Business community helps in nation's progress

Sri Lanka is a land of much diversity, the Joint Chambers of Trade and Commerce said in a media release to mark Independence Day.

Excerpts from the release

"A momentous occasion such as this gives us all an opportunity to reflect on the future we seek as a Nation and as a people. Sri Lanka is a land of much diversity. As people, we are a amalgam of diverse cultures, religions and languages.

"Although a small nation, we are blessed with the deep rooted presence of the world's four great religions and have the privilege of being protector of one of them, Buddhism. Diversity is one of our greatest strengths, a blessing we must celebrate rather than fear.

"With the Government committed to reform that aims to establish institutionalised good governance, transparency and law and order, many of the challenges we faced in the past will be overcome.

"We call on the Government to introduce a robust Bill of Rights as part of the ongoing reform process to further strengthen the constitutional amendments envisaged. Since Independence, the business community has contributed greatly to the progress of our Nation.

"We stood resiliently by our country and continued to invest in her future during her darkest days. Today, the business community accounts for 61% of all employment in the formal sector, almost 80% of annual investments and helps collect approximately 90% of tax revenue for the Government.

Thus the private sector has been an inalienable and committed partner in our country's journey since Independence.

"The joint Chambers assure the Sri Lankan people that we remain committed to our nation's progress and prosperity and that we will contribute the skills, capacity and resources at our disposal in a manner befitting a responsible partner.

"We call on all Sri Lankans to commit to building a nation that celebrates our diverse cultures, religions and languages."