British High Commissioner visits Mannar district in northwestern Sri Lanka

British High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Dr. Peter Hayes recently visited Mannar district in northwestern Sri Lanka for the first time after Britain lifted travel restrictions on all areas of the country.


During his visit from August 10 -12, the High Commissioner has met key government officials, military officers, and civil society leaders including the Bishops in the district to observe first-hand the development taking place in the area.

A statement at the High Commission web site said Dr. Hayes accompanied by his wife and other officials from the High Commission visited several historic sites including the archaeological site of 'The Doric'  house of the first British Governor of Ceylon ' and the Arippu Fort with officials from the Archaeological Department; the Thirukeetheswaram Hindu temple and Manthai ancient harbour; and the Church of Our Lady of Madhu.
He also has met with UNHCR officials at Sinnapandivirichchan where de-mining is complete and resettlement has taken place and the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) is carrying out UK-funded de-mining at Periyapandivirichchan.
During his visit Dr. Hayes has spoken to the recently settled people in Madhu area and also met with the beneficiaries of the Livelihood Project of Muslim Aid (MA) in Andankulam.
The High Commissioner has said that the visit to the Seguwantivu windmill power project in Puttalam was a highlight of his tour in the district and he thoroughly enjoyed his visit to the Wilpattu National Park.
"It was interesting to witness first-hand what changes and developments have been implemented in the district. It was also good to see what steps are being taken to preserve past splendour and go forward with resettlement and de-mining activities, making it a safe place for habitation," he has said.
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