Join hands to develop economy- Minister Athaullah

Rafik JALALDEEN

The President Mahinda Rajapaksa has achieved peace and prosperity to the country. It is time to join hands and work with commitment and dedication to drive the country towards development, Local Government and Provincial Council Minister A L M Athaullah said.

Addressing a gathering after opening 'Samurdhi Viskam Udana 2010' Fair and Exhibition organized by the Ampara Samurdhi Office, he said that the main object of launching the exhibition and fair is to ensure a better market for the products of low income Samurdhi beneficiary families and improve their livelihood as well as creative talents.

The Minister reiterated that the Government's dream was to eliminate poverty and strengthen the economy. China and Japan produce all their needs locally and export the excess. The secret behind their development are commitment and dedication on the part of their people.

People should join hands to build the national economy. "Although we produce paddy, we are still dependent on imported rice. Today there is no war and a peaceful environment is prevailing everywhere. The farmers have the opportunity to visit their farms and engage in farming activities without any fear or suspicion and live their lives peacefully. Therefore, we should join hands to build the national economy", he added.

Minister Athaullah said the Government always ready to lend a helping hand towards such efforts.

State Resources Management and Enterprise Development Minister P Dayaratne, Ampara District MP Sriyani Wijewickrama and Ampara District Samurdhi Commissioner K W Kirindage also present.