Multi-stakeholder initiative to woo investments into Hambantota

Monday, 4 July 2011 00:26 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

A multi-stakeholder-led initiative to boost investments into Hambantota will be held on 23 July.

Organised by the Hambantota District Chamber of Commerce (HDCC) and supported by the Government agencies including Hambantota District Secretary and financially supported by the International Finance Corporation and the Norwegian Embassy, the forum, titled ‘Invest in Hambantota,’ will be held at Hotel Eva Lanka, Unakaruwa, Tangalle.

HDCC said key stakeholders in the economic development process will meet face to face for discussions and identification of new opportunities in Hambantota.

The District of Hambantota is evolving into a significant economic hub and one which is likely to become important to South East Asia.

This is mainly due to the opportunities arising from the proposed and ongoing major development projects within the district.

“Involvement of the private sector in the development process and an effective public-private partnership will help to create a healthy and productive investment and business environment,” HDCC said.

The forum is aimed at potential international and local investors as well as those who already have a presence in the district, chairmen, CEOs, directors and managers of companies as well as senior Government officials.

HDCC said the forum would be a unique opportunity to find out about investment opportunities in the Hambantota District, learn about the current status of the ongoing development projects, witness firsthand the major development activities as well as interact with international, national and regional investors and share experiences.

Some of the speakers include UDA Chairman Janaka Kurukulasuriya who will deal with the new development plan for the Hambantota District, SLPA Chairman Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama who will present an update on the Hambantota Port and associated opportunities and Airport and Aviation Chairman Prasanna Wickramsuriya who will speak on the Hambantota airport and associated opportunities including tourism.

Central Bank Director D. Wasantha will provide a step-by-step guide to doing business in Sri Lanka, whilst the HDCC will make a presentation on the business and investment climate in the Hambantota District.

A panel discussion chaired by Sri Lanka Tourism Chairman Dr. Nalaka Godahewa is part of the forum as well.