Indian High commissioner visits Northern and Eastern Provinces

Baglay laying the foundation stone for the construction of 144 transit housing units for pilgrims

Holds discussions with prominent regional figures

Indian High Commissioner Gopal Baglay, who is currently touring Northern and Eastern Provinces, held a number of discussions with prominent regional figures from political, economic, academic, social and cultural spheres on developing the Northern Province through increased investment and assistance from India, the Indian HC said in a press release.

The Government of India has a long history of carrying out development projects in diverse sectors including livelihood, health, education, industrial development in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, the HC added.

High Commissioner Baglay commenced his four-day visit to Northern and Eastern Provinces of Sri Lanka on Thursday (11.) He started his visit by attending the Shivratri Pooja at the sacred Thiruketeeswaram Temple, Nallur. After offering prayers at the Temple, the High Commissioner reviewed the restoration project that was carried out by the Government of India at the Temple, at a cost of SLR 326 million.

On 11 March, High Commissioner Baglay also laid the Foundation Stone for the construction of 144 transit housing units for pilgrims at the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar along with Prasanna Ranatunga, Minister of Tourism in the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, Bishop of Mannar, and three MPs, Selvam Adaikkalanathan, K. Kader Masthan and Kulasingam Dhileeban.

The High Commissioner also held a luncheon meeting with P.S.M Charles, Governor of Northern Province and other senior functionaries from the Province. The two sides had comprehensive discussions on deeper engagement in the fields of education, skill development, health, agriculture, water and fishing.

The High Commissioner also attended a dinner hosted in his honour by S. Balachandran, Consul General of India in Jaffna and interacted with prominent dignitaries from political, economic, academic, social and cultural spheres.