I will not divide or betray this noble land - President Rajapaksa

[November 20, 2006- 12.00 GMT]

"I love this land of my birth more than anything else. I am not prepared to be intimidated by anyone who is powerful, any invader or terrorist to divide or betray this noble land. That much is sure", said President Mahinda Rajapaksa speaking at Weerawila on November 19, 2006, at the Crowning the People ceremony to mark the first anniversary of his inauguration as President of Sri Lanka. 

The President said: "Look at the security of this blessed land. Are we subdued by any one's threats? Are we

frightened? Have we humiliated or made cowards of our heroic soldiers before the LTTE terrorists who are engaged in cruel acts to destroy the brotherhood of Sinhala, Tamil and Muslims who lived in harmony for centuries? I said then that I will not allow the Muslims living in the East to be hostages to the LTTE. Haven't we honoured our promise? The so called ruthless terrorists of the world are now beleaguered in 5- 6 villages in the East."

Full text of the speech by President Mahinda Rajapaksa