'Trees outside forests play important role'

Ishara Mudugamuwa

Trees outside forests play an important role in the development of the country by strengthening country's economy, said Environment Ministry Secretary B. M. U. D. Basnayake.

He was addressing the inauguration ceremony of the SAARC Workshop on Stakeholder Engagement to Enhance Development and Productivity of Trees outside Forests.

Basnayake said here are a number of advantages of trees outside forests. They provide shelter, timber, wood and many other important things for the mankind.

"The government has started a number of programmes to encourage people to cultivate more trees. The annual tree planting programme will be held today under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa." the Secretary said. He also said that the workshop will be a great opportunity to share our knowledge and strengthen ties between SAARC member countries. The workshop was organized by the SAARC Forestry Centre in collaboration with the Forest Department from November 14 -16 in Colombo.