Sharma concerned that 250,000 civilians trapped in Sri Lanka conflict zone

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma today welcomed the assurance by Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa of safe passage for civilians trapped by fighting in Sri Lanka’s northern Vanni region.

“It is a matter of deep concern that an estimated 250,000 civilians remain trapped in the conflict zone,” the Secretary-General said. “We are also greatly disturbed by reports of civilian casualties. I welcome the establishment of ‘no-fire zones’ and urge all concerned to respect these and allow civilians safe passage from the conflict areas.”

The Secretary-General also expressed concern at the reported shortages of food and medicines in the conflict zone, and expressed the hope that sufficient humanitarian aid be forthcoming to the civilians affected.

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• Country Profile: Sri Lanka