He made these remarks at a press briefing titled “Two Years of Progress and Advancements” held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) yesterday.

Amunugama said the Board of Investment of Sri Lanka currently facilitates 15 investment zones, with 1,575 companies operating within them, providing employment to over 500,000 people.

Under the Government’s new investment program, seven additional investment zones are planned for areas including Mankulam, Paranthan, Kankasanthurai, Trincomalee, Iranawila, Hambantota and Bingiriya.

“Although the target for this year was to secure $ 1 billion in investment deals, $ 800 million has already been achieved in the first six months through signed agreements. Negotiations for 35 investment projects have been finalised and the agreements have been signed,” Amunugama added.