Sri Lanka: Latest News

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28.02.2023 / 07:27

Sri Lanka declares transportation services as essential services

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe signed a Gazette notification on Monday (27) night declaring transportation services as essential services.Accordingly, public transport services for passengers or goods, discharge, carriage, landing, storage, delivery & removal of articles of food or drink, or coal, oil, fuel from vessels within any port as defined for the purposes of the Customs Ordinance (Chapter 235), the provision and maintenance of facilities for transport services by road, rail or air, including roads, bridges, culverts, airports, ports & railway lines, have been declared as essential services with immediate effect.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president

Sri Lankan Authorities must exercise restraint and facilitate the right to peaceful assembly – Amnesty International

COLOMBO (News 1st); Amnesty International says that Sri Lankan Authorities must exercise restraint in use of force and facilitate the right to peaceful assembly.Responding to the news that one protestor had been killed and dozens injured as a result of the unlawful use of water cannons and tear gas by the police in Colombo in Sri Lanka on Sunday, Harindrini Corea, Regional Researcher for the Right to Protest at Amnesty International said, “It is worrying that even after months of widespread protests in the country, the Sri Lankan police needs to be constantly reminded of their duty to facilitate the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and exercise restraint in the use of force while policing assemblies.

Sri Lanka hospital death Government reports Action Waters

World Bank’s IFC to provide Sri Lanka with $400 mn financing

(Reuters) – The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the World Bank's investment arm, said it will provide Sri Lanka a $400 million cross-currency swap facility to help fund essential imports.Three private banks, which together deal with over 30% of Sri Lanka's remittances and exports, will receive the facility to fund essential imports, including medicine, food and fertiliser, the IFC said in a statement on Monday (27).The funds will provide a much needed foreign exchange cushion for Sri Lanka, which is grappling with its worst financial crisis in over seven decades partly triggered by a severe shortage of dollars.The island nation's economy is estimated to have contracted by 9.2% in 2022 and is expected to shrink a further 4.2% in 2023, according to World Bank data."We expect this financing to boost confidence in the investor community, attract fresh capital inflows to support the Sri Lankan economy," said Joon Young Park, IFC's Portfolio Manager, Financial Institutions Group for South Asia.IFC is also working on further plans to support client banks with other long-term funding and advisory services in the future, the statement added.Sri Lanka signed a preliminary agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a $2.9 billion bailout last September but has to put its debt on a sustainable repayment track before the funds can be disbursed.

Sri Lanka economy crisis medicines Provident Parke

Indian Naval Ship ‘Sukanya’ reaches Sri Lanka; The 101m long Offshore Patrol Vessel will stay until 1st March

Concluding her official visit, ‘INS Sukanya’ will depart the island on 01st March and she is expected to engage in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with a ship of the Sri Lanka Navy off Colombo.About INS Sukanya:The Sukanya Class offshore patrol vessels are in service with the Indian Navy. The first three ships were built by Korea Tacoma, while four were constructed at the Hindustan Shipyard in India.The lead ship in class, INS Sukanya (P50), was commissioned in August 1989.

South Korea India Sri Lanka Department

Indian eggs to reach Sri Lanka after Quality Report is received

COLOMBO (News 1st); The quality report with regard to the consignment of eggs that will be imported to Sri Lanka from India is expected to be received on Tuesday (28).The report is expected from the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying of India and once the report is approved, the shipment of 2 million Indian eggs will reach Sri Lanka.The Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Food Security said that the respective indian companies via laboratory tests have confirmed that there is no presence or risk of Bird Flu at their farms.The Ministry said that once the eggs reach Sri Lanka the country's Health Ministry will also conduct tests on the quality and standards.Thereafter, the eggs will be delivered to bakeries, and hotels in the country.The Ministry of Trade, Commerce and Food Security said that an eggs is expected to be sold for a price of Rs.

India Sri Lanka testing Health reports

New debt process needed for countries like Sri Lanka – IMF Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva says a more predictable, timely, and orderly processes are needed for Sri Lanka.Speaking at the first meeting of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in Bengaluru, India, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund Kristalina Georgieva said that it is imperative for the G20 to strengthen the debt architecture.She said, "In light of rising debt vulnerabilities in many countries, I strongly endorse efforts to strengthen the debt architecture and improve the speed and effectiveness of debt resolution."She said that sovereign debt vulnerabilities is particularly the case for "developing and low-income countries with very limited policy space and huge development needs."Georgieva stressed that a more predictable, timely, and orderly processes are needed both for countries under the Common Framework (CF) and for those not covered by it, including Sri Lanka and Suriname.She added, "This means that we must enhance dialogue and collaboration on debt issues."

Kristalina Georgieva India Sri Lanka Suriname

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena denies reports on resignation

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena has denied reports claiming that he will resign.Prime Minister Gunawardena told News 1st that the false reports are a plot aimed at sobotaging the programs of the Sri Lankan government.He said that no such proposal or discussion had taken place.The Prime Minister was responding to a statement made by MP Prof.

Dinesh Gunawardena Channa Jayasumana Sri Lanka reports

Sri Lanka’s Elections Chief writes to Speaker to secure funds for LG Election

Colombo (News1st) – The Chairman of the National Election Commission (NEC) Nimal Punchihewa stated that he has written a letter to the Speaker of Parliament seeking his intervention to secure funds for the 2023 Local Government Election.The Chairman said the letter was dispatched to the Speaker on Friday (24).The NEC announced on Friday (24) that the Local Government Election, which was due to be held on the 9th of March, had been postponed."The election was postponed due to reasons beyond the commission's control," the NEC said.The new date is to be announced on the 3rd of March."A request has been made to the Speaker to intervene to obtain funds from the Treasury, which are necessary to conduct the election," the commission added on Friday.

Sri Lanka Government Beyond

UN Human Rights Committee to review Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka rights

It is the duty of the President to hold the election – Mahinda Rajapaksa

COLOMBO (News 1st); Former Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa said it is the duty of the sitting President to hold the election.However, he noted that if there are no funds with the state, an election cannot be held as well. The Former President said that his party is ready for an election at any given moment.Mahinda Rajapaksa said because he knew he would secure a win, he never delayed a single election during his time as the President.He said the present government is uncertain if it would win or not, thus the election too is uncertain.He said when an election is called for, it is possible to understand the pulse of the people. Commenting on the IMF funds, he said the government should be able to secure the funds.

Mahinda Rajapaksa Sri Lanka president Government Party

Specific, credible financing assurances required for Sri Lanka – US Treasury Secretary

COLOMBO (News 1st); US Treasury Secretary Janet L. Yellen said that the Group of 20 countries need to work together to ease the debt overhang that is holding back too many countries, including Sri Lanka."The IMF estimates that around 55 percent of low-income countries are close to or in debt distress.

China Usa India Sri Lanka Zambia Provident Progressive Cooper Assurant

Murder suspect with links to underworld arrested by STF

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force arrested a close associate of notorious underworld criminal Stanley Kennedy Fernando also known as Bumma.The detained suspect was identified as 24-year-old Dilushan Kumarasiri.Sri Lanka Police said that the suspect is connected to the attempted murder of a person at the Galpotta Junction in Kotahena on the 21st of January.Police also said that the suspect is wanted for the murder of two other people in Mutuwal.The suspect was arrested based on information received by the OIC of the Police Special Task Force Intelligence Bureau.A locally manufactured revolver, weapons used to commit murder, a three-wheeler with fake license plates were also seized during the arrest.

Sri Lanka information Manufacturing

Final decision on Local Government Election today (24)

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Election Commission will meet on Friday (23) to reach a final decision on the 2023 Local Government Election due to the lack of financing and support from state agencies.Earlier, the Election Commission decided to conduct the Local Government Election on the 9th of March 2023.However, the Government Printer had refused to deliver the ballot papers owing to a payment issues, and this led to the National Election Commission to postpone the postal voting process that was scheduled for this wekk.The Chairman of the National Election Attorney Nimal Punchihewa said the Local Government Election was called for legally as per the country's constitutions and the election law.He told News 1st on Thursday (23) that all members of the National Election Commission consented to the Local Government Election Process.He said that given that funds were not being provided to continue with the election process, the National Election Commission will meet on Friday (24) to reach a final decision on the Local Government Election 2023. The statement came from the Elections Chief after Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe told Parliament on Thursday (23) that the country's National Election Commission has not legally called for an election, and there are no funds to conduct an election.Commenting on the debate requested by the opposition on postponing the election, the President said there is no election for one to be postponed.The President said the proposed Parliament Select Committee must be appointed to inquire into the Election Commission and the Local Government Election.In the meantime, the petition filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Nimal Punchihewa Sri Lanka president information Government Provident

Driver dies after car rear-ends a lorry in Kottawa; Russian passenger hospitalized

COLOMBO (News 1st); One person died in a tragic accident that took place close to the Expressway Entrance in Kottawa.Sri Lanka Police said a car had rear-ended a lorry that was parked on the side of the road to change a tyre on Thursday (23) night.The 47-year-old driver of the car, identified as a resident from Akuressa, died in the accident.In addition, a 27-year-old Russian woman who was also traveling in the car was admitted to the Homagama Hospital for treatment.Sri Lanka Police said that the accident took place when she was on her way to the Katunayake Airport.

Sri Lanka Russia hospital travelers Parke

School uniform material from China dispatched to schools in four provinces

COLOMBO (News 1st); The distribution of China-aided school uniform material commenced on Thursday (23) in Colombo.First 3 million meters were dispatched to 1.34 million students in Northern, Eastern, North Central and Uva Provinces in Sri Lanka during an event attended by Education Minister Susil Premajanth and the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka.The Minister and the Ambassador were noted carefully inspecting the school uniform materials donated by China before the dispatchment to different provinces of Sri Lanka.A total of 3,420,714 students across Sri Lanka, regardless their gender, ethnicity or religious belief, will get the China-Aid school uniform for the coming school year 2023.Second batch of the donation comprising of 6 million meters had left China in 44 shipping containers, and will arrive Sri Lanka next week.

China Sri Lanka donates

Election was announced legally as per the constitution, and election law – Elections Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Chairman of the National Election Attorney Nimal Punchihewa said the Local Government Election was called for legally as per the country's constitutions and the election law.He told News 1st on Thursday (23) that all members of the National Election Commission consented to the Local Government Election Process.He said that given that funds were not being provided to continue with the election process, the National Election Commission will meet on Friday (24) to reach a final decision on the Local Government Election 2023. The statement came from the Elections Chief after Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe told Parliament on Thursday (23) that the country's National Election Commission has not legally called for an election, and there are no funds to conduct an election.Commenting on the debate requested by the opposition on postponing the election, the President said there is no election for one to be postponed.The President said the proposed Parliament Select Committee must be appointed to inquire into the Election Commission and the Local Government Election.In the meantime, the petition filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Nimal Punchihewa Sri Lanka president information Government Provident

Criminal killed in police fire in Katunayake

COLOMBO (News 1st); A criminal wanted for multiple crimes was killed in police fire on Thursday (23) morning in Medawala, Katunayake.Police Spokesperson SSP Nihal Thalduwa told News 1st that officers opened fire when the suspect attempted to hurl a bomb at them.The deceased was identified as Dinesh Buddhika, a 30-year-old man from Heenatiyana.It was reported that police officers were searching for a firearm that was use to commit a crime, and it was at that moment that the deceased suspect had attempted to hurl a bomb at the officers.Sri Lanka Police said that the deceased suspect was wanted for homicides, extortion and other crimes.

Nihal Thalduwa Sri Lanka reports Man

Leading economies must move faster to solve debt crises – U.S. Treasury Secretary

COLOMBO (News 1st); U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is urging other leading economies to move faster in resolving debt crises that threaten a growing number of countries.Yellen made the comments in a meeting Thursday with India’s finance minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, on the sidelines of a meeting of financial leaders of the Group of 20 major economies, the Treasury Department said in a statement.U.S.

Nirmala Sitharaman Janet Yellen China city Beijing India Sri Lanka Argentina Afghanistan Venezuela Laos covid-19 president pandemic economy bill Department Provident

Petition challenging the Local Government Election postponed to May 11th

COLOMBO (News 1st); The petition filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Saliya Peiris Sri Lanka president Government Provident

India’s ties with Sri Lanka are different: Jaishankar

While Pakistan grapples with an economic crisis that threatens life as many citizens know it, Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S.

S.Jaishankar India Sri Lanka Pakistan crisis Action Provident Citizens

Remains of Sri Lankan Peacekeeper brought from Mali

The mortal remains of Mali-based UN Peacekeeper of the Sri Lanka Army who recently died of a cardiac arrest while serving the Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) were brought to the island on Wednesday (22 February) afternoon. Troops of the 6 Sri Lanka Army Service Corps troops received the coffin of late Lance Corporal M.G.L Deshapriya (42) in a military parade.At the Colombo International Airport, the UN flag-draped coffin was symbolically delivered by Lieutenant Colonel H.M.W.R Herath, Supply and Transport Officer of Mali-based 4th Combat Convoy Company (CCC) to Major General Hirosha Wanigasekara, Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Service Corps and Master General Ordnance who represented the Commander of the Army.The ceremonial parade afterwards handed over the UN flag back to Lieutenant Colonel H.M.W.R Herath, symbolizing the formal acceptance of the remains by the Troop-Contributing Country (TCC).Troops in accordance with laid down procedures draped the coffin in the National Flag and formally confirmed the acceptance of it by the TCC. Remains were afterwards taken to the Negombo Hospital.

Sri Lanka Mali hospital

No election, No funds – President tells Parliament

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe told Parliament on Thursday (23) that the country's National Election Commission has not legally called for an election, and there are no funds to conduct an election.Commenting on the debate requested by the opposition on postponing the election, the President said there is no election for one to be postponed."The Election Commission had gone to court and said that it cannot conduct an election. However, an affidavit was provided. It states that the Commission has been informed by the Secretary of the Treasury that he is unable to provide the necessary funds to conduct the election.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president information economy Government reports Provident Kandi

Airman arrested for stealing weapon, ammo from Ratmalana Air Force Base armoury

COLOMBO (News 1st); An individual serving in the Sri Lanka Air Force was arrested by Police for stealing a weapon and ammunition from the Ratmalana Air Force Base armoury. A T-56 Assault Rifle and 120 rounds of ammunition and four ammunition holders were stolen by the 37-year-old suspect.Sri Lanka Police said the suspect will be produced to the Mount Lavinia Magistrate's Court on Thursday (23).

Sri Lanka

Japan to deliver diesel worth $ 46 Mn for Sri Lankan hospitals

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka and Japan singed Exchange Notes for a humanitatrian grant of USD 46 Million.Mahinda Siriwardena, the Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, and Mizukoshi Hideaki, the Ambassador of Japan, signed an Exchange of Notes to secure a humanitarian grant of USD 46 million. The purpose of the grant is to provide diesel fuel to public hospitals throughout Sri Lanka. The signing ceremony took place at the President's Office, with President Ranil Wickremesinghe in attendance.Under this agreement, the Government of Japan has committed to supplying 20 million litres of diesel fuel.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Japan Sri Lanka hospital president Government crisis Provident

Unite to overcome economic crisis and promote reconciliation – President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President President Ranil Wickremesinghe urged all citizens, including politicians, professionals, teachers, those engaged in agriculture, the business community, and members of the security forces, police and civil servants, to work together to overcome the current economic crisis and promote reconciliation efforts.He was speaking at an event at Royal College, Colombo that was held to honour President Wickremesinghe, who is an alumnus of Royal College. The President called upon the present generation of Royalists to dedicate themselves to serving the country and transforming it into a place where they would like to reside. He urged young Royalists to take up the challenge and shape the future of the nation."We have two difficult tasks in this country.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president economy crisis Racing Man Fighting Citizens

LG bodies under commissioner control if elections are delayed

COLOMBO (News 1st); If the Local Government Election is not held as planned, all Local Government Bodies will be moved under the control of the Commissioner from the 20th of March, as the tenure of the Local Government Institutions ends on that day.Public Administration & Home Affairs Secretary Neel Bandara Hapuhinna stated that accordingly, the secretaries of local councils and municipal councils as well as municipal commissioners are expected to carry out the administrative activities of those institutions.The petition filed against holding of the local government election is scheduled to be called up at the Supreme Court on Thursday (23).Based on the decision taken by the Supreme Court, the election commission will meet on Friday (24) and take a decision.As of now, the postal poll related to the election has been postponed indefinitely due to the failure of the government printer to deliver the required ballot papers.The Government Printer took that step due to the non-payment of the required money for printing ballot papers.Recently, Sri Lanka's National Election Commission informed the Supreme Court that obstacles have arisen with regard to conducting the Local Government Election on the 9th of March 2023 as planned.

Sri Lanka information Government

Many Sri Lankans borrowing money or spending savings to survive

COLOMBO (News 1st); One in three households, 33% of Sri Lankans are food insecure according to WFP’s Household Food Security Survey (December 2022).It added that nearly seven in ten households are adopting foodbased coping strategies such as relying on less preferred food, limiting portion sizes and reducing the number of meals. In addition, over eight in ten households are turning to livelihood coping strategies such as borrowing money or spending savings.WFP’s Market Functionality Index for December showed that commodity prices continue to be volatile. Several markets have also reported scarcity of items including cereals.According to the Colombo Consumer Price Index, headline inflation (year-on-year) for January 2023 was 54.2 percent, down from the 57.2 percent in December 2022.

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Trinco Port commences night operations with state-of-the-art technology

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Trinco Night Navigation Operations Project at the Trincomalee Harbour was launched recently, and is now in operation.Trincomalee Harbour, a natural deep-water harbor, is considered the fifth largest natural harbor in the world. Despite its world-class recognition among industrial and tourist ports, the development and operations of the Port of Trincomalee were hampered due to the rapid development of the Port of Colombo and the lack of potential to perform night operations. Vessels calling at the port at night had to enter the port during the daytime of the following day, after anchoring at the out-harbor waters during the previous night, which caused interruptions to port operations and their efficiency.As a result of fruitful discussions between the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Japan in 2017, the two governments entered into an agreement to implement a grant aid under the Japanese Non-Project Grant Aid Program 2017, also known as the Economic & Social Development Program. Accordingly, this grant aid of 01 billion Japanese Yen was provided for the Night Navigation Operations Project at the Port of Trincomalee, which included a state-of-the-art Vessel Traffic Management System, Radar Equipment, Lighthouse Equipment, 16 Navigation Buoys, 02 Mooring Buoys, 02 400KV Generators, 14 Fire Pumps with machinery, and a Pilot Vessel provided by the Japan International Cooperation System (JICS) with the assistance of the Government and the People of Japan.The Trinco Night Navigation Operations Project, which includes all of this equipment and facilities, was handed over for operations on February 17, 2023, at a function held at the Port of Trincomalee.

Japan Sri Lanka Government Provident Waters Cooper

“Current tax policy is a rescue operation” – President

Colombo (News 1st) – The current tax policy in Sri Lanka is not a normal tax policy but a rescue operation, President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated.The head of state warned that if this process is disrupted, Sri Lanka will not be able to receive the International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout program and may lose the opportunity to do business with foreign countries.

Sri Lanka president Remark

Economic crisis cannot be solved through legal action – President

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has emphasized the importance of having a proper plan to strengthen the country’s economy, during a meeting with businessmen and lawyers in the Kandy district.According to the President's Media Division. the President had noted that the primary issue facing the country is its economic problem, and addressing it should be a top priority.The President has also noted that the upcoming election is not a means to change the government.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president economy Government crisis Action Party Provident

JICA to resume projects after IMF deal is finalized

COLOMBO (News 1st); JICA is set to resume its ongoing projects in Sri Lanka no sooner the IMF package on debt restructuring finalized, said the Prime Minister's Media Division.Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena urged the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to recommence all the ongoing projects that are temporarily halted due to fiscal issues.He made this request when Director General of the South Asia Department of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Teruyuki Ito met him on Monday (20).Teruyuki Ito assured the Prime Minister that JICA projects would be resumed no sooner the debt restructuring programme is finalized by the International Monetary Fund.12 JAICA projects worth US$ 2.5 billion have been temporarily halted due to the fiscal crisis. The JICA delegation had expressed satisfaction over the progress in debt restructuring plans, in which Japan also played a major role.The Prime Minister thanked JICA Director General for the continuous assistance provided to Sri Lanka for several decades for water treatment, sewerage, sanitation and solid waste treatment projects in several cities and towns. He also requested JICA to provide assistance in new areas such as renewable energy and electrification of public transport and railways.Prime Minister Gunawardena also briefed the JICA delegation about the steps taken to improve transparency and accountability in project implementation by enacting required legislations as recommended by the Committee appointed by the President. He added that a Budget Act would be passed to ensure continuation of nationally important projects and policies despite change of governments in power.

Dinesh Gunawardena Japan Usa Sri Lanka crisis Department Provident Progressive Waters Cooper Assurant

Economic Commission to replace BOI & BOE

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that an Economic Commission will be formed as early as possible replacing the Board of Investment and the Board of Exports.President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks at the opening of the country’s first migratory bird park and eco-tourism zone in Hanthane, Kandy (20).He stated that an Economic Commission will be formed as early as possible to approve investment opportunity in order to provide more opportunities to local and foreign investors.The President also stated that it has the potential to significantly boost the country’s economy."More investment opportunities are necessary for Sri Lanka to embark on a new economic path. It takes ten years to approve a firm after an investor arrives in Sri Lanka. This situation should be changed.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president economy Boeing Provident Remark Parke Kandi

Independent MPs write to foreign missions on present state of affairs

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Freedom People's Congress in a letter to foreign missions in the country over the delay in holding the Local Government Election, have expressed their deep concern over the present situation surrounding the franchise of the people.The letter notes that the timeframes for the conduct of elections at all levels are defined by the Constitution of Sri Lanka and other applicable statutory regimes. It notes that compliance with these requirements is mandatory, there being no flexibility or scope for exercise of discretion.The Freedom People's Congress says that for the first time in Sri Lanka's history, the government of the day has adopted the startling position that an election cannot be held because the financial resources required are not available, adding that the implications of this will be apparent upon a moment’s reflection.It warned that at its sole discretion, the government of the day will be entitled to postpone any election on the ground of unavailability or inadequacy of resources – a power which it will no doubt be tempted to exercise in any circumstances where imminent defeat is probable.It requested the Diplomatic Missions to bring this distressing state of affairs to the notice of their respective capitals, with a view to prevailing on the government of Sri Lanka to desist from a course of action gravely detrimental to the nation.

Sri Lanka Government Action

Sri Lankan Peacekeeper dies in Mali; Military salute presented by MINUSMA troops

Peacekeeping troops of the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) on Thursday, the 16th of February 2023, formally presented a military salute and bid farewell to the late Lance Corporal M.G.L Deshapriya (42) of the 6 Sri Lanka Army Service Corps who had passed away on 11 February 2023 following a sudden cardiac arrest upon admission to the MINUSMA Bamako Level – 3 Hospital. In conformity with UN traditions, MINUSMA troops presented a salute lowering flags and honoured their comrade during the formal military parade before floral tributes were made to the coffin, draped in the UN flag by Ms Daniela Kroslak, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and Deputy Chief of MINUSMA Operations in the presence of a gathering of MINUSMA Officers and Other Ranks, including the Commanding Officer of the Sri Lankan Combat Convoy Company (CCC) of the MINUSMA.

Sri Lanka Mali city Bamako hospital gatherings

Banking industry will be protected, assures Central Bank Governor

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe has assured that measures are being taken to ensure the safety and protection of the banking industry.He was speaking at the 33rd Anniversary convention of the Associations of Professional Bankers in Colombo on Monday (20)."In this kind of situation (present economic crisis) we all know banks are not in an easy situation like we had in the past.

Nandalal Weerasinghe Sri Lanka crisis Assurant

President wants Minipe Left Bank Project completed before Maha Season

President Ranil Wickremesinghe instructed the officials to speed up the Minipe Left Bank Canal Rehabilitation Project (MLBCRP), which has been delayed for over three years owing to various reasons, and to provide its benefits to the farmers before the next Maha Season.The President provided these instructions on Sunday (19) while joining an observation tour of the Minipe Anicut construction site.President Wickremesinghe, after inspecting the plan of the project, also inquired from the engineers about the operation of the project.The President also pointed out the possibility of obtaining the support of the students of engineering faculties in Sri Lanka for the future work of the project.The existing anicut is not sufficient to release water to the left and right bank canals when water is released twice a day from the Rantambe Hydro Power Plant during peak demand for electricity. Due to this, in order to provide more reliable and continuous water supply to Minipe agricultural lands, the Minipe Dam was raised by 3.5 meters and the renovation of the 74 kilometers-long main canal on the left bank of Minipe, was commenced.After the reconstruction of the Minipe Anicut, constant water supply to farmers will be ensured and the cultivation land on both sides of the left bank of Minipe could be cultivated without obstruction in the Yala-Maha Seasons while providing benefits to 15,000 farmer families.The cost of the project is Rs. 3,000 million and the construction work is carried out by China Gexhouba Group Company Limited (CGGC).Minipe Anicut, which was built in 1948, was last renovated in 1980.

Ranil Wickremesinghe China Sri Lanka president Provident Waters

Government Printer claims lack of security for ballot paper printing

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Government Printer says that sufficient police protection has not been provided for the process of printing ballot papers.Head of the Department of Government Printing Ganga Liyanage told News 1st that as a result, the printing of ballot papers for the Local Government Election will be further delayed.The Government Printer said that only two police officers have been stationed at the main gate as of Monday (20) evening.She said that 65-person strong police force is required for the security detail to provide protection to the process of printing ballot papers.She said that requests were forwarded in this regard to all relevant agencies.On Monday (20), Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has informed the Supreme Court that obstacles have arisen with regard to conducting the Local Government Election on the 9th of March 2023 as planned. Furthermore, the Government Printer has informed the Elections Commission that she is unable to release the ballot papers for the elections until a sum of Rs.

Sri Lanka information Government Department Provident

Opposition protests in Parliament demanding Local Government Election; Sessions adjourned to Wednesday (22)

COLOMBO (News 1st); Opposition MPs launched a protest in Parliament demanding that steps be taken to conduct the Local Government Election.Due to the protest, Parliament sessions were adjourned to 9:30 AM on Wednesday (22).On Monday (20), the Samagi Jana Balavegaya led a protest march in Colombo demanding for the Local Government Election be held.Police fired tear gas, and water cannons to disperse the protest at Technical Junction, Maradana.Also on Monday (20), Sri Lanka Police fired tear gas and water cannons to disperse a protest organized by the Jathika Jana Balavegaya against the attempt to delay the Local Government Election in Kurunegala.On Tuesday (21), The Government Printer said that sufficient police protection has not been provided for the process of printing ballot papers.Head of the Department of Government Printing Ganga Liyanage told News 1st that as a result, the printing of ballot papers for the Local Government Election will be further delayed.The Government Printer said that only two police officers have been stationed at the main gate as of Monday (20) evening.She said that 65-person strong police force is required for the security detail to provide protection to the process of printing ballot papers.She said that requests were forwarded in this regard to all relevant agencies.On Monday (20), Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has informed the Supreme Court that obstacles have arisen with regard to conducting the Local Government Election on the 9th of March 2023 as planned. Furthermore, the Government Printer has informed the Elections Commission that she is unable to release the ballot papers for the elections until a sum of Rs.

Sri Lanka information Government Department Provident Waters

China’s Exim Bank to support Sri Lanka’s loan application to IMF – Spokesperson

COLOMBO (News 1st); China will continue to support relevant financial institutions in actively working out the debt treatment, said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Monday (20)."The Export-Import Bank of China has already provided Sri Lanka with a letter to express support for its debt sustainability.

Wang Wenbin China Sri Lanka Provident

Japan’s Mitsubishi, Taisei scale back in Sri Lanka

TOKYO/MUMBAI — Japanese companies like Mitsubishi Corp. and Taisei Corp.

Japan Sri Lanka city Tokyo city Mumbai gatherings 2020 information crisis reports Progressive Cooper

‘It is likely the Local Government Election will NOT go ahead as planned,” – NEC tells Supreme Court

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has informed the Supreme Court that it is likely that it would not be able to conduct the Local Government Election on the 9th of March 2023 as planned. The National Election Commission made this notification via a motion on Monday (20).The NEC on the 18th of January, and 10th of February gave an undertaking that it has taken steps according to the law to conduct the 2023 Local Government Election, and that it will continue to take steps according to the law to conduct the said election.However, the NEC had noted that after the said undertaking, circumstances have arisen which would prevent the Elections Commission from acting according to the circumstances entirely beyond the control of the Elections Commission.The motion filed by the NEC noted that the Treasury Secretary had informed he is unable to provide the necessary funds to conduct the said election.Furthermore, the Government Printer has informed the Elections Commission that she is unable to release the ballot papers for the elections until a sum of Rs.

Sri Lanka information Government prevention Department Provident Beyond

Rs. 42 Mn worth Kerala Cannabis found drifting in northern seas

Sri Lanka Navy seized over 128kg (wet weight) of Kerala cannabis, during a patrol carried out off the Karainagar Island in Jaffna on 19th February 2023.As an extension of constant naval search operations and patrols, SLNS Edithara II attached to the Northern Naval Command took hold of three traveling bags adrift at sea, whilst patrolling the sea area off the Karainagar Island on 19th February. The suspicious traveling bags contained 42 packages which had been stuffed with Kerala cannabis weighing about 128kg and 065g (wet weight). It is believed that the smugglers might have left behind the consignment being unable to fetch them ashore, as a result of constant naval search operations in the area.The gross street value of the stock of Kerala cannabis is believed to be over Rs.

Sri Lanka county Island travelers

Hatton tragedy: Death toll rises to three; Male victim found under ill-fated bus on Monday (20) morning.

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka Police said that the body of a man was discovered from the site of a tragic accident in Hatton.This increases the death toll from the accident in the Hulan-Wanguwa area in Hatton, along the Norton Bridge – Diyagala road on Sunday (19) evening, to three.Sri Lanka Police said that the body of a 30-year-old male was found under the ill-fated bus. Sri Lanka Police said a bus carrying pilgrims on a return journey from Adam's Peak met with the accident at around 9:30 PM.The bus had veered off the road and fallen into a 100 feet deep precipice in the Hulan-Wanguwa area in Hatton.The other two deceased were identified as women, and the injured were admitted to the Watawala Regional Hospital, and thereafter to the Nawalapitiya Teaching Hospital for further treatment.

Sri Lanka hospital death Man Discover

Court blocks SJB seniors from entering protest area

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Fort Magistrate issued an order on the General Secretary of the SJB, and several others preventing them from entering several areas including the President's Office, Finance Ministry and Galle Face from 2 PM to 7 PM on Monday (20).At the same time, Sri Lanka Police would be taking measures to prevent inconveniences from being caused to the public using the following roads.From Galle Face Round-About to N.S.A. Round-About in the Fort Police Jurisdiction.From N.S.A.

Sri Lanka president prevention BLOCK

Petition against Local Government election moved to 23rd February

COLOMBO (News 1st); A writ application filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Saliya Pieris Sri Lanka president Government

Indian Visa Center to resume operations from Monday (20)

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Indian High Commission in Colombo announced that the Indian Visa Center in Colombo will resume its normal operations for visa and other services from Monday, 20 February 2023.On the 15th of February, due to a security incident, visa application center, IVS Pvt. Ltd, Colombo was closed, and a source told News 1st that a break-in was reported and that a police investigation was launched.Sri Lanka Police said that a group had entered the premises and stolen a laptop, and two DVR devices.In addition, the robbers had also taken away cash from the premises as well.All visa applicants were requested to reschedule their appointments with IVS Pvt.

India Sri Lanka reports

Petition against LG Election to be taken up on Monday (20)

COLOMBO (News 1st); A writ application filed by Retired Sri Lanka Army Colonel W. M.

Sri Lanka Government

After economic recovery next year, Sri Lanka could decide future it wants via a ballot – President

Sri Lanka president

United States	Cases: 46 252 513 Deaths: 750 423 Recovered: 0
India	Cases: 34 321 025 Deaths: 459 652 Recovered: 0
Brazil	Cases: 21 835 785 Deaths: 608 235 Recovered: 0
United Kingdom	Cases: 9 215 683 Deaths: 141 607 Recovered: 0
Russia	Cases: 8 494 589 Deaths: 237 619 Recovered: 0