Indian Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Dr. D. Purandeswari has expressed satisfaction over Sri Lanka’s economic progress and infrastructure development, during her meeting with Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa at his ministry recently.The Indian Minister was impressed by the development of the Northern and Eastern Provinces and added that the products of Sri Lankan garment factories established in Hyderabad, were of high quality. She further said that the tourism industry in Vishakhapatnam was well developed and discussed with Minister Basil Rajapaksa on starting flights from Sri Lanka to Vishakhapatnam and other areas in India.

Minister Purandeswari also noted the great progress made in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, contributing its maximum to develop the country’s economy after 30 years of war which seriously affected tourism in the island.

Minister Basil Rajapaksa said that the government had been able to raise the nutrition level of people in every area of Sri Lanka. Cottage industries have helped housewives in Batticaloa to earn additional incomes. He told the visiting Indian Minister that the Sri Lankan government was paying greater attention to developing the cottage textile industry and fisheries products.

In addition, the government is focusing on improving the quality of life of people in the plantation and fisheries sectors and low-income group in urban areas after identifying their needs. Accordingly, loan facilities, advice and guidance for developing small industries would be provided and better houses will be provided for those without proper housing. There will be more employment opportunities and the quantity and quality of products would be increased, the minister said.

Dr. Purandeswari commended the progress of the Indian-funded housing project launched in the North. Acting Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka P. Kumaran, Additional Secretary of India’s Commerce, Industry and Textile Ministry J.S. Deepak, Director of the same Ministry Wandana Yadevi and Sri Lanka’s Industry and Commerce Ministry Secretary Anura Siriwardena were among those who attended the meeting.