Speaking at the inauguration, the visiting Minister said the opening of this Consulate General of India in Hambanthota is reflective of India's desire to strengthen its linkages with a region of Sri Lanka with which India shares deep historical bonds.
Minister Krishna observed that Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has plans for developing Hambanthota and its environs as a major regional hub and naturally, When India has decided to open a consulate in the South, they chose Hambanthota.
The Minister said India is optimistic of the future of the region and the inauguration of the Consulate General in Hambanthota is intended to build on India's linkages with the region in the field of trade and commerce, investments, culture and tourism.
"I am confident that India will take advantage of the industrial and commercial potential in and around Hambanthota. We would encourage our private sector to participate in Hambanthota's development by seizing the opportunities for investments," he emphasized.
The visiting Minister highlighted that India has also taken up the reconstruction of the tsunami damaged Southern railway corridor from Galle to Matara and the work was progressing on schedule.
The Indian Minister recalled India's prompt assistance when the tsunami struck Sri Lanka in December 2004 and reminded that India, which was impacted itself, was the first to come to Sri Lanka's assistance.
Krishna said the relations between the two countries are multifaceted and historical and the challenge has been to derive the full benefit of the proximity and exploit the full potential of their friendship and cooperation.
"With the shadow of the conflict lifting, I believe that the time has come when we can do that," he said.
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