According to the government, Trincomalee area in the East can be developed as an agriculture and an energy hub under the government's development program.

"The Trincomalee area has been identified as major zone that could be developed as agricultural and energy hubs under the development program of the present government," a government statement said. It added that the area also has potential for establishment of manufacturing and tourist zones.

"Therefore, to cater for changing needs of the area, a planning review has to be done in order to prepare a concept plan and a detailed master plan in this regard," it said.

The review will also consider the ability of amalgamating the development of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Batticaloa and Hingurakgoda cities with the Trincomalee development process.

The cabinet approved a proposal made by the Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his capacity as the Minister of National Policies and Economic Affairs, to obtain the assistance of a well experienced foreign company to conduct the planning review.