The Government of Japan has contributed USD 1.5 million (Y122
million) to IOM for reintegration and reconciliation support in
conflict-affected communities in the north of Sri Lanka.

The funding will contribute to human security and stability in
the country through community-based projects and reconciliation
activities targeting former Tamil Tiger (LTTE) cadres and
vulnerable groups affected by the 27-year conflict in the area that
ended in 2009.

A signing ceremony between Japanese Ambassador Nobuhito Hobo and
IOM Chief of Mission Richard Danziger took place on 27th October at
the Embassy of Japan in Colombo.

"We are confident that this aid will be effectively utilized to
implement worthwhile initiatives to promote social and economic
reintegration," said Ambassador Hobo.

IOM's programme for the reintegration of former LTTE cadres has
been active since early 2009 in the east and expanded to the north
a year later.

"The Government of Japan's global leadership in advocating for
and contributing to human security is admirable. I am delighted
that it has placed its confidence in IOM to support the
reintegration of former LTTE cadres and their receiving
communities," said Danziger.

Japan is a major provider of assistance to Sri Lanka's Northern
Province, covering a wide range of initiatives that promote
development or address humanitarian needs.

IOM has to date provided direct assistance to some 3,000 former
LTTE cadres.  Its community development projects targeting
vulnerable and displaced populations – whether due to
conflict or natural disasters – have been implemented in all
five districts of the Northern Province, as well as in other parts
of Sri Lanka.

For further information please contact:

Richard Danziger

IOM Colombo

Tel: +94.11532.5300

E-mail: "mailto:rdanziger@iom.int">rdanziger@iom.int