Private sector push for Commonwealth Game plans

Ramani KANGARAARACHCHI

Sri Lanka is committed to implement the Commonwealth Games plan with the support of the private sector and there is no doubt about it, Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal said yesterday.

At the end of four day discussions with the Commonwealth Games Federation Evaluation Committee (CGFEC), he said there is a huge improvement in Hambantota today compared to the previous three months.

The CGFEC was impressed with the rapid development growth in Hambantota which is getting ready to hold the Commonwealth Games in 2018.

CGFEC chairperson Louise Martin said the Hambantota Sports Complex is an exciting one. “The improved infrastructure, transport, economic development with the port, highways and the airport under construction are ample evidence to this,” he said.

Speaking about the economic benefits to the country by holding the Commonwealth Games in Hambantota MP Namal Rajapaksa said the development benefits are not only confined to Hambantota district but also goes to Moneragala, Uva and even to the East coast.

Hambantota will be an emerging city to suit international standards. “Therefore the sport complex is not sufficient and that is why it is included with all facilities such as an IT village and hotels.”