Australia to support renewable energy ventures

Ramani KANGARAARACHCHI

Australia is interested in helping renewable energy investments in Sri Lanka.

High Commissioner for Australia in Colombo, Kathay Klugman told members of Sri Lanka, Australia and New Zealand Business Council that she has discussed with Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa on how Australia could start a new business venture to reduce the energy cost of the country by introducing Australian solar technologies and renewable energy programmes to the Eastern part of Sri Lanka on a commercial basis.

Klugman said the new Government in Australia focuses on developing strategies for the modern Australian economy for the 21st century and encourage new industries based on skills. She pointed out that The Government has identified 27 new areas to develop in three stages and investments are welcome to Australia.

She requested members of the Business Council to give her feedback on the obstacles they face in doing business with Australia to take remedial action. She expressed interest about the economic development of the country and pointed out the necessacity of having a strong image building campaign in Australia by the Sri Lankan High Commissioner to attract new investments to the country.

“When Australians contact us in Colombo we do the same by giving success stories which will encourage them to start doing business with Sri Lanka,” she said.