Media Release – Ministry of Foreign Affairs Colombo

Mr. Michael James Zwack who recently assumed duties as the Representative for the UNHCR in Colombo called on Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on 28th October 2009 and presented his letter of appointment.

ƒÆ’-¡ƒ”š‚ During the call on Minister Bogollagama, Mr. Zwack reiterated the commitment of the UNHCR to work in close coordination with the Government of Sri Lanka.

ƒÆ’-¡ƒ”š‚ Responding to Mr. Zwack, Foreign Minister Bogollagama stated that though it has only been a few months since the conflict came to a close, the Government of Sri Lanka first began the resettlement process of the IDPs within three months. The Minister also stated that the number of the IDPs had reduced to about 188,535 as at 27th October 2009 and pointed out that those being resettled were also provided with various assistance such as dry rations and cash benefits, in order to ease this process. He also mentioned the assistance provided by the Government of Sri Lanka to the children who were being resettled at the welfare villages to continue their education.

ƒÆ’-¡ƒ”š‚ Endorsing the views expressed by Minister Bogollagama, Mr. Zwack stated that children were the future and that the UNHCR would work towards such goals.

ƒÆ’-¡ƒ”š‚ Minister Bogollagama assured Mr. Zaack the cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in coordinating issues of mutual interests and importance.