You may be aware that our Association is the result of the fusion of two independent bodies which previously existed; namely, the Export Section of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Exporters Associations of Sri Lanka (FEDEX), which held together the major products specific associations upto 1997.

I am deeply conscious of the high standards that have been maintained in the conduct of our affairs and the levels of activity achieved by my predecessors. Some of our past Chairmen proceeded to hold the highest office in the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, to which our Association is affiliated. I am grateful to these gentlemen for having prepared me at every stage and encouraged me to accept this responsibility, which I will discharge to the best of my ability. During the recent past my colleagues on the Managing Committee would no doubt have sensed more than a tinge of diffidence on my part, to take the steps that were necessary to qualify me to play this important role.

However, I could now say with much confidence, that with the ready and willing assistance, you and the members of the Managing Committee have extended to my immediate predecessor, I feel assured that my reliance on your continued cooperation will not be misplaced