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 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.
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.”
