The President was addressing the chairpersons and directors of corporations and statutory bodies which are directly contributing to the uplift of economy and public service, at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday.The President said the Government faced the uphill task of reviving the economy which suffered a setback during the past few years. “Sri Lanka topped the Asian region in terms of economic growth rate during 2005 – 2014. The economy faced a downturn during the past few years, “ he noted.

He also said that cutting edge technology should be utilized for the uplift of economy. “Skilled labour and changes in the education system will help strengthen the economy,” he added.The President called more attention on tertiary education. “The Government should identify and develop areas which can provide a better service to the people and also help uplift the country’s economy,” he said.He added that Government institutions such as the Sri Lanka Tourism Board and Board of Investment will have to play a pivotal role in this regard.The President explained that investors should be encouraged to make investments outside Colombo and suburbs as a solution to the congestion prevailing in urban areas.