30 April 2009

Dispatch of Mr. Yasushi Akashi,　

Representative of the Government of Japan to Sri Lanka　

1.   In response to the situation in Sri Lanka where hostilities between the Government and LTTE is entering a final phase, the Government of Japan has decided to dispatch Mr. Yasushi Akashi, Representative of the Government of Japan for Peace-Building, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sri Lanka, to Sri Lanka from April 28^th to May 2^nd.

2.   During his stay in Sri Lanka, Mr. Akashi will meet with government officials and representatives of the ruling and opposition parties and call for ensuring the safety security of internally displaced persons in the northern part of Sri Lanka. Mr. Akashi will also work on both sides to make further efforts towards a political solution of the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka.

3.   For Mr. Akashi, this will be the 17^th visit to Sri Lanka.

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