Service sector plays vital role - Minister Anura Yapa

Mohammed Naalir

At a time when our valiant Forces are achieving a great victory against the terrorists, the Government will also ensure the proper climate for investments in the country, New Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said yesterday.

Speaking to the media after assuming duties as the new Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Minister at a ceremony held at the Ministry, Yapa noted that the service sector too plays a vital role in the economy saying special attention will be paid towards providing incentives to this sector.

Minister Yapa said all measures will be taken to boost investment and create more job opportunities to the youth in the villages to ease the unemployment problem.

Enterprise Development Minister Mano Wijeratne said that terrorism is on the verge of total defeat. There will no more terrorism after 2009. The Minister said mega development projects will be implemented throughout the country for the benefit of all.

He said that a trade zone will be established in Trincomalee close to the port. Two areas in Ampara and Polonnaruwa have been identified as suitable for trade zones.

Wijeratne said special attention will be paid towards the agriculture, fishing and tourism sectors this year. Pottuvil and Pasikkudah will also be developed as a popular tourism destination this year.

Under the Industry to the village project, 200 agreements have been signed with local and foreign investors.

One hundred local and foreign investors have already started their industries, he added.

Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardane, Healthcare and Nutrition Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva and several high ranking officers of the Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Ministry were also present.