DATE=11/5/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / SRI LANKA (S UPDATE)

NUMBER=2-309478

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Sri Lanka's Prime Minister is downplaying the political crisis in he country and says he is determined to continue the peace process with Tamil rebels. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports (rah-NEEL Wick-ruh-muh SING-hah) Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke at the White House after talks with President Bush.

TEXT The meeting occured just hours after Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga declared a state of emergency, and assumed expanded powers. When asked about the latest developments, the prime minister said in Sri Lankan politics there are always ups and downs.

///WICKREMESINGHE ACT///

This is not the first crisis I have had. When I go back, I will sort it out.

///END ACT///

White House spokesman Scott McClellan says the political dispute in Sri Lanka is an internal matter and can be resolved. He says President Bush expressed strong support in the prime minister's leadership and the peace process with Tamil rebels.

Sri Lanka's president and prime minister are at odds over the best way to handle peace negotiations. However, a key advisor to President Kumaratunga says there will be no changes in the current cease fire with the rebels. (signed)

NEB/PW/RH