Mr. Grant Barrans – Director Aviva Life International / Director Eagle Insurance, addresses the distinguished gathering at the Sri Lanka Investors Roundtable at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.

Grant Barrans of UK’s number one insurer Aviva, parent company of Eagle Insurance and Glen Tinton of Marks & Spencer, ranked Sri Lanka as a top investment destination at the Sri Lanka Investment Round Table. The conference was held at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London recently and was attended by corporate leaders of Sri Lanka and over 150 potential British investors. The event was organized by the Commonwealth Business Council and the BOI.

Mr. Grant Barrans – Director Aviva Life International / Chairman Eagle Insurance, stated that “Sri Lanka is a remarkable destination to visit and its quality of relationships is world-class.” Operating in the insurance industry he added that “the Sri Lankan market is not as saturated as those of its neighbours. It is an excellent market to get into. We found Sri Lanka to be an immensely positive destination. We retain strong partnerships, cost reduction and increased capabilities of workforce. We could also find qualified resources at the right time.” Global Insurance giant Aviva entered the Sri Lanka market by acquiring the controlling stake in Eagle Insurance in February 2006.

Minister Bogollagama also addressed the gathering and State Minister for Trade Investment & Foreign Affairs UK – Ian Macartney stated that Sri Lanka is widely recognized as a liberal market for foreign investors.