The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mangala Samaraweera and Chargé d'Affaires a.i. of the U.S. Embassy Ms. Allison Areias attended the opening.

"The opening of this factory is an example of the ongoing and deepening relationship between the U.S. and Sri Lanka," said Foreign Minister Samaraweera. "We look forward to continued dialogue and partnership initiatives in the future."

USAID and Building Solutions have together invested more than Rs. 80 million (approximately US$800,000) to build the factory and equip it with specialized fabrication machinery to make corrugated steel roofing and silos. USAID also provided training and expertise in specialized areas such as energy efficiency. Overall the partnership has generated hundreds of jobs in Ampara.

"This factory is an excellent example of the U.S. Government and the American people's commitment to economic and social progress in Sri Lanka," said Ms. Areias. "This is a great success story."

The new range of roofing products manufactured in the Ampara factory is adapted to meet specific needs of emerging industries in the Eastern Province. The products are 100 percent recyclable. In addition, the entire eco-friendly manufacturing process will reduce energy consumption and recycle waste.

This project is supported under USAID's VEGA/Biz+ program, which provides small enterprises in economically-lagging regions with financial, technical, and managerial assistance.