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 number 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 Colombo-Katunayake 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.
