by Our Correspondent in Jaffna
The European Union Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Carmen Moreno, questioned why the Sinhalese-majority South was “anxious” about investment being directed to Northern Sri Lanka, making the remarks during a meeting with journalists in Jaffna on Wednesday.
Moreno made the comments during an introductory engagement with journalists from the Northern and Eastern Provinces organised by the European Union Delegation. The meeting, held at a private hotel in Jaffna, focused on the region’s socio-economic conditions, public sentiment under the new administration and issues relating to investment and development.
Referring to the distribution of investment across the country, the ambassador questioned why investment flowing to the North generated anxiety in the Sinhalese-majority South rather than being viewed as part of broader national development. The remarks were made in the context of discussions on regional investment patterns and economic priorities.
Moreno also said the population in the Northern Province remains highly engaged with national politics. She noted that younger people, in particular, are actively involved through digital platforms and continue to express support for democratic processes and political reform. She said it was important to understand the factors shaping these views and the reasons behind political attitudes in the region.
Turning to economic development, the ambassador said that while major development and investment projects have historically been concentrated in urban centres, there has been a visible increase in capital flowing into Northern Sri Lanka. She said questions remain over whether those investments are adequately addressing the immediate needs of local communities and contributing to long-term stability.
Moreno also highlighted the role of the Sri Lankan diaspora, saying its engagement with local stakeholders continues to influence public discourse and political dynamics in the North. She said understanding these links is important in addressing historical disparities and promoting balanced regional development.
The meeting formed part of the European Union Delegation’s outreach with journalists from the North and East to obtain their perspectives on current socio-economic conditions, investment-related issues and public opinion under the new administration. Discussions also explored the factors influencing political engagement, regional development and investment trends in Northern Sri Lanka.
