requested Saudi Arabia to be a strong partner in the development process of Sri Lanka by investing especially in the tourism sector and Dedicated Pharmaceutical Zone in Hambantota, IT Parks, Fabric Park in Batticaloa, Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port.

Making his remarks to mark the national day of Saudi Arabia, the Minister said he appreciates that Saudi Arabia continuously supports Sri Lanka at the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council).

“Reflecting the very solid bilateral relations, he noted that the Government of Saudi Arabia has extended its support to the debt restructuring process of Sri Lanka. Saudi Arabia's loan disbursement for projects that are funded by the Saudi Fund for Development, since 1981, included 13 projects in water, energy, health, roads, and education, on concessionary terms.

The development of the Peradeniya-Badulla-Chenkaladi Road Project, Wayamba University Township Development Project, Epilepsy Hospital and Health Centers Project and Left Bank Development Project in Kalu Ganga are among the development projects funded by the Saudi Fund for Development, that have made an invaluable contribution to uplifting the livesof people in Sri Lanka,” he said.