Despite the restrictions due to COVID 19 pandemic, Sri Lanka has been committed to continuing the building of necessary infrastructure and service facilities for industrial and business advancement, which is a significant prerequisite for external and internal economic partnerships.
Sri Lanka’s major development projects and infrastructure projects were not delayed due to the Pandemic and also the health and safety of the workers have never been compromised. These views were opined by Army Commander and Chief of Defense Staff and head of National Operation Centre for Prevention of the COVID 19, General Shavendra Silva, at the Economic Forum yesterday.
“To maintain the economic momentum, the Sri Lankan strategy has given due focus to preserve the Sri Lankan identity in the international market where plantation and agricultural sectors are functioning under strict health guidelines despite the pandemic. In this regard, Sri Lanka has special consideration for identical Sri Lankan agricultural products such as tea and spices. we are in the process of developing and improving the Bio Secure Bubble in tourism, sports, and diplomatic visits. Sri Lanka has proven its competencies in providing a bio secure environment from the port of landing back to the departure. In this aspect, we have readjusted infrastructure, transport, food and beverage and health facilities to provide cutting edge and quality service, ” he said.
“We are focusing on enhancing Sri Lanka’s potential in facilitating MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) tourism. Considering the situation in and around the world, we expect the relatively safer situation in Sri Lanka will give a boost to this market in time to come.”
“The government initially identified economic indicators to keep the momentum of the economy whilst battling with the pandemic. The basis for this is’ preserving the conducive environment for economic activities, scaling from daily wage earners to large scale factories specially the apparel sector that largely contributes to the country’s economy. Small countries like us cannot lockdown for a longer period unless the country has a very strong economy.”
“ I think, we have been so far able to maintain the higher potential to engage in economic activities during this pandemic. This is where the local and external investors must give a significant thought. Amid the pandemic, we have emphasized on improving domestic products, achieving self-sufficiency in food and services, and increasing the exports and value-adding of goods and services. The government has encouraged and empowered the small, medium and major business counterparts with necessary financial, legal and technological assistance,” he added. (SS)
