[By Janaka Alahapperuma]

Two separate discussions to obtain views and proposals of private sector entrepreneurs and leading industrialists for preparing the budget-2014 were held recently at Temple Trees with the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Presiding the meeting the President said that the government takes all decisions based on the policy of safeguarding local industries and promoting local products. He further requested local industrialists to prepare themselves to produce goods for the export market while protecting the Sri Lankan identity.

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.

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