-By LeN Diplomatic Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -10.July.2025, 11.20 PM) In a meeting held at the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Marine Resources, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar met with the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Andrew Patrick, for a high-level discussion centred on the future of Northern Province development and broader bilateral cooperation.
According to an official communiqué, the talks covered a wide array of subjects with a clear focus on accelerating economic revitalisation in the war-affected North. Minister Chandrasekar articulated the new government’s strategic emphasis on regional development and reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a self-sustaining Northern economy, underpinned by modern infrastructure and industrial growth.
During the dialogue, Minister Chandrasekar detailed several key development projects currently underway, designed to transform the economic landscape of the North:
New Industrial Zones: Plans are being finalised to establish new industrial corridors in Paranthan, Kankesanthurai, and Mankulam, with the aim of decentralising industry and drawing investment to these historically underserved regions.
Reviving Legacy Factories: The Ottusuddan factory, which has remained dormant for over three decades, has been reopened. Similarly, efforts are being made to recommence operations at the long-defunct Paranthan Chemical Factory, signalling a return to local manufacturing.
Infrastructure Expansion: Northern road networks are being reconstructed, including the reopening of a key coastal route from Valaipadu to Palaly Junction, which had been closed to public transport for over 35 years.
“These investments are not just about rebuilding what was lost but redefining the region’s future,” the Minister declared. “In the next few years, we believe the world will witness an entirely new Jaffna emerge—modern, prosperous, and inclusive.”
Minister Chandrasekar also revealed plans to actively engage the Tamil diaspora, particularly those based in the United Kingdom, in the North’s reconstruction. “The diaspora remains an untapped reservoir of expertise and capital,” he noted, indicating that government mechanisms were being developed to facilitate diaspora-led investments.
High Commissioner Patrick responded positively to the Minister’s appeal for British collaboration. He affirmed the UK's readiness to offer market access for Sri Lankan exports, bolster the country’s educational initiatives, and support broader peacebuilding and economic reform efforts.
Of particular interest, the High Commissioner noted that a Tamil MP in the UK Parliament had already held preliminary talks regarding potential investments in the Northern Province’s burgeoning IT sector.
Patrick, who recently undertook a tour of the Northern region, said he was “struck by its potential,” particularly in tourism. “There is immense opportunity in eco-tourism and heritage-based travel,” he observed. “The region holds untapped charm that can be responsibly developed to benefit local communities.”
In addition to development matters, the British envoy broached the sensitive subject of human rights in the North. Minister Chandrasekar reiterated the Sri Lankan government’s commitment to upholding human rights standards. Citing the recent Semmani incident, he assured that investigations were being carried out “independently and without obstruction.”
The Minister also referenced the visit of UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, noting that the UN official had expressed appreciation for Sri Lanka’s initiatives aimed at promoting national reconciliation and human rights protections.
“These aren’t mere words,” Minister Chandrasekar insisted. “We are building an institutional framework that ensures accountability and inclusion—fundamental pillars of peace.”
This latest diplomatic engagement highlights the shifting priorities of the newly elected administration, which has made it a point to steer away from the Colombo-centric development model of the past. Minister Chandrasekar’s ministry, entrusted with stewarding the country’s vital marine and fisheries economy, has taken on a broader developmental role—particularly in communities previously marginalised by conflict and policy neglect.
The participation of Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry, underscored the technical seriousness of the meeting. Dr. Jinadasa is expected to play a pivotal role in driving forward these multifaceted development initiatives with the support of both domestic and international stakeholders.
As Sri Lanka seeks to chart a new course following years of political turbulence and economic stagnation, Minister Chandrasekar’s meeting with the British High Commissioner offers a glimpse into how diplomatic partnerships can be harnessed to support national priorities.
But beyond the announcements and press briefings lies the real test: converting promise into progress. For a region long haunted by war and want, the North now waits—not for pity or handouts—but for the realisation of plans long overdue.
-By LeN Diplomatic Correspondent
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by (2025-07-10 18:56:46)
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