Peace talks resume in Geneva, but fail over the LTTE’s demand that the government reopen the A9 highway to the Jaffna peninsula that was closed in August 2006.
Sources
Sri Lanka rebels cut short tour after Swiss talks fail, AFP, 30 October 2006; Heavy shelling in north Sri Lanka after talks fail, Reuters, 30 October 2006.
Quotations
"One of the factors that has to be taken into account is the practice of the LTTE of levying extortionate fees on transport through the areas that they control. The result is that goods that reach Jaffna are invariable more expensive than they are in the south." Rohitha Bogollagama, Development minister and delegate at the talks.
"Our troops along the Northern Province defense line noticed a heavy military presence, and informants tell us they have imposed a curfew along the defense line. This is usually done in preparation for military operations. We are very disappointed by the actions of the government. Exploitation … for military advancement can cause serious consequences." Rasiah Ilanthirayan, LTTE military spokesman.
"Both sides still believe that they can effect a clear, definitive balance of power on the ground before they can talk about anything seriously." Dr. Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, Executive director, Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA).
