Eastern Province, a model for post conflict development - W. D. J. Seneviratne

by Chanuka Mannapperuma

The Eastern province will be a model for post conflict development, peace building and re-development under a rehabilitation and reconstruction program, said Minister of Power and Energy W. D. J. Seneviratne.

Commending the support extended by the international community in helping the Government to influence the LTTE to stop its violence and resume peace talks Minister Seneviratne called upon the German Government to impose a ban on the LTTE 's fund-raising activities in Germany.

Addressing the German National Day celebration last week in Colombo the Minister said being a key donor the German - Sri Lanka Development Cooperation Program had extended its support to alleviate poverty and achieve economic and social prosperity during the last four decades.

"The trade turnover between the two countries has increased by 50 percent in the past five-years as Germany is a key market for Sri Lankan exports", he said.

He said, that Germany is one of Sri Lanka's major investors with over 171 projects approved with an investment of Rs. 11.9 billion. "Many of the German companies operating in Sri Lanka are global leaders in their field of specialisation and investment areas included apparel, textiles, electronic products, light and heavy engineering, gems and jewellery and rubber based products", the Minister said.

Minister said that Germany has been a significant bilateral donor. The links between the two countries had shown an increase in tourist arrivals. Culture and academic fields have flourished during the past few years. "Last year nearly 50,000 German tourists visited Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka has launched a direct flight between Colombo and Frankfurt", the Minister said.