Sri Lanka Welcomes Canada's Decision to Maintain LTTE as Terrorist Entity
The Government of Sri Lanka has expressed its approval of Canada’s recent decision to continue listing the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the World Tamil Movement (WTM) as terrorist entities. This move underscores the ongoing international consensus regarding the threat posed by these organizations.
According to Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Canada’s latest review affirms that the remnants of the LTTE still possess an international network dedicated to fundraising and procuring resources for their activities. The WTM is noted for its role in facilitating the LTTE’s operations by engaging in fundraising efforts on their behalf.
Canada initially designated the LTTE as a terrorist entity on April 6, 2006, under its Criminal Code. The designation is subject to review every five years, with the most recent review completed in June 2024. This decision marks the third consecutive extension of the LTTE’s proscription, following similar actions by other international bodies.
In addition to Canada’s continued listing, the LTTE remains proscribed by India and the European Union. Earlier this year, the Proscribed Organisations and Appeal Commission (POAC) in the United Kingdom also upheld the LTTE’s proscription, rejecting an application to remove the group from its list of banned organizations.
The Sri Lankan government views these international decisions as critical in combating terrorism and preventing the LTTE’s resurgence. The ongoing designation of these entities reflects a broad and sustained global commitment to addressing the threat posed by the LTTE and its affiliates.
