Keys To Presidential Mansions About to Change Hands

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Government has decided to make several Presidential Mansions located across the country available for tourism investment projects.

Accordingly, five Presidential Mansions are to be leased out on a long-term basis.

Presidential Mansions located in Bentota, Kataragama, Mahiyanganaya, Embilipitiya and Anuradhapura have been identified for long-term leasing to facilitate tourism investment projects.

The proposal was submitted to the Cabinet of Ministers by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at yesterday's (27) Cabinet meeting.

The Government stated that although several Presidential Mansions have been maintained in different parts of the country for the official duties and private retreats of the President, these properties are not being used for the activities of the current President.

According to the Government, the mansions possess significant architectural and economic value and are equipped with comprehensive facilities and attractive landscaped surroundings. The maintenance, security and other operational expenses of these properties are currently funded through public money via the Presidential Secretariat.

Taking these factors into consideration, and based on the recommendations of a committee appointed to identify an appropriate mechanism for the economically productive use of these properties, the Government has decided to call for investment proposals and lease the relevant Presidential Mansions to suitable investors on a long-term basis for the implementation of tourism development projects.