After his meeting with ex-finance minister Ronnie de Mel, Minister Ravi Karunanayake told the media that everything is in place to present a people’s friendly budget.  He said former finance minister Ronnie de Mel’s views were taken as his views were considered to be important in preparing Budget 2017.

Meanwhile, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake met former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga at her official residence on Independence Avenue Colombo 7 yesterday afternoon. President Kumaratunga also held the Finance Ministerial portfolio in her Cabinet.

Addressing the media after the meeting, former President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga said she believed a budget for the people will be submitted to parliament on November 10. She also said that the untiring efforts taken by the Finance Minister to prepare such a people’s friendly budget should be appreciated.

Speaking to the media, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said steps have been taken in the forthcoming budget to reduce cost of living while measures have been taken to strengthen investment in the country. He also said that views of stake holders from all walks of life are gathered to prepare Budget 2017, and Budget 2017 to be presented to parliament on November 10 is meant to bring a change to the country.