Remarkable progress for business now

Charumini de Silva

Sri Lanka has shown remarkable progress in the past one and a half years. Businesses have been performing outstandingly with increased inflows of foreign investments, Hilton Colombo Residence General Manager Manesh Fernando told Daily News Business.

“Sri Lanka is gearing up in a sustainable manner in all sectors of the economy. The Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is the best example that reflects the successful journey of the country,” he said.

“The country is now preparing for the next century and it is time to change the attitude from a victimized syndrome to a winning and enjoying mind-set”.

“The Government has given its support to commence business in credit expansion, reduction of taxes and developing infrastructure. Thus, it is our turn to create our own profits, out of our own efforts,” Fernando said.

Strategies should be placed on a long-term basis. Over consumption of resources and adopting green concepts will benefit the country for a sustainable development.

Empowering youth who are in rural areas is critical. Creating awareness and educating them via television programs are essential.

The Hilton Colombo Residence performance last year has been positive and it is confident about the years to come. Fernando said the hotel has recorded over 35 to 40 percent growth compared to 2009. Business has progressed well and the hotel is planning on several investments in the near future.

He said the hotel is currently full.

“Corporate are visiting with their families, which is a good indication for the industry. The leisure and business sectors have many opportunities to develop with inventory of new products as it is vital.”