New Zealand help for modern farms here

New Zealand Foreign Affairs Minister Murray McCully who called on Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa on Wednesday, discussed the long standing friendship and diplomatic relations and strengthening economic, investment, tourism and trade affairs between the two countries.

McCully said action will be taken to provide conceptual and technical knowledge Sri Lanka requires to construct international modern farms with high standard.

Topics such as broadening exports and investment opportunities between two countries, commencement of small markets and expanding the tourism industry were also discussed.

Minister Rajapaksa briefed the New Zealand Foreign Minister regarding the development activities implemented in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

Livelihood development programmes have also been implemented in these areas. Minister Rajapaksa pointed out that the demining and resettlement process were successfully completed within a short period after the ending of the war.

He said even though countries like Cambodia are still confronted with the landmine issue, Sri Lanka has successfully completed the task.

The minister said food and sanitary facilities are being provided through organisations such as the World Food Programme and United Nations Children's Fund.