Pakistan provides over Rs. 9 m grant to boost Lankan handloom sector

Saturday, 29 June 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Government of Pakistan through its High Commission in Sri Lanka is collaborating with the Government of Sri Lanka to revive the handloom sector in the Mirigama District of Sri Lanka,

aimed at strengthening this cottage industry and providing self-employment to the people of the area. The cooperation envisages training of 75 individuals, providing them with handlooms, hand winders, accessories and raw material. In addition to the direct beneficiaries, hundreds of people will gain indirect employment from the cottage industry. In this regard, the High Commissioner of Pakistan Major General Qasim Qureshi met Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa to present the instrument for the US$ 72,000 grant. During the meeting, the High Commissioner informed Minister about the focus of Pakistan’s new Government on deepening economic and commercial cooperation, especially with the regional countries. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment towards further strengthening friendly bilateral ties with Sri Lanka. Pakistan has a strong, thriving and vibrant textile sector, with cotton production and entire value addition chain, including production of yarn, fabric, dyeing and printing, knitwear, and apparel. Textiles are the largest manufacturing sector in Pakistan’s economy and accounts for US$ 12.6 billion annual exports. Along with established large-scale mechanised industrial textile units, Pakistan has also developed its handloom industry, which is providing employment to thousands of families. Brand names like Khaadi and Bunnat have secured international recognition due to excellent quality, creative designs, eco-friendly production and aesthetic appeal. Pakistan is ready to extend its technical expertise in the handloom cottage industry to Sri Lanka through imparting training and capacity building programs.