COLOMBO - China-funded South Asia's tallest and world's 19th tower is to begin construction in the capital of Sri Lanka on January 20, an official said on Wednesday.

"The Lotus Tower" is to be built with $104.3 million financial support of China's Export-Import Bank of China while construction is to be done by a Chinese conglomerate comprising China National Electronics Import and Export Corporation and Aerospace Long-March International Trade Co. Ltd using the design drawn by a local university, said Anusha Pelpita, director general of the Telecommunication Regulatory Commission.

"The tower will facilitate for 20 service providers in telecommunication, relaying of at least 50 separate broadcasting and telecasting services, relaying of defence signals and provide leisure activities," he said.

"The lotus tower is to be a striking city symbol and important land mark of the island nation, like Eiffel to France," Pelpita said. ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?

The 350-meter high tower building in a 7.5 acre government land in the heart of the capital city Colombo would comprise of a revolving restaurant and a reception hall with the capacity of 1000 persons.

The multi-functional telecommunication tower and an entertainment center is to be completedin 30 months.