On September 16th, the Secretary-General held his first meeting with the Panel of Experts established to advise him on the issue of accountability with regard to alleged violations of international humanitarian and human rights law during the final stages of the conflict in Sri Lanka. This meeting marks the formal commencement of the Panel’s four-month mandate. The Secretary-General is pleased that the Panel is fully underway and looks forward to receiving its advice. The Secretary-General is committed through his focus on this issue to contribute to lasting peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.