News

Retired Sri Lankan Army General Daya Ratnayake has joined forces with the main Opposition party, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB).

The retired General extended his support to the SJB after meeting Opposition and SJB Leader MP Sajith Premadasa today (Jan 29).

During the meeting, MP Premadasa appointed Daya Ratnayake as a senior advisor on public policy for SJB.

Daya Ratnayake served as Sri Lanka Ports Authority Chairman and as the Secretary for the Ministry of Industries under former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s government.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has urged all political parties to formulate a comprehensive plan for rebuilding the country, especially when gearing up for elections.

The President further emphasized that the nation’s economy has suffered due to the politics of promises.

President Wickremesinghe also urged political parties to unite for discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on potential alternative proposals.

He expressed readiness to extend an invitation to the Managing Director of the IMF to visit Sri Lanka for this crucial dialogue.

The President made the remarks while addressing the ‘International Customs Day’ celebrations at the Sri Lanka Customs headquarters in Colombo today.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s full statement:

“The Customs Department holds a significant historical position, being considered one of the oldest government departments in Sri Lanka. Historical records indicate that customs taxes were collected around 2000 years ago at the ancient port of Manthai. From the Anuradhapura era, through the Kotte era and into the Kandy era, customs revenue has played a pivotal role in the nation’s existence.

I express my gratitude to the Customs Department for their contribution in helping us overcome the economic crisis faced in 2022. Customs duties, VAT and income taxes stand as the three primary sources of income for nations globally. In the contemporary landscape of international trade agreements, regional trade agreements and free trade agreements, our focus should be on enhancing income. To achieve this, the current customs services need to operate with efficiency.

While we are unable to allocate additional staff to your department, your commendable performance highlights the potential for substantial revenue improvement. There is a considerable journey ahead, and the government is firmly committed to the comprehensive modernization of customs and other revenue departments, which includes the imminent introduction of new legislation.

This initiative is a crucial component of the measures undertaken to steer the country out of the economic crisis. The decisions made in 2023 have paved the way for recovery from the economic downturn of 2022, although the journey is on-going. By the end of this year, our aim is to elevate the country’s income to 12% of the GDP. By 2026, we target a further increase to 15%.

To achieve this, income must be generated from the existing economy, necessitating economic development. The pressing question today is how to facilitate this economic growth. The out-dated economic system is incapable of propelling the country forward. The reliance on daily loans led to the collapse of the country’s economy. It is imperative to overhaul this economic system for sustainable progress.

We are still grappling with challenging times. In 2021, we faced shortages of essential goods, including medicine, fertilizer and fuel. Today, these necessities are available, with associated costs. The Cost of living is still felt by everyone. Economic development is crucial to alleviating these issues. While it is a wish that the economic damage of 2022 could be swiftly undone, the reality is that we need to transition to a new economy.

To stimulate economic growth, we must focus on a competitive market, bolster exports, and increase foreign exchange reserves. An agreement with Thailand is set to be signed on February 3rd, marking an opportunity for collaboration. While Thailand shares a Theravada Buddhist heritage with Sri Lanka, our respective economic paths have diverged, leading to discernible differences today.

Our actions today shape the future economy of our country. It necessitates thoughtful consideration and discussion. Political parties should engage in meaningful dialogue, especially when preparing for elections, understanding the intricacies of addressing the country’s challenges.

It is imperative to carefully consider the future trajectory of our nation’s economy through open discussions. Political parties should engage in thorough deliberations, articulating strategic steps to address the challenges facing our country. Achieving solutions demands thoughtful discourse and a united commitment to charting a realistic economic path forward. Our emphasis should be on comprehensive discussions, steering away from impractical endeavours—symbolized by the metaphorical notion of bringing rice from the moon. Continuous evaluation and, when needed, adaptation of existing programs should be integral to our on-going conversation and collective dedication to progress.

Our country has recently entered into an agreement with the International Monetary Fund, a pact signed by numerous countries, including 15-20 others. It is an agreement we cannot simply walk away from, necessitating collective discussion and consideration. However, the unfortunate reality is that our political landscape often resembles the fleeting nature of “papadam” —put in the pan, enjoyed when it blooms, and soon forgotten. The cycle repeats, with new issues emerging, gaining momentary attention, and eventually fading into oblivion.

We raised concerns on social media, vehemently opposing certain drafts, only to witness them become law despite public outcry. The Anti-Terrorism Act is now looming on the horizon, met with similar protests, yet risks being consigned to collective amnesia. Similarly, the introduction of the TRC Act sparked fears about the demise of free education, but these worries, too, eventually dissipated. This cyclical nature of political discourse has contributed to the challenges our country currently faces, a reality we must not lose sight of.

We must have the strength to transcend our current predicament, recognizing that this decision impacts not only our own future but also that of our children. Hence, I urge all political party leaders in parliament to engage in discussions regarding our stance on the agreement with the IMF and whether any amendments are deemed necessary.

Following these discussions, I am willing to extend an invitation to the Managing Director of the IMF to participate in a collective dialogue here. Let us collaboratively explore different perspectives and propose modifications if deemed beneficial. While the amendment process is open for consideration, it is imperative to acknowledge the existing agreement and work towards its implementation.

The government received notification that the vessel “Lorenzo Putha 4” previously lost in the Arabian Sea, has been successfully rescued by the Seychelles Coast Guard.

The Seychelles Navy officially communicated this information to the Chief of Presidential Staff and National Security Advisor Sagala Ratnayaka, today (29).

The multi-day fishing trawler “Lorenzo Putha 4” commenced its maiden voyage from the Dikovita fishing harbour on January 12, carrying six fishermen.

According to the Department of Fisheries, the vessel was hijacked by Somali pirates in the Arabian Sea, approximately 1,160 nautical miles from land.

Consequently, the Sri Lanka Navy informed the Combined Maritime Forces, consisting of 40 countries located in Bahrain, to investigate the missing vessel.

The Seychelles Coast Guard initiated a special operation to locate the “Lorenzo Putha 4,” successfully finding the vessel in the possession of Somali pirates.

In a commendable effort, the Seychelles Coast Guard arrested three Somali pirates, and all six fishermen aboard the “Lorenzo Putha 4” were safely rescued.

Under the guidance of National Security Advisor Sagala Ratnayaka, operations have been launched to bring the fishing vessel back to the country.

The Sri Lanka Navy, with special supervision, is overseeing this operation, and the Seychelles Coast Guard has informed that the vessel is currently en route to Victoria Port in Seychelles.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, addressing the 30th Annual General Meeting of the Lanka Confectionary Manufacturers Association (LCMA) on Wednesday (24) at Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo emphasized the potential for Sri Lanka to become a global player in the confectionery industry. He encouraged Sri Lankan confectioners to expand their horizons and tap into international markets.

Acknowledging the success of Sri Lankan teas and cinnamon globally, the President posed the question, “How long before I can take chocolates and go?” He also encouraged the confectioners to explore the export market for chocolates, the President’s Media Division (PMD) said in a statement.

The President emphasized the significance of positioning Sri Lankan chocolates as a world-class product, similar to the renowned reputation of the country’s tea and cinnamon. His encouragement aimed to inspire the confectionery industry to embark on a journey towards global recognition and market presence.

Reflecting on the industry’s history, the President praised the pioneers and highlighted the growth and resilience of the vibrant confectionery sector. He expressed optimism about the potential for Sri Lankan chocolates to become globally recognized. The President urged the confectioners to explore new markets and export their products. He further noted the limitations for expansion within the country and suggested looking beyond borders, citing the success of the Kandos factory in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia in 1978.

Addressing economic challenges, President Wickremesinghe acknowledged the ongoing negotiations for an additional 20 years to address the economic crisis. However, he stressed the need for a sustainable solution and highlighted the importance of export-oriented strategies to overcome financial hurdles. He advocated for increased exports and identified the confectionery industry, particularly chocolates, as having the potential for international recognition.

President Wickremesinghe encouraged the confectionery industry to explore intercropping with cocoa, citing state plantations in Matale, Kandy, Mawathagama, and Dodangaslanda for potential expansion. He mentioned plans to collaborate with smallholders and discussions with the governments of Ghana and Ivory Coast for access to cocoa, the PMD mentioned.

The President outlined broader initiatives, including leasing state-owned plantations to Sri Lankan companies or Sri Lankan companies with foreign shareholders for the development of the food industry, encompassing confectionery. Virtually all the lands owned by Chilaw and Kurunegala plantation plus Elkaduwa with JEDB and SPC. He disclosed plans for modernizing agriculture, enhancing competitiveness through the National Productivity Commission and upgrading trade agreements with India and Thailand.

President Wickremesinghe pledged government support, including Rs. 8 billion for research and development, to foster a thriving confectionery industry urging collaboration, innovation and expansion into various areas of the food industry positioning it as a “low hanging fruit” for economic growth.

Acknowledging the substantial contributions of pioneering founders and manufacturers in the confectionery industry to the development of the Sri Lankan economy, President Wickremesinghe presented awards to esteemed individuals. Recipients of these awards included Mr. Hinni Appuhamy, Founder of Maliban Group; Mr. Arthur Von. Possner, Founder of Ceylon Cold Stores (Elephant House); Mr. Junius Motha, Founder of Motha; Deshamanya Mineka Wickremesinghe, Founder of Manchee; Mr. P.J.C Perera, Founder of Uswatte Group; Mr. Sinnasamy Muttiah, Founder of Luckyland; Mr. Upali Wijewardhena, Founder of Kandos; and Mr. Vidanage John Appuhami, Founder of Cherish.

Additionally, Chairman of the LCMA, Dr. Samitha Prerera, presented a special memento to the President.

During the event, Mr. Samitha Perera expressed gratitude for President Wickremesinghe’s substantial efforts in the economic recovery of Sri Lanka. He acknowledged the President’s presence as a source of courage and strength for the industry’s advancement. Mr. Perera appreciated the President’s endeavours to uplift the nation and emphasized the industry’s alignment with those efforts. Recognizing the challenges faced amid a tough macroeconomic environment, he affirmed the organization’s solidarity with the President. Mr. Perera underscored the pivotal role of increasing the country’s dollar income for sustaining current benefits.

Minister of Industrial and Health, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, accompanied by Secretary to the Ministry of Finance, Mahinda Siriwardena, Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. R.H.S. Sanarathunga and various officials from LCMA, graced the event, according to the PMD.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the suspension imposed against Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has been lifted, with immediate effect.

Issuing a statement in this regard on Sunday (28 Jan.), the ICC said “The ICC Board has been monitoring the situation since the suspension and are now satisfied that SLC are no longer in breach of membership obligations”.

Earlier today, Sports Minister Harin Fernando announced that the ICC Had lifted its ban on Sri Lanka.

Below is the full statement issued by the ICC:

On 10 November 2023, Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) were suspended for violation of responsibilities as an ICC Member, in particular, “the requirement to manage its affairs autonomously and ensure that there is no government interference in the governance, regulation and/or administration of cricket in Sri Lanka.”

The ICC Board met on 21 November and it was decided that Sri Lanka can continue to compete internationally both in bilateral cricket and ICC events, but the ongoing U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup was moved to South Africa, having initially been set to be played in Sri Lanka.

The ICC Board has been monitoring the situation since the suspension and are now satisfied that SLC are no longer in breach of membership obligations.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe visited the home of late State Minister Sanath Nishantha and condoled with his wife and four children today (25th).

The state minister died in a motor accident on the Airport Expressway in the early hours of Thursday.

Foremer President Mahinda Rajapaksa also visited the home.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe attended the Galle Literary Festival 2024 at the Galle Fort yesterday (27).

This international literary festival, featuring renowned authors, writers, journalists and publishers from around the world, resumed this year after a hiatus of several years.

Various activities, including workshops, discussions, and lectures, took place at the festival. President Wickremesinghe too participated in discussions with literary critics. He also visited book stalls and checked available books.

The Galle Literary Festival, which commenced on January 25, will conclude today, attracting a significant number of local and foreign tourists to the Galle and Koggala areas.

The Online Safety Bill is to be taken up for debate in Parliament today after 83 MPs voted in favour of debating the bill, while 50 MPs had voted against it.

Accordingly, the Second Reading Debate of the proposed Online Safety Bill will continue in the Parliament today (Jan 23).

Although the relevant debate was scheduled to be held in Parliament today, the parliamentary session which commenced at 09.30 am, took a 10-minute adjournment to convene a party leaders meeting for discussions on the proposed Online Safety Bill on the request of all Parliamentarians belonging to the Opposition.

Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa had requested for a Party Leaders meeting before the Online Safety Bill is taken up for debate, following which the Speaker adjourned Parliament for 10 minutes.

A vote was then taken in Parliament on whether or not to take up the proposed Online Safety Bill will be taken up for debate.

(Ada Derana)

Leader of Mawbima Janatha Party (MJP) Dilith Jayaweera has reacted to speculation that his party was going to ally with the president.

Addressing a party meeting in Anuradhapura yesterday (27), Jayaweera said Ranil Wickremesinghe would be the last person with whom he would form a union if such a thing happens at all.

He rejected Wickremesinghe’s remarks about developing the country by 2048 as an ‘empty slogan.’

“I am telling his crony Red brothers who try show it to be true that what we do is politics of honesty and love devoid of any hatred or mud-slinging.”

“We do straight politics. That is why, what I say about our party by making home-to-home visits is valid.”

Jayaweera renewed his call to NPP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake for an open dialogue, and hoped a positive exchange of ideas with him would be possible.

The MJP leader took examples from the western world and asked Dissanayake to come for a debate if he trusted his policies.

The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) has suspended its trade union action planned for tomorrow over the suspension of the Disturbance, Availability, and Transport (DAT) allowance for doctors.

The GMOA warned of launching an indefinite trade union action from 08.00 am after it was reported that the Director General of Health Services had issued a circular temporarily suspending the DAT allowance which was to be provided in the January salary.

However, the Director General of Health Services has issued directives in writing to the heads of health institutions to immediately revoke the decision.

The Director General of Health Services has also instructed to provide the DAT allowance via special vouchers to doctors who are not provided the allowance with their January salary.

Based on the decision of the Director General of Health Services, the GMOA has decided to suspend its indefinite trade union action planned for tomorrow.

The GMOA had decided to launch the trade union action after alleging that certain Financial Ministry officials were attempting to halt the payment of DAT allowance to doctors.

The Cabinet had recently approved to increase the DAT allowance by Rs. 35,000 for doctors only.

The Uma Oya project is expected to add 120 MW of electricity to the national grid by February 15th, State Minister of Irrigation, Shasheendra Rajapaksa announced.

The State Minister said that this marks a significant step towards improving Sri Lanka’s energy security.

He made the remark at a Press Briefing held today (Jan 26), where he outlined ambitious plans to increase the country’s electricity generation and food production in 2024.

The State Minister also revealed plans to utilize 31 identified reservoirs for floating solar power plants, with the potential to generate an additional 3077 MW of electricity. This innovative approach leverages existing infrastructure and resources to address the country’s growing energy needs.

He emphasized the Ministry of Irrigation’s commitment to enhancing food security, highlighting its role as a key contributor to national food production. He acknowledged the substantial budget allocation of Rs. 23,413 million for the Ministry, with Rs. 6,913 million dedicated to reservoir maintenance and Rs. 16,500 million earmarked for large-scale irrigation projects. This investment demonstrates the government’s prioritization of food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

State Minister Rajapaksa’s announcements indicate a future Sri Lanka powered by renewable energy and abundant food production. The Uma Oya project’s imminent completion and the ambitious plans for floating solar panels are promising steps towards energy independence. Additionally, the significant budget allocation for irrigation projects underscores the government’s commitment to food security and agricultural development. These initiatives offer hope for a brighter future for Sri Lanka’s economy and its people.

The Mahaweli Development Authority has received a significant boost with a local fund allocation of Rs. 4,678 million. Agriculture takes the lion’s share with Rs. 1,590 million, followed by Rs. 930 million dedicated to livestock development. These investments aim to revitalize Sri Lanka’s rural economy and enhance food security.

The Ministry of Irrigation continues to spearhead large-scale multipurpose development projects, largely funded by foreign loans. One such project, the Uma Oya project, is nearing completion and is expected to contribute 120 MW of electricity capacity to the national grid by February 15. This marks a significant step towards increasing Sri Lanka’s energy independence.

The government is placing strong emphasis on renewable energy sources like solar and hydropower. Several special programs are underway this year to integrate these sources into the national grid. Notably, the initiative to utilize solar cells on land, surface, and water, showcases the commitment to innovative solutions for a sustainable energy future, he said.

The State Minister pointed out that in essence, these initiatives highlight Sri Lanka’s multi-pronged approach to rural development, infrastructure upgrade, and clean energy solutions. The combined efforts of the Mahaweli Development Authority and the Ministry of Irrigation, coupled with the focus on renewable energy, promise a brighter future for the country’s economic and environmental well-being.

The Mahaweli Water Security Investment Program has undertaken significant infrastructure projects to address water scarcity issues in Sri Lanka. In collaboration with the Uma Oya project, this program aims to provide irrigation for both existing and new paddy fields.

One key initiative is the restoration of the Minipe Canal. Its embankment has been raised by 3.5 meters, significantly increasing its capacity. Additionally, the program is constructing the North-West Provincial Canal, a 90-kilometer long canal utilizing an 11-kilometer tunnel, further expanding water distribution capabilities.

The program is exploring the potential of solar power generation by identifying 31 reservoirs suitable for floating solar panels. This effort, involving both the Sri Lanka Mahaweli Authority and the Irrigation Department, could harness 2524 MW of power from 14 Mahaweli Authority reservoirs and 553 MW from 17 Irrigation Department reservoirs. These initiatives, all implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Power and Energy, hold great promise for enhancing water security and sustainable energy production in Sri Lanka, he said.

The State Minister of Irrigation further said that the North Central Grand Canal brings life-giving water to both people and crops. It ensures year-round irrigation for 7 main tanks and 350 smaller ones, boosting agricultural productivity and food security. Moreover, clean drinking water now reaches 185,000 people, a testament to prioritizing their well-being.

Furthering this commitment to rural development, the World Bank has provided USD 25 million to empower farmers. This investment strengthens farmer organizations, equipping them with the tools and resources to thrive economically, creating a ripple effect that bolsters national food security. The Grand Canal, therefore, stands as a symbol of progress, nourishing both the land and its people, he added.

Health Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana announced a staggering 91% vaccination rate for measles among children, a crucial step in combating a recent resurgence of the disease after eradication. This achievement demonstrates the country’s dedication to proactive healthcare, he said.

Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, Dr. Pathirana outlined further health priorities for 2024. Disease prevention takes centre stage, with plans to bolster primary healthcare services and improve efficiency for patients. Prompt access to essential resources is also a key focus, he stressed.

However, tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remains a major challenge. Over 20% of Sri Lankans battle diabetes, and the country holds the dubious distinction of having the highest prevalence of high blood pressure among over-35s in South Asia. Addressing these concerns and their associated complications like heart disease and stroke is critical for Sri Lanka’s long-term health, the minister said.

Amidst a rapidly aging population, Sri Lanka is proactively addressing the rise of non-communicable diseases like memory impairment, eye diseases, and bone diseases through dedicated programs. Dengue fever, another pressing concern, is being tackled with special efforts, seeking increased public collaboration alongside support from health and security departments, he emphasized.

“Combatting the rapid spread of dengue fever is a top priority, and we’re calling for all hands on deck! While we’re working closely with health and security departments, public cooperation is crucial to curbing this outbreak”, the minister said.

“Following a concerning rise in measles cases in Sri Lanka, we launched targeted programs and successfully vaccinated 91% of children in a matter of weeks, effectively shielding them from this preventable disease.”

Recognizing the existing drug shortage, the government is actively importing essential medicines, with shortages gradually decreasing. “Imagine a medical supply system free from opaqueness; we’re working with the IT Departments of Moratuwa and Colombo Universities to develop an online platform that will bring transparency and efficiency to the entire supply and procurement process,” Minister Pathirana added.

-PMD-