The Foreign Ministry has a ‘big task’ ahead, to improve Sri Lanka’s International image, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tyronne Fernando said .

Addressing Foreign Ministry officers at a reception ceremony hosted to welcome him on Thursday, Mr. Fernando said that the Foreign Ministry in particular had several subjects of concern, chief among them being , drawing foreign investors to the country and finding a solution to the ethnic crisis and the war.

He said that the government hoped "to work closely" with India on the issue and added that he together with Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe would be making an official visit to India from December 22-24 to meet Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee.

Mr.Fernando however pointed out that an improvement to Sri Lanka’s International image lay at the core of attracting investors in order to make economic development. He called upon ministry officers to extend their support to achieve this and put political opinions aside.

"We have a great task ahead and all of us must together, work hard to get our country back to the heart of progress" he said.

The Prime Minister has urged us to lead a simple life, so I have kindly refused the Benz given to me by the ministry and hope to use a smaller car, Mr.Fernando said. H#e added that all Ministers and Deputy Ministers will only receive the parliamentary members salary.

(HJ)