Economic pragmatism to the fore

The conducting of 'Sri Lanka Expo 2012' close on the heels of the infamous US-sponsored resolution against Sri Lanka at the recently-concluded UNHCR session is a most gratifying development from the viewpoint of those who want to see this country getting on with the job of development and progress. This is indicative of a pragmatic mindset on the part of the state and it is this 'business as usual' approach that needs to be persisted with.

'Sri Lanka Expo 2012', described as a mega trade, investment and tourism promotion exhibition, is featuring over 1,300 trade delegations from over 60 countries and testifies to the potential this country possesses to be a vibrant partner with the most up and coming economies of Asia and beyond. As reported by us, in terms of the numerical strength of visiting delegations, 300 are from China, 200 from India, 60 from UK, 50 from USA and over 100 from Malaysia.

While some Western governments may be looking at Sri Lanka through jaundiced eyes, particularly in the context of the 'accountability' resolution and connected matters, the business communities and people of these countries seem to be thinking otherwise. Clearly, they see Sri Lanka as a country of great promise. Thus, are the publics of these countries proving to be wiser and more perceptive than their governments.

'Nothing succeeds like success.' This ought to be one of Sri Lanka's guiding perceptions. While some sections of the West and their allies are intent on damning this country in the eyes of the world, Sri Lanka should continue to prove them wrong by winning resoundingly at all turns in whatever sphere that matters. The country has been freed of its number one source of insecurity, which was LTTE terror, and the onus is on it to win handsomely in the development war. This task is being addressed by the state in a forthright manner at present and we hope that growth and development would be pursued at an accelerated pace, with nothing being left to chance.

The business communities that matter vitally are here today in large numbers and this is sufficient proof that Sri Lanka has not only won the good will of the publics that are relevant but that a very high value is placed on our assets, whether of a human nature or otherwise, by the most productive countries in the world economy.

China, India, the UK and the US are only some of these. They are more than willing to 'do business' with us and we must oblige most readily. Looking at Sri Lanka's current issues pragmatically, it could be said that economic success could turn out to be a vital bridge builder between this country and the rest of the world. Economic dynamism and productivity would have an irresistible appeal for the rest of the world and we need to go ahead with ventures such as 'Sri Lanka Expo 2012' which will enhance Sri Lanka's profile as a country of great promise, besides helping to market this country as an ideal destination for business and investment.

This marketing process needs to be persisted with. It should be pointed out to the world that we are not only blessed with 'golden sands and beaches' but are rich in material and human resources that could prove beneficial to both this country and the investor. This country should particularly seek to enhance economic ties with countries within the SAARC region as well as those of East Asia, for, it is in the latter region that growth and productivity is most prolific.

As is clear, growth gravitates most around the BRICS countries - that is, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It is mainly with these economies that we must closely integrate ours. It is in the BRICS' direction that the global balance of power will gradually tilt. Therefore, we must be quick to use the economic opportunities that are opening up in these countries. Once our growth picks up further we would find even our one time opponents closing ranks with us, for, economics is seen to drive politics.