DATE=11/5/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / SRI LANKA (S-O)

NUMBER=2-309469

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Sri Lanka's Prime Minister says he is determined to continue the peace process with Tamil rebels, despite the political crisis in his country. V-O-A's Paula Wolfson reports Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke at the White House after talks with President Bush.

TEXT: The prime minister says the meeting focused largely on the peace process and Sri Lanka's economy.

The talks occurred 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 downplayed the danger, saying in Sri Lankan politics there are always ups and downs. He went on to stress, however, that the peace process will move forward.

///WICKREMESIGHE ACT///

I have a mandate to bring peace to the country and develop the country.

///END ACT///

The prime minister has accused Sri Lanka's president of sabotaging peace talks with the Tamil rebels. Ms. Kumaratunga maintains the prime minister has made too many concessions to the rebels. (signed)

NEB/PW/FC