MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Australia very much welcomes reports that tens of thousands of civilians have been able to leave the conflict zone in northern Sri Lanka since 20 April.
Australia, however, remains deeply concerned about the many civilians still trapped in grave danger amidst renewed fighting between the Sri Lankan Government and the LTTE.
Tragically, many civilians have already been killed and further loss of life is inevitable unless both sides cease hostilities to allow civilians to leave the conflict zone.
Australia again calls on the Sri Lankan Government to halt shelling and announce a renewed pause in hostilities to allow the safe departure of civilians from the conflict zone. It must also ensure the safe passage of civilians to camps for internally displaced persons. These camps should be administered in line with international humanitarian standards.
The process of evacuation from the conflict zone and the administration of the camps should also be open to monitoring by International Committee of the Red Cross and UN officials.
Such measures would underline the Sri Lankan Government's commitment to the protection of its civilians.
The LTTE must also allow civilians to leave. We again condemn the use of terrorist tactics, including the targeting civilians in or departing the conflict zone.
Australia holds grave concerns for the health and wellbeing of those remaining in the conflict zone and calls on all parties to give urgent priority to ensuring adequate food and medical supplies are allowed into the area.
Australia remains actively engaged on this issue internationally and welcomes the United Nations' close attention to the situation in Sri Lanka, including the visit of the UN Secretary-General's Representative, Mr Vijay Nambiar.
Australia calls again on the Sri Lankan Government to put forward credible political reforms to engage Tamil citizens of Sri Lanka and other minorities. A political solution that meets the legitimate aspirations of all Sri Lankans is essential for the long-term security and prosperity of Sri Lanka.
Media Contacts:
Mr Smith's Office: Courtney Hoogen 02 6277 7500 or 0488 244901
Departmental : (02) 6261 1555