This was  stated by him when he met Minister of Economic Development, Basil Rajapaksa recently  at the Ministry of  Economic Development. The progress of Bridges construction Programme implemented in Sri Lanka by the French Government and future construction programmes, were discussed between the Minister and the Chairman of Unibridge Agency .

 Financial aid amounting to Euros 22 Million was granted by the French Government for the purpose of widening and reconstructing 46 bridges in dilapidated  condition  in  Sri Lanka and  bridges to be reconstructed were selected on priority basis covering various regions in the Island.

Minister Bail Rajapaksa explained that the Programme for the  construction of 1000 bridges with minimum facilities  is also being presently  implemented  in a successful manner.  The Minister further said that already the people are enjoying the benefits of Sri Lanka's rapid development.   Minister added that with the enhancement of living standard, the number of vehicles used by them  also has gone up , which  comparatively necessitated widening of the road network.

Accordingly, he said it was necessary to widen narrow bridges and reconstruct dilapidated bridges to suit improved road network.

French Ambassador M. Jean Paul Monchau, Unibridge Marketing Director Rechard Gledhill and Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Economic Development Priyantha Mayadunna were present on the occasion.(KH)