Trincomalee in a strategic commercial hub

Stanley Senevirathna, Kurunegala north correspondent

KURUNEGALA: Kappolturai provides an ideal setting to launch the Trincomalee Special Economic Zone, said Rohith Bogollagama, the Minister of Enterprise Development and Investment Promotions. The minister was addressing a media conference in Kurunegala. "Kappolturai is considered to be the most attractive location in the country to set up an economic zone since it is situated close to Trincomalee where one of the best natural harbours in the world is formed.

"The economic zone in Trincomalee will be one of the 12 proposed economic zones in 2006 budget. This will aim at developing the rural sector. It will alter the life styles of the masses for the best through sustainable economic programmes. And, it is the primary task of the government under Mahinda Chinthana," the Minister said.

Cabinet approval for the economic zone was granted on February 16th 2006 by way of a gazette notification, and 675 hectares had been allotted for the project. President Mahinda Rajapaksa has identified Trincomalee as an ideal location for the country's future economic development.

The minister said that substantial foreign investments are anticipated as the proposed economic zone is in a strategic location important to global commerce and shipping lanes. The objective of the project is to create an entrepreneurial spirit by encouraging long term investment.

As the Trincomalee port is a convenient location for Far Eastern investors, the economic zone will be a leading provider of products and services to the international market, the minister added.