President envisions transforming Trinco into multifaceted hub through Indian collaboration

President addressing the Trincomalee District Development Committee

Addressing the Trincomalee District Development Committee yesterday, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said Trincomalee will be transformed into a multifaceted hub by collaborating with India.
Wickremesinghe outlined an ambitious vision for Trincomalee’s transformation into a versatile hub encompassing energy, transportation, maritime trade, naval operations, aviation, industry, and tourism. He underscored India’s instrumental role in bringing this vision to fruition.
India is already developing a tank farm in Trincomalee and a number of agreements have been signed with Indian parties in setting up various industries, renewable energy projects etc. in the area.

Meanwhile, during the meeting Wickremesinghe drew parallels between the ongoing Eastern Development Project and the successful Mahaweli Development Project of the 1980s, highlighting his commitment to expedite the transformative initiative.
A significant portion of the meeting centered on the meticulous management of government and Mahaweli-designated lands within the district. The President directed officials to furnish a comprehensive report covering land allocations spanning the years 2019 to 2023.
Underscoring land as the cornerstone of development, Wickremesinghe highlighted the necessity of vigilant oversight to achieve the intended developmental goals.
In a noteworthy directive, the President advocated for the cessation of competitive establishment of religious sites in the district. He proposed a consultative approach for future initiatives related to religious structures within the Trincomalee district. 
Decisions in this context, he emphasised, should be made in coordination with the Governor, district political leaders, and relevant governmental authorities.