Belgium calling

By Mario Andree

Ambassador of Belgium to Sri Lanka, Jean Deboutte, speaking to members of Ceylon Chamber of Commerce in Colombo recently, said Belgium was working on easing the travel advisory on Sri Lanka, given the favourable environment after the war ended more than a year ago.

He also said there would be a weekly flight to Colombo directly from Belgium, commencing October 31.

"The conflict in Sri Lanka is over and there is no need for travel advisories anymore, the government is working on the travel advisory and to relax their opinions regarding Sri Lanka," he said.

Deboutte said Belgium was keen on assisting Sri Lanka realise its long term economic objectives through investments, especially in the tourism sector.

Tourist arrivals from Belgium have picked up by 79 percent to 2,971 during the first eight months of this year from 1,660 a year ago. August showed an increase of 122 percent from 171 to 380 tourists.

"The Belgium economy is open to Sri Lanka and we must enhance the relationship between the two countries," Deboutte said.

Sri Lankan exports to Belgium amounted to US$ 368 million, while imports amounted to US$ 256 million in 2009, according to Sri Lanka Customs data.

Trade with Belgium has grown gradually Sri Lanka enjoys a favourable balance of trade of nearly US$ 111 million.

The main exports to Belgium are precious stones, which account for 60 percent of total exports to Belgium, while apparel and clothing enjoys a 20 percent share.

Imports from Belgium are precious stones, which accounts for 87 percent of total imports and pharmaceuticals, which accounts for 1.4 percent of total imports.

source - www.island.lk