10 January, 2006 - Published 17:51 GMT

"Stop violence" USA warns LTTE

US says that it congratulates the Government of Sri Lanka on its continued restraint, despite the recent provocative actions by the LTTE.

In his address to the American Chamber of Commerce in Sri Lanka Ambassador Lunstead said that the the US calls on the LTTE to stop its violent activities and to return to the negotiating table with the Government of Sri Lanka in order to work towards a stable, permanent peace.

leadership

He Said that there can be a role for the LTTE in future development of Sri Lanka only if it returns to the peace table and renounces terrorism.

"What kinds of leaders block their people from realizing their most fundamental democratic aspirations?" asks the ambassador.

	USA -concerned

Lunstead said that allowing "their people to continue to suffer from a lack of investment and industry" and continuing "to pursue violence when the clear benefits of peace are obvious" are not acts of leadership. 

Ambassador lunstead emphasised that the United States remains committed to the peace process in Sri Lanka, and in helping the legitimate governing bodies of Sri Lanka to prepare for their roles in developing and protecting their citizens.