UNP MP Dr. Harsha De Silva today addressing a press conference said that though the Government claims that the GSP plus concession is not essential, the relaxation of emergency regulations and pardoning journalist J.S. Tissainayagam were done with the intention of getting the concession back.
He added that on May 20 another high ranking delegation is scheduled to go to Brusselsto re-negotiate with the European Union.
De Silva said that Apparel Exports have reduced by approximately 18% compared to the same period last year. The import expenditure has zoomed, ballooning the trade deficit by 278% already surpassing 1 billion dollars, he said. According to De Silva Sri Lanka is heading for a Balance of Payments crisis.
Though it is denied the UNP is aware that discussions between the Government and the EU include the predicament of Rtd. Gen. MP Sarath Fonseka and the legality of his arrest, De Silva claimed.
