Britain will give Sri Lanka £6.6m over three years to help the battle-scarred country continue its recovery from a long civil war, and will help the country with armed forces reform, 'The Independent' said.

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British Prime Minister made this offer when he met President Maithripala Sirisena in Malta yesterday.

The money will be backed up by a non-resident defence attache and access to British armed forces training to help with military reform. The aid will also help people displaced from their towns and villages during the bloodshed to return home.

The rebel Tamil Tigers were defeated six years ago after decades of war, but there have been serious concerns over alleged human rights abuses. The new President, Maithripala Sirisensa, has pledged major reforms, including a crack down on corruption.

The British Prime Minister said: "Britain is committed to standing up for those affected by Sri Lanka’s civil war. This £6.6m funding is part of a long-term UK commitment to supporting stability and prosperity in Sri Lanka."

(With inputs from The Independent)