President Ranil Wickremesinghe has outlined an ambitious plan to turn Hambantota into a key center for tourism, industry, trade, and port activities.(Hambantota an Economic Hub)
During a campaign rally in Hambantota, President Wickremesinghe emphasized his commitment to improving the lives of Sri Lankans. He highlighted the development of the Hambantota Port, mentioning the collaboration with China Merchant Company and Surbana Jurong, who have created a detailed plan for the port’s expansion.
The President also announced the allocation of 4,000 acres for a large-scale planning zone in the area. This will include the introduction of Sri Lanka’s second refinery by Sinopec.
Hambantota an Economic Hub
“Our goal is to transform Hambantota into a hub for tourism, industry, trade, and port activities over the next five years. Let’s work together to achieve this progress,” he said.
Wickremesinghe urged the public to support these goals, stressing that this development would secure the region’s economic future and boost prosperity for its residents.
He also highlighted the importance of increasing national production and strengthening the rupee to ease the financial burden on citizens. The President discussed plans to create more job opportunities for young people.(Hambantota an Economic Hub)
In distinguishing his policies from other candidates, Wickremesinghe emphasized responsible leadership and the need for sound economic management. He cautioned against trusting the country’s future to leaders who lack economic expertise and make unrealistic promises.
Reflecting on his time in office, Wickremesinghe noted that when he took charge in 2022, the country was in a state of collapse.He praised the contributions of Sri Lanka’s farmers, acknowledging their role in stabilizing the economy with successful 2023 Maha and Yala harvests.
Wickremesinghe also pointed out that Sri Lanka’s GDP reached $84 billion in 2023. He mentioned that the government has tripled the Samurdhi grant for low-income families under the Aswasuma program and outlined plans for further economic relief, including a fertilizer subsidy to boost sugarcane cultivation.(Hambantota an Economic Hub)
