Economic Justice for North and East: Sri Lankan Minister Sunil Handunnetti Invites Diaspora Investment
By Lions Roar News Desk
KILINOCHCHI, SRI LANKA (Saturday, January 24, 2026) — Sri Lankan Cabinet Minister Sunil Handunnetti has declared that the government is committed to ensuring “special justice” for the Northern and Eastern provinces, emphasizing that these regions require a faster pace of economic liberalization compared to the rest of the country.
Speaking at the landmark reopening of the Paranthan Chemical Factory, the Minister highlighted that revitalizing the industrial landscape of the North is not just an economic goal but a fundamental part of achieving social justice for its people.
🏗️ Industrial Revival in the North
Minister Handunnetti announced a comprehensive plan to launch several new industries across the Northern Province to create jobs and stimulate local growth.
- The Paranthan Milestone: The reopening of the Paranthan Chemical Factory is seen as a flagship project in this industrial push, signaling the return of large-scale manufacturing to the region.
- Economic Opening: The Minister stressed that the North and East must be allowed to open their economies more rapidly to make up for decades of stalled development.
🌍 Call to the Global Diaspora
In a significant move toward reconciliation and economic partnership, the Sri Lankan Minister extended an open invitation to the global investor community and the Sri Lankan Diaspora.
- Investment Invitation: “We invite investors from all over the world and specifically our Sri Lankan Diaspora to come and be a part of this growth,” Handunnetti stated.
- A New Era: He noted that the government believes providing these provinces with unique economic opportunities is a core component of the national reconciliation and justice process.
📊 Highlights: North & East Economic Plan
| Key Initiative | Objective |
| Paranthan Factory | Reviving chemical production and local employment. |
| Diaspora Engagement | Utilizing global Sri Lankan expertise and capital. |
| Special Justice | Accelerated economic opening for war-affected areas. |
| Industrial Hubs | Establishing multiple new factories across the North. |
