Sri Lanka Supplement

SRI LANKA 64TH INDEPENDENCE DAY SUPPLEMENT Saturday, February 4, 2012

Rabiul Awwal 12, 1433 A.H. • Page 11

Let’s work with unity

Our nation aspires for I a prosperous future

T is with great expectations that we look forward to celebrate the 64th anniversary of Independence on Feb. 4, 2012.

May 19, 2009 marked the historic day that the country succeeded in eradicating LTTE terrorism that debilitated economic, social and cultural fabric of the country for 30 years. It was the far-sighted vision, guidance and leadership of Mahinda Rajapaksa that contributed to the achievement of this historic feat.

With the defeat of LTTE terrorism our Tamil brethren in the north and east as well as the general public of the rest of the country could heave a sigh of relief. They are now enjoying peaceful lives devoid of fear and anxiety.

The government had successfully completed reconstruction of government buildings, roadways, houses, places of religious worship and other infrastructure facilities in the North and the East that were destroyed or damaged during the war. Many a new infrastructure project that had been completed had changed the landscape of the north and the east. The resettlement of displaced persons in their usual habitat had brought contentment to these long suffering people. A series of development projects that are in progress had resuscitated the economy of the North and the East that was badly battered by the 30-year war.

Side by side the development activities in the north and the east the government had undertaken a num-

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UR nation is fortunate to celebrate the 64th Independence Day with a genuine sense of dignity about freedom.

Today the national flag flutters pointing to a new country in the making. The way is open for an independent economy. It daily reinforces the nation’s aspiration for a prosperous future. It has given us freedom to decide upon issues concerning the country and the nation without bowing down before external powers. I strongly believe that is the immense responsibility the nation entrusted to us. It is a great pleasure to see the steady consolidation of supreme independence.

The country’s achievements would be secured when opportunities for peace, co-existence as well as harmonious living are widened. Sacrifices made so far to reach that objective have to be secured in future too. We would no longer hesitate to take decisions toward fostering national unity through an indigenous program of action. We overcame diverse challenges the country faced with extreme patience. We have built productive economic, political, defense, trade and cultural links with the international community through friendly contacts. We must preserve all this by working more rationally, intelligently and patriotically than even before.

Similarly the country should be brought forward developing its value systems. It is only then that a prosperous life would emerge in a peaceful environment.

The nation’s respect and felicitations should go to all patriots who paid the supreme sacrifice, laying down their lives to overcome the nations challenges for the sake of supreme independence.

I wish you all a bright future!

Mahinda Rajapaksa President of Sri Lanka

We are on path of Saudi ties to becoming economic grow further hub of South Asia

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E, Sri Lankans, celebrate the Sri Lanka’s 64th anniversary of Independence with realization of peace, social harmony and economic prosperity of the motherland.

Since, May 2009, Sri Lanka has significantly moved toward building a peaceful society with economic prosperity in the South Asian region.

During the period, Sri Lanka was able to record a growth rate over 8 percent for two consecutive years in the history and is expected to sustain a Prof. G. L. Peiris further higher rate of growth in the coming years. The peace and political stability are being identified as core contributors for expansion of economic activities including inward movement of foreign direct investment, increasing inbound tourists, booming of construction industry in infrastructure and hotels and leisure sectors in the country.

In the economic front, the “Mahinda Chintana: The Vision for Future,” which is the policy framework of the government, has envisaged transformation of Sri Lanka into an economic hub of the South Asia focusing on aviation, commerce, maritime, energy and knowledge and also doubling the per capita income to $4,000 by 2016. In this context, the government has already initiated a number of infrastructure development programs along with various multifaceted social and economic development activities such as “Gamaneguma,” “Divi Neguma,” “Maganeguma,” “Gamidiriya” etc in the rural areas for the upliftment of standards of living of the people.

In keeping with the “Mahinda Chintana: Vision for the Future,” the Ministry of External Affairs with the assistance of Sri Lanka Missions abroad has been vigorously pursuing a “Non-Aligned Foreign Policy” aimed at promoting and nurturing friendship and cooperation with members of the international community including the United Nations and members of the international organizations.

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NOTHER important milestone in Sri Lanka’s history as a sovereign nation comes by today, Feb. 4, when its citizens both at home and overseas rejoice the 64th Independence Day of their motherland. On this auspicious occasion I extend fraternal greetings to the Sri Lankan expatriate community in Saudi Arabia. The years after 2009 when Sri Lanka finally emerged victorious in its long battle against terrorism have been dedicated by the government of His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa to nation building in all its aspects. This year will surely be no exception and in it Sri Lankan expatriates play a crucial role.

Given its fame as an island of legendary beauty, it is Ahmed A. Jawad unsurprising that tourism constitutes one of the core areas of exponential growth in Sri Lanka-Saudi relations.

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Migrant community playing crucial role in country’s progress

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ODAY, we are celebrating the 64th Independence anniversary of our country with vigor and glory and I am proud to convey my warmest greetings to the Sri Lankan expatriate community living in the western region of Dr. A. Uthumalebbe Saudi Arabia.

Independence is enjoying freedom of life, speech and faith and being economically free. All countries gain independence for this purpose. We celebrate independence every year in order to remember our heroes who sacrificed their lives in the struggle to gain our freedom and to be reminded that we are enjoying the freedom obtained.

(Continued on Page 14)

ber of mega projects that will usher in unprecedented economic development through out the country.

Several prodigious projects such as Norochcholai Power Plant, Upper Kothmale Hydro Power Project and Hambantota Harbor, which the previous governments never dared to undertake were started and successfully completed by the Rajapaksa

government. Meaningful steps have been taken to promote tourism industry attracting foreign investments for construction of tourist hotels and resorts under a well drawn out tourism plan. Major part of the Southern Express Highway has already been completed and opened for the use of

the public. The construction work of Mattala Airport is in progress and foundations have been laid for the Colombo South Harbor and ColomboKatunayake Express Highway. In this manner the development projects that had been launched already and those that are in the pipeline would bring accelerated economic development in the areas of agriculture, industry, fisheries, and tourism etc. It is a matter of pride and delight that the current economic growth rate of the country has exceeded 8 percent.

The pragmatic economic policies of the government had led to a balanced economic growth both in the rural and the urban sectors in the country.

With the rapid socio-economic development of the country that is being experienced at present we are optimistic that Sri Lanka will emerge before long, as the Wonder of Asia.

To sustain and consolidate the successes that the country has achieved in various sectors and to march toward continued progress, the cooperation, commitment, right attitudes and sacrifice by the people of this country are essential. The unity among all ethnic groups in the country is vital toward achieving this laudable objective.

On this 64th anniversary of Independence of our country, we all must make a firm resolution and commitment to work with unity, peace and harmony to make this beautiful country a happy and a prosperous nation.

D.M. Jayaratne Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

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Saturday, February 4, 2012

SRI LANKA SUPPLEMENT

Tourist arrivals to exceed 1 million

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KABEER REFFAI

TOURIST whom I met recently commented that one morning he woke up, went to his balcony, closed his eyes and envisioned a g r e e n carpeted landscape of scenic mountains, dotted with unique patches of colorful flora capped off by smoky mist flakes surrounded by the pleasant sound of chirping birds and the feel of unpolluted clean air, then he opened his eyes and realized that it wasn’t a vision, he was staring down from his hotel room balcony in Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s famed hill country.

Speak to the thousands of tourists returning home from an exciting vacation in Sri Lanka and it’s proof that this effect is universal.

Whether it’s watching the elephant gathering in August or seeing the colorful pageantry of the Kandy Perahara (procession) or watching whales in the eastern coast, Sri Lanka definitely leaves a positive impression on all those who visit. In fact in true testimony for that, the country records one of the highest numbers of repeat visitors. Since the end of the civil conflict in May 2009, Sri Lanka has recaptured and re-affirmed its position as one of the world’s foremost and safe tourist destinations which offer a diverse range of activities in a very short time period. With tourism being one of the country’s top revenue avenues, there is a keen viewpoint toward making the country a preferred destination.

Statistics speak for themselves and illustrates how well this objective has been achieved; with the percentage of overall tourist arrivals up to 34.2 percent to 2011 against the previous year (source

Sri Lanka is blessed with beautiful beaches and excellent climatic conditions.

Sri Lanka Tourism) in fact the island exceeded its targeted arrivals before the end of the year in 2011.

With the governments’ focused plan which aims to strengthen the tourism industry to increase the influx of tourists to Sri Lanka worldwide and also to support related industries which range from handicrafts, hospitality to traditional ayurvedic medicine; tourists now

find more activities and indulgences than before and having a stronger appeal toward choosing Sri Lanka over other destinations.

The country is blessed with its beaches (rated amongst the top ten in the world), climatic conditions which vary from the chilly central to the warm north and south, cultural destinations from thousands of years ago and above all the

friendly, welcoming and warm nature of its people. Tourist arrivals are expected to exceed 1 million in 2012 (over 60,000 tourists visited the country within the first 16 days of January 2012) (source Sri Lanka Tourism).

With a strong infrastructure in place to promote the industry and a renewed drive toward investments in the tourism sphere has resulted in tourism reaching the top of the government’s revenue generators.

The industry employs 55,000 people directly, and another 90,000 indirectly with new opportunities mounting up tremendously. The sector is expected to create one million jobs by 2020 in food and chemicals, laundry services, maintenance, making souvenirs, transport, beach vendors, Food & Beverage, Construction, Handicrafts, Transport, IT and Gem & Jewelry (source lbr.lk).

The latest additions to the long list of activities that one can look forward to in Sri Lanka are Aero Adventure packages that include hot air ballooning, sky diving and parachuting. Highly qualified and experienced instructors with licensed trainers take you through a thrill filled journey.

Working toward a clear and concise goal, to have 2.5 million tourists by 2016, the government has invested heavily on tourism specific projects such as construction of 10 hotels in Pasikudah located in the eastern sector of the island. Filled with sandy beaches, scenic jungles and heritage sites, Pasikuda is the latest destination to be included in every tourist’s itinerary.

Even prominent existing hotels have begun a gamut of refurbishment work with the government aiding them, this coupled with a wave of high end corporates in Sri Lanka and abroad investing heavily on new hotel chains (Shangri La and Movenpick to name a few) has paved the way forward toward ensuring that accommodation never becomes an issue. An emerging trend in new hotels is the concept of themed hotels and resorts of which a prime example are the star rated hotels located in the middle of the wilderness, a unique experience which blends the adventure of wildlife environment with star class luxury.

Another popular theme emerging are the range of boutique hotels located in tea plantations; scenic hotels and luxury bungalows in the middle of lush, green tea plantations are a soothing journey physically and spiritually. To cater to specific large catchment of tourists, Sri Lanka Tourism has implemented a program to train tour guides in different languages which would mean ease of communications.

With the view of promoting tourism in key markets the government has taken steps to represent Sri Lanka at trade fairs, conventions and conferences internationally delegated by experienced tourism professionals.

Further Changes are being made

Tourists make a splash at a prominent holiday destination.

in the agricultural, educational and ayurvedic sectors to suit the needs of the tourism industry and ensure that these industries are aligned toward tourism.

Related industries such as cultural dance troupes, souvenir manufacture, wild life and eco tours are experiencing a jolt with financial assistance and other support programs being set up by the ministry and other government bodies.

A key government initiative toward preserving the green lung reputation held by Sri Lanka is conversation programs for coral reefs and forests, new regulations with regards to coral reefs and deforesting have been enforced with focus on ensuring environmental balance.

Though the country has its conventional tourists from Europe, a striking feature is the marked increase in the Asian sector with high number of Chinese, Indian, Maldivian tourists coming to Sri

Lanka in 2011. And within that a remarkable fact to note is that tourists from new destinations overall showed a phenomenal increase, Middle Eastern tourist arrivals have shown an unprecedented hike, with more than 37000 numbers 2011.

Staggering number of arrivals was primarily from Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.

Capitalizing on this new wave, many tour operators and leisure companies have come out with tailor made packages for the Middle Eastern traveler. From family excursions, wild life safaris and adventure holidays, a vast platter of adapted activities suited for Middle Eastern tourists have been formulated and offered. Given Sri Lanka’s vast geographical diversity, exotic and tropical flora, wildlife unique to the island, it makes for a perfect getaway for the Middle Eastern travelers seeking to explore and escape into different locales.

The warm, helpful and welcom-

ing nature of the locals is akin to the long Arabian traditions of utmost hospitality to guests and puts one at ease immediately.

Sri Lanka’s famed gems, jewelry and souvenirs are a staple in every travelers list and boasting of experiences like the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage where tourists can actually feed baby elephants creates a level of excitement rarely offered by other countries. Something that truly sets Sri Lanka apart is the wide choice of activities offered as a package, be it a wildlife vacation (national parks, bird watching, butterfly farms, waterfalls, whale watching etc.,), an heritage vacation (culture, seasonal events, heritage sites, places of pilgrimage, ayurvedic etc), or an adventure vacation (mountain climbing, caving, white water rafting, scuba diving etc.,), activities to cater to everyone in the family is provided in one destination.

SRI LANKA SUPPLEMENT

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Enterprises flourish as foreign direct investments surge NAFHATH RIYAZA RASOOLDEEN

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RI LANKA, which is situated at the crossroads of major shipping routes connecting South Asia, Far East and the Pacific with Europe and the Americas, is ranked as the most liberalized economy in south Asia. Strategically located next to the fast growing Indian subcontinent with close proximity to Southeast Asia and the Middle East, the island has adapted open market free economic policies, and successive governments have further liberalized the economy, leading to deregulation, greater privatization and opening the economy to international competition. Its transparent investment laws aim to attract foreign direct investments. Sri Lankan commercial laws are based on British laws and country has a highly independent judicial system.

The country has a dynamic and resilient private sector, which if necessary can be joint venture partners for foreign investors. However, foreign investors are allowed to own 100 percent ownership of an investment. Concessions granted under an agreement with the Board of Investment — for qualifying investment projects — remain valid over the lifetime of the enterprise.

Reflecting the strength of Sri Lanka’s human capital and strong consumer market growth is the nation’s 94.2 percent literacy rate population, higher than that expected for a third world country and one of the highest literacy

Sri Lanka is on the fast track for economic growth with multibillion highway projects under way.

rates in Asia. Extensive investment in public education has produced a workforce that is not only competent but intelligent, trainable and comfortable with high tech production and services.

Approximately 50 percent of the students who have completed higher education are trained in technical and business disciplines. English is widely spoken and is the main language used by the business community. Well educated and energetic, skilled and semiskilled human resources are readily available at competitive wage rates. Sri Lanka has mostly had strong growth rates in recent years. According to Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBS) the economic output (GDP), expanded to 8.3 percent during the year of 2011 (est.), compared to over the previous years 8.2 percent growth rate. With an economy worth $56 billion (2011 IMF estimate) and a per capita GDP of about $5400 (PPP), in GDP per capita terms, it

is ahead of other countries in the South Asian region.

The country’s Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal said early this year that the country will make enormous changes in 2012 and beyond if it is positioned itself properly. He reiterated that 2011 was a challenging year but amidst tense global developments, the Sri Lanka’s economy was able to deliver the promised results. He said the country’s external sector will further undergo more fundamental changes making export inflow $12.5 billion in 2012. The tourism industry is expected to bring $1.2 billion and foreign direct investment is set to reach $2.0 billion. Meanwhile, the major contributions toward growth in 2012 are expected from three sectors namely agriculture, industry and services. The agricultural sector is expected to expand at 7.3 percent compared to 2.0 percent in 2011 with expected expansion in new cultivation in the north and east.

Another 9.8 percent growth in fishing is expected due to favorable weather conditions and improvement in marketing and infrastructure facilities. The industry sector is expected to expand at 9.0 percent compared to 10.1 percent in 2011.A 12.2 percent growth is expected in the construction sector in infrastructure development work by the government and the tourism sector. An 8.2 percent growth is expected in domestic trade due to growth in domestic and agricultural sector.

Financial services will expand by 8.2 percent owing to the expanding economic activities.

Sri Lanka is on the fast track for economic growth in 2012 while its transparent investment laws aim to foster foreign direct investments. Total foreign ownership is permitted across almost all areas

of the economy and safety of foreign investment is guaranteed by the constitution. Existence of a transparent and sophisticated legal and regulatory framework covering all prerequisite business law enactments and bilateral investment protection agreements with 27 countries and double taxation avoidance agreements with 38 countries are some among the favorable investment regulations.

Following the announcements of opening Shangri-la hotels in Colombo and Hambantota in 2014 and 2013 respectively, the cabinet ministers have approved yet another deal with The US-based hotel chain Sheraton Group to invest $300 million in a leisure project in Sri Lanka, the nation’s information department said Dec.1. 2011. The mixed development project including a hotel in

Colombo will be built on five acres of state land which will be given on a 99-year lease for 73.5 million US dollars in a deal approved by the cabinet of ministers. Also planning to invest $115 million in a hotel and shopping complex in Colombo is the Singapore’s department store giant Mustafa Center, (Source: Ministry of Economic Development December 2011) In a major boost to Sri Lanka’s international investment profile and its FDI inflows, Japan’s top multinational conglomerate Marubeni Corporation is returning to Sri Lanka.

Marubeni wants to recommence operations in Sri Lanka in the due course.

Marubeni, which was already active in Sri Lanka for 25 years, closed its operations on May 1, 2008 citing unfavorable economic conditions.

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Precious gems add luster to resplendent isle MOHAMMED RASOOLDEEN

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ANY are enticed by the ‘island charm’ of Sri Lanka, its natural resources and its proud population.

Science fiction icon Arthur C. Clarke, the world’s best-selling author of science fiction once said: “The island of Ceylon-Sri Lanka is a small universe; it contains as many variations of culture, scenery and climate as some countries a dozen times its size.”

Sir Arthur, who was widely considered as one of the masters of the genre, was the author of 2001: A Space Odyssey. He described the island as the best place in the world from which to view the universe.

natural landscape, climate, its smiling people and its precious gems that add luster to this resplendent isle.

Early Arabs described the island as Serendib, the “land of rubies.” In 700 A.D. Sri Lanka was a familiar port of call of Arab merchants in the Indian Ocean during the period.

“In the island of Ceylon rubies are found in all parts,” said Ibn Battutah, 14th century Moroccan traveler.

Marco Polo wrote of his visit in 1292: “I want you to understand that the island of Ceylon is, for its size, the finest island in the world, and from its streams comes rubies, sapphires, topazes, amethyst and garnet.”

The island of Ceylon-Sri Lanka is a small universe; it contains as many variations of culture, scenery and climate as some countries a dozen times its size, says Arthur C. Clarke.

The author of more than 100 fiction and nonfiction books, Sir Arthur made Sri Lanka his home. He died in his adopted home of Sri Lanka at the age of 90 in March 2008.

Sri Lanka — the island jewel of the Indian Ocean — is endowed with the best things that the nature could provide, be it

Little has changed since Marco Polo’s time except that Sri Lanka faces overpopulation and a faltering economy.

Many ancient travelers and traders made Sri Lanka one of their destinations for valuable treasures of gems. The Arabian Nights regales readers with the description of Sinbad the Sailor discovering the rarest and

most precious rainbow-hued priceless gemstones on the island of Sri Lanka, when he was washed ashore here.

Geologically, gemstones originated within a broad belt known as the Highland Series which runs through the center of Sri Lanka. The edges of the belt form a trough bordered by chains of mountains and peaks. The trough, made up of highly crystalline Precambrian metamorphosed rock, featured components of schists, quartzite, marbles, and sometimes pegmatite deposits.

Rock erosion resulted in the formation of extensive gem-laden placer deposits along streambeds in lower valleys.

Gems found here are far superior to those found in the rest of the world.

Perfected in the laboratory of nature, they lay hidden for countless ages. The radiance, luminosity and other qualities attributed to Sri Lankan gems are of the highest quality, Added to this, the exquisite craftsmanship of the local jewelers has made Sri Lanka a paradise for lovers of gems and gem-studded jewelry.

While traditional designs are still in great demand, Sri Lankan jewelers have reoriented their craftsmanship to cater to foreigners. Most leading jewelry manufacturers showcase their collections overseas at jewelry trade fairs, where they find many buyers from all over the world.

The National Gem and Jewelry Authority (NGJA) of Sri Lanka is the only regulatory body of the gem and jewelry trade in Sri Lanka.

It exercises a quality control function in the trade, as it is required by law that all gem and jewelry exported from Sri Lanka should be compulsorily channeled through the export division of the NGJA of Sri Lanka.

This is in order to ensure that only genuine gems and jewelry are exported from Sri Lanka, boosting the profile of the country as

a source of genuine and reliable gems and jewelry of very high quality.

The gems and jewelry are tested for genuineness by a panel consisting of NGJA and

Sri Lanka Customs gemologists.

Besides the authority also maintains a state-of-the-art gem testing laboratory, providing gem testing and certification facili-

ties for a nominal fee for the local gem dealers, and completely free of charge for foreigners. It also executes regulatory functions such as issuing licenses to gem dealers, miners, and lapidaries, and also licenses for gem auctions and gem-land auctions.

The authority also provides the following services on payment:- a) Providing a brief opinion on the authenticity of gems b) Valuation of gems for banks c) Assaying and hallmarking of Jewelry d) Jewelry valuation reports for migrants e) Technical training for those engaged in the pawn broking trade. The NGJA also provides services for the identification of primary and secondary gem deposits in potential gembearing areas in the country. In this connection it provides comprehensive scientific reports on gem occurrences, in state lands, state plantations and lands owned by private individuals. It also provides environmental impact assessments on gem exploration. The organization also provides consultancy services for jewelry manufacturing and gem-cutting. The NGJA is also involved in research and training activities such as Gem identification course, gemology course, lapidary training course, jewelry designing course, jewelry manufacturing course and course on the heat treatment of milk corundum locally known as “Geuda.”

It has also facilitated export procedure by bringing together all arms involved in export activities under one roof at its headquarters in Colombo.

The NGJA is also involved in the setting up and the management of the Sri Lanka Gem and Jewelry Exchange — SLGJE — the state-sponsored gem and jewelry gallery in Sri Lanka. The facilities available at the exchange include service center to promote and facilitate the export oriented gem and jewelry trade and gem testing and certification facilities offered by the NGJA.

Saudi ties to grow further Migrant community (Continued from Page 11) In 2011, 15,081 Saudi tourists made the island their destination, recording an overall increase of 62.1 percent when compared to the previous year. Even greater inflows are anticipated this year. We consider tourism to be in the forefront of people to people contact, and the embassy has therefore streamlined the procedure by the introduction of a fast track system for issuance of tourist visas.

Sri Lanka has an excellent mix of tourist attractions — its lush green hill country side, the fabled turquoise waters that wash its golden beaches, combined with a 2500 year old history, recorded in brick and stone, the island has been known to Arabs for many centuries.

The writings of Ibn Battutah, the 14th century Moroccan traveler describe so picturesquely the island’s beauty and the charm of its people. While already established hotels expand to cater to rising demand, new hotel chains such as Shangrilla and Movenpick are going ahead with plans to set up operations in the country. Major development work in the eastern coast will make Sri Lanka a year round destination.

Air connectivity between our two countries is excellent with seven flights by SriLankan Airlines and five by Saudi Arabian Airlines weekly, making the destination reachable from Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam in a short time span of five hours. Given the rising demand, the embassy has been successful in making progress with the proposal to have an extra flight for SriLankan Airlines to Riyadh from April of this year.

2011 was a particularly good year in enhancing our bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia with six important visits taking place.

They included those of the Minister

of Industry and Commerce, Minister of Foreign Employment Promotion and Welfare, Minister of Justice, Senior Minister for Good Governance and Infrastructure, Senior Minister for Urban Development, Deputy Minister of Power and Energy, Deputy Minister of Technology and Research and the Governor of the Western Province.

The famous Ceylon tea is extremely popular with the Saudi community and it is unsurprising that it constitutes 45 percent of our exports to this country. Fresh fruits, vegetables, rubber products and apparels are the other leading exports that have also found a niche. The embassy plans to launch a promotional program aimed at expanding the portfolio and volume of our exports in 2012. As part of this exercise, Saudi Arabian importers are welcome to visit the “Sri Lanka EXPO 2012” to be held in Colombo from 28th to 30th of March. I invite the Saudi business community to benefit from Free Trade Agreements Sri Lanka has signed with India and Pakistan, permitting the manufacture in Sri Lanka and export of 4500 products on zero duty tariff to each of these countries, consisting a combined populace of over 1.3 billion.

Sri Lanka’s economy has shown a remarkable resilience by achieving a growth rate of 8.3 percent in 2011 and is projected to grow by 8.0 percent this year. Foreign direct investment inflows for 2011 was $1.0 billion and is expected to increase to $2.0 billion this year.

Guided by the “Mahinda Chinthana”, the policy statement of the government, special emphasis has been placed to provide a package of attractive incentives to foreign investors, while encouraging local exporters to increase pro-

ductivity and quality. With per capita income increasing to US$ 2830, Sri Lanka is now a middleincome country.

Over 350,000 of our nationals work in Saudi Arabia in various positions. Many of them have been here for a considerable period of time in the top echelons of management. It is indeed a pleasure for me to hear of their contribution to the local economy in an outstanding manner.

To be of service to our citizens constitutes an important aspect of the mission statement of my embassy. With this in mind, consular services are provided to Sri Lankan expatriates both at the mission and through a monthly “Mobile Service” in the Eastern Province. Similarly the Sri Lankan consulate general’s office in Jeddah provides such services in Madinah, Abha, Najran, Jazan, Tabuk and Yanbu. As an added measure both the embassy and the consulate general’s office are open to the community for consular requirements on Thursdays.

Sri Lankan pilgrims have been performing Haj from time immemorial. I convey my appreciation to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah for graciously making all conveniences for 3800 of our people to fulfill the fifth obligation of Islam.

On this memorable occasion of Sri Lanka’s 64th Independence Day, I express my deep appreciation for the friendship and cooperation so readily extended by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah, the government and people of Saudi Arabia in improving relations between our two countries. Together, we shall surely bend the arch of the future toward further improving our ties in the years to come.

Ahmed A. Jawad Sri Lankan Ambassador

playing crucial role in country’s progress (Continued from Page 11) With the renewed freedom our country is striving forth in development thus creating great opportunities for investments. The Sri Lankan migrant community can play a pivotal role in the development of infrastructure and the economy of the country. With the influx of European tourism, Sri Lanka has also gained from the increased numbers of Arab tourists. We all know that our motherland is known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean and the Paradise Island on earth, an Island of extraordinary natural beauty, valuable culture and proud history. I take this opportunity to urge the Sri Lankan community in the western region to promote this beautiful image of our country to the Arab world and to contribute to the nation by promoting our tourism and attract foreign investment from this region.

The migrant workers are already contributing to the development of the country as foreign exchange

earnings from foreign employment for the year 2010 was 4.65 billion Sri Lanka rupees and has become the number one foreign exchange earner for the country. His Excellency the president declared December 18th as the International Migrant’s Day which was celebrated in Sri Lanka on a grand scale last year as recognition and respect to the migrant workers for their contribution to the nation.

The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Jeddah provides consular and welfare services to the Sri Lankan community in this region and also conducts visits to all major cities in the region on a regular basis for this purpose. At this juncture I wish to recall the slogan declared by the government of Sri Lanka in 2011 which was “let us serve the public with loving kindness”. In addition the government has declared this year’s slogan as “let us build up the country to be the Wonder of Asia”. I kindly invite my fellow Sri Lankans to join hands, bury our differences, be united as Sri Lankans and strive

We are on path of becoming economic hub of South Asia (Continued from Page 11)

In this regard, the active role played by our missions abroad, Sri Lankan agencies, Sri Lankan associations and Sri Lankan community for the promotion and protection of our interests abroad and for the well-being of our people, is much appreciated.

The government of Sri Lanka under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa has adopted the Parliamentary Select Committee as a platform to reach national consensus for a durable solution acceptable to all segments of the society while focusing on the benefits of the people in the northern and eastern regions of the country. The government has also declared a Ten Year

National Plan for Trilingual Sri Lanka aiming at durable peace and harmony among all Sri Lankan communities.

I would like to thank each and every one of you for your invaluable contribution to Sri Lanka’s success in rebuilding the country over the years. I, on this memorable occasion, appeal to all Sri Lankans to join hands with the government in its efforts for the nation building endeavor.

As we embark upon a journey toward lasting peace, unity and prosperity of our motherland, let us work together to make Sri Lanka “Wonder of Asia.”

Prof. G.L. Peiris Minister of External Affairs of Sri Lanka

Workers put up a Sri Lankan flag in Colombo as part of the celebrations. (AP)

forth to make Sri Lanka the Wonder of Asia.

I wish to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and the government of Saudi Arabia for the excellent bilateral relationship existing between our countries at all levels. I also wish to thank the Sri Lankan expatriate community, various societies and clubs and the

Sri Lankan International School for their invaluable support to the consulate general’s activities.

Let us all celebrate this day proudly and value our nation by uniting and contributing to the economy and development of our motherland in every possible way.

Dr. A. Uthumalebbe Consul General Consulate General of Sri Lanka Jeddah.

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Sri Lanka targets top tea exporter status S. Vipulananda

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RI LANKA earned 1.5 billion rupees ($13.17 million) from the tea industry last year and the government has initiated several programs to promote the commodity in global markets.

Industry standards are also improving with more and more tea factories and estates acquiring international certification.

Sri Lanka has become the third largest tea exporting country and the fourth largest tea producer in the world, say officials.

Addressing a recent conference in Colombo, Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe said an important threshold would be registered in local output this year, coinciding with the 145th anniversary of the commercial tea industry.

He said the local tea industry had achieved significant gains in recent years.

The Minister said it is the objective of the government to re-acquire the position of the leading tea exporter in the world, which Sri Lanka held in the year 2006.

Tea Research Institute Chairman Gerry Jayawardena said Sri Lanka is testing new varieties of tea that have better ability to tolerate drought and disease.

Jayawardena said new types of tea plants are were required to cater to consumer preferences for food grown without use of chemicals and to adopt for climate changes.

He said the Tea Research Institute is to release new varieties over the next two years.

He said the new varieties are now being tested with small holders and regional plantations companies. They offer a higher yield and have a better ability to tolerate drought, disease and pests.

Sri Lanka’s economic expansion has rebounded since the end of a 26-year ethnic conflict in May 2009, boosted by

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapakse poses with Plantation Industries Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe and local and foreign delegates attending a tea convention in Colombo recently. (AFP) Ratnayake said the EDB is the apex the development of roads and ports, conflicts while Sri Lanka, just two years despite a challenging environment.

In 2010, Sri Lanka’s exports increased body responsible for the development of tourism, foreign investment and con- after the war, was able to be among the top four economies in the world with an by 21 percent to $8.5 billion and the exports and has adopted a strategic sumer demand.

The government expects foreign economic growth rate of around 8.3 performance in 2011 were exceptional as approach to promote exports during the it exceeded their targets as well as pro- next five-year period. investment inflows to reach $25 billion percent.

He said the last budget provided many jections.

He said diversification of export prodthis year.

Ratnayke said policies enunciated in ucts and markets, value addition, brand The rapidly developing Northern incentives to investors to start businesses Province following the restoration of in cement, steel, iron, manufacture of the “Mahinda Chintana 2010 — The promotion, productivity improvement, peace in the region has also become a drugs and other similar ventures in Vision for the Future” as well as follow product adaptation, market communispringboard for local and foreign inves- order to bridge the export and import up stimuli from the 2010 Budget helped cation and market development are the main components of the strategic plan. tors seeking investment opportunities in gap which is in existence due to depen- to increase in this performance.

He said exports also played its part in dency on essential items that could be Recent data showed that Sri Lankan Sri Lanka. helping the country to achieve 8 percent inflation slowed in January to a The government is spending about $1 manufactured in Sri Lanka.

Export Development Board (EDB) economic growth for the second consec- 26-month low, giving the Central Bank billion a year to rebuild the North and scope to shield economic growth by leavhas launched an ambitious reconcilia- Chairman Janaka Ratnayake, mean- utive year.

As per the latest end-November perfor- ing interest rates unchanged. while, said Sri Lanka’s exports had tion program to build national unity.

Consumer prices in Colombo increased Economic Development Minister Basil shown considerable resilience after dip- mance data released by the Central Bank last week an export growth of 22.2 per- 3.8 percent from a year earlier after Rajapaksa said recently that a study by ping in 2009.

Sri Lanka earned from $11 billion cent to $ 9.58 billion has been achieved. gaining 4.9 percent in December, the the International Monetary Fund had Ratnayake said the 2011 growth is Department of Census and Statistics said predicted that Sri Lanka would remain from its exports, representing a growth on its website. as the second best performing economy of over 20 percent from 2010 despite a also significant.

He said apparel exports remained slowdown in the world economy.

Sri Lanka has left interest rates in the world next year, after China.

Commenting on the prospects for this robust recording a 25 percent growth to $ unchanged since the beginning of The minister pointed out that Vietnam, Germany, Japan and South Korea took year, the chairman said the EDB expects 3.8 billion by the end of November despite February last year to aid domestic spending and devalued its currency in many years to return to normalcy after the growth momentum to continue economic uncertainties in the West.

November to boost exports.

Demand for credit has curbed scope to lower borrowing costs, Central Bank Gov. Ajith Nivard Cabraal said recently.

The $50 billion economy can achieve 8 percent growth in 2012, he pointed out.

Sri Lanka’s 3 percent rupee depreciation was a one-off move, Cabraal said.

Inflation will probably remain around the “mid-single digit” level in 2012, the central bank said recently.

Inflation slowed as the Exporters Association of Sri Lanka (EASL) pushed for the integration of Sri Lanka’s economy with the global economy by promoting, financing and facilitating international trade and investment.

In addition to the existing trading models, channels and traditional banking sectors with bank loans as the main source of funding, a whole gamut of innovative enabling infrastructures such as corporate bonds, debt markets, financial instruments and commodity futures would enhance exporter performance, enabling easy access to often cheaper and more competitive trading and financing options, said EASL Immediate Past President Nirmali Samaratunga.

“With Asia emerging as the economic powerhouse of the future, Sri Lankan exports need to target the region and focus on greater regional trade to achieve higher growth,” she told a recent forum.

This would involve expanding Sri Lanka’s trade through both bilateral and multi lateral agreements.

“We also highlight the paramount importance to encourage the private sector to explore and harness potential in the newly liberated areas in the Northern and the Eastern province, as this would lead not only to enhancing our export base and supply capacity, particularly in agricultural products and fisheries, but more importantly, such links would enable speedier economic development of these areas leading to sustainable peace and prosperity,” Samaratunga added.