25 October 2022 12:00 am Views - 113
By Kelum Bandara
Transport, Highways and Media Minister Bandula Gunawardena said he would seek a US $ 400 million line of credit from India to import items needed for the development of rail services.
The Minister said he would seek an appointment with the Indian authorities to work out. The Minister is planning to visit India on October 27 .
“I will be going to Lucknow first for an education related event. Afterwards, I will be heading to New Delhi for talks with the Indian government authorities for a fresh line of credit,” he said.
The Minister said he held talks with Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay in this regard.
This is in addition to the credit lines already in operation with India to import rail carriages. A part of the previous credit line will be used for track modification between Anuradhapura and Omanthai on the northern line.
India has extended bilateral assistance amounting close to $ 4 billion this year to Sri Lanka in terms of currency swaps, credit lines and deferment of payments .