February 22, Colombo (LNW): Visiting Iranian Foreign Minister Dr. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian expressed his country’s keenness in working close collaboration with Sri Lanka in providing assistance and providing technical know how for projects relating to energy, water, agriculture ,Nano technology, pharmacology and biotechnology
He expressed his satisfaction on the progress made in fuel- tea batá agreement now being implemented between the two countries.
Sri Lanka has already exported tea worth US $20 million to Iran where the country has to pay a sum of $ 250 million for its fuel purchases from Iran. Iran has also pledged 32 million Euros more for Sri Lanka’s rural electrification projects
Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and visiting Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs Hossein Amir-Abdollahian yesterday held discussion on expanding close bilateral ties and development cooperation, trade and investment.
The Prime Minister thanked Iran for the assistance provided for the Uma Oya hydro-electricity project which will add an additional 120 megawatts of power to the electricity grid.
The Uma Oya Project, in addition to generation of electricity, provides 145 million cubic meters of water to irrigate 50,000 acres of dry land.
Expressing satisfaction over the successful project, the Iranian Foreign Minister said Iran is keen to collaborate with Sri Lanka on future projects using their expertise on energy, water, agriculture, nanotechnology, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction over the conclusion of the barter trade agreement under which Iran supplies crude oil to Sri Lanka for tea.
Iran agreed to offset payment of $ 250 million for crude oil against tea imports from Sri Lanka. So far $ 20 million worth tea has been exported to Iran under the barter trade agreement.
The Prime Minister and Iranian Minister agreed that two countries should explore the possibility of trading in Asian currencies instead of US dollars.
Minister Amir-Abdollahian said Iran has already made banking arrangements to trade with India and China and similar arrangements could be made with Sri Lanka.
Prime Minister Gunawardena thanked the Iran Government for the generous assistance provided to Sri Lanka during the economic crisis and for development projects.
Referring to the centuries old relations between Iran and Sri Lanka, he said the relationship is based on mutual trust, friendship and understanding.
He expressed appreciation over Iran’s continuous support to Sri Lanka at UNHRC and other international forums.
Iran Ambassador Dr. Alireza Delkosh, Deputy Minister of Energy Mojtoba Akbari, Iran Assistant Minister Seyed Mousavi Rasoul, State Minister Shasheeendra Rajapaksa, MPs Sudarshana Denipitiya and Yadamini Gunawardena and Secretary to the Prime Minister Anura Dissanayake were also present during the meeting.
Public Security Minister Tiran Alles emphasised his unwavering commitment to continue operations aimed at suppressing drugs, tackling the underworld and preventing violence against women and children, regardless of any pressure encountered.
Alles further disclosed that the value of drugs seized during the ‘Yukthiya’ operation, which commenced on December 17, 2023, amounts to Rs. 7.8 billion.
The Minister made these remarks during a news conference held at the Presidential Media Centre yesterday (21) under the theme ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’.
The Minister further commented:
Continuous efforts are underway to combat drug trafficking, organised crime, and violence against vulnerable groups such as women and children. Regardless of the challenges we face, we remain resolute in our commitment to these operations. There have been various allegations against our initiatives, and attempts have been made to disrupt our efforts by certain individuals and groups. We have received intelligence indicating that funds from drug networks are being used to finance these disruptive activities.
Operation ‘Yukthiya’, which commenced on December 17, has resulted in the seizure of narcotics valued at Rs. 7.8 billion. Additionally, assets including vehicles and buildings confiscated by law enforcement amount to Rs. 725 million. . A total of 58,562 raids have been conducted, leading to the arrest of 58,234 individuals involved in illicit activities.
Furthermore, we are in the process of introducing the E Passport service to alleviate the long queues at the Immigration and Emigration Department office. The queues have resurged recently, particularly due to the Korean Language Proficiency Test. To address this issue, we are exploring negotiations with the Korean government to implement a system and arrange to issue passports only to those who pass the exam.
It is worth noting that all arrangements have been finalised to issue the new ID cards through the Department of Registration of Persons. Additionally, several joint programs between schools and Police, facilitated by the Dangerous Drugs Control Board, are already underway to combat drug abuse.
Moreover, we express unanimous support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe as our candidate for the upcoming Presidential Election. The President has steered the country out of adversity and put an end to long-standing queues. We firmly believe that those who comprehend the prevailing circumstances should not contemplate electing another president.
Acting Inspector General of Police Deshbandu Tennakoon was present at the event. Responding to a journalist’s inquiry regarding the delay in police officer promotions, Mr. Tennakoon explained that some promotion issues have arisen due to petitions filed before the Supreme Court by discontented officers.
He mentioned that the National Police Commission, the Ministry of Public Security and the Police Headquarters have conducted several discussions with the Attorney General’s Department to address these concerns promptly. Mr. Tennakoon assured that these issues will be promptly resolved through this approach.
Furthermore, he highlighted the past issuance of promotions for lower-ranking police officers and assured that similar promotions will continue in the future.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his address at the inaugural ceremony of the 10th National Scout Jamboree held at the Koneswara Hindu Vidyalaya Stadium in Trincomalee yesterday morning (21), underscored the potential of Sri Lankans to steer the nation towards rapid development and fortify its security for future generations through unified efforts.
Emphasizing the inclusive nature of the event, the President highlighted that participation in the National Scout Jamboree transcends divisions of caste and religion. He articulated that unity among Sri Lankans, spanning from the North to the South and from Colombo to Trincomalee, is pivotal in accomplishing shared objectives.
President Wickremesinghe pledged his support for the expansion of the Scout Association, noting its role in nurturing responsible citizens essential for the country. Furthermore, he announced the plans to facilitate collaboration between the Scout Association and the Ministry of Technology, underscoring the importance of leveraging interactions across sectors for national development.
Today marked the opening of the 10th National Scout Jamboree organized by the Sri Lanka Scout Association, graced by the presence of Sri Lanka’s Chief Scout, President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Themed “Leadership for Change,” this week-long National Jamboree, held from February 20th to 26th, has drawn a crowd of 11,500 scouts and scout leaders from both local and international arenas. Notably, this edition of the jamboree witnesses the participation of a delegation from the Girl Guide Association for the first time, alongside the inclusion of Cub Scouts, enhancing the event’s significance.
Arrival of President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the 10th National Scout Jamboree was met with a warm welcome from the Chief Commissioner of Sri Lanka Scouts, Attorney-at-Law Mr. Janaprith Fernando, who also presented the President with a belt and the medal.
In commemoration of this occasion, a special stamp was issued for the National Scout Jamboree, and the souvenirs created at the district level, including the main souvenir were presented to the President.
In a symbolic gesture marking the introduction of the new uniform for the Sri Lanka Scout Association, President Ranil Wickremesinghe presented it to the Chief Scout Commissioner, Mr. Janaprith Fernando.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, serving as the Chief Scout of Sri Lanka, was also honoured with Jamboree souvenirs and commemorative gifts during the ceremony.
Subsequently, the President actively engaged in observing the camps established at the 10th National Scout Jamboree. The jamboree boasts participation from scouts representing 28 countries, including America, Australia, Canada, Sweden, Austria, England, France, Portugal, India, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
Each day of the jamboree features a diverse array of practical activities for the scouts, including firework displays and cultural shows. Notably, the jamboree is open to the public starting today (21), from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Emphasising the significance of the 10th Scout Jamboree held in Trincomalee, President Ranil Wickremesinghe further said that this is a gathering where scouts and girl guides from all corners of Sri Lanka converge. Today, you are not representing your individual schools, religions, or nations; rather, you all are stand here united as Sri Lankan scouts. We are all Sri Lankans.
First and foremost, I extend my gratitude to each one of you present here. Your presence today signifies the weaving of a strong bond that stretches from Point Pedro to Dondra point. Moreover, it fosters a friendship bridging Colombo and Trincomalee. Your unity is paramount, as it will propel this jamboree to fulfil a unique mission.
From the Scout Movement emerges a group of exemplary citizens, a necessity for our nation. Upon assuming the role of Chief Scout, I queried the Chief Scout Commissioner about the feasibility of expanding our membership to 200,000. Receiving an affirmative response, it became evident that collective efforts are required to fortify this scout movement.
Looking ahead, our aim extends to reaching a membership of 250,000. However, the hurdle lies in resource scarcity. It’s noteworthy that upon achieving the 200,000 target, additional funding is anticipated to sustain this endeavour. However, a carefully crafted plan is essential.
Furthermore, these movements serve as conduits for spreading new knowledge and technology. By the upcoming National Scout Jamboree next year, we anticipate integrating artificial intelligence into our programs. Leveraging the scout movement as a platform for knowledge distribution, I envision collaborating with the Ministry of Technology to provide opportunities for advancement.
We extend our support to integrate fields like agricultural modernization and environmental protection into the scout movement. We urge you to fulfil your duty to the country through scouting. You have done so thus far, and we expect even greater dedication in the future.
It’s not just scouts, but everyone who must fulfil their duty to the nation. The question remains whether all of us will step up. The main concern lies in whether those in politics will fulfil their obligations. Two years ago, we endured immense hardships. There were shortages of electricity, fuel, and fertilizers for farming. Many struggled to have three meals a day. Our nation faced severe economic distress, verging on bankruptcy. However, we are slowly recovering from that crisis. While we have provided some relief to the people, challenges persist. Yet, to ensure the triumph of our nation, we must persevere on this path.
After steering the country away from bankruptcy, our next collective responsibility is to construct a nation that ensures such dire circumstances never recur. The pressing question before us is whether the politicians are prepared for this challenge at present.
Hence, I implore everyone to embark on this journey together. With united efforts, we can forge a brighter future for our country within the next 10-15 years. Let us consider it our duty to the forthcoming generations of our nation.
Once again, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the participants of the National Scout Jamboree.
Governor of the Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman, Member of Parliament Kapila Athukorala, Jamboree Leader Chief Scout Commissioner Attorney-At-Law Janaprith Fernando, Asia Pacific Vice President and World Scout Movement representative Simon Han Bok Rhee, Scout Camp Organizing Commissioner Sarath Matararachchi, National Training Commissioner Colonel Padmalal Perera, Sri Lanka Girl Guide Association Chief Commissioner Kushantha Herath, Deputy Jamboree Leader, Deputy Commissioner M.F.S. Muheed and others were also present on this occasion.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe says an initiative to expand Scout Movement for citizen development will be introduced: announces plans for collaboration with the Ministry of Technology and emphasises the scouts’ role in national development: urges politicians to fulfil their responsibilities and calls for collective efforts to ensure a prosperous future.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa says the current regime bankrupted and destroyed the country, provided tax concessions to billionaires, and reduced the state income as a percentage of the GDP from 12% to 8%: laments the 113 ruling party MPs stood up for the minister who executed the deal of importing substandard medicines: asserts a SJB government will implement a new national programme to eradicate poverty, protect the banking system whilst temporarily abolishing parate execution and saving the business community, introduce the ‘One Stop Shop’ concept to encourage FDIs, and introduce a permanent independent anti-corruption policy.
The Supreme Court sets March 4, 2024, to hear a motion challenging the legality of the National People’s Power (NPP) registration, filed by lawyer Nagananda Kodithuwakku: The anti-JVP activist argues that the NPP’s registration, which includes the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), violates legal statutes.
Public Security Minister Tiran Alles reaffirms commitment to anti-drug, anti-underworld, and anti-violence efforts despite pressure: reveals drug seizures worth Rs. 7.8 billion during the ‘Yukthiya’ operation.
CEB plans to propose electricity tariff reduction to PUCSL today: The state-owned provider aims to pass on profits to consumers: Minister Wijesekera asserts reductions will match last year’s increases: 18% for domestic users, 12% for industries, and 24% for government entities.
The Central Bank shifts focus to medium-term inflation for better decision-making, aiming to address transmission lag: Officials foresee short-term inflation upticks due to tax changes and supply disruptions but anticipate stabilisation later: Near-term inflation risks are skewed upwards due to supply-side factors, while medium-term projections remain balanced.
Sri Lanka’s inflation rose by 6.5% Y-o-Y in January due to VAT hikes and supply chain disruptions: Monthly figures show a 3.0% increase, the highest in over a year: Core prices excluding food, energy, and transport rose by 2.2%: Food prices surged by 4.1%, while non-food inflation increased by 8.5%, driven by higher housing rent and petrol prices: Rising education costs and recreational spending also contributed to the inflationary pressure.
MEPA detects and addresses unauthorised oil release using its satellite surveillance system, developed with French support: The incident involved the Global Crest tanker near Colombo on February 4, detected through satellite imagery: MEPA fined the vessel nearly $50,000, leading to its release after payment: The system, tested since September 2023, aims to deter pollution incidents and safeguard Sri Lanka’s strategic shipping routes.
Veteran Sri Lankan musician Priya Suriyasena (79) receives once-in-a-lifetime award ‘UW Sumathipala Award’ at the Sumathi Awards Ceremony: The event saw multiple emotions from every corner as the singing excellence received the award.
Sri Lanka (206/6) loses a thrilling T20 match to Afghanistan (209/5) by three runs: Despite a valiant effort, SL fell short in the final over: Kamindu Mendis impressed with an unbeaten 65: Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz’s 70 powered them to a high total of 209: Despite Pathum Nissanka’s solid start, SL couldn’t chase down the target: Afghanistan clinched their first win of the series.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The Supreme Court convened yesterday (21) scheduled a hearing for March 4, 2024, to consider a motion requesting permission to challenge the legality of the National People’s Power (NPP) registration.
The motion, submitted by lawyer Nagananda Kodithuwakku, asserts that the NPP’s registration is unlawful.
This decision was rendered during proceedings before a Supreme Court bench comprising justices Preethi Padman Surasena, Achala Vennappuli, and Arjuna Obeysekara.
Kodithuvakku’s motion calls for the Supreme Court to set a date to review the legitimacy of the NPP’s registration.
This motion stems from a writ petition challenging the Election Commission’s rejection of Vinivida Peramuna’s registration as a political party.
Kodithuvakku argues in his motion that the NPP’s registration, which includes the prominent leftist party Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), violates legal statutes.
Therefore, he seeks permission to contest the legality of the NPP’s registration.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s inflation surged by 6.5 per cent year-on-year in January, driven by widespread price hikes attributed to the one-time impact of higher Value Added Tax (VAT) and disruptions in the supply chain due to weather-related conditions.
Monthly figures from the National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) reveal a notable 3.0 per cent increase in January, marking the highest rise in over a year, compared to 1.4 per cent in the previous month.
This aligns with the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI) released three weeks ago, which recorded a 6.4 per cent inflation rate for January, up from 4.0 per cent in December.
Anticipated by authorities, these inflationary pressures were expected to hover around 7.0 per cent in both January and February.
The core national prices, excluding food, energy, and transport, rose by 2.2 per cent year-on-year in January, indicating underlying inflationary pressures.
These figures serve as a key indicator for policy-making and predicting future inflation trends.
Food prices surged by 4.1 per cent annually in January, accelerating sharply from December’s 1.6 per cent, while monthly increases slowed to 2.6 per cent from 3.6 per cent in December.
Almost all food commodities saw price increases except for four types.
Non-food inflation, encompassing energy and services, rose by 8.5 per cent annually, up from 6.3 per cent in December, with a monthly increase of 3.2 per cent compared to a 0.3 per cent decline in December.
This rise was primarily driven by higher housing rent, petrol, and L.P. gas prices.
The surge in recreational activities and dining out has contributed to increased non-food prices, evident from rising expenditures at restaurants and hotels.
Additionally, education costs have weighed heavily on parents’ finances, with significant increases in tuition fees observed in January.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) of Sri Lanka highlights a recent achievement in detecting and addressing an unauthorised oil release through its newly implemented satellite surveillance system, developed with support from France.
In its statement shared on social media, MEPA notes this successful case, the first of its kind, among over 100 detection reports received since the system’s testing phase began.
The incident involved the Global Crest, a crude oil tanker, detected on February 4 in Sri Lanka’s anchorage near Colombo.
Satellite imagery revealed a significant oil slick approximately seven miles long and spread across one square kilometer.
Subsequent analysis identified the vessel as the source, prompting MEPA to inspect and detain it.
Following an onboard inspection confirming the illegal discharge, MEPA imposed a fine of nearly $50,000 on the ship.
The vessel’s owner opted to pay the fine on February 9, leading to its release and departure for the UAE the next day.
Sri Lanka initiated testing of the surveillance system in September 2023, inspired by successful implementations elsewhere, such as the ClearSeaNet service by the European Maritime Safety Authority.
MEPA emphasises the system’s deterrence potential, highlighting its role in reducing pollution incidents in European waters.
Since its inception, MEPA has received over 100 detection reports, indicating the system’s effectiveness.
The successful test serves as a step towards establishing a fully operational local capability, crucial for safeguarding Sri Lanka’s strategic position on international shipping routes while mitigating pollution risks from accidental spills and illegal discharges.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The Central Bank announced its strategic shift towards focusing on medium-term inflation, deeming it more relevant for decision-making processes.
This adjustment aims to address the lag in transmission of policy decisions to near-term inflation outcomes.
In a technical discussion on the Monetary Policy report, a senior Central Bank official explained that this shift intends to provide more insightful guidance to markets and stakeholders, fostering better policy coordination and expectation management.
The Central Bank typically experiences a transmission period of six to 12 months, extending to 18 months in specific cases, with an inflation outlook spanning eight quarters ahead.
Despite an anticipated uptick in inflation for the current year due to one-off impacts like Value Added Tax changes, officials foresee stabilisation towards the year-end and early next year.
Confidence remains in the economy’s ability to return inflation to the government’s 5 per cent target, despite short-term deviations caused by recent tax adjustments and supply disruptions.
However, the latest Monetary Policy Report warns of near-term inflation risks skewed to the upside due to supply-side factors, while medium-term projections are balanced.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has announced plans to submit a proposal for electricity tariff reduction to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) today (22).
The state-owned electricity provider aims to pass on the benefits of its profits to consumers through this tariff revision, according to CEB Spokesperson Eng. Noel Priyantha.
Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera informed Parliament on February 22 that the CEB intends to lower rates by at least the same percentages as the increases implemented in October 2023.
Last year, electricity tariffs rose by 18 per cent for domestic and religious institutions, 12 per cent for industries and hotels, and 24 per cent for government entities.
February 22, Colombo (LNW): Except for a few showers in Southern province and in Rathnapura district in the evening or night mainly fair weather will prevail elsewhere over the Island, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (22).
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces during the morning, the statement added.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Mainly fair weather will prevail over the sea areas around the island.
Winds:
Wind will be variable and wind speed will be (10-20) kmph in the sea areas around the island
State of Sea:
Sea areas around the island will be Slight.
Meanwhile, the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre of the Department warned that the head index is expected to increase up to caution level at some places in North-western province and Gampaha, Colombo, Hambantota and Monaragala districts.
