News

Sri Lankan Philosopher and Political Analyst Professor Nalin de Silva has passed away at the age of 79 years.

Professor Nalin de Silva also served as the Sri Lankan ambassador for Myanmar during President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s Government.

Cabinet approval has been granted concerning handing over the management of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport to selected private companies that have submitted their aspirations for this purpose.

Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal presented by the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation to entrust M/s Shaurya Aeronautics (Pvt.) Ltd of India and Airports of Regions Management Company of Russia or its affiliated entrepreneurships with the management of the Mattala Airport.

As per the Cabinet decision, the selected Indian and Russian firms will be entrusted with the management of the Mattala Airport for a period of 30 years as per the recommendations of the negotiation committee appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers.

According to the government, Cabinet approval was granted at their meeting held in January 2023 to call for aspirations from the parties interested in utilizing the facilities of Mattala Airport.

Aspirations were called, thereafter, and 05 institutions submitted their aspirations, after which the Cabinet consented to the proposal presented by the Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation.

The minimum daily wage in respect of the workers engaged in Tea Growing and Manufacturing Trade has been increased to Rs. 1,700.

A gazette extraordinary has been issued in this regard in pursuance of the powers conferred on the Commissioner General of Labour, by an order made by the Minister of Labour under section 33(1) (a) the Wages Boards Ordinance (Chapter 136).

Addressing a May Day rally held in Kotagala, President Ranil Wickremesinghe made this announcement and said this wage increment will come into effect from today (May 01).

Iran and Sri Lanka on Wednesday (24) signed five Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), aimed at bolstering bilateral relations between the two countries.

The MoUs signed will cover cooperation in film, media, tourism, cooperatives, libraries, and cultural, scientific, technical, and sports fields between the two countries –

PMD

Academic activities will immediately commence following the conclusion of the GCE Ordinary Level Examinations this year for students wishing to pursue the Advanced Level, Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha said.

Minister Premajayantha said that the measures are being taken as part of the Education Ministry’s efforts to cover the school academic syllabus that had been delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic.

He further said that it was also part of the Ministry’s measures to normalise the timeframe of state school examinations, such as the GCE Ordinary and Advanced Level Examinations in the future.

The Education Minister added that such steps were also being taken to prevent delays in university admissions for school children.

Powdered Milk Importers announced today that the price of powdered milk imported from New Zealand will see a significant reduction starting tomorrow, April 25th.

Customers can expect savings ranging from Rs.100 to Rs.140 on 400g packets, and Rs.250 to Rs.300 on 1kg packets.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the government’s aim to create a highly competitive, export-oriented economy based on market economy, expressing full faith in the business community of the country. He pointed out that the current challenge facing the nation is not about maintaining the executive presidential system but rather about building a robust economic framework.

The President underscored the importance of allowing the people to decide the country’s economic trajectory, highlighting that this opportunity should not be missed by anyone.

These remarks were made during his presence at the International Rotary District Conference 2023/24 of the District 3220 Club for Sri Lanka and Maldives held at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall in Colombo yesterday (26).

The district conference featured a keynote address by Mr. Palanivel Thiaga Rajan, Minister of Information Technology and Digital Services of Tamil Nadu, India.

District 3220 Rotary International for Sri Lanka and Maldives, established in 1929, comprises over 17,000 members. The club has been actively involved in numerous community and social welfare initiatives, as well as projects aimed at fostering social and economic development across the country. President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been a member of the District 3220 Colombo West International Rotary Club since 1994.

Addressing the gathering the President further said,

We are living at a time when Sri Lanka has reached a crossroads, deciding which path to take. This decision lies in the hands of the people of this country. Are we moving forward? Are we staying stagnant? Or do we wish to regress?

Allow me to recount an incident today when a young person asked me, “What plans do you have for the country? What plans do you have for the educated people? What plans do you have to develop the physical infrastructure?” To which I replied, “I have no fixed plans.” I can only envision a market economy where market forces will determine the course. Within that framework, we can establish policy guidelines, outline three or four-year programs, and adapt as needed.

Thinking of a rigid plan to spur growth seems implausible to me. We must understand how to influence market forces, perhaps even manipulate or direct them. If we aim to progress, we must first decide on the economic system we desire. Do we want a government-led approach, following a five-year plan? We’ve tried numerous plans in the past, yet remained impoverished. Vietnam, once poorer than us, changed its course after the war. The Minister of Industries from Vietnam sought advice on promoting foreign investment, a scenario I now find myself reversing.

We often aspire to emulate countries like Malaysia or Singapore, yet hesitate to make the necessary decisions. It’s time to confront our reality. We must decide on the type of economy we want. For me, only one model is viable: a highly competitive, export-oriented economy. Despite lacking the vast markets or mineral wealth of other nations, we’re strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean, regaining significance as an economic hub.

We cannot afford to dwell in illusions. Economic stabilization measures undertaken will soon be finalized. Are we continuing with an import-dependent economy, rendering past efforts futile? This is the decision we must all make; there’s no escaping it. Today’s decision for the country isn’t about retaining or abolishing the executive presidency; those are secondary concerns.

Issues like educational reform are important. What matters most is our future trajectory. If we desire a competitive economy, we must embrace competition. I have faith in Sri Lankan businesses; we can overcome challenges. It’s with this confidence that I advocate for our ability to succeed.

At the event, distinguished guests including Mr. Per Hoyen, representing the President of the Rotary International and conference president Mr. Kumar Sundararaja, alongside District 3220 Rotary International District Adviser Mr. Pradeep Amirthanayagam, Past Presidents including Mr. R. Ravindran, representatives of Rotary International, office bearers of the District 3220 Rotary International, members and a gathering of esteemed guests graced the occasion.

The “Uma Diya Janani” multipurpose development project, marked as a significant irrigation initiative following the Mahaweli movement, was officially handed over to the public this morning (24) by the Presidents of Iran and Sri Lanka. Iranian President Dr. Ibrahim Raisi, attending the event at President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s invitation, received a warm welcome.

During the ceremony, both leaders unveiled a commemorative plaque and inaugurated the project, initiating the operation of electricity generators through digital technology. President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed gratitude to Iran for their indispensable support, highlighting that without it, Sri Lanka couldn’t have diverted water from Uma Oya to Kirindi Oya. He emphasized Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening ties with Iran.

Reflecting on the shared aspirations of the Global South for their unique identity and independence, President Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of solidarity among these nations.

President Ibrahim Raisi of Iran underscored that the project symbolizes not only the friendship between Iran and Sri Lanka but also signifies enhanced cooperation, integration, harmony, and unity among Asian nations.

The President of Iran affirmed Iran’s readiness to foster a strong partnership with Sri Lanka and expressed Iran’s willingness to contribute to Sri Lanka’s progress and development through the provision of technical and engineering services for large-scale projects.

Iran’s President Dr. Ibrahim Raisi, accompanied by Iran’s First Lady Mrs. Jamile Sadat Alamolhoda, arrived in Sri Lanka from the Mattala Airport this morning (24) to attend the inauguration of the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project. Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and other ministers warmly welcomed the Iranian delegation.

President Raisi’s one-day official visit to Sri Lanka, at the special invitation of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, marks the first visit by an Iranian President since Former Iranian President Mohammad Ahmadinejad’s visit in April 2008.

As part of his visit, the Iranian president left a commemorative message in the guest book at the Mattala International Airport.

The Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project (UOMDP) stands as a flagship initiative of national significance in Sri Lanka. Its primary aim is to divert approximately 145 million cubic meters (MCM) of excess water annually from the Uma Oya basin to the Kirindi Oya basin, addressing the issue of water scarcity in the south-eastern dry zone without adverse effects on the environment or water sources.

This initiative will facilitate irrigation for around 4,500 hectares of new land and 1,500 hectares of existing agricultural land in the Monaragala district. Additionally, it will fulfill the drinking and industrial water requirements of Badulla, Monaragala, and Hambantota areas, providing approximately 39 million cubic meters (MCM) of water annually. Furthermore, the project will contribute to the national electricity supply by generating 290 gigawatt hours (290 GWh) of electrical capacity each year.

Key components of the project include the construction of two reservoirs, Puhulpola and Dyaraba, a 3.98 km connector tunnel linking the reservoirs, a 15.2 km main tunnel, an underground power plant, transmission lines, and associated infrastructure. The project was undertaken by Iran’s FARAB Engineering Company, with a total contract value of USD 514 million and it commenced on March 15, 2010. The Export Development Bank of Iran (EDBI) initially contributed USD 50 million in funding until 2013. However, owing to international sanctions imposed on Iran, the EDBI was unable to continue its financial support for the project. Accordingly, the Government of Sri Lanka opted to advance the project using state funds in collaboration with the respective contractor, FARAB Company.

When the project commenced on March 15, 2010, it was originally slated for completion by March 15, 2015. However, various challenges arose, including technical issues such as unexpected water ingress into the Headrace tunnel, social impacts, financial obstacles, global crises like the Covid-19 pandemic during construction. Consequently, the completion date of the project has been extended to March 31, 2024, along with an extension of the warranty period until March 31, 2025. The basic phase of operations concluded in February and March 2024 while linking the units 01 and 02 to the national grid successfully. Trial operations were commenced on April 1, 2024.

Upon generating electricity, the water is directed through a tunnel to the Alikota ara Reservoir, situated across the Kirindi Oya.

Subsequently, it will be routed to the Handapanagala Reservoir, which has tripled its capacity due to this project, positioned on the left bank of the Uma Oya Reservoir. Additionally, it will flow to the new Kuda Oya Reservoir under construction on the right bank of the Uma Oya, supplying water to areas in the Monaragala district such as Wellawaya, Maharagama, and Thanamalwila. Furthermore, an irrigation system spanning over 60 meters is currently being developed. These irrigation networks are anticipated to irrigate 1500 hectares of existing cultivated land and an additional 4500 hectares of newly developed land in both the Yala and Maha seasons.

The Uma Oya Lower Reservoir Development Project, led by the Irrigation Department, aims to eradicate the longstanding water scarcity issue in the Kirindi Oya river basin. The government has directed officials to implement an integrated agricultural development program, leveraging new technologies to maximize the benefits of the water. Furthermore, the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project addresses the challenge of providing water for both drinking and industrial purposes in Bandarawela and Wellawaya areas.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, speaking further, added:

I express gratitude to the Iranian President for accepting our invitation and participating in handing this project over to the people. It brings our nations closer. This was started by our two predecessors.

It’s worth noting that this project was launched by the previous leaders who were in power before I assumed office. Additionally, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa expressed particular enthusiasm for this initiative aimed at supplying water to this dry zone. Former Speaker Chamal Rajapaksa took on the task of overseeing the completion of this project.

We have to face many challenges when implementing the Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project. Both our countries have good experience in facing challenges. So we faced them successfully.

Moreover, the Uma Oya project is a great combination of the both countries. It has ancient irrigation practices of both Persia in Iran and Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. It’s important to note that the transfer of water from Uma Oya to Kirindi Oya is not feasible due to a lack of technical expertise from Iran.

Iran’s technological prowess has spread across all fields. It should also be said that Iran is a country that maintains its own technological development. Therefore, we should strengthen the common points of both countries. We are all countries of the Global South. Such projects are very important at a time when the countries of the Global South are establishing their identity and independence.

The Uma Oya Multipurpose Development Project, spearheaded by Iran, has played a vital role in providing water to the inhabitants of our country’s dry zones. This initiative has instilled a sense of hope among the people for a better future.

Ensuring access to water in dry zones like Giruwapaththu and Magampaththu is essential for the survival and well-being of the communities living in those areas. Today, our efforts are directed towards extending the multipurpose system from Udawalawe to Kirindi, addressing this critical need. Additionally, we are embarking on the establishment of a new investment zone in the Hambanthota district, a venture that includes the approval of a fuel refinery by China’s Sinopec. This strategic move promises to invigorate the economy of the Hambanthota district.

This multipurpose development project aims to empower farmers to cultivate 6000 hectares of land in both Yala and Maha seasons. Notably, the Udawalawa area stands as Sri Lanka’s prime rice-producing area. With our sights set on extending similar endeavours to the Hambanthota area, we anticipate launching an agricultural modernization program in the southern province. Moreover, this endeavour promises substantial contributions to the energy sector.

Furthermore, the project will generate 120 megawatts of hydroelectric power. As developing countries in the Global South, Iran and Sri Lanka have jointly implemented this program. Accordingly, I affirm our commitment to fostering stronger ties between Iran and Sri Lanka, moving forward with purpose.

President of Iran, Dr. Ebrahim Raisi:

I extend my gratitude to Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe for inviting me to participate in this event. It is indeed a tremendous honour to be involved in such a symbol of unity, one that deepens the bond between our nations.

It is worth noting that this project stands as a testimony to the friendship shared between Iran and Sri Lanka. Today marks the official inauguration of this remarkable multipurpose development program. However, I believe that the main point of this is fostering utmost cooperation, integration, harmony, and unity not only between our two countries and among the nations across the Asian region.

It’s important to emphasize that the resolve and commitment of the people in both our nations outweigh the completion of this project.

President Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe, I would like to express that the Islamic Republic of Iran stands prepared to share its contemporary technological expertise with Sri Lanka.

Furthermore, we affirm our readiness to impart the knowledge acquired by Iran over the past 45 years to foster the advancement and development of Sri Lanka. I assure you that Iran is eager to forge a strong partnership with Sri Lanka, poised to contribute to its growth and development. Iran stands prepared to offer technical and engineering services for significant development initiatives in Sri Lanka.

Energy Minister of Ali Akbar Mehrabian:

It is crucial to highlight the significance of this meeting between the Presidents of Iran and Sri Lanka, marking a pivotal moment for both countries. This presents an opportune occasion to formally review the multipurpose development project, which holds paramount importance in bolstering bilateral relations.

Moreover, this project serves as a platform to enhance bilateral ties between our two nations. Iran stands as a frontrunner in constructing high-stakes dams, ranking fifth globally in irrigation network infrastructure, as per ICID. Leveraging Iran’s technical and engineering expertise, we’ve successfully executed 50 such large-scale projects across 20 countries worldwide.

Fostering a stronger bond between Iran and Sri Lanka not only facilitates technical and economic collaboration but also lays the groundwork for continued advancement in the future.

Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Ali Sabry, Mahinda Amaraweera, Kanchana Wijesekera, State Ministers, Tharaka Balasuriya, Vijitha Berugoda, Indika Anuruddha, Siripala Gamlath, D.V. Chanaka, Thenuka Vidanagamage, Uva Provincial Governor of Uva A.J.M. Muzammil, Southern Provincial Governor Willy Gamage, Eastern Provoncial Governor Senthil Thondaman, MPs Chamal Rajapaksa, Rauff Hakeem, Vadivel Suresh, Sudarshana Denipitiya, Tissa Kuttiarachchi, D. Weerasingha, A.L.M. Athaullah, Yadamini Gunawardena, Iran Delegationheaded by Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and Iran Ambassador in Sri Lanka Alireza Delkhosh and number of guests were attend at the event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe received official handovers of generous financial contributions for the ‘Children of Gaza’ Fund today (Apr 26).

According to the President’s Media Division (PMD), this is an initiative the President established to alleviate the suffering of those affected by conflicts in Gaza.

Among the contributors, Huda Jumma Mosque in Kalmunai donated Rs. 1,589,000, the All Ceylon Jamiatul Ulama – Kinnia branch donated Rs. 5,300,000, the Regional Education Office in Kalmunai contributed Rs. 3,128,500, and the Sports First Foundation donated Rs. 300,000 to support the cause.

In addition, during the initial phase, President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivered US$ 01 million, received from allocations earmarked by ministries and government bodies for this year’s Iftar celebrations, to the Palestinian government through an official United Nations delegation.

Furthermore, in response to the President’s call for contributions to the ‘Children of Gaza Fund,’ a substantial sum has been collected, slated for official transfer to the Palestinian government in the coming days.

Donors are informed that the window for contributions to this fund will remain open until April 30, 2024.

Those wishing to donate are encouraged to deposit their contributions into the Bank of Ceylon (7010), Taprobane Branch (747), account number 7040016 before the specified deadline.

The Presidential secretariat requests donors to share the relevant receipts via WhatsApp on 077-9730396.

Sri Lankan actress Damitha Abeyratne and her husband who were remanded over an allegation of financial fraud have been granted bail.

The couple was released on bail by the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court today. They were released on two sureties of Rs. 5 million each.

Damitha Abeyratne and her husband were accused of defrauding money amounting to nearly Rs. 3 million by claiming to provide foreign jobs.

In April, the couple was arrested by the Criminal Investigations Department after having surrendered to the Fort Magistrate’s Court over the financial scam.

The Fort Magistrate’s Court had also imposed a travel ban on the couple, while the Court of Appeal had rejected their request for an interim order preventing their arrest under the Immigrants and Emigrants Act.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna says it will seek clarifications from six of its MPs, who have entered into agreements with the Samagi Jana Balawegaya.

Finding they have violated discipline, the party’s disciplinary committee has recommended this measure.

The six MPs who allied with Samagi Jana Bala Sandanaya three weeks ago are Prof. G.L. Peiris, Dr. Nalaka Godahewa, Dilan Perera, Wasantha Yapa Bandara, Dr. Upul Galappatti and K.P.S. Kumarasiri.

(News1st)

Public security minister Tiran Alles has warned top police officials of removal from their position if they fail to meet the targets he expects of them.

All should contribute when a certain programme gets underway as each and every one has a big role to play, he said.

Alles advised the police that they have been provided with firearms not to look on, but to use them whenever necessary.

He was speaking at a community police committee programme in Kandy.

Senior officers who fail to fulfil their responsibilities by 31 May will be transferred from their provinces, the minister said.

A big transformation has taken place since the launch of the programme amid unprecedented opposition, he added.

Alles requested the public to provide information about underworld activities and drug dealings in order to save their villages.