Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan has hailed the Jaffna Cultural Centre as an iconic centre. <br />''<br />''Speaking to the media in Jaffna he said that the centre is fully funded by India through a grant. He will participate in the event to dedicate the centre to the people today morning, February 11. Dr. Murugan added that the foundation was laid for the centre by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit in 2015. He mentioned that Mr. Modi was the only Prime Minister to have visited Jaffna. The Jaffna Cultural Center project was built under an Indian grant at a cost of 11 million dollars. <br />''<br />''The centre will provide suitable social infrastructure for the people of Northern Province, especially those residing in Jaffna, to reconnect themselves with their cultural roots and the rest of the country. The centre comprises a theatre-style auditorium with a capacity of 600 people, a multimedia library with online research facilities, exhibition and gallery space and a museum.<br />''<br />''He noted that under India's Neighbourhood First Policy, India has helped Sri Lanka through various projects. He highlighted India's role through development cooperation with the Indian Housing Projects, Railway projects, redevelopment or construction of schools, and renovation of the historic Thirukateeswaram temple.<br />''<br />''Dr. Murugan said that to improve connectivity between the two countries, initiatives like the resumption of flights between Jaffna and Chennai have been undertaken. He also mentioned that ferry services between Karaikal and Kankesanthurai will begin soon.<br />''<br />''Dr. Murugan recalled the Indian assistance of four billion dollars during the economic crisis and the financing assurances given to IMF and said that India continues to stand by Sri Lanka.<br />