Maldives values Lanka's support for development -Dr. Waheed

Sanjeevi JAYASURIYA

Maldives is developing fast and value the support given by Sri Lanka in this regard. The country's tourism industry is booming and it is looking at the possibilities to revive once thriving shipping industry to its past glory. We are hopeful that Maldives could forge ahead in keeping with the fast track development process, Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Waheed said.

Dr. Mohamed Waheed addressing the event Picture by Sulochana Gamage

"The Maldivian economy as a whole is not doing bad. We have a specific product which is offered at a premium price. We will further develop the tourism sector in terms of model and structure for future development of the country. Tourism will be made more sustainable where special emphasis is paid for waste management, he said addressing the Sri Lanka Maldives Bilateral Business Council meeting last Friday in Colombo.

While concentrating on more use of renewable energy, as rising fuel prices have a negative impact on industries particularly tourism, we will be looking at adapting to solar energy. There will be an ambitious programme to introduce low carbon energy to maintain green environment, he said marking his first visit to Sri Lanka.

Plans are aloft to invite private sector for more investments in identified new areas. The country is committed to good governance and upholds the rule of law and the international business community need not fear to invest.

There are some concerns to be addressed in moving forward. The country is growing at a rate of 6 to 7 percent, but the ratio of public debt to GDP stands at 90 percent. There is a need to manage public finances as well as responsible finance management is crucial.

We are not regulating expatriate community where one out of every 4 is a Bangladeshi national. It is necessary to establish a better code of practice and monitoring system. Most of the skill workers are from Sri Lanka covering a

wide spectrum of disciplines that are necessary for economic development. We are optimistic that we will be able to rejuvenate the business relationship and explore new ways of economic cooperation in working together. The close contacts over the years have been productive,supportive and mutually beneficial, he said. It is possible for a small country to be vibrant and viable. Sri Lanka is second home for over 8,000 Maldivians. Our primary objective is to develop the country while ensuring peace and stability. Sri Lanka has a special place in our hearts. We seek Sri Lankan support to develop our education

system, training and capacity building initiatives, the Maldivian President said.