TAMIL Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit on Thursday welcomed External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s statement in Sri Lanka, which he said signified the Centre’s concern towards Tamils and would be welcomed by people of Tamil Nadu. Jaishankar unequivocally stated the Indian position on the 13th Amendment to the island nation, Purohit said in a statement.

 

Quoting Jaishankar from a press conference he addressed with his Sri Lankan counterpart Dinesh Gunawardena, the Governor emphasised, “this is an important statement, signifying the concern of the Indian Government towards their Tamil sisters and brothers in Sri Lanka.” “His words are sure to be welcomed by the people of Tamil Nadu.” Jaishankar’s statement “is in the spirit of Prime Minister Narendra Modiji’s own untiring efforts for the welfare of the Tamil population in Sri Lanka,” Governor said. On January 6, Jaishankar underlined India’s backing for Lanka’s reconciliation process and an “inclusive political outlook” that encourages ethnic harmony.

 

The Foreign Minister had said: “As we promote peace and well-being in the region, India has been strongly committed to the unity, stability and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. It is in Sri Lanka’s interest that expectations of Tamil people for equality, justice, peace and dignity within a united Sri Lanka are fulfilled.