Donors would be asked to fund an ambitious reconstruction bid in the newly seized Eastern province, an area of some 9,635 square kilometres, said Public Administration Minister Karu Jayasuriya.

"We appeal to donors and I have reason to believe that help will be forthcoming," Jayasuriya told reporters in the tropical island's capital, Colombo.

Troops said last week they had control of the Eastern province after winning a battle for Thoppigala jungle and driving away rebels, who are fighting for an independent homeland for minority Tamils.

"We are hoping to have an accelerated programme of development that will be completed in six months," Jayasuriya said, without specifying how much money the government would seek or its source.

Sri Lanka's ethnic conflict, which dates back 35 years, had led to the neglect of roads, communications and electricity supply in the province, he said.

The government also said it planned nationwide ceremonies for Thursday to mark the province's capture, including a military parade of 700 personnel.