Diplomats from 35 countries visit Hambantota district:

Govt's aim to ensure economic growth enjoyed by all - GL

The government's aim is to ensure that the country's economic growth is enjoyed by people in all parts of the country and in particular, people in rural areas, External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris said.

He was briefing a group of diplomats representing 35 countries when they visited Hambantota district on an invitation to gather a firsthand impression of the development taking place in the area.

Prof Peiris addressed the members of the diplomatic community in the administration building which was opened by President Mahinda Rajapaksa this week.

He explained the impact of those development projects on the lives and livelihoods of the people of the area.

The minister emphasized the government's resolve to ensure that the benefits arriving from the growth of Sri Lanka's economy - now at the threshold of 8.2 percent - are enjoyed by people in all parts of the country and in particular, extend to the rural hinterland.

Member of Parliament and Hambantota District Development Committee chairman Namal Rajapaksa participated informally in the interaction with the diplomats.

Urban Development Authority chairman Janaka Kurukulasuriya explained to the diplomats the details relating to the work already completed and the structured plans for future development. Minister Peiris accompanied the diplomats on their visit to Hambantota Port where an extensive presentation was made.

The diplomats also visited other sites including sports and cultural facilities.