UN official on talks with LTTE

[TamilNet, Friday, 08 May 1998, 23:59 GMT]
A press statement issued today, Olara Otunnu, UN Special Representative on Children and Armed Conflict, following his visit to the Vanni said that the Liberation Tigers had assured him that they do not recruit anyone under the age of 17 and they do not deploy anyone under the age of 18 in combat now.

They had also told him, according to the statement, that they are not opposed to the Muslims of Jaffna resettling there.

Mr. Otunnu's statement further said that the LTTE had given him certain assurances and that he believes the Tigers would implement them.

Mr. Ottunu said that LTTE had told him that they would review their tactics and strategies to avoid civilian casualties during operations.

The LTTE had also assured Mr. Otunnu that they will not hinder assistance to people in the areas not controlled by the Sri Lankan Army and that they would not disrupt the free movement of people in those areas. The LTTE had said that they are concerned about the sufferings of the people.

Mr. Otunnu said that LTTE should make a general announcement that they will respect UN Convention on the rights of the child.

The LTTE promised him that they will take steps to instruct their members about provisions on convention, Mr. Otunnu said in the statement.

LTTE's political advisor, Anton Balasingham and Head of it's Political wing, Thamilchelvan met Mr. Otunnu when he visited the Vanni.