Myanmar agrees to provide rice to Sri Lanka

The Government of Myanmar has agreed to provide five thousand metric tons of rice immediately to Sri Lanka. This is the result of a discussion between President Mahinda Rajapakse and the Government of Myanmar. A delegation headed by Minister Bandula Gunawardena will leave for Myanmar tomorrow to further discuss on this issue.
Secretary to the Ministry of Trade says first shipment is expected to reach the Island next Saturday.
Minister Gunawardena said that many countries including India, Pakistan, Vietnam and Cambodia have also agreed to provide rice to Sri Lanka. Meanwhile the Government says it will declare a maximum retail price for rice.
The Ministry of Trade says it plans to import rice from India, Burma and Pakistan in time for the upcoming festival season.
Minister of Trade Bandula Gunawardena says India has relaxed its stern policy regarding exportation of rice and rice stocks from that country is expected to reach Sri Lanka within the next few days. End