Representative of the Government of Japan for Peace-Building, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sri Lanka Yasushi Akashi is due to arrive in the island today. The Japanese Embassy in Sri Lanka said Akashi’s visit concerns recent developments in the country with regards to the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission Report and the release of the National Action Plan on Human Rights. During his stay, Akashi will meet government officials and representatives of the ruling and opposition parties as well as members of civil societies, and emphasize the importance of national reconciliation toward the establishment of lasting peace. He is also scheduled to visit the Northern Province of Sri Lanka to study the latest developments in the conflict-stricken zone. This will be Akashi’s 22nd visit to Sri Lanka since he assumed the post in 2002. The government of Japan has meanwhile provided over 11.7 million rupees to Sri Lanka for a project to improve livelihoods of the resettled people in the Vavuniya District under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project. The Government of Japan hopes its assistance would holistically contribute to sustainable peace and development in Sri Lanka and promote the livelihood of the people.