Premier pledges duty free dates, prayer rooms during Ramazan

PRIME MINISTER Mahinda Rajapakse has directed immediate action to permit duty free imports of dates by the private sector to avoid a shortage during the Ramazan festival, a press release from the Prime Minister's Office said.

He made this arrangement on a request by the International Assembly of YMMA Sri Lanka. The Prime Minister also agreed to make arrangements for prayer rooms for Muslim staff in government hospitals.

The delegation also pointed out the necessity of a suitable national education policy acceptable to all communities. They requested the Prime Minister to consider the establishment of a Muslim and Cultural Ministry.

It was also agreed to hold another discussion to discuss further issues on services and supplies during Ramazan.