Army awaits Cabinet nod for profit making ventures

Outgoing Army Commander Jagath Jayasuriya said yesterday the Army was awaiting cabinet approval to form an entity that could venture out into profit-making business.

“We are involved in development projects right now and are supporting them. This is a service we provide. Manpower and equipment will be available once these projects are completed, that is why we are planning to form such an entity,” he said.

General Jayasuriya told the Daily Mirror that the Army would be able to undertake projects on a profit-making basis by bidding for government tenders.

“Once such an entity is established we will be able to undertake key projects even government projects by registering our bid, because if we are to take part in a government projects it will be a service to the country,” he added.

General Jayasuriya pointed out that the Army has all the resources available

We are involved in development projects right now and are supporting them.

including technical expertise. “We can carry out the work on a competitive basis because we are effective and efficient, and we can provide a good service,” he added.

General Jayasuriya said the Army was involved in almost all the services and professions that one could offer.

e said in countries such as Russia, China and Iran the military had key interests in strategic sectors as it had created a large number of organisations under its control to increase its strength and to meet national security interests.