Addressing a media briefing yesterday (9), she added that growth prospects are good and there is opportunity to develop infrastructure in Sri Lanka now.

ECGD has also increased its level of cover available for Sri Lanka, from 150 million pounds to 200 million pounds. This is a result of peace dividends and increased interest by UK companies operating in Sri Lanka.

Current projects under consideration for the ECGD support include a water supply project, flood protection projects, slope stabilization measures and more bridges.

The ECGD already has firms queued up, seeking support for 250 million pounds worth of business. However, this does not take into account the substantial business opportunities about to be launched, not only in the reconstruction and development of the North and East, but in Sri Lanka as a whole.

For example, the Greater Colombo Wastewater Management Project, due to start by the end of this year, is worth over pounds 200 million alone. The Colombo Port Expansion project, already under way, costing around pounds 300 million, is another major project suitable for UK engineering and consultancy firms.

Other major projects at feasibility stage include nationwide upgrade of electricity transmission, overhaul of highways and rail networks and the development of Sri Lanka’s fishing and marine industry.