British High Commissioner visits Northern Province

British High Commissioner John Rankin completed a four day tour of the Northern Province from 9-12 July, visiting Jaffna, Delft and Mannar. During his visit, he met Government representatives, community leaders, members of civil society and displaced families, including Muslims evicted by the LTTE.  

Rankin viewed progress, heard about remaining challenges and discussed how British organisations and individuals are supporting communities.  

Government officials expressed thanks for British-funded de-mining work. With a Rs. 600 million UK government donation, the UK-based organisation HALO Trust is clearing mines to pave the way for more families to return to their homes. Rankin was also thanked for the UK’s support for community policing initiatives which are supporting engagement between the police and local people.

In Mannar, Rankin met Dr. Panagamuwa, a British Sri Lankan doctor who dedicates himself to providing and fitting prosthetic limbs, helping war-affected local people to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

Rankin said, “I am pleased to re-visit the Northern Province to see the developments that are taking place and witness how UK organisations, individuals and members of the Sri Lankan diaspora are supporting post-war recovery. It is welcome that roads are being repaired, that schools are being re-opened and new business is coming to the region.

At the same time, I have seen some of the continuing challenges faced by people after so many years of conflict and displacement. Land issues built up over decades remain complex; some people do not know what happened to lost loved ones; and many women heads of household face difficulties playing the dual roles of bread winner and care provider. I hope that these and other post-conflict issues can be further resolved in the context of continuing reconciliation and development processes. The British government will continue to assist in such efforts, in support of peace, security and prosperity for the Sri Lankan people.”