People should contribute to development war - Mahanayaka Thera

The scourge of terrorism is now over and we have to live with our own industrial goods without depending on imported items. People of this country, by engaging themselves in the promotion of local industry and local agricultural products, should contribute to the war aimed at developing the country, Mahanayake Thera of Asgiriya Chapter Most Ven. Udugama Sri Buddharakkitha Thera said.

The Chief prelate made these observations recently when Western Provincial Council member Widura Wickramanayake called on him in Kandy to seek the prelates advice on proposed plans to develop Buddhist religious places in the Western Province. Attempts by President Mahinda Rajapaksa helped us to eliminate the terrorism which plagued the country for thirty years. If these terrorists succeeded in their activities, our entire country world be in a shambles by now. For the country's fortune, the President, Cabinet, Tri-forces and the people got together and librated the country, this is a blessing to the country, indeed the Chief prelate said.

Now we can live without any fear. We must not be complacent over the victory gained. We must look back on what happened and be cautious enough of what would unfold in the future.

The people and the Government should be vigilant enough to preserve our newly gained position, the Ven. Thera said.

Western Provincial Council member Widura Wickramanayake called on the Mahanayakes of Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters and sought their advice on the proposed plans to develop the Buddhist religious places in the Western Province.