDPs.
