Senior Advisor to the President on Science and Technology, Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya, says the government officially launched an investor call this week for the domestic production of phosphate fertilizer.
In a statement on social media, Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya said full details are available on the website linked below.
https://www.industry.gov.lk/web/current-notices/
Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya further said that to pave the way for this initiative, over 25 meetings were held to resolve necessary background issues, including regulatory frameworks, legal concerns, and various unexpected complications.
These discussions involved ministers, officials, institutions, and the Attorney General’s Department, and the proposal was submitted to the Cabinet three separate times.
Special appreciation is due to Industry Minister Sunil Handunneththi, Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe, Finance Ministry Secretary Dr. Harshana Suriyaaratchi, the Attorney General and departmental officials, Industry Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, and all officials who courageously pushed this project forward despite obstacles. Gratitude also extends to all institutional representatives and experts in the field who contributed to this effort, he said.
Professor Gomika Udugamasooriya said that although Professor Oliver Ileperuma and his team completed research on this over 25 years ago, no one questioned why such a valuable project was never implemented until now.
“While there was much public discourse in recent months about delays, despite our continuous efforts, now everyone has the opportunity to move forward. Let’s complete the next chapter of this conversation, step up for the country, contribute to this project, and invest in its future,” he added. (Newswire)
