Biswal Holds Talks With Tamil Diaspora
Monday, September 19, 2016
US Assistant Secretary of State Nisha Biswal had talks with the Tamil diaspora on the reconciliation process in Sri Lanka.
Assistant Secretary for Human Rights Tom Malinowski also attended the discussion. The discussion was held with the Global Tamil Forum (GTF), a leading Tamil diaspora group. GTF President, Father S.J. Emmanuel and other leading GTF members including Suren Surendiran attended the talks.
The GTF said that its delegates representing the US, UK, Canada, Australia and Germany met the US officials at the State Department in Washington.
Discussions included ground realities today in Sri Lanka, particularly in relation to the North and East. The steps Tamil Diaspora can take to promote justice, peace, reconciliation and economic development were also discussed. The GTF said it was pleased with the understanding and encouragement shown by the US Government representatives. Biswal tweeted saying they had a good discussion on diaspora efforts to support reconciliation and accountability in Sri Lanka.
Father Emmanuel expressed the appreciation of the Tamil community for the continuous engagement of the US Government.
Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, Manpreet Singh Anand, DRL Office Director for South and Central Asia, Carmela Conroy and Senior Desk Officer for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, McKenzie Millar were also present.
The Sunday Leader