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Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera has condemned the statement made by Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) Spokesman Noel Priyantha, claiming that electricity was not a must for children to study, as an oil lamp was sufficient.

Noel Priyantha made the statement during a talk show with a local media channel recently, which had been in response to a question on the difficulties faced by children from the estate sector due to the disconnection of power supply due to unsettled bills.

Commenting on the matter, Minister of Power and Energy Kanchana Wijesekera said the CEB Spokesman has tendered his resignation from the post and has also issued a public apology for his statement.

Taking to ‘X’, the minister further said that the CEB management will also take appropriate steps regarding the statement made.

Stating that the statement does not reflect the views of the government or the CEB, Minister Wijesekera extended his apology on behalf of the Ministry and the CEB.

“I agree with the sentiments of @JeevanThondaman and many more that had raised the lack of empathy and professionalism in the statement made by the CEB spokesperson,” he added.

His comments come in response to a statement shared on ‘X’ by Minister of Estate Infrastructure Development and Water Supply Jeevan Thondaman on the matter.

In his statement, Minister Thondaman highlighted that the ‘entire’ statement made by the CEB spokesperson lacked empathy and was unacceptable.

“I trust that @kanchana_wij will take necessary steps to address this as I do not believe that the Hon. Minister shares the same view as the official,” he added.

During the 37th session of the Asia and Pacific Regional Conference (APRC) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced Sri Lanka’s Chairmanship till 2026.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe affirmed the government’s dedication to elevating Sri Lanka as a prominent exporter of agricultural produce through rapid agricultural sector transformation. He emphasized the pivotal role agriculture played in navigating Sri Lanka through the previous economic crisis and highlighted agriculture and tourism as key sectors for the nation’s swift recovery.

These remarks were made during the opening session of the 37th United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s Asia and Pacific Conference in Colombo today (20), attended by Dr. Qu Dongyu, Director General of the UN FAO.

The conference, which commenced on the 19thof February in Colombo with the participation of diplomats and representatives from 34 countries including the United States, China, and Russia, will conclude tomorrow (21). Sri Lanka’s presidency of the Asia-Pacific region of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, succeeding Bangladesh’s hosting in 2022, will extend from now until 2026.

Sri Lanka, having previously hosted the 2nd conference in 1955, is now hosting it again after a span of 69 years. Approximately 70% of the Asia-Pacific region’s population relies on agriculture. This year’s conference, themed “Transformation of the Agro-Food System,” will delve into key areas such as promoting nutritious food production, ensuring food security, enhancing food production, safeguarding the environment, curbing greenhouse gas emissions, and mitigating climate change risks.

Following the conference’s opening session, President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in a group photo with foreign ministers and delegates before engaging in discussions with attending agriculture ministers.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the vital role of the Food and Agriculture Organization in bolstering food security, fostering sustainable agricultural production, and advancing resilient small-scale agricultural systems aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals in the Asia-Pacific region.

Highlighting agriculture’s pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s economic transformation, President Ranil Wickremesinghe outlined the country’s forthcoming initiatives.

He further said;

“Despite recent economic challenges, including fertilizer shortages and foreign exchange constraints in 2022, Sri Lanka is now moving towards stability. Anticipating the finalization of debt restructuring agreements, Sri Lanka aims to emerge from its economic crisis and transition towards a revitalized economy, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts beyond mere stabilization.

When assessing our economy, agriculture emerges as a sector capable of delivering swift results, closely followed by tourism.

Fortunately, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) facilitated the procurement of fertilizer, thereby bolstering our agricultural capabilities.

As a result, as we approached the main cultivation season in April 2023, we found ourselves out of jeopardy, enjoying a bountiful season. This instilled confidence in our ability to progress.

The absence of domestic food production would have precipitated another crisis this year, but fortune favoured us. Anticipating a bountiful harvest this April and a subsequent yield by year-end, agriculture has undeniably played a pivotal role in navigating this economic challenge.

Recognizing agriculture’s potential to drive sustained national development, it is imperative for every country to acknowledge its significance and prioritize its advancement.

Another critical factor contributing to the crisis we faced is the trade balance deficit. Historically, we’ve struggled to maintain a favourable trade balance and have accrued a substantial amount of foreign debt that seems insurmountable within current repayment agreements.

Consequently, our country requires a comprehensive economic transformation guided by three key principles: competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and digitalization.

With a rich agricultural and export heritage spanning over 2000 years, Sri Lanka initially thrived on rice and grain exports, supported by our advanced irrigation systems.

Traditionally, wealth wasn’t derived directly from land ownership but from control over water reservoirs in our ancient irrigated civilization. Following its decline, we transitioned to the wet zone, where spices became a prominent export until the decline in prices during British rule prompted a shift to tea, coconut, and rubber cultivation. Despite India and Sri Lanka maintaining dominance in these sectors globally, our agricultural development has been neglected.

In 1972, large estates were dismantled, capping land ownership at 50 acres, while initiatives like the Mahaweli scheme allocated vast acreage for cultivation, supported by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. However, progress was impeded by the conflict.

Efforts to revitalize and expand our agricultural sector are imperative for sustainable economic growth and development.

Even after neglecting the plantation industry for some time, we must now re-engage with it. It’s imperative that we put in the necessary effort. Our goal is to regain our status as a country that exports agricultural products. This objective is being thoroughly studied.

We can draw inspiration from our friendly country, Thailand, which currently maintains a robust agricultural export economy. Let’s take cues from their success. Our first step is to restructure the existing system and involve the private sector.

Additionally, we are prioritizing the adoption of modern agricultural techniques in our country. This is crucial for our agricultural sector’s advancement, even though it may take 10 to 15 years to fully implement. However, our aim is to expedite this process and achieve our goals within a decade. We are actively introducing the latest agricultural practices to our nation.

Yet, we face another challenge: the exodus of young people from rural areas to urban centres, resulting in a decline in traditional agricultural participation. Introducing smart agricultural practices to rural communities can help retain youth in villages. To address this, we have consolidated the Ministry of Agriculture, previously divided into three ministries, under one minister, to prioritize this issue. Moreover, we have initiated restructuring efforts within related institutions. Our primary focus is to ensure that farmers receive quality service.

Furthermore, we are endeavouring to transform agrarian service centres nationwide into modernization hubs for agriculture. To achieve this goal, we are actively seeking contributions from both the public and private sectors.

In addition, we recognize the need to address gaps in the purchase of agricultural products, establish new supply chains and develop cold storage facilities. Many of these essential facilities are currently unavailable in Sri Lanka, so we are committed to bringing them to fruition. This transformative initiative will significantly impact the agricultural sector.

Moreover, we have initiated the largest privatization effort in the country’s history. As part of this initiative, we are facilitating access to land for farmers, including previously unused land within the Mahaweli scheme. These lands are being made available to individuals interested in engaging in modern agriculture, marking the beginning of a new era in farming practices.

Since 1935, we have allocated land to farmers under the Land Development Ordinance, providing them with licenses rather than legal ownership. To rectify this, we are granting freehold ownership of these lands to the farmers. This year alone, over a million farmers will receive freehold deeds to their land.

Additionally, we have initiated efforts to enhance the animal husbandry sector, particularly focusing on milk production. Currently, each animal produces only 2 litres of milk. However, we are determined to increase this yield. To achieve this, we are finalizing an agreement with Amul to collaborate with the government-owned MILCO.

Our goal is to rear 2 million animals capable of producing 10 litres of milk per day, significantly boosting milk production and revitalizing the animal industry.

As a result, we anticipate obtaining 20 million litres of milk solely through this initiative, benefiting around two hundred thousand farmers. Moreover, several other companies are stepping forward to contribute to this endeavour.

Companies such as Nestlé, Fonterra and Ambewela Farming, alongside other institutions, have significantly increased milk production to approximately 28 litres per animal. This concerted effort is expected to substantially augment milk production in the country.

Additionally, we are prioritizing the promotion of both freshwater and saltwater fishing industries in Sri Lanka. Through various strategic plans, Sri Lanka aims to make significant contributions to global food security.

While contemplating the global population projection for 2050, it’s important to acknowledge that we may not be present at that time. Nevertheless, it’s anticipated that the population will surge by 500 to 600 million individuals from Iran to Indonesia. This growth is expected to coincide with an overall improvement in living standards and income levels for everyone. Conversely, countries in Africa, particularly East and South Africa, will face significant food demand, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to address future food security challenges.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka is demonstrating a strong commitment to combating climate change. To this end, we have proposed two initiatives, one of which aims to designate the tropical region, including the Indian Ocean, as a carbon-absorbing zone.

Encouraging private sector investments in grasslands and forests within our respective countries is essential. We must approach this pragmatically, acknowledging that countries like the UK may not fund projects in Mali, nor would Finland necessarily provide funding to Sri Lanka. Nevertheless, we are actively working to attract investment from various sources.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to establish a climate change university in Sri Lanka, with the necessary land already identified for this purpose. Discussions are on-going with the Republic of South Korea regarding the commencement of building construction and numerous other stakeholders have shown interest in participating in this endeavour. Additionally, there are plans to consolidate all agricultural research centres in Sri Lanka under the umbrella of the Agricultural Technology University.

Amidst these initiatives, we are hopeful for the support of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UNFAO) for the government’s program aimed at facilitating the rapid transformation of agriculture in our country.

Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries Mahinda Amaraweera:

I am honoured to address you once more as the Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries of Sri Lanka. I extend my sincere gratitude for your active participation and steadfast commitment to our shared goals. Our journey in agriculture began with great dedication in 1954, and it fills me with pride to see Sri Lanka chairing this conference for the second time in 69 years. The dynamic atmosphere of this hall reflects our collective determination to tackle the challenges of food security, sustainable agriculture and development. I must express appreciation for the support provided by the Honourable President and the UNFAO during the crisis that significantly impacted Sri Lanka’s agriculture in 2022.

I am confident that the outcomes of our discussions and collaborations during this conference, combined with our mutual dedication to sustainable agriculture and rural development, will pave the way for a prosperous future for the Asia-Pacific region.

Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO) Dr. Qu Dongyu:

The relationship between Sri Lanka and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) spans several decades, with Sri Lanka becoming a member in the 1950s. In 1979, the first representative office of the FAO was established in Sri Lanka. Recognizing Sri Lanka’s significant potential in agriculture, agroforestry and aquaculture, I am privileged to engage in discussions with the President of Sri Lanka regarding the challenges faced in these sectors. The strong guidance provided by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, along with the program aimed at modernizing agriculture in rural areas, presents innovative ideas that can truly make a difference. We are committed to offering our support in this regard

Present at the event were Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Ali Sabry, PC, Douglas Devananda, State Ministers D. B. Herat, Mohan Priyadarshana de Silva, Lohan Ratwatte, Kader Masthan, Ministry Secretaries, government officials, delegates from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO), as well as local and foreign diplomats.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has emphasized the restructuring of vocational education to align with the demands of the modern world, ensuring that the youth of the country are equipped to excel in the competitive global job market.

The President further outlined plans to consolidate all vocational training institutes in Sri Lanka into a single vocational college, offering contemporary subject-related courses.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe conveyed these initiatives during his observation tour at the Ratmalana Lalith Athulathmudali Vocational Training Centre today (Feb 22), where he engaged in discussions with students.

Established in honour of Lalith Athulathmudali, this institution, presently under the National Youth Service Council, offers a spectrum of vocational technology courses, including motor mechanics, information technology, 3D planning and designing, language studies, preschool teaching, beauty culture and other contemporary programs essential for the evolving job market.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), during his visit, the President toured the classrooms, engaging with students to inquire about their education and well-being. He also participated in a brief discussion with the students, addressing their queries.

In response to a question regarding opportunities for Sri Lankan youth in the realm of modern technology, the President highlighted the country’s swift digital transformation, emphasizing the prioritization of advancements such as Artificial Intelligence (AI). He expressed optimism about Sri Lanka’s trajectory in embracing evolving technologies.

Meanwhile, in response to a student’s request to establish her own preschool after completing her studies, the President assured that the government would also focus on supporting such initiatives as part of the program to advance preschool education.

The President also penned a commemorative note in the guest book at the Vocational Training Centre and posed for a group photograph with the students.

Following this, he engaged in cordial discussions with the students, taking the opportunity to snap a few ‘selfies’ with them.

Sugeeswara Bandara today (20) resigned from his position as private secretary to former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

In his resignation letter to Rajapaksa, Bandara says he has decided to join with a new political programme for an undefeated country.

Bandara has been involved with New Alliance by the Nimal Lanza faction and that caused the ex-president to come under pressure from his own family to remove him.

Bandara has now accepted the position of Colombo district organizer of the New Alliance.

Together with district leader Susil Premajayantha, he has taken up the organizing of a public rally at Hyde Park on 24 February.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe graced the inaugural ceremony of the 10th National Scout Jamboree held at the Koneswara Hindu Vidyalaya Stadium in Trincomalee today (Feb 21), as Sri Lanka’s Chief Scout.

Addressing the event organized by the Sri Lanka Scout Association, the President underscored the potential of Sri Lankans to steer the nation towards rapid development and fortify its security for future generations through unified efforts.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), emphasizing the inclusive nature of the event, the President highlighted that participation in the National Scout Jamboree transcends divisions of caste and religion.

He articulated that unity among Sri Lankans, spanning from the North to the South and from Colombo to Trincomalee, is pivotal in accomplishing shared objectives.

President Wickremesinghe pledged his support for the expansion of the Scout Association, noting its role in nurturing responsible citizens essential for the country.

Furthermore, he announced the plans to facilitate collaboration between the Scout Association and the Ministry of Technology, underscoring the importance of leveraging interactions across sectors for national development.

The 10th National Scout Jamboree, themed “Leadership for Change,” is a week-long National Jamboree, held from February 20th to 26th. It has drawn a crowd of 11,500 scouts and scout leaders from both local and international arenas.

Notably, this edition of the jamboree witnesses the participation of a delegation from the Girl Guide Association for the first time, alongside the inclusion of Cub Scouts, enhancing the event’s significance.

The arrival of President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the 10th National Scout Jamboree was met with a warm welcome from the Chief Commissioner of Sri Lanka Scouts, Attorney-at-Law Janaprith Fernando, who also presented the President with a belt and the medal.

In commemoration of this occasion, a special stamp was issued for the National Scout Jamboree, and the souvenirs created at the district level, including the main souvenir were presented to the President.

In a symbolic gesture marking the introduction of the new uniform for the Sri Lanka Scout Association, President Ranil Wickremesinghe presented it to the Chief Scout Commissioner, Janaprith Fernando.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, serving as the Chief Scout of Sri Lanka, was also honoured with Jamboree souvenirs and commemorative gifts during the ceremony.

Subsequently, the President actively engaged in observing the camps established at the 10th National Scout Jamboree.

The Jamboree boasts participation from scouts representing 28 countries, including America, Australia, Canada, Sweden, Austria, England, France, Portugal, India, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Each day of the jamboree features a diverse array of practical activities for the scouts, including firework displays and cultural shows. Notably, the jamboree is open to the public starting today (21), from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Emphasising the significance of the 10th Scout Jamboree held in Trincomalee, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further said that this is a gathering where scouts and girl guides from all corners of Sri Lanka converge.

“Today, you are not representing your individual schools, religions, or nations; rather, you all are standing here united as Sri Lankan scouts. We are all Sri Lankans.

“First and foremost, I extend my gratitude to each one of you present here. Your presence today signifies the weaving of a strong bond that stretches from Point Pedro to Dondra Point. Moreover, it fosters a friendship bridging Colombo and Trincomalee. Your unity is paramount, as it will propel this jamboree to fulfil a unique mission.

“From the Scout Movement emerges a group of exemplary citizens, a necessity for our nation. Upon assuming the role of Chief Scout, I queried the Chief Scout Commissioner about the feasibility of expanding our membership to 200,000. Receiving an affirmative response, it became evident that collective efforts are required to fortify this scout movement,” he said.

The President further revealed that looking ahead, the organization’s aim extends to reaching a membership of 250,000.

“However, the hurdle lies in resource scarcity. It’s noteworthy that upon achieving the 200,000 target, additional funding is anticipated to sustain this endeavour. However, a carefully crafted plan is essential.

“Furthermore, these movements serve as conduits for spreading new knowledge and technology. By the upcoming National Scout Jamboree next year, we anticipate integrating artificial intelligence into our programs. Leveraging the scout movement as a platform for knowledge distribution, I envision collaborating with the Ministry of Technology to provide opportunities for advancement.

“We extend our support to integrate fields like agricultural modernization and environmental protection into the scout movement. We urge you to fulfil your duty to the country through scouting. You have done so thus far, and we expect even greater dedication in the future,” he said.

Stating that It’s not just scouts, but everyone who must fulfil their duty to the nation, he added that the question remains whether all of us will step up.

“The main concern lies in whether those in politics will fulfil their obligations. Two years ago, we endured immense hardships. There were shortages of electricity, fuel, and fertilizers for farming. Many struggled to have three meals a day. Our nation faced severe economic distress, verging on bankruptcy. However, we are slowly recovering from that crisis. While we have provided some relief to the people, challenges persist. Yet, to ensure the triumph of our nation, we must persevere on this path.

“After steering the country away from bankruptcy, our next collective responsibility is to construct a nation that ensures such dire circumstances never recur. The pressing question before us is whether the politicians are prepared for this challenge at present.

“Hence, I implore everyone to embark on this journey together. With united efforts, we can forge a brighter future for our country within the next 10-15 years. Let us consider it our duty to the forthcoming generations of our nation.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the participants of the National Scout Jamboree,” he added.

Governor of the Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman, Member of Parliament Kapila Athukorala, Jamboree Leader Chief Scout Commissioner Attorney-At-Law Janaprith Fernando, Asia Pacific Vice President and World Scout Movement representative Simon Han Bok Rhee, Scout Camp Organizing Commissioner Sarath Matararachchi, National Training Commissioner Colonel Padmalal Perera, Sri Lanka Girl Guide Association Chief Commissioner Kushantha Herath, Deputy Jamboree Leader, Deputy Commissioner M.F.S. Muheed and others were also present on this occasion.

The 14th round of discussions related to the India – Sri Lanka Economic and Trade Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) is scheduled to be held on the first week of March 2024.

According to the government, the 13th round of discussions related to the proposed cooperation agreement was held in New Delhi for 10 days from January 08.

The nine sub–committees responsible for ‘goods trade’, ‘introduction, general provisions and general exceptions’, ‘service trade’, ‘rules of the origin’, ‘customs procedure and easing the trade’, ‘measurements for sanitation and sanitation of vegetation’, ‘technical constraints for trade’, ‘trade accords’ and ‘economic and technological cooperation’ had entered into discussions.

The subcommittee on conflict solving and final provisions has scheduled to conduct their discussions at the end of this month (Feb) in New Delhi.

Thereby, the Cabinet took into consideration the information presented by the President concerning the current situation of the proposed ETCA.

Patali Champika Ranawaka is unqualified for the position of presidency, said his one-time political buddy Udaya Gammanpila.

It is pointless for someone who could not poll the highest votes from Colombo to contest for the country’s top position, said Gammanpila at ‘Ira Hari Kelin’ political talk-show on Swarnavahini.

Further, he is an abuser of power, shows no management skills, behaves like a thug and is shortsighted in politics, he charged.

Ranawaka has declared his readiness to accept the challenge as a presidential candidate.

He was participating in ‘360’ programme of Derana TV on 19 February.

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) MP Janaka Wakkumbura was sworn in as the State Minister of Provincial Councils, Local Government, and Environment today (Feb 20).

Janaka Wakkumbura took oaths before President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), this appointment supplements his existing role as the State Minister of Provincial Councils and Local Government.

Plans are in place to reduce the electricity tariff by nearly 20 percent through the new proposals of the Ceylon Electricity Board.

The new proposal is due to be submitted to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka on Thursday (22).

When inquired by News 1st on how the CEB, which proposed to reduce electricity tariffs by 3.4 percent, increased the percentage through the new proposal, CEB Spokesperson Engineer Noel Priyantha said it could only be done by reducing the maintenance cost.

He said in the recent past due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the economic crisis, the CEB was unable to import spare parts required for maintenance, due to the inability to open Letters of Credit.

Priyantha said the engineers are working to gather the required parts, adding they will carry out essential maintenance work and delay other activities, following discussions with the manufacturer.

The PUCSL informed the CEB to submit a new proposal following the public consultation held on the 15th of February regarding the revision of the electricity tariff.

Education Minister Dr. Susil Premajayantha announced the initiation of a pilot project for digitizing education scheduled to commence in March. He also confirmed the dispatch of school textbooks for the year 2024 for distribution.

These remarks were made during his address at a press briefing titled ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country,’ held today (19) at the Presidential Media Center (PMC).

The Education Minister elaborated further, noting that all school textbooks pertinent to the year 2024 have been dispatched to distribution stations, ensuring complete coverage. Plans are in place to finalize their distribution at the school level by the first of March, with an expenditure totalling Rs. 12,000 million allocated for this purpose.

Furthermore, the Minister highlighted the collaboration with the Chinese government, which has facilitated the acquisition of 80% of the required cloth for school children’s uniforms, amounting to Rs. 05 billion. Distribution of these materials is currently underway, with the remaining 20% expected to arrive imminently.

Additionally, efforts are underway to prepare school timetables and term notes for the current year. The Minister affirmed that arrangements are being made to conduct the G.C.E. (A/L) level examination as scheduled by the end of the year. Schools will receive detailed instructions regarding these activities via a circular within the next two to three weeks, ensuring smooth implementation.

Various individuals have raised concerns about children’s absence from school, citing data from the Ministry of Health indicating a decrease in school enrolments due to a decline in the birth rate, amounting to 0.17%. This trend highlights a significant factor contributing to the issue.

Additionally, the Minister of Education addressed the shortage of teachers, attributing it to legal proceedings. One such case involves a restraining order halting teacher recruitment, resulting in a delay of up to 10 months in filling vacancies. Should the court reach a decision within the next two weeks, there is optimism for expedited resolution and swift filling of the 20,000 teacher vacancies, significantly impacting children’s education.

Moreover, there are 13,500 provincial-level teacher vacancies due to educators leaving the service and relocating abroad. Legal proceedings, however, have impeded recruitment efforts, with a case filed in the Court of Appeal regarding these vacancies. Pending a court decision, authorities express readiness to swiftly address the issue and proceed with necessary recruitments.

Furthermore, as per the teachers’ service constitution, examinations for science and technology level vacancies are scheduled for the first week of March, with recruitment expected to conclude by the end of the month. Additionally, a budget allocation of Rs. 16 billion has been earmarked for school lunches, complemented by agreements signed with USAID to provide meals to 200,000 children.

Moreover, initiatives have commenced to engage parents through class meetings, beginning today, aimed at offering guidance. These consultations focus on raising awareness and ensuring protection, covering topics such as road safety, drug prevention, and safeguarding against various forms of abuse.

Furthermore, plans have been put in place to launch career and technology guidance courses from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. across 300 centers nationwide, coinciding with the release of Advanced Level examination results.

Additionally, preparations are underway to commence a pilot project for the digitalization of education in March, with support from Microsoft for training teachers for the said purpose.

PMD

Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, engaged in discussions with President Ranil Wickremesinghe during an official visit to Sri Lanka.

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), the meeting, held at the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday (Feb 20), centred on key issues including the ongoing violence in Gaza and opportunities for enhancing bilateral cooperation.

President Wickremesinghe reiterated the Sri Lankan government’s firm stance on the Gaza conflict, emphasizing the immediate necessity for violence cessation and the urgent need for a peace settlement.

He underscored the principle that any peace agreement must be inclusive and not based solely on the demands of either side.

Additionally, the President proposed the establishment of a Palestinian State within a timeframe of five years, ensuring the security of both Palestine and Israel.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s strategic position in the Indian Ocean, President Wickremesinghe emphasized the nation’s commitment to ensuring Freedom of Navigation, particularly in the Persian Gulf.

He stressed the vital role of the Persian Gulf in the broader context of Indian Ocean security.

In response, Minister Amir-Abdollahian expressed Iran’s dedication to fostering tourism in Sri Lanka and strengthening cultural ties between the two nations.

He further conveyed Iran’s eagerness to explore avenues for expanded economic cooperation with Sri Lanka.

The PMD said the meeting between Minister Amir-Abdollahian and President Wickremesinghe signifies both countries’ commitment to addressing regional conflicts and advancing mutual interests through diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.

Accompanying President Wickremesinghe were Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake and Director of International Affairs Dinouk Colombage.

Published on: February 19, 2024 Student Parliamentarians of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya, Kadawatha met President The inaugural session of the Student Parliament of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya, Kadawatha was successfully held today (19) at the Presidential Secretariat. Following this, the students had an opportunity for a cordial interaction with President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The President summoned the children to the Cabinet chamber within the Presidential Secretariat and provided them with an overview of the Cabinet, its structure, and functions.

It marked a significant occasion as the school children engaged in discussion with the President, who presides over the Cabinet, where crucial national decisions are made.

Additionally, the President briefed the female students occupying ministerial roles in the Student Parliament about the duties, tasks, and responsibilities of the Cabinet.

Furthermore, the President emphasized the importance of fostering a strong understanding of the governmental system among the nation’s future generations.

In view of this momentous opportunity granted to the students of Mahamaya Balika Vidyalaya, Kadawatha, its Principal Mrs. W.R. Priyadarshanie conveyed her gratitude to President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

PMD