Investors offered Constitutional guarantee by Govt - Foreign Secretary

Sri Lanka is at the threshold of a decisive phase in her history. The Security Forces are engaged in operations to clear the last hideouts of terrorists. The Government has embarked upon a comprehensive programme to extend governance; we take for granted, to all parts of the country and restore democracy and civilian administration.

"After the successful military campaign to free the Eastern Province from the LTTE stranglehold, civil administration has been further enhanced with the holding of elections in the Eastern Province. The Government has allocated US$ 200 million for the development of the East," said Dr. Palitha Kohona.

Dr. Kohona, Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs attended the Dinner and Question and Answer Session hosted by Canada-Sri Lanka Business Council in Toronto earlier this week.

Louise Roberge, President of Canada-Sri Lanka Business Council and Tea Association of Canada welcomed Dr. Kohona and gave a brief introduction about the Council. She said the council was founded in 1990. The Council has grown to be a dynamic organisation at local, provincial and federal level promoting investment, tourism and culture.

She stated that garments, black teas, tires and jewellery are imported from Sri Lanka, whilst wheat, flour, lentils and electronic accessories are exported from Canada. The exports have doubled while the imports are stable.

Dr. Kohona making the keynote address spoke of the opportunities in the field of business investments, tourism and industries and stated that Sri Lanka is an island surrounded by the best beaches in the world with charming people and excellent hospitality.

Sri Lanka is an important centre with easy access to major economic power blocks such as India, Pakistan and China, pointed out Dr. Kohona.

There are over 150 flights between India and Sri Lanka alone. Indian economic boom has a direct positive effect on Sri Lanka which is becoming an important business centre.