New bridge to strengthen brotherhood - President

The aim of building the Japan-Sri Lanka comradeship bridge at Polonnaruwa- Manampitiya is to strengthen the bond of brotherhood among the Sinhalese, Tamils and Muslims. Through the establishment of peace and friendship, the Government hopes to see a brighter tomorrow", said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

President Rajapaksa was addressing the opening ceremony of the 302-metre long Manampitiya bridge sponsored by the Japanese Government on Thursday.

"Our aim is to combine the North Central, North and East together. By combining these provinces, we hope to cement the bond of friendship among the Sinhalese, Muslims and Tamils. At the same time all categories of people will benefit by this bridge.

We believe that innocent people who live in Kilinochchi and Jaffna will benefit equally from this".