UN General Assembly
1998

States of America, in particular, for having recognized and declared the LTTE to be the terrorist organization that it is, as well as for encouraging my Government to settle this problem by political means. I would like to add 26 here that this is an internal problem that Sri Lanka is fully able and ready to resolve, with the full support of its peoples. We will not tolerate any outside interference, while we appreciate all the support given us by our friends abroad in resolving this conflict. If at this stage I mention Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi of Myanmar it is because I am personally aware of the loneliness, the anguish, the difficulties and dangers that a woman leader faces in political life. The people of Sri Lanka and the people of Myanmar and their Governments have been friends over many centuries. Our peoples share an invaluable heritage — the timeless message of the Buddha, the enlightened one who taught the world the meaning of compassion, tolerance and understanding. This