The High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka Maj. Gen. (R) Qasim Qureshi, Minister for Economic Affairs Mr. Basil Rajapaksa, Minister for Industry and Commerce Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen and Governor Northern Province Maj. Gen. (R) G.A. Chandrasiri, laid the foundation stone for the Housing Project. The Deputy High Commissioner of Pakistan Sarfaraz Ahmed Khan Sipra and other notables were also present on the occasion along with a large number of beneficiary families.

The Pakistan Housing Project will help 230 homeless families from Puthukkudiyiruppu, Narikaddu and Moddaikadai villages. The cost of houses will be borne by the Government of Pakistan while roads, electricity and other external facilities will be contributed by the Government of Sri Lanka. On this occasion, Mr. Basil Rajapaksa announced a matching grant by Sri Lankan Government for construction of additional 230 houses for the homeless families.

Last week the High Commissioner of Pakistan Maj. Gen. (R) Qasim Qureshi, handed over the cheque of One Million US $ to the Minister of Economic Development, Mr. Basil Rajapaksa at the Temple Trees in the presence of Minister of Industries and Commerce, Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen for commencement of the project.