The Eastern Province plays a crucial role in fostering connectivity initiatives between India and Sri Lanka, Indian envoy Santosh Jha stated, during his recent visit, reports Media.
Jha, serving as India's High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, inspected numerous India-assisted projects across the province. Among these initiatives was a comprehensive grant assistance package comprising 33 diverse projects spanning various sectors. Discussions between the two governments also revolved around collaborating for the holistic development of Trincomalee.
The Eastern Province, one of Sri Lanka's nine administrative divisions, known as the "Granary of Sri Lanka," boasts an economy predominantly reliant on agriculture. The province plays a significant role in national agricultural output, contributing 25% of the country's paddy production, 17% of its milk production, and 21% of its fish production.
Jha assessed the progress of several projects implemented by the Government of India and toured sites of historical, cultural, and commercial significance.
He underscored the significance of connectivity and energy projects between the two nations, emphasizing the substantial benefits they would bring to the Eastern Province.
Highlighting the region's paramount importance in connectivity efforts, Jha reiterated India's commitment to collaborating closely with Sri Lankan authorities in advancing these endeavours.
Jha assessed the advancement of the Surgical Unit construction at Teaching Hospital Batticaloa, funded by India. This project is nearing completion. Additionally, he toured the Model Village Housing Projects in Batticaloa and Trincomalee, which are part of a larger initiative by India to construct 600 houses across Sri Lanka's 25 districts for vulnerable families.
He also met with stakeholders to urge them to expedite the completion of the 5,000 MT temperature-controlled warehouse in Dambulla, which will significantly reduce post-harvest losses for local farmers. Expressing optimism, he visited the proposed solar facility in Sampur, anticipating the commencement of work soon.
Moreover, the High Commissioner visited various facilities of Lanka Indian Oil Corporation (LIOC) in Trincomalee, highlighting the company's pivotal role in mitigating the effects of the 2022 energy crisis.