The future economic success of South Asia will not be determined by ruling governments alone, but by businessmen, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, distributors, and investors who actively drive economic activity across the region, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa made these remarks while addressing the Vestige Investor and Dealer Conference held at Cinnamon Life in Colombo.
Highlighting the long-standing cultural, spiritual, and economic ties between Sri Lanka and India, he further emphasized that initiatives such as UPI integration and proposed energy connectivity projects will strengthen bilateral cooperation while also creating new opportunities for growth.
He noted that a social market economy must be built alongside a free market system. Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis and the lessons learned as a nation, he stressed the importance of developing a social market economy that combines the efficiency of free markets with social justice, transparency, and equal opportunity.
The Opposition Leader further stated his belief in shared prosperity and inclusive economic growth, emphasizing that economic development should benefit all segments of society. He also praised the role of marketers, distributors, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs in creating employment, generating wealth, and supporting local communities.
He added that in an era increasingly shaped by automation and artificial intelligence, trust, strong customer relationships, and quality service have become among the most valuable assets for any business.
Calling for investment, he stressed that the strong economic integration between Sri Lanka and India is creating unprecedented opportunities for trade and investment, encouraging businesses to embrace innovation and expansion.
Concluding his remarks, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa invited investors and business leaders to explore opportunities in Sri Lanka and contribute to the country’s economic growth, stating that the economic revival of South Asia will ultimately be driven by its business community and entrepreneurs.
