In an interview to Colombo newspaper Sunday Leader in early September, LTTE s political wing leader, SP Thamilchelvan, said that only an independent third party could effectively build trust and confidence to overcome the present impasse in the Sri Lankan conflict. Ethnic Reconciliation minister GL Peiris declared in early September that the government was ready to negotiate with the LTTE, but emphasised the need for consensus among the Sinhalese majority before talks. The UNP has continued to demand the government to seek unconditional talks with the Tigers. But President Chandrika Kumaratunge, addressing the UN General Assembly on 21 September, ruled out peace talks without pre-conditions. Subsequently, she also rejected third-party mediation.
Observers believe the parties currently have no real desire for peace.