The entrepreneurs had stated that they would provide their fullest support to the country’s development. They also pointed out that since the end of war, infrastructure facilities including the road and highway network had developed significantly and it added convenience environment to their industries in conducting healthy businesses.

During meetings with private entrepreneurs and leading industrialists that aimed to obtain their proposals to be considered for the next year’s budget, the President also said that export potential has been increased dramatically as the country has strengthened its bilateral relations with new countries. Therefore new opportunities for local entrepreneurs at the international market have widened due to Sri Lanka's positive diplomatic relations built up with many countries.

The local industrialists educated the President of their obstacles during the meeting. They informed the President on the problems and grievances faced by them. They also thanked the President and the government for the measures taken to safeguard the local industrialists.

Special attention was focused to use and introduce modern technology to increase the productivity, quality and standard of Sri Lankan manufactures to compete in lucrative and competitive markets. Many leading entrepreneurs representing apparel leather ware and shoes, pharmaceuticals, porcelain, food production, tea and rubber industry, Timber, motor spare parts and many other sectors participated in those meetings.

Ministers Basil Rajapaksa, Susil Premajayantha, Athauda Seneviratne, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Reginald Coorey, Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Jagath Pushpakumara, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga, Secretary to the Ministry of Finance Dr. P.B. Jayasundera and respective Secretaries to the Ministries participated at the discussions.

Photos by: Nalin Hewapathirana