The High Commission of Sri Lanka in South Africa showcased Sri Lankan food, tea and tourism at the Brooklyn Mall in Pretoria recently.
The Sri Lankan stall under the theme of “Taste of Sri Lanka” at the Brooklyn Mall was inaugurated by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner of South Africa Gamini Gunawardena in the presence of the members of the diplomatic community in Pretoria and distinguished guests from the Sri Lanka community in South Africa.
The stall was designed to showcase Sri Lankan tourism, tea, food and handicrafts with a view to promoting Sri Lanka as a travel destination. Sri Lankan traditional delicacies, including Kiribath, Mung Kavum, Kokis, Kottu, Roti, and Cutlets, were served with hot cups of ‘Ceylon tea’ to the visitors. Basilar Tea facilitated the promotion of Pure Ceylon Tea for the event. The two-day event attracted more than 1,000 visitors.
Leaflets and booklets about tea and tourism were disseminated among visitors with a view to promoting Sri Lanka as an attractive tourist destination for South African tourists.
The newly appointed High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne (Rtd.) WV RWP & Bar RSP VSV USP NI (M), ndc psn assumed duties at the Sri Lanka High Commission in Islamabad on Monday, 04December 2023. The High Commissioner – designate was received and welcomed by the staff of the High Commission. His assumption of duties was marked by the lighting of the traditional oil lamp, religious rites and addressing the staff.
In his address to the staff, High Commissioner-designate Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne (Rtd.) stated that Both Pakistan and Sri Lanka are strategic partners in South Asia and the relationship established between two brotherly countries is based on mutual trust. He said he is committed to extend his fullest support in order to strengthen the existing relationship and build people to people contacts stronger. He is the only Sri Lankan who has been awarded the Nishan – e- lmtiyaz medal by Pakistan.
Prior to the appointment as the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne (Rtd.) served as the Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy and as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). From February 2023 to August 2023 he was the Managing Director of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and Chairman, Trinco Petroleum Terminals (Pvt) Ltd.(TPTL).
The High Commissioner-designate Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne (Rtd.) joined the Sri Lanka Navy in 1980 and rose to the Rank of Admiral / Chief of Defense Staff (Tri-Forces Commander). And also previously served as the First Secretary/Defense Adviser of Sri Lanka High Commission in New Delhi from 2001 – 2005.
The High Commissioner-designate Admiral Ravindra Chandrasiri Wijegunaratne (Rtd.) holds a Bachelor of Science (Hon) (War Studies) Degree from Karachi University, Pakistan and MPhil (Defense and Strategic Studies) from Madras University.
(New York, December 6, 2023) – Sri Lankan authorities have detained nine ethnic Tamils under the country’s abusive counterterrorism law for commemorating those who died in the 1983-2009 civil war, Human Rights Watch said today.
The Sri Lankan government has repeatedly assured international allies, trading partners, and the United Nations that it would replace the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA), which has long been used to arbitrarily detain and torture minority community members and civil society activists. The government should immediately release all those arbitrarily detained under the PTA and place a moratorium on its use until it can be repealed.
“The Sri Lankan authorities’ use of a counterterrorism law against Tamils commemorating those who died in the civil war is cruelly abusive and further marginalizes a community that already faces persistent government discrimination,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks of ‘reconciliation,’ but his government’s actions only serve to deepen ethnic divisions.”
The authorities arrested those newly detained under the PTA between November 25 and 27 in Batticaloa, in the Eastern Province, and confiscated decorations and loudspeakers from a commemoration vigil. Since the civil war between the government and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) ended in 2009 with the separatist armed group’s complete defeat, successive administrations have prevented Tamils from publicly memorializing the war dead.
On December 2, police in Mullaitivu district, in the Northern Province, reportedly shut down an event at a Hindu temple to commemorate the Sri Lankan army’s 1984 massacre of Tamil villagers in Othiyamalai. Preventing ethnic and religious minorities from conducting ceremonies to commemorate the dead violates the rights to freedom of religion, belief, expression, and association, Human Rights Watch said.
Soon after taking office in July 2022, President Wickremesinghe ended a short-lived moratorium on the use of the PTA. A previous administration, in which Wickremesinghe was prime minister, had pledged in 2017 to repeal the law when it rejoined a European Union trading program called the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP+). The GSP+ grants tariff-free access for Sri Lankan exports conditioned on compliance with international human rights conventions. Sri Lankan authorities have repeatedly renewed the pledge but never carried it out.
The administration has also used the PTA to restrict criticism of government management of the economy and other policies. In August 2022, three student activists were detained under the law for protesting the government’s handling of the economic crisis. Other activists say that they fear being arrested under the PTA for speaking out and that the government is constraining civil society organizations’ access to funding, particularly donations from abroad, under the guise of “countering terrorist financing.”
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), which is providing Sri Lanka with a US$3 billion loan, reported in September that civil society’s “oversight and monitoring” of government actions is “restricted … by broad application of counter-terrorism rules.”
In a November report on Sri Lanka’s compliance with its human rights obligations under the GSP+ trading arrangement, the EU found that “the treatment of minorities remains a concern in particular as efforts towards reconciliation are slow, and the 1979 Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) continues to be applied including after the protest movements in 2022, causing fear among the population and suffocating dissent. Substantial reform or repeal of the PTA in line with human rights standards remains a priority, just as Sri Lanka’s need to re-commit to reconciliation and accountability.” Despite Sri Lanka’s failure to comply with its six-year-old pledge to reform the PTA, the EU continues to extend GSP+ benefits to the country.
On September 15, the government published the latest version of its proposed replacement counterterrorism legislation. It then withdrew the bill for further revisions after widespread domestic and international criticism that it reproduced many of the abusive provisions of the current law while creating new speech-related offenses that could be used to suppress dissent.
The government recently proposed another law, the Online Safety Bill, that could also be used to restrict freedom of expression by creating a commission, appointed by the president, which would decide whether online statements are false or prohibited. The commission could order the removal of online statements and participate in police investigations and prosecutions of those accused of posting them.
“The Sri Lankan government’s latest misuse of the PTA should be a strong reminder to the EU that its GSP+ requirements are being ignored,” Ganguly said. “The European Union and EU governments need to make their displeasure with this turn of events known.”
The Keel Laying ceremony of 4000T Floating Dock for the Sri Lanka Navy being built by M/s Goa Shipyard Ltd was conducted on 06 December 2023. The ceremony was held at M/s Dempo Shipbuilding and Engineering Pvt. Ltd. (DSEPL), Goa. This landmark event was graced by H.E. Gopal Baglay, High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka, Vice Admiral UVMP Perera, Commander of Sri Lanka Navy along with all Joint Monitoring Committee members of Floating Dock from both countries through virtual participation.
The High Commissioner in his address during the occasion highlighted that the project symbolises the enduring bonds of cooperation, camaraderie and friendship between India and Sri Lanka. India has remained committed towards capacity building and sustained development of Sri Lanka Defence forces, towards realising vision of India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) doctrine and ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. He emphasized that the project of providing Floating Dock to Sri Lanka Navy has reinforced the strong bonds between Navies of both India and Sri Lanka. He mentioned that the Floating Dock will fulfill all maintenance needs of the Sri Lanka Navy and thereby enhancing Maritime security in the region.
He thanked all stakeholders for their contribution in making this project a reality and wished them for timely completion of the project. He expressed his appreciation to M/s Goa Shipyard Limited for organizing the event in physical as well as virtual mode.
The gifting of Floating Dock to Sri Lanka Navy is indicative of the growing cooperation and friendship between the two nations. It may be recalled that the agreement between GoI and GoSL for gifting of 4000T Floating Dock to Sri Lanka Navy was signed on 15 Mar 2022 in Colombo. The Floating Dock is capable of docking vessels up to 115 meters in length with lifting capacity of dock is 4000 Tons.
Colombo (LNW): A specialised dialogue focusing on bolstering bilateral security ties between Sri Lanka Russia, alongside discussions on international information security, has taken place today, the Public Security Ministry announced today (07).
Chaired by Public Security Minister Tiran Alles, the meeting was conducted at the ministry office and saw the participation of Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, and Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe.
A distinguished Russian delegation, including Alexander Nikolaevich and Deputy Secretary Oleg Vladimirovich, actively engaged in the discussions.
The session also witnessed the presence of ministry officials and Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP) Deshabandu Tennakoon.
Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena addressing the prevailing economic challenges emphasised that the government is committed to safeguarding public servants amidst the current crisis.
He asserted that, despite the economic difficulties, all government employees have successfully maintained their services.
Speaking at the Gampaha District Progress Review Meeting of the National Integration Participation Development Program “Aluth Gamak – Aluth Ratak” on Wednesday (06), held at the Gampaha District Secretariat, the Prime Minister asserted that despite the economic difficulties, all government employees have successfully maintained their services.
He outlined plans for the upcoming implementation of the Grama Niladhari Service Minute within the next few months.
“Last year we faced an unprecedented economic and financial problem. Though it is politically good or bad, the government has admitted that our country has confronted with a financial crisis. Accordingly, discussions were held with international organisations. This is not the first time that Sri Lanka has gone towards IMF and World Bank. Every government worked with them.
Malaysia faced this kind of economic collapse. Today there is a developed economy in Malaysia, which revived the economy by developing the entire Government sector. Likewise even European countries collapsed. I remember the first decision made there. Initially Greece sent half of its public servants to their homes. They informed pensioners that they could not pay for them. But we didn’t do that.
We informed IMF and the World Bank strongly as a government that we are not moving towards that solution. Accordingly, all government employees have been able to continue their services.
There are 14,000 Grama Seva Divisions. We are taking necessary steps to bring the Grama Niladhari Service Minute in a few months. Let us work together with the priority of leading the country to continuous economic growth.
There are several government officers in a Grama Seva division. They are bound to implement the development committee plan as a district under the Government Agent in accordance with the instructions given by the development committee leaders of the government. It is necessary to establish a rural development plan. Many important facts were revealed here. We hope that every Grama Seva Divisions will increase the production compared to last year. Investments can be done in the fields of food production, other industrial crops, raw materials or assembling industries. We are sure that this year 2024 will definitely be a year of economic growth.
We must now enter into the preparation of development plans by collecting the information of each village. A new country, a new village (Aluth Gamak – Aluth Ratak) program was introduced to increase production, create new and diverse fields as the main focus of a development plan. We have started to become self-sufficient in terms of food. Every village cannot be self-sufficient in every aspect.
The World Bank and the International Monetary Fund have agreed to allocate a special allocation for the elderly. There should be a continuous increase in allowances for the elderly. It is for this purpose that the expenditure headings in the budget have been increased.
We are committed to cover the elderly and those who are suffering from other illnesses. The Government Agent can bring the information from every district and consolidate the information. Therefore, with this information, we should intervene to cover all the disabled, elderly, diseased and disabled people in the district. We are in the public service.
Financial provision has been allocated in the budget to ensure lifelong career and training for the children who leave after completing their education. The need to identify and deal with those programs is recalled again.
The Government sector cannot cover all the aspects. So the support of the private sector is required. The joint ventures that can be created by inviting foreign investments can further develop the economy. Government officials should intervene to act carefully”.
Ministers Prasanna Ranatunga, Nalin Fernando, Western Province Governor Roshan Gunathilaka, State Ministers Janaka Wakkumbura, Ashoka Priyantha, Indika Anuruddha, Sisira Jayakodi, Prasanna Ranaweera, Members of Parliament Sahan Pradeep, Kokila Gunawardena, Upul Mahendra Rajapaksa, Milan Jayathilaka, Yadamini Gunawardena, Secretary to the Ministry of Public Administration Ranjith Ashoka, Western Provincial Secretary Pradeep Yasaratne, Gampaha District Secretary Saman Darshana Padi Korala and other government officials participated in this event.
Colombo (LNW): Speaking at the parliament today (07), Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa highlighted the pivotal role foreign policy plays in governance, emphasising its impact on the nation. He stressed the necessity for a results-driven and innovative foreign policy, citing its potential benefits for Sri Lanka.
Premadasa expressed concern over Sri Lanka’s track record in adhering to agreements, labelling it as dismal. He criticised the government’s introduction of the Online Safety and Anti-Terrorism Bills, claiming they erode the core principles of democracy, specifically freedom of speech and thought.
The Opposition Leader highlighted instances where Sri Lankan funds were disbursed under the guise of safeguarding the country’s foreign policy interests, referencing an individual named Zuberi among the recipients. He reiterated the Supreme Court’s revelation of parties culpable for the country’s fiscal deterioration due to violations of citizens’ fundamental rights, advocating for a comprehensive programme to reclaim misappropriated national assets.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa also questioned the government whether any quantitative and qualitative assessments were done when embarking on Free Trade Agreements. He noted that Sri Lanka needs to train the government personnel to make sure that they come to agreements that are mutually advantageous to Sri Lanka.
Addressing the government’s purported stance on human rights protection, he criticised its mishandling of issues concerning the Islamic community during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the contentious matter of cremation and burial practices. He blamed the ex-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa for making abhorrent and racist decisions during his tenure.
He affirmed that the Samagi Jana Balawegaya holds steadfast to policies devoid of ethnic or religious bias, unlike the government’s approach purportedly tied to electoral calculations. The Opposition Leader also condemned the government’s blatant disregard for World Health Organisation guidelines and assured unwavering support for the rights of the Muslim and Islamic communities.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa also voiced Sri Lanka’s unwavering stance on global peace and security amidst the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. He unequivocally denounced the abhorrent targeting of civilians in the conflict, labelling it a reprehensible act that weaponises innocent lives as shields. He mentioned that SJB advocates for the two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
Emphasising the critical need for international peace as a precursor to global stability, he urged collective efforts towards fostering an environment of harmony and security on the world stage. The Opposition Leader’s impassioned remarks underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to advocating for peace and condemning acts that jeopardise the safety and well-being of civilians worldwide.
The Opposition Leader also articulated the imperative need to recover financial assets siphoned from Sri Lanka and stashed abroad. He underscored the necessity for government officials to shift focus to actively pursuing initiatives aimed at identifying and recovering the ill-gotten gains of those who plundered the nation’s financial resources.
Colombo (LNW): Air Arabia, a prominent Emirati low-cost airline, has officially disclosed the commencement of a new air route connecting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Colombo.
In an official statement, the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) has confirmed that the new route will become operational starting this Friday, December 08, 2023.
Scheduled with precision and reliability, Air Arabia flights will operate every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, facilitating seamless connectivity between the capitals of Abu Dhabi and Colombo.
This strategic air link promises enhanced accessibility and convenience for passengers traveling on these specified days.
The introduction of this new route signifies Air Arabia’s commitment to expanding its network and offering travelers a reliable and efficient service.
Passengers can now benefit from the scheduled operations that align with the demands of midweek and weekend travel, contributing to a well-structured and accessible air transportation service between these two significant locations.
Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) has appreciated against the US Dollar today (07) in comparison to yesterday, as per the official exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).
Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar has dropped to 321.87 from Rs. 322.68 and the selling price to Rs. 331.78 from Rs. 333.07.
The LKR, meanwhile, has also appreciated several other foreign currencies.
Colombo (LNW): Upliftment path of plantation workers within the highlands shall be education which prioritises teacher training rather than the establishment of a university, Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) MP Mano Ganesan told the Chambers.
Joining the Parliament debate showcasing budgetary allocations for education on Tuesday (05), the Opposition MP emphasised that university education in the hill-country may become a priority, but only after the government erects a pathway of secondary, tertiary and higher secondary education.
“We have no Science, Maths, English and IT teachers. Hence, priority is the establishment of a special Teacher Training College based on affirmative principles and not a university in Nuwara Eliya today,” Ganesan said.
The much talked INR 750 million grant from India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi shall be used for this ‘noble’ purpose, the MP went on, adding that he is for the out of box mode as how the government of India maintains the Jaffna Cultural Centre.
“I submitted a proposal early this year in January to the Indian High Commissioner to revamp and enhance the scope of Ceylon Estate Workers Education Trust (CEWET), a registered IHC entity in Sri Lanka, and later in July to use the generous grant of the Prime Minister of India and work with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Education in this regard,” the opposition lawmaker pointed out.
In @ParliamentLK; Upliftment path of #Plantation workers within #IOT HillCountry Community shall be EDUCATION, that shall prioritize Teacher Training today. We hv no Science, Maths, English, IT teachers. Hence, priority is the establishment of a special Teacher Training College… pic.twitter.com/PMLMRAhdOC
