Two seed farms for Kilinochchi

Suraj A. Bandara in Kilinochchi

Japanese Special Envoy Yasushi Akashi and Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa inaugurated two seed farms in Paranthan and Murukkan in Kilinochchi yesterday.

Both projects are scheduled to be completed in three years and will cost around Rs. 168 million. Japan’s International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will fund this project. JICA has allocated Rs.70.8 million for the Government seed farm in Paranthan.

Akashi said he was very happy that peace prevails in Sri Lanka after eradicating terrorism. He said for lasting peace, mutual trust and reconciliation has to be developed among the ethnic groups. “I am confident that the Sri Lankan Government will be able to restore law and order and create mutual trust among all communities in Sri Lanka.”

He said every developed country succeeded after developing agriculture. Agriculture is the backbone of any country’s development.

Addressing the gathering, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa said Japan helped Sri Lanka during difficult periods. He said Sri Lankans are thankful for the assistance given by Japan.

“We protected the Northern people by providing meals and other basic facilities. Now it is time for them to stand up on their own feet and make their lives successful.

He said the government hopes to cultivate every inch of Kilinochchi and Mullaitive in the Maha season. Everything will be provided for the farmers to cultivate their lands.

The presentation of agricultural machinery donated by the Japanese Government was held at the Kilinochchi Secretariat. The foundation laying for the Paranthan seeds farm also took place with the participation of Sri Lankan and Japanese representatives.

Agriculture Minister Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Kunio Takahashi also addressed the gathering.