President pledges highest point in development

Chaminda PERERA

President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday said he has been mandated by the people to reach the highest point of development free from corruption and terror.

He urged the Opposition to do away with politics of malice and hatred and instead extend its fullest cooperation to the Government's development endeavour.

Speaking at the commissioning of a community water supply project at Suriyawewa, the President said the Government is committed to uplift the living conditions of the people in rural areas through the Maga Neguma and Gama Neguma projects.

He said these projects have met the people's aspiration by providing what they need urgently in the villages.

President Rajapaksa sought public assistance to achieve the goals of the Mahinda Chintana Idiri Dekama and bring development and prosperity to the country.

He added that the Government was able to increase the country's per capita income from US$ 1,000 to US$ 2,200 within four years and the Government aims to achieve the per capita income level to US$ 4,000.

The President said new employment avenues will be opened for youth with the completion of mega-development projects which are in progress. He said every part of the country is being developed.

This is the largest community water supply scheme in the Asian region.

This project which cost Rs 91 million will provide potable water to 3,000 families in 35 villages in the Suriyawewa Divisional Secretariat Division. Ports and Aviation Minister Chamal Rajapaksa, Urban and Sacred Area Development Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Water Supply Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, Deputy Foreign Minister Hussein Bhaila, Uva Chief Minister Shashendra Kumara Rajapaksa were also present.