Sri Lanka can be transformed into main hub of Indian Ocean: PM

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe says that Sri Lanka can be transformed into the main hub of the Indian Ocean and in this context it is essential to work in a friendly manner with neighbouring countries.

Addressing a function organised to hand over letters of appointment to state employees at the Temple Trees, the PM said his intention is to pave the way for the people to lead a virtuous life.

The Prime Minister presented letters of appointment to 1,200 employees to the Bank of Ceylon, the People’s Bank, the National Savings Bank and the Sri Lanka Customs.

Speaking at the occasion, the PM said Sri Lanka is in the centre of the Indian Ocean and can be converted into a hub. If so, he pointed out that it had to work in a friendly manner with neighbouring countries.

The main markets in the world today prevail in the US and Europe and according to the PM China is also approaching such markets. It is also the same with India.

He asked how Sri Lanka can compete with markets like India and China for trade and said the country should find solutions to these issues.

The Prime Minister told the gathering that he wanted to provide a new life to them and create an environment for better living.

In his address, Minister Ravi Karunanayake said that action is being taken to increase the value of the rupee in part with the US dollar. It is possible to further strengthen the rupee as the Government succeeded in properly managing it. Minister Karunanayake said the rupee will be further strengthened and brought to a value of 129-130 rupees against the dollar within two weeks.

Pix by Shehan Gunasekara