http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20110721_04

President appeals to Tamil diaspora
Channel your funds towards North
Special attention for North
Some trying to mislead people
President Mahinda Rajapaksa appealed to the Tamil Diaspora to show interest in developing the North and East instead of spending money on tarnishing the country's image, addressing a gathering in Pooneryn town yesterday, 20th July.
"As patriotic citizens, they should spend money on fruitful activities such as the development of North rather than spending money on spreading false propaganda," the President said. Further he said that certain people who depend on NGOs are trying to tarnish the image of the country by spreading false propaganda.
President in his visit to Pooneryn laid the foundation stone for a hospital and MoH office complexes strengthening the infrastructure facilities in order to provide maximum service for the people in the area.
"The Tamil Diaspora has to think with an open mind and lend a helping hand to the people in the North and East. The government has been engaging in a massive development initiative covering the entire country with the North receiving special attention," president said.
"Everyone is aware that a peaceful atmosphere has been established throughout the country. People were badly affected by the war for over 30 years. The country is now free from the clutches of terrorism and freedom and democracy have been established," he said. The majority of the people are satisfied with the peaceful situation. The government is bringing the country forward which had been badly affected by terrorism for over 30 years," the President added.
Addressing the gathering the president further elaborated the steps were already been taken by the government to develop the North and living standards of the people.
"The government will establish a better future for you and your children. Therefore, this country will be driven forward with more courage, strength and confidence," he said.
The President asked the narrow sighted people not to betray the country and take it backwards. He requested them to return to the country and get a firsthand experience about the ongoing development activities in the country.