No more “buts” for Sri Lanka

By Roshenka de Mel

Burnishing the message of prosperity for Sri Lanka, Central Bank Governor yesterday insisted that there were no “buts” left for investors to use as reasons for not investing in the country.

Making the keynote address at the seminar titled ‘Sri Lanka – Seizing the Opportunity’ at the Key Persons Forum, Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal pointed out that the opportunities in post-war Sri Lanka were so positive that investors have almost no risk at all.

The seminar was organised by the Small and Medium Enterprise Developers (SMED) and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL).

“In 2006 investors were hesitant to invest in Sri Lanka due to the war and followed each investment opportunity with a ‘but,’ yet today we can look them in the eye and tell them no more buts for Sri Lanka. We are proud to be moving forward.”

With regard to future foreign investment, Cabraal stated: “It doesn’t matter if investment is local or foreign as long as there is enough money to put into the country to drive the momentum for sufficient growth forward.”

The Governor also encouraged Sri Lankans to take a moment and acknowledge the advancements and progress that have been made over the last few years.

“We will face our share of challenges but Sri Lanka’s growth per capita is expected to reach US$ 4,000 by 2016 and it is important to move forward with a positive outlook if we are to deliver the continued transformation of our economy and society.  We have achieved so much in a short period of time; with the right attitude and hard work, nothing is impossible as Sri Lanka enters a new era of prosperity.”

Cabraal also stressed that by enhancing market linkages to the north and east and by providing financial and loan support as well as the quick restoration of livelihoods in the region, the north and east along with the rest of Sri Lanka will also enjoy greater growth and development.