March 29, Colombo (LNW): In a significant collaborative effort, the Colombo U.S. Embassy, in conjunction with the Central Cultural Fund’s Maritime Archaeology Unit, has embarked on a mission to conserve and document the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known shipwreck in the Asia-Pacific region. Supported by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, this initiative underscores the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka in cultural preservation and archaeological research.

Leading the charge, U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, accompanied by Heidi Hattenbach, Counsellor for Public Affairs at the U.S. Embassy, and Senior Archaeology Officer Rasika Muthucumarana from the Central Cultural Fund’s Maritime Archaeology Unit, conducted an inspection dive to explore the ancient Godawaya shipwreck situated off the coast of Hambantota. This endeavor is part of a broader initiative funded by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, which has been supporting the project since 2022 to study and protect this submerged cultural treasure dating back to the 2nd Century B.C.

Expressing the significance of the mission, Ambassador Chung remarked, “Witnessing the Godawaya shipwreck firsthand, submerged 33 meters below the ocean’s surface, was a truly breathtaking experience. It sheds light on Sri Lanka’s pivotal history as a maritime hub. The United States is honored to contribute to this endeavor, enriching our understanding of Sri Lanka’s historical significance in global maritime trade and ensuring the preservation of its cultural legacy for generations to come.”

Thanks to the funding support from the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, the Maritime Archaeology Unit (MAU) has successfully safeguarded nearly 200 artifacts retrieved from the wreck, ranging from clay pottery to metal objects and intricate carnelian beads. As the project advances, the MAU aims to create a comprehensive 3D model of the entire shipwreck site, promising to revolutionize maritime archaeology and cultural preservation in Sri Lanka. The artifacts will be exhibited in Colombo later this year before finding a permanent home in the Maritime Archaeology Museum in Galle, where they will be accessible to Sri Lankans and tourists, providing insights into the country’s rich history. Additionally, the AFCP will fund an educational program, bringing learning opportunities from the Godawaya project to schools and students near the dive site.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on an inspection tour, visited the John de Silva Memorial Theatre and the National Art Gallery, both of which have faced prolonged delays despite construction starting in 2011.

During his visit, President Wickremesinghe instructed officials to accelerate the opening of the National Art Gallery by year’s end, stressing the importance of consensus among artists and architects. He pledged government support for necessary financial allocations and raised the question of providing high-standard, affordable theaters in Colombo once the John de Silva Theatre is completed.

The President emphasized the significance of consulting dramatists in decision-making regarding construction and maintenance projects. He directed the Ministry Secretary to explore options for reviving the Lumbini Theatre and the Nawarangahala, and instructed steps to construct a drama theatre at Colombo’s Sudarshi premises.

Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the need to establish a national cultural zone encompassing Nelum Pokuna, Kalabhavana, John de Silva Memorial Theatre, Museum, and related areas. He tasked the Cultural Affairs Ministry with preparing a comprehensive report on this initiative. Additionally, he urged officials to elevate Sri Lanka’s museum system to international standards and identify a suitable country for mentorship in this regard.

Joining the event were Secretary of the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Somaratne Vidanapathirana, Additional Secretary Thilak Hettiarachchi, Director General of the Department of Cultural Affairs Yasintha Gunawardena, the team of architects from the University of Moratuwa who designed the buildings, and Navy officers overseeing National Art Gallery renovations.

Notable figures such as Prof. Praneeth Abhayasundara, Prof. Chandragupta Thenuwara, Parakrama Niriella, Mohamed Safeer, and Saman Athaudahetti also shared their perspectives on behalf of the artists.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena delivered a stirring address at the BOAO Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024 in Hainan, China, urging Asian nations to unite in their efforts to eradicate poverty and ensure equitable prosperity.

Commending China’s remarkable achievements in lifting millions out of poverty under President Xi Jinping’s leadership, Gunawardena emphasized the importance of this success story as a guiding path for other nations grappling with similar challenges.

The Prime Minister called for fresh initiatives to bolster agricultural growth and food security, stressing their vital role in fostering social harmony and peace. He underscored the urgent need to harness renewable energy resources to address the pressing issues of climate change.

Highlighting Sri Lanka’s ambitious port development projects, including the expansion of Colombo Port, Hambantota Port, and the establishment of Colombo Port City and Colombo Financial Centre, Gunawardena envisioned these endeavors transforming Sri Lanka into a pivotal financial hub, not only for the nation but for the entire region.

In his address, Gunawardena expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for his leadership in driving China’s economic growth, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global economic prosperity. He reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts among Asian countries to tackle shared challenges, particularly in renewable energy and environmental conservation.

Acknowledging the significant role of the BOAO conference in driving investment in renewable energy, Gunawardena emphasized the need for collective commitment to shared goals and targets. He pledged Sri Lanka’s continued support for cooperation in maritime trade and underscored the importance of open trade policies and sustainable development initiatives.

The conference, inaugurated by Zhao Leiji, President of the National People’s Congress of the Chinese Communist Party, witnessed the participation of several world leaders, including Presidents of Kazakhstan and Nauru, along with esteemed figures like former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, currently serving as President of the Global Green Growth Institute.

March 29, Colombo (LNW): The Development Lotteries Board (DLB) has achieved its highest profit margin in its four-decade history during the fiscal year 2022-2023. With a staggering 32% profit margin, doubling the previous year’s figure, the DLB marks a significant milestone in its journey.

This unprecedented success has led to notable increases in contributions to both the President’s Fund and the government. Contributions to the President’s Fund saw a remarkable 13% rise, surpassing the set target, while contributions to the government witnessed a commendable 6% increase.

Chairman and CEO of the Development Lotteries Board, Ajith Gunaratne Narangala, attributed this remarkable achievement to strategic measures implemented to navigate the country’s economic challenges. He credited the special guidance provided by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who also holds the position of Finance Minister.

Narangala highlighted the implementation of measures aimed at enhancing the prize money for both regular and newly introduced special lottery tickets. Furthermore, the board has embarked on the introduction of lottery tickets through digital technology, offering consumers in the country a unique and modernized experience. A portion of the proceeds generated from these initiatives is allocated towards education and healthcare programs in the nation.

March 29, Colombo (LNW):Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Western, Southern, Sabaragamuwa and Central provinces after 2.00 p.m.

Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva and North-western provinces after 2.00 p.m.A few showers may occur in Eastern province.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts during the morning.

General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

By: Staff Writer

March 28, Colombo (LNW): A green battery company is to be set up by Applied Graphite Technologies Corporation by advancing two natural vein graphite projects in Sri Lanka.

Applied Graphite Technologies is developing the Queens Mine Complex in Sri Lanka. The QMC is on private land in the heart of the vein graphite district, with historical workings and vein graphite outcrops.

Vein graphite is naturally high grade (+95% carbon content in the ground) and does not require primary processing.

Testing of vein graphite in lithium-ion battery anodes has shown very high capacities, performing better than synthetic graphite. Natural vein graphite has a far superior ESG footprint than synthetic and is cheaper without compromising performance.

Applied Graphite Technologies Corp. (“AGT”) (TSXV: AGT has purchased the past-producing Queen’s mine in Sri Lanka recenty towards this end, high official odthe company said.

The property is centrally located between AGT’s Dodangaslanda Graphite Properties. The combined properties will be called the Queens Mine Complex (“QMC”).

The Queens Mine was reported to be extracting high-grade graphite veins at a rate of 20 tonnes per month.

The former operator had intentions to ramp up production to 3,000 tonnes per year. Adits which provided access to the underground workings expose at least six graphite veins over a total width of 25 meters, with veins varying in thickness up to 0.4 metres.

It  had done extensive laboratory testing on its run-of-mine (“ROM”) tonnes which consisted of high-grade graphite +95 Cg. Vein graphite direct from the mine will sell for $2,000 per tonne.

 The ROM vein graphite, when upgraded to battery-quality graphite, sells for between $8,000 and $12,000 per tonne. The demand for battery ready graphite will reach five million tonnes per annum by 2030, according to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

AGT plans on making the QMC a priority to re-commence bulk shipping of the high-grade vein graphite material once it has completed its mine permitting and development on the prospect.

“We are extremely pleased to have acquired the QMC, thanks to our strategic in-country relationships,” comments Don Baxter, President, and CEO.

 “From my experience with multiple OEMs regarding battery ready graphite, they want to see the ability to produce large tonnages for their battery requirements.  The QMC will enable us to plan near term operations to illustrate potential from our properties to satisfy OEM requirements.”

AGT has granted 800,000 stock options at an exercise price of $0.15, with a five year term expiring March 23, 2029 to consultants, directors, and officers of the company.

By: Staff Writer

March 28, Colombo (LNW): Despite growing pressure to reform the travel Advisory on Sri Lanka, Britain on Tuesday said that its travel advice assessments are made by drawing on expert sources of information available to the government and that they ‘continue to keep Sri Lanka travel advise under close review.’

“The safety of British people is the main factor when determining our travel advice for all countries, including Sri Lanka.

Our advice is designed to help British people make informed decisions about foreign travel and remains under constant review to ensure it reflects our latest assessment of risks when travelling abroad,” Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Minister of State-Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, said in UK Parliament.

He was responding to the question, whether the UK government has any plans to update the travel advice to Sri Lanka to reflect the security situation in that country.

“Our travel advice is based on objective assessments of the risks to British nationals. These assessments are made by drawing on expert sources of information available to the government including local knowledge from our embassies and information provided by the local authorities in each country.

We will continue to keep Sri Lanka travel advice under close review,” the Minister of State-Foreign, Commonwealth stated.

In the recent past, leading tourism providers from UK and Sri Lanka have urged its Government to reform the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice regarding the safety of Britons abroad.

During a recent debate in UK parliament, Lord Naseby has requested that the Travel Advisory be changed. As tourism plays a major role in the Sri Lankan economy.

Leading tourism providers from UK and Sri Lanka have urged its Government to reform the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) travel advice regarding the safety of Britons abroad.

In an open letter, the current advice is labelled ‘overly harsh’ by campaigners who condemned the Government for ‘systematically undermining the travel industry’ in Sri Lanka and demands for a new approach to achieve ‘consistency’.

The open letter also details the effect on Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, which currently employs over 380,000 people last year. The campaign claims that the advice could damage tourism to Sri Lanka, negatively impacting the one in five people in Sri Lanka who rely on income generated by tourism.

Experience Travel Group Co-founder and Managing Director Sam Clark said: “It is clear that the FCDO travel advice is no longer fit for purpose in relation to Sri Lanka. 

March 28, Colombo (LNW): Industry experts are considering strategies to mitigate the current high prices of Sri Lankan graphite, with one proposed approach being a reduction in the depth of mining operations.

The depth of graphite deposits in existing mines is a key factor contributing to the high costs, Bogala Graphite PLC CEO, Amila Jayasinghe, emphasised.

He suggested that by limiting operations to depths of 10-20 metres from the surface, mining expenses could be substantially reduced.

However, Jayasinghe stressed the importance of expanding mining activities to new sites, contingent upon the establishment of robust regulatory frameworks.

These insights were shared during a discussion organised by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) aimed at addressing the challenges and opportunities within Sri Lanka’s graphite industry.

Jayasinghe highlighted obstacles such as the opacity surrounding the process of obtaining mining permits from authorities, which serves as a deterrent to potential foreign investment.

Additionally, he pointed out that the royalty fees imposed on value-added graphite exports incentivise the export of raw graphite to foreign markets, posing a disadvantage to local producers.

Professor Anura Wijayapala of the University of Moratuwa underscored Sri Lanka’s potential to capitalise on the growing electric vehicle market by branding its graphite as superior in quality and sustainably produced.

While Sri Lanka’s current graphite reserves may not meet US demand, there is an opportunity to leverage the country’s reputation for environmentally friendly practices to command higher prices in the global market.

The environmentally conscious manufacturing practices prevalent in Sri Lanka, including the extensive use of renewable energy sources, present an opportunity to label Sri Lankan graphite as “green graphite.”

With approximately 50 per cent of the country’s electricity sourced from renewables and comparatively low greenhouse gas emissions, Sri Lanka can position its graphite industry as environmentally responsible.

According to an IPS study titled ‘Trade Wars in Electric Vehicle Supply Chains: A Win for Sri Lanka’s Graphite Industry?‘, the success of the Sri Lankan graphite sector hinges on strategic market positioning, international collaborations, and adoption of green manufacturing practices.

With strategic foresight and innovation, Sri Lanka’s graphite industry stands poised to emerge as a significant player in the global supply chain for electric vehicle components.

March 28, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, currently undertaking a state visit to China, convened with President Xi Jinping on Wednesday (27) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

During their deliberations, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering bilateral relations grounded in principles of friendship, peace, mutual respect, and non-interference in internal affairs—an approach consistent with the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence.

The importance of nurturing mutual respect and productivity between the two nations was underscored, with the understanding that such cooperation serves as a model for constructive engagement on the international stage.

President Xi reiterated China’s steadfast support for Sri Lanka’s endeavours toward political and socioeconomic advancement, emphasising China’s unwavering stance in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s independence, territorial integrity, and sovereignty.

Expressing gratitude for the historical ties between their families, President Xi acknowledged the support extended by Prime Minister Gunawardena’s father, Philip Gunawardena, to China.

He noted the mutual desire of the Sri Lankan Prime Minister’s party and other political entities in Sri Lanka to deepen collaboration with the Chinese Communist Party.

In turn, Prime Minister Gunawardena expressed appreciation for China’s assistance during Sri Lanka’s recent economic challenges and its provision of debt restructuring facilities.

He provided an update on the progress made in implementing agreements reached during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s previous visit to China.

The Prime Minister also extended gratitude to President Xi for China’s support across various sectors, including education, agriculture, health, technology, culture, and religion.

Accompanying Prime Minister Gunawardena were Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe, Home Affairs State Minister Ashoka Priyantha, MP Yadamini Gunawardena, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, and Prime Minister’s Secretary Anura Dissanayake.

March 28, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe conducted an inspection tour, visiting the John de Silva Memorial Theatre and the National Art Gallery, both of which have faced prolonged delays in completion since construction began in 2011, reported the President’s Media Division.

During his visit, President Wickremesinghe urged officials to expedite the opening of the National Art Gallery by the end of the year, stressing the importance of consensus among artists and architects.

He assured government support for necessary financial allocations to facilitate this process.

Furthermore, the President emphasised the need for high-quality yet affordable theatres in Colombo, questioning the feasibility of such facilities following the completion of the John de Silva Theatre.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the significance of consulting dramatists before finalising decisions on construction and maintenance projects.

He directed the Ministry Secretary to explore options for revitalising the Lumbini Theatre and the Nawarangahala, while also initiating plans for the construction of a drama theatre at Colombo’s Sudarshi Premises.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe underscored the importance of establishing a national cultural zone, encompassing key venues such as the Nelum Pokuna, Kalabhavana, John de Silva Memorial Theatre, Museum, and related areas.

He tasked the Ministry of Cultural Affairs with preparing a comprehensive report on this initiative.

Furthermore, he urged officials to elevate Sri Lanka’s museum system to international standards and instructed them to identify a suitable country for mentorship in this endeavour.

Accompanying the President during the event were Secretary of the Ministry of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Somaratne Vidanapathirana, Additional Secretary Thilak Hettiarachchi, Director General of the Department of Cultural Affairs Yasintha Gunawardena, the team of architects from the University of Moratuwa involved in the design of these buildings, and Navy officers overseeing the National Art Gallery renovations.

Several prominent artists including Prof. Praneeth Abhayasundara, Prof. Chandragupta Thenuwara, Parakrama Niriella, Mohamed Safeer, and Saman Athaudahetti also addressed the gathering, sharing their perspectives on behalf of the artistic community.