A special civil-military coordination meeting aimed at resolving long-standing land disputes and accelerating regional development was held at the Mullaitivu Divisional Secretariat under the patronage of Deputy Defence Minister Major General (Retired) Aruna Jayasekara.
Discussions primarily centred on lands in Keppapilavu currently being used by the Sri Lanka Army and lands in the Vaduvakal area occupied by the Sri Lanka Navy.
Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Minister stressed the importance of maintaining a proper balance between national security requirements and the land rights of the public.
He instructed the relevant authorities to work towards practical, people-centred solutions that would not compromise national security.
Jayasekara also commended the role played by the Armed Forces during natural disasters and community service programmes.
Residents were given the opportunity to raise their grievances directly with the Deputy Minister, a move that was welcomed by those present.
They expressed hope that fair solutions would be reached in a transparent manner while promoting reconciliation.