27 September 2012 – Global Tamil Forum (GTF) delegation led by Rev Father S J Emmanuel met with officials from the Republic of South Africa and Switzerland on 23rd and 24th September 2012, respectively, as part of the on-going engagement with international governments to highlight the enduring persecution of the Tamil people in Sri Lanka. GTF emphasised that only an international, independent investigation can secure truth and accountability, as recommended by the UN Panel of Experts in their report, in order to lay the foundations for meaningful reconciliation between all communities in Sri Lanka. In this regard, GTF will continue to engage internationally until justice is served. GTF reiterated that we believe in achieving a negotiated political settlement for decades long national conflict through a process of dialogue and engagement. In this respect we are encouraged that as reported in the media recently, the Indian Prime Minister has emphasised the urgency to President Rajapaksa in achieving lasting political solution to the Tamil national question.
Media Contact: Suren Surendiran
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Notes to Editors:
Global Tamil Forum (GTF) was established in 2009 by a number of grass-roots Tamil groups following the end of the armed conflict in Sri Lanka. It is the largest Tamil diaspora organisation with members drawn from fifteen countries on five continents. GTF is absolutely committed to a non-violent agenda and it seeks a lasting peace in Sri Lanka, based on justice, reconciliation and a negotiated political settlement. For more information please contact info@globaltamilforum.org and/or visit: www.globaltamilforum.org