Prosperity for the people of Sri Lanka

By K.Theivendirarajah

(January 19, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) For Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, and once the land of paradise, to return to prosperity there needs to be total peace and stability in the country. Stability with good will among all communities in this multi ethnic country is a prerequisite for positive economic growth, higher employment, better education for all and greater social satisfaction.

Since the ethnic strife has come to an end, the people of Sri Lanka, especially the Tamils
living in various parts of the island, are looking forward to a more prosperous and peaceful life. For the Tamils in Sri Lanka to have a better life not only for themselves but also for the future generations, Sri Lanka must prosper. Prosperity does not come without
hard work, dedication, and sincere involvement in nation building; everyone therefore has to play their part and work towards an economically strong country and subsequently share in the fruits of such development.

For more than half a century, the indigenous Tamils- the Tamils who lived in the north and east of Sri Lanka- remained in exclusion from the main stream. They have remained for too long on the sidelines on matters of interest such as job creation, economic, industrial and social developments for the welfare of their community. Their participation in educational and health reforms for the betterment of the society as a whole was minimal. The entire Tamil community was drawn into this negativity by the anti-government and anti-SriLankan sentiments and emotions.

This situation must change; the Tamils must feel that they are part of Sri-Lanka and play a positive role. They can live in peace and achieve stability leading to a healthier political and economic growth only if they remain in inclusion with the rest.

I truly believe that the majority Singhalese community will respect the Tamils as they have done in the past; they know that Tamils are a hardworking intelligent people capable of delivering their share towards the building of the nation. The trust between all communities and especially between the Singhalese and Tamils must be built and strengthened.

Everyone all over the world talks and praises the achievements of Barack Obama, the President of the United States of America. He could not have made this amazing achievement if he and the African Americans remained in exclusion. It is his positive approach with the total inclusion in the mainstream politics of the country that has made him a person to be admired.

Let the Tamils in SriLanka remain in inclusion and work towards the prosperity of everyone.