Statement by Secretary-General on Sri Lanka

"This is a positive step and should be used to ensure the evacuation of the several thousand civilians trapped in the fighting between the Sri Lankan armed forces and the LTTE," said the Secretary-General on 14 April 2009.

"I have been deeply distressed by reports of deaths of and injuries to civilians resulting from shelling in the no-fire zone. I have also been concerned by reports that civilians have been used as human shields and been prevented from leaving the conflict zone. I call on all concerned to honour this ceasefire, respect the rights of all civilians in the conflict zone and help in ensuring their evacuation to safety."

Mr Sharma also urged that the ceasefire be extended, if needed, to allow more civilians to leave the war zone safely.

"Any extension of the ceasefire that permits more civilians to be evacuated from the war zone can only help," the Secretary-General added.

It is the Commonwealth's firm belief that any durable solution to the conflict in Sri Lanka could only be a political one that meets the aspirations of all communities in the country.

Secretariat Links:

• Secretary-General
• Country Profile: Sri Lanka