New-born democracy added to Ceylon Tea and cricket as Sri Lankan ‘gems’, minister says
A top government minister said last week that one of the important facets of a ruling administration is not to be involved in business.
Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, speaking at the opening of the 16th International Coloured Gemstone Congress held in Colombo on Sunday May 17, said, “We are not here to run business but to facilitate businesses in the country and to ensure job prospects, and to build the society.” He urged the large number of delegates from many countries to enjoy the new found democracy in Sri Lanka, following the January presidential poll, and asked them to go home and tell others about this new experience of democracy in Sri Lanka.
He said that Sri Lanka is famous for its ‘Ceylon Tea’ and cricket but now this ‘new born democracy’ has been added to that list.
Benjamin Hackman, President, International Coloured Gemstones Association (ICA), said the association from a very small group of gemstone dealers some years ago has now formed into the largest international gemstone association extending to 600 members in 47 countries.
He said that ICA works hard to streamline their services to the members. Mr. Hackman said that ICA is currently handling more than 17 shows annually in different parts of the world and they have teamed up with other allied associations to use common disclosure codes.
They hope to extend their cooperation to other areas as well. Their ‘InColour’ magazine has become, he said, the most sought after trade publication.
They are also developing a system of ambassadors worldwide to keep the industry informed and aware of the latest news and developments of the industry.
On the sidelines of the ceremony, Mr. Hackman told the Business Times that the entire world knows that the main location for sapphire trade is Sri Lanka and this country is blessed not only with sapphires but other precious stones too. He said, “Everyone knows about Sri Lanka, Colombo and Ratnapura”.