Economy resilient after war

Lakshmi DE SILVA

The country's entire socio-economic fabric was damaged during the past three decades of the armed conflict but we have shown resilience and have been able to attempt to revive our economy, rehabilitation and rebuilding the infrastructure had begun with a positive note, Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal said.

Addressing the workshop on introducing the National Framework Proposal for Reintegration of Ex-combatants in civilian life on Monday he said the challenge before us is energizing the resettlement of former combatants and reconciliation while reviving the infrastructure and economic background for restarting normal life for these people.

The exercise had already begun as the armed conflict was over only two months back.

It was the normal attitude of society not only in our country but elsewhere too that when a person comes out of jail such a person is looked upon as a convict and no one wanted to offer a job.

Our main concern therefore should be to absorb the former combatants into society and ensure stability and safety of the individual and society.

Though international assistance and even knowledge are being offered to us, the leadership and ownership are ours, Cabraal noted.

All displaced people and ex-combatants have to be resettled in suitable places and the Government is already taking steps towards this end with the infrastructure development work and a tremendous effort is being made by the Government.