What the LTTE is trying to do is get the international community on their side.

It is better to have talks about talks than have nothing at all. I think by the middle of this month we should see some movement.

The Tigers are looking for an exit and I think the next few weeks will be very, very crucial. Unless we are able to have direct talks with the Tigers soon, war will be inevitable.

Yes, we talk to the Tigers because they are armed. But they are also proving to be clever in negotiations.

I don't see the government being able to overcome internal contradictions before that.

By March - April they (the Tigers) may vacate the ceasefire because they also have to give effect to their words.

So many have threatened to fast unto death, but no one has died so far. I don't think the clergy should get involved in politics like this.