OneWorld.net (U.S.)

The Development Forum meeting was held in Kandy on 16 to 17 May and focused on post tsunami relief and reconstruction, macro-economic policy of the Government of Sri Lanka and partnership in the peace process. The MDG 2005 Report for Sri Lanka was launched at the meeting. Three key issues dominated the statements of donors and and UN agencies: the importance of coordination, the need for a smooth and effective transition from relief to recovery and concern over the lack of progress in the peace process -- particularly regarding the need for a joint mechanism for relief and recovery efforts in the North and East.

In addition, the need for increased transparency and accountability was acknowledged and supported by all participants. Documents related to the Development Forum are available on the HIC website at www.humanitarianinfo.org/srilanka and a media monitoring of coverage of the Development Forum is attached to the end of this sitrep.

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