The government on Thursday extended its fullest support to the Norwegian peace effort saying that it has requested Norway to take "such new initiatives as might be required for the purpose".

Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar in a letter to Norwegian Foreign Minister Thorbjorn Jagland said that the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE have stated that "they share the overall objective of finding a negotiated political solution to the ongoing armed conflict that has plagued Sri Lanka for almost two decades".

The parties have jointly requested the Norwegian Government to facilitate their search for such a solution. The Norwegian Government accepted this responsibility and designated Erik Solheim and Ambassador Jon Westborg to assist the parties to come together to commence negotiations.

"The indefatigable endeavours of these two gentlemen and their associates towards that end have earned the deep appreciation of the Government of Sri Lanka".

"In pursuance of the said objective, the parties had decided to take measures to alleviate any hardships and dangers to civilians affected by the ongoing conflict, and contribute to building understanding and a foundation on which negotiations can take place".

These measures are to be embodied in a document which will contain certain humanitarian measures which have been the subject of much discussion between the representatives of the Norwegian Government and the parties. The letter outlines the matters on which agreement has been reached.

In view of the fruitful work done by all concerned towards getting the process of direct political negotiations moving, I on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka, requests the Norwegian Government to renew urgently the most commendable efforts that have already been made by its representatives to get the peace process moving. Accordingly, the Norwegian Government is requested to take such new initiatives as might be required for this purpose to which end the Government of Sri Lanka will extend its fullest support."