Economic development:

Japan assures continuous support

External Affairs Minister G L Peiris and Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa met with Japanese Government Representative on Peace Building, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sri Lanka Yasushi Akashi in Tokyo.

The Ministers explained to Akashi the current developments in Sri Lanka with regard to the resettlement of internally Displaced Persons, the rebuilding of infrastructure and the restoration of livelihoods, the repeal of Emergency Regulations with the return of normalcy to the country, the appointment by President Mahinda Rajapaksa of the Commission on Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation, the discussions between the Government and other political parties and initiatives directed towards constitutional reform. Ambassador Akashi assured the Ministers about Japan's continuing support for the rebuilding of Sri Lanka's economy in the post conflict situation.

He appreciated the detailed briefing he received from the Ministers. The Ministers also met with Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Chairman Akira Kanai and members of the JATA Board to discuss modalities for creating greater awareness in Japan about the significantly enhanced opportunities for tourism in the new situation in Sri Lanka. Ministers G L Peiris and Basil Rajapaksa also had detailed discussions with Member of the House of Representatives Yutaka Banno and members of the ruling party, the Democratic Party of Japan at the Party's Head Office.