Service of National Chamber of Commerce lauded
The National Chamber of Commerce, since its establishment in 1948,
has consistently rendered yeoman service over the decades in the cause
of local entrepreneurship and can look back on its achievements with
genuine satisfaction, External Affairs Minister Prof GL Peiris said
addressing the 52nd Annual General Meeting of the National Chamber of
Commerce at Hotel Galadari, as Chief Guest. At this event Asoka
Hettigoda assumed the mantle of leadership of the Chamber in succession
to Chandra Lal de Alwis.
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The 52nd Annual General Meeting of the National Chamber of
Commerce was held last Friday under the patronage of
External Affairs Minister Prof GL Peiris. Here Prof Peiris
addressing the gathering. Guest of Honour Central Bank
Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal, also participated at the
event |
The principal characteristic of the National Chamber throughout its
history has been emphasised on local identity and culture. National
Chamber of Commerce has moulded and developed its policies in keeping
with the requirements and aspirations of the local business community,
Prof Peiris said.
He laid particular stress on the valuable work done by the Chamber
for the benefit of the small and medium sector, more than 1,100 of whose
companies have derived benefit from initiatives of the National Chamber.
Prof.
Peiris made reference to the work done by the Chamber, with
magnificent results, in such fields as micro credit, marketing, value
addition by having recourse to modern technology and the establishment
of synergies and networking.
Prof Peiris, warmly felicitating Asoka Hettigoda on his assumption of
office, said he was accepting these responsibilities with the advantage
of a proven track record.
The fourth generation company, Siddhalepa, epitomizes an exemplary
blend of the best practices inherent in globalization with a firm anchor
in local tradition.
The Minister observed that Hettigoda, in dealing with the daunting
challenges that await him, will be greatly assisted by the favourable
macro-economic environment in the country. He emphasized, in particular,
the measures adopted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his recent
budget, to increase the volumes of credit available to the SME sector
and the vigorous thrust towards development of infrastructure and the
nurturing and refinement of skills.
He also referred to the positive climate with regard to foreign
direct investment and international trade.
Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabral, was Guest of Honour at the
event |
