Namal pledges tech and biz hub for Jaffna

Sees incredible potential in the Jaffna Peninsula

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) Presidential candidate Namal Rajapaksa has pledged to transform the Jaffna Peninsula into a thriving technology and business hub, positioning it as Sri Lanka’s version of Silicon Valley.
Speaking at a rally, Rajapaksa outlined his plans to develop Jaffna’s infrastructure and harness its strategic advantages for economic growth.   

“As a candidate focused on Sri Lanka’s future, I see incredible potential in the Jaffna Peninsula,” Rajapaksa said. “With its harbour, airport, and close proximity to India, Jaffna is in a prime position for growth. However, many current political discussions are bogged down in abstract issues rather than tangible solutions.”   

Moreover, Rajapaksa criticized other candidates for getting caught up in political debates while failing to address the concrete needs of the region.   

“A key element of my plan is to increase the number of passengers passing through Sri Lanka’s airports over the next 15 years aiming to bring 80 million passengers to the country, with Katunayake, Mattala, and Jaffna airports playing crucial roles. Jaffna Airport, in particular, will be developed to accommodate direct flights from Europe and other nations, with the goal of handling 20 million passengers,” he added.