Government plans uninterrupted growth

Disna Mudalige

The government plans to achieve a sustained and uninterrupted growth throughout the country awaiting the victory in the economic war, said Environment Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa. He said that integration of environmental concerns in all sectors of the economy is needed to achieve this ambition.

He was addressing the inauguration program of Preparatory Meeting of National Focal Points for the 12th Governing Council Meeting of South Asia Cooperative Environment Program (SACEP) held at the Ceylon Continental Hotel last Monday.

He pointed out that regional cooperation is of paramount importance in today's global context. "We are living in an era where deteriorating environment trends are creating far-reaching economic, social and health implications.

Most of the challenges to be addressed are common to all. I hope that this forum will provide guidance and policy directions for effective management and protection of the environment of our region," he said.

He pointed out that implementation of Male Declaration on the control of trans boundary air pollutants of the region and South Asian Seas program are two major programs which are actively promoted by the SACEP.

SACEP has 28 years of history and up to date eight countries namely, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, The Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have obtained membership of the organization.

Delegations from all the eight countries participated in this meeting. Environment Ministry Secretary Dr R H S Samaratunga delivered the opening remarks.