'SL supplied 500 mt of rice to WFO'

Sri Lanka was able to supply 500 metric tons of locally produced rice to the World Food Organization since the country has attained self-sufficiency in its rice requirements.

Minister Basil Rajapaksa

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa disclosed this when he met US Assistant Trade Representative for South Asia Michael J. Dillency who called on him at the Kotte Parliamentary Complex on Tuesday.

Minister Rajapaksa who explained the current situation in the country to the US Assistant Trade Representative said the country today had an investment and trade-friendly environment.

The infrastructure facilities needed for it have already been produced by the government.

This had enabled large and medium scale investors to invest in Sri Lanka in great numbers. The government is committed to further improve the investment friendly environment in the country he said.

Rajapaksa said the Expo 2012 International Exhibition staged in Sri Lanka was a big draw among investors from 57 countries and it symbolized the vast economic progress already achieved by Sri Lanka.

He said garments, gems and Jewllery and tourism industries had a big demand among visiting investors.

US Assistant Trade Representative Michael J. Dilleney said he was happy to note the rapid economic progress achieved by Sri Lanka.

Labour and Labour Relations Minister Gamini Lokuge and Edward P. Hartney and V.C. Fowler of the US Embassy were also present.