New Delhi, February 22
In deference to her wishes, India did not accord a ceremonial welcome to Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga, who arrived here today.

While Mrs Kumaratunga will be interacting with the top Indian leadership during her stay in the Capital, there will be no protocol formalities for the visiting Sri Lankan Head of the State.

When asked, a spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs said the decision to do away with the usual protocol was taken “in deference to the wishes of our honoured guest”.

Mrs Kumaratunga will have talks with the Prime Minister tomorrow, during which all important bilateral issues , including the status of the Norwegian peace package, post Free Trade Agreement, bilateral trade and security in the region, Pakistani defence aid of $20 million to Sri Lanka and other issues will figure.

The devolution of powers in the northern parts of the island nation and the SAARC summit will also come up during discussions between the visiting President and the Indian leaders.

The Prime Minister will host a lunch in the honour of the Sri Lankan President at his residence.

When asked about New Delhi’s stand on the Norwegian peace package, the spokesman reiterated India’s old stand.

India is committed to unity, soverignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and restoration of lasting peace through a negotiated settlement of the problems in the island nation.

“Our principled position is that we are committed to a negotiated settlement of the issue that meets the aspirations of all Sri Lankan people”, the spokesman said. Earlier in the day, the External Affairs Minister, Mr Jaswant Singh, will call on the Sri Lankan President.

In the evening, Mrs Kumaratunga will call on the President, Mr K.R.Narayanan and Mrs Usha Naryanan. The President will host a dinner for Mrs Kumaratunga.

The visit is continuation of high-level bilateral exchanges between the two countries.

Since the signing of the FTA, the bilatral trade has constantly been going up, the spokesman pointed out, adding that Sri Lankan exports to India have increased by 13 per cent in 1999-2000.