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The World Bank has recognized Sri Lanka's 1990 Suwa Seriya Ambulance Service for strengthening Sri Lanka’s primary healthcare system and giving a second chance at life to the millions who are critically injured.

Martin Raiser, the Vice President for the South Asia Region of the World Bank Group recognizing the 1990 Suwa Seriya noted that the ambulance service has tapped into this potential by leading digital innovation in health and emergency services.

Its trademark speed and efficiency come from digital integration into its processes and operations—from using specific algorithms to identify the fastest ambulance that can be deployed to an emergency, to tracking callers’ locations through an app, to digitally tracking fuel levels in its vehicles.

The World Bank says Suwa Seriya’s success is an example of how technology can help revolutionize service delivery in developing countries.

Since its launch in 2016, 1.8 million Sri Lankan citizens in distress have dialed 1990 , and a Suwa Seriya ambulance has rushed them to the nearest hospital or primary care facility within 12 minutes of their call, one of the fastest response rates in the world for an ambulance service.

In these seven years, Suwa Seriya has saved countless lives—providing citizens the highest level of pre-hospital care, reducing complications caused by delayed care, and enabling them to get back into the workforce in record time—making a positive contribution to the country’s economy.

Initially funded by a grant from India, 1990 Suwa Seriya has since been supported by the Sri Lankan government.

However, it deliberately seeks private donors and sponsors to fund its digital innovations so as to not rely solely on public funding in a resource-constrained environment.

In its largest fundraiser yet, Suwa Seriya raised an impressive LKR 750 million in private funding via its “adopt an ambulance” campaign.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored the critical importance of fortifying the extensive trade and economic ties between Sri Lanka and India promptly to ensure mutual advantages for both nations.

He expressed these views during his presence at a special commemoration ceremony organized by the Sri Lanka India Society in Colombo yesterday (14). This event was arranged to mark the 76th Independence Day of Sri Lanka and the 75th Republic Day of India, signifying the historical and diplomatic significance of the occasion.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Professor Maithree Wickramasinghe were the  chief guests at this event. Their attendance was complemented by the presence of Mr. Santosh Jha, the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, who graced the event as a special guest, underscoring the warm relations between the two neighbouring nations. This gathering of notable personalities served as a symbolic representation of the shared values and concerted endeavours dedicated to enhancing the bond between Sri Lanka and India, reflecting a spirit of collaboration and mutual respect.

Addressing the gathering, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said;

“There is a profound religious and cultural bond between Sri Lanka and India, and we share a common heritage. One of the notable aspects of this year’s 75th anniversary is the “Joint Vision” statement that was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and me.
Throughout our discussions, we have consistently focused on the cultural and religious ties between our two countries, as well as the fact that we are both democracies with a shared British legal system. However, we have unfortunately overlooked the trade and economic relationship between Sri Lanka and India.

It’s important to remember that our relationship extends beyond cultural connections. Historical evidence suggests that even during the time of the Mohenjodaro civilization, ships sailed from India to Sri Lanka. Particularly in South India and Sri Lanka, the four kingdoms of Anuradhapura, Thanjavur, Madurai, and Kanchipuram either formed alliances or were embroiled in conflicts based on their economic interests.

The Trincomalee harbour played a crucial role as a major harbour for three Indian kingdoms to access eastern countries around the world on numerous occasions. The discovery of a substantial number of coins in shrines like the Munneswaram temple, Ketheeswaram temple, Mantai, Naguleswaram temple (constructed for people from Jaffna, known as Dambakolapatuna), Koneswaram temple, and Trincomalee vividly illustrates the extensive trade relationship and activities between India and Sri Lanka.

Moreover, coins issued by South Indian trade organizations have been unearthed in certain areas during excavations of ancient villages in Anuradhapura. This archaeological evidence indicates that well before the agreement on the use of the Sri Lankan Rupee and the Indian Rupee was signed, people in the past utilized a common currency for conducting trade transactions.

Therefore, our immediate focus should be on enhancing these relations. We aim to foster comprehensive ties between our two nations, particularly in the realms of transportation and energy. Furthermore, we must strategically leverage Sri Lanka’s advantageous position to benefit South India. Our efforts are concentrated on revitalizing Trincomalee, especially as Southeast Asia and the Bay of Bengal regions experience growth. The increasing strategic importance of the Bay of Bengal area has led to improvements in the utilization of the Colombo Port. Our objective is to secure advantages for Sri Lanka and provide additional renewable energy resources for South India.

In terms of the tourism industry, it’s noteworthy that we see a significant influx of tourists from India visiting Sri Lanka, while many Sri Lankans frequently travel to India. Notably, a considerable number of Sri Lankan tourists visit destinations like Thirupathi, Ayodhya, and Guruvayur, mirroring the interest of Indian tourists who visit Sri Lanka.

If we collaborate effectively, our country will prosper alongside the development of the Indian Ocean. Our goal is to achieve economic integration, as there is no alternative path forward. We must learn from the mistakes made by Britain during its time in the European Union, which ultimately led to their decision to leave.

Despite this, Britain is currently seeking a free trade agreement with India, although the outcome remains uncertain. Nonetheless, we must recognize the opportunities before us and strategize on how to progress together with India. It is important to note that this process can be relatively straightforward.

For instance, a person from Bangalore can easily plan a vacation in Sri Lanka compared to traveling to Rajasthan. The proximity and accessibility are evident, with a one-hour flight to Sri Lanka compared to a two-hour flight to Rajasthan. Additionally, there are prospects for establishing supply chains across various sectors, including industrial activities, amidst the growing development of the Indian Ocean.

The Indian Ocean region is experiencing significant growth, with countries like India, Indonesia, Iran, and Saudi Arabia rapidly advancing in various aspects.

The Indian Ocean region is poised to become a significant economic hub in the next 50 to 60 years, especially as the African region undergoes development. It is imperative that we initiate this endeavour now. Given the existing political relations between our two countries and our proximity in various sectors, it is crucial that we collaborate and progress together. Such cooperation will yield benefits for both nations.

I extend my gratitude to the Sri Lanka-India Society for their efforts in strengthening the relations between our countries through last year’s program. I am optimistic that the “Joint Vision” statement we have unveiled will be effectively implemented moving forward.

Ministers Manusha Nanayakkara and Vidura Wickramanayake, along with State Ministers Aravind Kumar, Shehan Semasinghe, and Suren Raghavan, as well as Eastern Province Governor Senthil Thondaman, Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of the Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, Chief Justice Jayantha Jayasuriya and diplomatic officers were among the dignitaries present at this event. Additionally, the official board of the Sri Lanka India Club and its members, along with representatives from the business communities of both countries, were also in attendance on this occasion.

MPs Prof. Charitha Herath and S.M. Marikkar have also decided to resign from the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE), bringing the total number of opposition members to quit the parliamentary committee thus far to four.

In a post on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), former COPE chairman Prof. Herath said he has officially communicated his decision to the Speaker of Parliament today (19).

SJB parliamentarian Marikkar also announced his decision to step down today.

Their resignation comes after SJB parliamentarian Eran Wickramaratne and MP Dayasiri Jayasekara also decided to quit the committee.

Wickramaratne announced his decision to resign yesterday and in his letter of resignation explained that no credible action had been taken on those who were found to have been complicit in corrupt practices or mismanagement despite the COPE reports submitted to the parliament time and time again.

He also took issue with the appointment of Rohitha Abeygunawardena, a ruling party MP, as the COPE chairman despite the previous government adopting a practice of appointing an Opposition member to chair the committee to strengthen the principle that the legislature must be a check and balance on the executive arm of government.

In addition, Wickramaratne highlighted that it is dissatisfying that members who have been appointed to COPE have allegations against their personal conduct, particularly on financial transactions and that this also contributes to the citizen’s loss of confidence in Parliament.

(adaderana.lk)

The bail application filed by former Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella has been fixed for Monday, March 18, 2024.

Former Minister Rambukwella submitted the bail application to the Colombo High Court today requesting an order to release him on bail.

The request comes after the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court yesterday refused bail for Rambukwella over the case regarding the importation of substandard Immunoglobulin vaccines during his tenure as the Health Minister.

The Court refused bail for Keheliya Rambukwella and five others until the conclusion of the case.

In his bail application to the Colombo High Court, Rambukwella states that the magistrate’s decision to reject the bail requests of those remanded under the Public Property Act is against the law.

He further requested the court to, therefore, issue an order to release him on bail on any condition.

Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Eran Wickramaratne has resigned from the Parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) with effect from today (Mar 18).

The opposition MP has served on COPE in previous Parliaments and was reappointed a member of COPE after the recent prorogation of Parliament.

“COPE has been established to ensure the observance of financial discipline in Public Corporations and other semi-governmental bodies in which the Government has a financial stake. By appointing a ruling party member as its Chairman, the committee fails to meet its objectives of keeping a check on the executive arm of the government,” he said in a statement.

MP Wickramaratne pointed out that to this end, the 2015-2019 government followed a best practice of appointing the Chairmen for the two key Committees COPE and COPA from the opposition.

“The duty of the Committee is to report to Parliament on accounts examined, budgets and estimates, financial procedures, performance and management of Corporations and other Government Business Undertakings. 45 years since its establishment, COPE has come to be a redundant committee. Mismanagement and corruption have largely gone unchecked due to limitations in Standing Orders. Standing Order should be widened, where irregularities and fraud when in light, should reach the Attorney General directly and Bribery Commission proceeding to act. The government blocks the process by limiting Standing Orders, thereby the effectiveness of COPE is now in question,” he said.

Stating that appointees to COPE as part of its 31-member team or Chairperson, must not be associated with allegations and/or convictions, the SJB MP said a committee that has an overview of checks and balances must have clearly outlined qualifications and disqualifications for its members.

MP Eran Wickramaratne said he is of the view that it is high time to revisit the scope of COPE and expand Standing Orders enabling the committee to do impactful work and embrace good governance practices moving forward.

“It is evident that the present government that lacks legitimacy compounds the fact by appearing to cover up and defend mismanagement and corruption by the more recent appointments,” he added.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stressed the need to expand the tourism industry beyond coastal areas to strengthen the country’s economy.

The President highlighted the significance of the South in driving tourism promotion within the country, particularly outlining plans to develop Galle into a major tourist city.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe made these remarks while handing over “Serin River Park” the ecological park in Holuvagoda, Galle to the public this afternoon (13).

Construction on this park, which commenced in 2021, has transformed a 14-acre fallow field into a vibrant recreational space.

Initiated by Minister Ramesh Pathirana, the project plans were crafted by the Urban Development Authority, with construction executed by the Sri Lanka Land Reclamation Corporation.

The project, estimated at LKR 440 million, encompasses various features such as a lake, walking paths, iron bridges, children’s park, market stalls, and ecosystems, with electricity sourced from solar lighting.

Furthermore, a program aimed at marketing the agricultural crops and other products of the local community to visitors will also be launched as part of this initiative.

In the future, a boat service will be established from this park to Wakwella, Wataraka and Galle, with a primary focus on promoting tourism.

Additionally, this park will serve as a flood control measure to alleviate the long-standing flood issues faced by the residents of Holuwagoda and Opata areas over many decades.

The President also bestowed tokens of appreciation upon individuals who made notable contributions to the successful construction of this environmental park.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, also expressed:

“This project serves as a cornerstone for economic development. It’s imperative that we prioritize initiatives like this. Galle has emerged as a prominent tourist hotspot today, and we must further enhance its development. By doing so, the residents of these areas stand to gain substantial income opportunities.

As we advance in tourism development, it’s imperative to prioritize environmental preservation. In line with this, I suggest introducing a dedicated act to safeguard the environment within this region. Without a thriving natural environment, the appeal of these areas would diminish significantly.

Our focus must remain on tourism development, particularly in the Southern Province, which holds a special significance. We’re committed to relocating government offices from Galle Fort to facilitate tourism promotion. Additionally, we’re actively engaged in strategic city planning efforts to elevate Galle into a premier tourist destination. Through these endeavours, Galle is poised to emerge as the primary tourist hub of our nation.

Tourism stands out as a sector capable of swiftly generating income for our nation. It’s crucial that we strive to attract not only more tourists but also those who are inclined to spend more during their visit.

Just a couple of years ago, the notion of revitalizing our country’s collapsed economy seemed far-fetched. We faced shortages of fuel, fertilizer and medicine. However, today, we’ve overcome these challenges, witnessing resurgence in these essential supplies. As a result, our people are earning livelihoods once again.

It’s crucial to emphasize the cultivation of cinnamon. By cultivating tea in areas suitable for tea crops and cinnamon in other regions, we can secure substantial income.

Moreover, we have devised plans to establish technical education institutions in these areas. We firmly believe that these initiatives will spur significant development in Galle.

Minister of Health and Industry, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, highlighted:

“Previously, such therapeutic gardens were exclusively found in the capital. Today, the residents of Galle can relish the tranquillity of an ecological park. It’s evident that during past economic crises, development stagnated. However, thanks to the economic initiatives led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the nation’s economy is experiencing stabilization once again.

We’ve ensured the purification and daily release of 10,000 litres of water to meet the water consumption needs of the people of Galle. Additionally, efforts have been dedicated to reconstructing the city of Galle, which had remained untouched for 65 years. Notably, the construction of the region’s only co-health faculty is underway, alongside the completion of 80% of the court complex, slated to open next June.

The construction of the Helmut Kohl Memorial Maternity Hospital in Galle, initiated in 2012, has reached completion, with its grand opening scheduled for the 27th, under the patronage of the President. Additionally, a significant allocation of LKR 1000 million is earmarked for the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital to establish a new kidney unit. This year, an allocation of LKR 800 million has been dedicated to enhancing the heart unit and CT scan facilities.

Despite economic challenges, the public is reaping the rewards of development projects, thanks to the comprehensive program spearheaded by the President.

Minister of Plantation Industry and Agriculture Mahinda Amaraweera,

Minister Richard Pathirana did a great service to Galle city as well as to education. Minister Ramesh Pathirana is working with great commitment to continue that endeavour.

In particular, President Ranil Wickremesinghe took over the country in the face of an economic crisis. At a time when people are dying in fuel queues, when farmers are protesting on the roads without fertilizer, he has taken the responsibility of building the country’s economy. Today he has given the required amount of fuel to the country, provided the required fertilizer to the farmers and sent the farmers back to the farmlands.

In 2022, Sri Lanka faced the necessity of rice imports. However, by 2023, we achieved self-sufficiency in rice production, enabling us to meet our domestic consumption needs.

In line with the commitment to bolster cinnamon cultivation in Sri Lanka, the President has issued directives to establish a dedicated department for this purpose. Currently, preparations are underway for the setup of this department.

We hold firm belief that the President will diligently address the economic crisis and foster a conducive environment for the well-being of the people.

Southern Province Governor Willie Gamage, along with Members of Parliament Wajira Abeywardena, Sampath Athukorala, and other political representatives from the province, graced the event with their presence.

Minister of Education Susil Premajayantha says that school principals will be informed through a circular to organise the inter-house sports meets and sports events of their respective schools after the Sinhala and Tamil New Year holidays.

The minister pointed out that it has been observed that many schools have organised inter-house sports meets regardless of the prevailing hot weather conditions across the island.

Minister Susil Premajayantha said that since the first school term will continue even after the New Year holidays, it is possible to hold sports meets and other outdoor sporting events during that period.

Meanwhile, the Department of Meteorology says the heat index, the temperature felt on the human body, is expected to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in North-western, North-central, Eastern, Western provinces and Monaragala, Mannar, Rathnapura and Vavuniya districts tomorrow (18).

A discussion has taken place between an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation, including Senior Mission Chief of the IMF to Sri Lanka, Peter Breuer, and the National Peoples Power (NPP).

According to the NPP, the over one-hour-long discussion took place at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo today (Mar 14).

During the discussion, the progress of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring and anti-fraud processes were discussed at length.

The representatives of the NPP had also made inquiries about the IMF’s technical support report that has not been made public so far.

Apart from Peter Breuer, Assistant to the Director of the Asia and Pacific Department at the IMF Katsiaryna Svieydzenka and IMF Staff Manavee Abeywickrama participated in the discussion.

Representing the NPP at the meeting were party executive members MP Vijitha Herath and Muditha Nanayakkara, and members of the party’s Economic Council Professors Anil Jayantha, Seetha Bandara, and Harshana Suriyapperuma, and former MP Sunil Handunnetti.

A meeting was convened at the Presidential Secretariat, yesterday (15) chaired by Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, to discuss the launch of a new mobile application “Beach Clean-up Coordination APP” aimed at enhancing the cleanliness and waste management on beaches.

The introduction of this mobile application is facilitated through the intervention of the Coastal Conservation Protection Authority. It aims to formalize coordination among institutions and organizations engaged in the sustainable development of coastal and marine environments.

Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka emphasized the importance of commitment from all institutions responsible for ensuring the sustainability of ocean and coastal areas in maintaining cleanliness. He highlighted that the new mobile application will serve as a tool to facilitate these activities effectively.

Emphasized the necessity of expanding current education and awareness programs concerning coastal cleanliness and preservation Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka noted that such efforts would significantly contribute to the government’s initiative to promote tourism in coastal regions.

The Coastal Conservation and Protection Authority highlighted the severe pollution of coastal and marine resources caused by waste flowing from rivers and canals, sewage discharge, and waste dumped near fishing ports and other marine areas. They emphasized the importance of clean-up efforts involving public and private institutions, as well as non-governmental organizations. The introduction of the mobile application is expected to enhance the coordination of these activities for more effective waste management.

In attendance at the discussion were Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Prabhath Chandrakeerthi, Secretary of the Ministry of Urban Development and Housing, W.S. Satyananda, along with other government officials, the Navy Commander, Inspector General of Police, Heads of Security Division and representatives of non-governmental organizations.

The Presidential Media Division launched the “Kaleidoscope 2024 Screen Media for Gen-Z” program at the Presidential Secretariat Yesterday (12), chaired by Mr. Saman Ekanayake, Secretary to the President. This initiative aims to equip school students with practical knowledge and experience in various media platforms.

The program will feature workshops led by an advisory board comprising representatives from the Presidential Secretariat, Ministry of Education, Presidential Media Division, public and private media entities, academics, and media experts. For its inaugural phase, 158 students from 31 schools with active media units have been selected. The program is sponsored by Unilever Lanka, SLIT Educational Institute, Lanka IOC, and Mahaweli Centre.

Participants, including students and teachers, expressed gratitude for this valuable opportunity during the event. Mr. Saman Ekanayake emphasized the importance of media literacy for school children, highlighting concerns about the current media landscape, which often presents biased opinions. He urged students to actively engage with media education to maximize its benefits.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Saman Ekanayake further added;

When examining the syllabus of this course, several technical issues come to light. The knowledge traditionally dispersed across various institutions is now consolidated within this single course.

Why is it imperative to provide media education to school children? The majority of media organizations in Sri Lanka tend to convey their subjective opinions to the populace, potentially leading to misinformation. Media entities often operate according to their own biases and preferences. Failing to comprehend this dynamic may result in misguided decisions. Therefore, the essence of this course lies in grasping this rationale.

Reflecting on our own educational experiences, while arithmetic was taught to us by the principal, who donned traditional attire, the logic behind solving mathematical problems was often neglected. Despite receiving theoretical knowledge throughout our schooling and university years, the practical application of problem-solving logic was overlooked. Our aim today is to impart this essential knowledge to children, enabling them to decipher the behaviour and motivations of media organizations.

Must we exclusively consume the narrative presented by the media? This prompts us to scrutinize the news articles in newspapers and discern whether we should unquestioningly embrace their assertions. If not, this course equips us with the capacity to discern our own perspectives. Such discernment has the potential to steer Sri Lanka towards a brighter future.

Secretary to the Ministry of Education Ms Wasantha Perera;

The significance of mental well-being is paramount alongside the educational development of our children. Without sound mental health, even the attainment of great achievements holds little value. Thus, the organization of such programs is deeply appreciated. I extend my gratitude to the Presidential Media Division and the Director General for orchestrating this invaluable initiative.

In contemporary discussions, we often hear about the lack of cooperation and creativity among new employees in both the private and public sectors. They seem confined by their academic credentials, unable to transcend beyond mere degree certificates. Hence, there is a pressing need for supplementary programs like this one. Today, what we require are generations of children who think critically and collaborate effectively, rather than solely relying on theoretical knowledge.

Without the ability to think critically, collaborate, or innovate, the knowledge acquired by children may not be effectively integrated into society. Therefore, we must discourage a rote learning culture and encourage individuality. Each child possesses a unique pattern and should embrace their distinctiveness. It’s essential to communicate knowledge effectively and critically assess information rather than accepting it at face value. Collective efforts should be prioritized over individual endeavours.

Director General, President’s media Division Dhanushka Ramanayake;

Two months after the inception of the President’s Media Division, a gentleman from the ICT department delivered a humble letter to the department, suggesting that our Kekirawa College be offered the chance to partake in a media training program and visit the media department. Although initially modest, this proposal evolved over many days and months into a well-structured project ready for execution.

This momentous occasion was made possible by the collaboration of three key stakeholders, to whom we extend our heartfelt gratitude.

Upon presenting the idea, the President endorsed its implementation, allowing us to commence this distinctive program with private funding. To ensure the program’s success for the children, we seek the guidance and blessings of our esteemed elders. The program spans 16 weeks, operating one day per week for a total of 16 days.

During the initial stage, the fundamentals of media are explored, followed by six days of further education across five fields identified by both us and the children. Esteemed teachers and experts will conduct the educational sessions.

We have also reached out to all electronic media institutions in Sri Lanka, inviting them to engage with the children and provide relevant activities tailored to their education. Furthermore, the children will have the opportunity to visit these media institutions for two days to gain practical insights.

Recognizing the importance of understanding branding and marketing for journalists, we have arranged for experiential learning in top private sector institutions.

In collaboration with the SLIT Educational Institute, we aim to equip children and teachers with practical knowledge for both the present and future, fostering a unique learning experience.

School journalists are the budding pioneers of the media world, and it is imperative to nurture their talents. Our goal is to produce not only proficient journalists but also effective communicators by the program’s conclusion.

Additionally, outstanding children will have the chance to shadow various units of the Presidential Media Division for at least two days in June, where they will contribute to directing the country’s head of state’s media coverage. This Kaleidoscope 2024 program marks the initial stride towards cultivating a cohort of journalists capable of assuming such responsibilities.

Mrs. Wasanthi Nanayakkara, a senior journalist, delivered the keynote address, followed by a speech by Mr. Chaminda Samarakoon, Head of Media and Activities at Unilever Sri Lanka. Additionally, school students and teachers also shared their thoughts during the event.

The President’s Senior Adviser Prof. Sunanda Madduma Bandara, the President’s Senior Additional Secretary and Secretary of the President’s Fund Mr. Sarath Kumara and a group of principals, teachers, journalists and representatives of sponsoring institutions were present on this occasion.

An emergency hotline, ‘107’, dedicated primarily to the Tamil-speaking public in Vavuniya has been launched by Sri Lanka Police.

According to Police Spokesman DIG Nihal Thalduwa the emergency hotline has been introduced under the instructions of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

He further said that the emergency hotline was declared open by Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon.

the Police Media Unit said the emergency hotline will be operated in all three common languages of Sinhala, Tamil and English, but is dedicated primarily to the Tamil-speaking people of the area.

The Media Unit further said that the public in Vavuniya has been encouraged to contact the new hotline in case of any form of emergency.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored the consequences of political promises made without a comprehensive understanding of the country’s economy, highlighting the resulting hardships faced by the people. In a departure from such approaches, the President emphasized the importance of facing reality and working collectively towards a positive future for the nation.

The President made these remarks during his presence in a convivial gathering organized by the United Youth Union, titled “Future of the Youth,” held yesterday (12) at Thaprobane Entertainment. Addressing the audience, President Wickremesinghe stressed the imperative of transitioning swiftly to an export-oriented economy as a key aspect of economic development.

The event saw the attendance of numerous young individuals representing diverse sectors, who directly posed questions to the President. In return, President Wickremesinghe offered constructive responses to their inquiries and engaged in friendly interactions with the attendees.

In recognition of presence of the President, Mr. Neomal Perera, advisor to the United Youth Union, presented a commemorative gift to the President, marking the significance of his participation in the event.

The exchange of questions and answers between President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the attendees encompassed various pertinent topics concerning the country’s future trajectory and the challenges ahead.

Question:

The current increase in the price of mobile phones coupled with rising internet service charges has posed challenges for many individuals. However, the online education system introduced during the recent period of the COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be a significant convenience for students. What measures have been implemented to enhance the digital literacy of youth in response to these challenges?

Answer:

The collapse of our country’s economy can largely be attributed to the unsustainable practice of providing everything for free. This approach ultimately burdens someone else, leading to economic instability. In Sri Lanka, we adopted a policy of extensive free relief, even resorting to printing money when faced with a lack of income. This reckless strategy made it impossible to honour our foreign debts, resulting in a severe economic crisis.

As a responsible government, we understand that strengthening the economy is paramount to ensuring the well-being of our people. We are committed to implementing measures aimed at creating an economy that fosters self-sufficiency and financial resilience. Currently, our currency faces significant devaluation, with the exchange rate reaching approximately Rs. 310 for one US dollar. This dire situation necessitates urgent action.

While it may be tempting to make promises of free services, such as data, doing so would only exacerbate our economic challenges. Instead, our pledge is to focus on building a robust economy that empowers individuals to afford essential services and goods. Providing everything for free may lead to disruptions such as power and fuel shortages in the future, reminiscent of darker times in our history.

It is incumbent upon all of us to prioritize fiscal prudence and responsible economic management to prevent regression into past economic turmoil. Through concerted efforts and prudent policies, we can overcome our current crisis and build a prosperous future for Sri Lanka.

Question:

There are individuals seeking to leverage their talents for business endeavours without being a burden to the government. What avenues exist to provide contribution for them? Additionally, what measures are in place for student recruitment into the teaching profession, particularly in the Sabaragamuwa province?

Answer:

Regarding the recruitment of teachers, an ongoing court case has resulted in a postponement of appointments as certain individuals have raised concerns about perceived injustices in the selection process. We anticipate a resolution to this legal matter in the near future, allowing recruitment proceedings to proceed smoothly.

In addressing the needs of self-employed entrepreneurs, particularly amidst economic challenges, careful consideration is given to avoid exacerbating financial instability. To support this vital sector, bank loans are being allocated based on the priorities of self-employed individuals. Recognizing the importance of tourism-related self-employment, efforts are underway to prioritize this area given the promising growth of the tourism industry in the country.

Question:

Athletes have encountered nutritional challenges. What steps have the government taken to address this issue?

Answer:

The Ministry of Sports has initiated relief efforts to address the nutritional needs of athletes. Plans are underway to implement more comprehensive and organized strategies to enhance athletes’ nutrition in the future. It is imperative to start addressing athletes’ nutritional requirements from a young age, with a focus on athletes as young as 8 years old. Private institutions are encouraged to contribute to improving the nutritional status of school athletes.

Furthermore, a program has been devised to provide athletes with necessary medical advice, as well as the provision of sports attire. In countries where sports have reached commercial levels, private entities play a significant role in supporting athletes directly. Sri Lanka aims to develop its sports sector to a commercial level in the up-coming decade, with the government committed to providing necessary support for this transformation.

Question:

Rather than solely relying on the Rs. 5000 distributed through the Aswesuma program, wouldn’t it be more effective to implement a program providing capital and training individuals based on their skills to strengthen the economy?

Answer:

During our nation’s challenging times, our primary focus was on ensuring the survival of our people. Addressing immediate needs was paramount before delving into broader economic initiatives. Discussions with international bodies like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank underscored the importance of supporting vulnerable populations.

To initiate assistance, we secured a USD 100 million grant from the World Bank to kick start the Aswesuma program. However, the funds provided through the Aswesuma program alone are insufficient. Hence, we devised a strategy to triple the initial amount through guarantees, ensuring direct financial support to eligible individuals. This aid is crucial for enabling people to progress in their endeavours.

Notably, the spending of these funds by low-income individuals stimulates market activity, subsequently bolstering the economy. Moreover, the allocation of funds through decentralized budgets and rural development initiatives circulates money back into government coffers. By reviving rural industries and supporting small-scale entrepreneurs, we aim to augment the country’s economic output.

Our economic advancement also hinges on agricultural productivity, with concerted efforts in place to enhance yields starting from 2023. Furthermore, initiatives such as granting free land rights and transferring ownership of housing units to low-income residents in the Western Province contribute to broader socioeconomic empowerment. These multifaceted approaches are pivotal in fostering sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all citizens.

Question:

Wouldn’t it be beneficial to provide improved communication facilities to children in remote areas to facilitate their education?

Answer:

This is indeed a challenge in certain regions. As we progress towards a digital economy, access to modern communication infrastructure becomes increasingly crucial, particularly for remote communities. Efforts are underway to enhance these facilities at a grassroots level. Notably, the privatization of the SLT has prompted directives for increased investment in infrastructure development. The transition to a digital economy is imperative for national progress and collaboration with the private sector is essential given the government’s financial constraints.

Question:

There seems to be no method for recovering funds lost due to fraud during the previous regime. Is there a plan to enact legislation preventing such financial misconduct in the future?

Answer:

As a nation, we are burdened with a substantial amount of debt, prompting my request for an extension until 2042 to repay these loans. Therefore, claims suggesting that a single individual or a select few can resolve this issue are entirely unfounded.

To address concerns related to corruption and financial mismanagement, we have established a new commission. This commission operates independently, allowing anyone to come forward and provide relevant information without government interference. Legal actions have been taken against those individuals implicated in corruption cases, and efforts are ongoing to gather evidence against others involved.

Our commitment to combating corruption remains steadfast. Numerous cases have been filed, and an independent commission has been tasked with investigating allegations of corruption. Recognizing the importance of adequate resources for these investigations, we have sought assistance from foreign countries to bolster our efforts.

It is imperative that those responsible for defrauding the country are held accountable, and efforts to recover misappropriated funds must be pursued vigorously. Simultaneously, we must implement comprehensive programs to revitalize the nation’s economy. It is crucial to understand that addressing corruption and economic recovery are distinct yet interconnected challenges that require our unwavering commitment and resolve.

Question:

The film industry lacks recognition as an official industry and faces challenges in distribution. Can measures be taken to grant the film industry the privileges enjoyed by other industries and address distribution shortcomings?

Answer:

The film industry faces challenges in swiftly delivering completed films to audiences despite the significant time and effort invested in their creation, often taking up to five years. It’s imperative that films are promptly presented to viewers once completed. This issue is currently under discussion, with efforts aimed at finding solutions.

Furthermore, the development of the film industry hinges on the availability of high-quality cinemas. To achieve this, we must consider opening up the cinema market, akin to practices in other countries. However, economic viability is paramount, and any investment must yield appropriate returns. Hence, discussions are underway to address this challenge and ensure the sustainable growth of the cinema industry.

Question:

Could you outline the economic challenges facing the country and propose solutions to expedite economic recovery?

Answer:

The economic crisis in our country has deep roots that extend back over a considerable period. Following the war, our exports dwindled while imports surged, leading to a significant trade imbalance. Regrettably, our focus on agriculture waned, resulting in the collapse of vital industries such as tea, coconut, and rubber. Our flawed land policies drove foreign tea cultivators to seek greener pastures in countries like Africa and Kenya, where they flourished, leaving us to rue missed opportunities.

Our failure to nurture the export sector is glaring. Reflecting on my tenure as Minister of Industry in 1991, I recall being asked by Vietnam’s Minister of Industry how we planned to develop our industries. Now, the tables have turned, and I find myself posing the same question.

Politicians have made lofty promises, yet we’ve often failed to confront harsh realities. Bangladesh’s journey from economic adversity to generosity serves as a stark reminder of our own lapses. We must move forward with a clear understanding of our past missteps, eschewing empty promises for pragmatic action.

Some advocate for an inward-focused economy, but history teaches us otherwise. King Parakramabahu understood the imperative of exports, and so must we. Accepting my current position was not a decision born of eagerness but of necessity. Yet, amidst diverse claims and theories, one truth remains: if our imports consistently outweigh exports, borrowing becomes unsustainable.

Amidst the turmoil, some have sought migrate abroad, but comparing our challenges to those of other nations offers no solace. Let us rally together to confront our challenges head-on, for the road ahead is fraught with difficulties. I extend an invitation to all to join hands in rebuilding our nation and forging a brighter future.

Question:

Studies have indicated that sanitary napkins are subject to a high tax rate of 47%. Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya refuted this claim today, but the issue persists, causing concern. It is crucial to ascertain the truth regarding this matter.

Answer:

The minister has addressed this concern, but there are additional challenges such as currency depreciation contributing to price increases. Consequently, accessibility to sanitary napkins for nearly half the female population has become problematic. The government is actively considering how to address this issue, balancing tax obligations with affordability. It’s a pressing matter that requires attention, and I acknowledge its significance.

Question:

Is there a plan to ease the importation of private vehicles this year?

Answer:

We aim to initiate this process gradually from the following year. While acknowledging the challenges in the automobile market, our current balance of payments situation is not favorable. Although most imports are permitted, restrictions remain on vehicle imports. However, starting next year, we intend to gradually allow essential vehicle imports. This year, we’ve permitted the importation of buses for tourist transportation as a step toward this goal.