A committee to study and report on SL- Singapore FTA

COLOMBO (News 1st) - President Maithripala Sirisena has appointed an Independent Expert Committee to study and report on the Sri Lanka Singapore Free Trade Agreement. The President's Media Division said the committee was appointed after taking in to account the various concerns raised by different sectors on the FTA. Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo Professor W. D. Lakshman will chair this committee. The other members are, Professor Sirimevan Colombage who was attached to the Open University, Professor Ajitha Tennakoon from the University of Kelaniya, Independent Consultant Sanath Jayanetti and Former Assistant Governor of the Central Bank R. A. Jayatissa. The committee is expected to provide policy-based guidance and recommendations following a study of the Sri Lanka - Singapore Free Trade Agreement, the practical impacts and uses of the proposed New Trade Policy as well the drafting of the Sri Lanka Trade Policy for the future. The committee will also focus on the various sectors in Sri Lanka which will be providing services under the agreement as well the impact the agreement will have on the country's socio-economic status and the lives of the people. All Sectors have been awarded the opportunity to submit their suggestions and concerns in this respect to the Committee.