Thousands at minister's funeral

The funeral of Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Lakshman Kadirgamar who was shot dead at his home on Friday has taken place in Colombo.

A heavy security cordon was in place with soldiers and navy personnel joining thousands of police.

Mr Kadirgamar's coffin, draped with the Sri Lankan flag, was taken on a 2km procession to the cremation site.

President Chandrika Kumaratunga says the Tamil Tigers are responsible for the killing but they deny involvement.

Mrs Kumaratunga made a surprise appearance at the funeral, with reports suggesting she would not attend because of security fears.