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Australia Police opens Mannar surveillance post to stop human smuggling.

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By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): With the ever increasing illegal immigration attempts by sea to Australia from Sri Lanka, the Australian government has further strengthened cross border surveillance to crack down on Sri Lankans taking the risky sea journey.

A new office to combat smuggling, human trafficking and maritime crimes centered around maritime areas in the Mannar district was opened on Thursday (26).

The Australian Police has granted Rs150 million to set up the new office to control human smuggling and trafficking centered on the seas off the Mannar district. , informed official sources said.

The event to declare open the office was held with Senior Officer of the Australian Federal Police Colombo Post Detective Superintendent Robert Wilson as the Chief Guest.

The main aim is to prevent people getting on boats to travel to Australia, as there is zero chance of getting there.

Working with the Sri Lankan Police and other agencies within Sri Lanka means that we try to prevent people losing their money to people smugglers through scams and other frauds and cheats, Detective Superintendent Robert Wilson disclosed.

“Or if they do get on a boat, risking their lives. The boats they get on are not sea worthy and there’s little chance of getting to Australia. If they do get the chance of getting near Australia, they’ll be turned back and returned to Sri Lanka,”he elaborated.

Senior law enforcement officials said that some organizers of people smuggling were now selling the European Union (EU) and the UK ‘dream’ to vulnerable youth and families of those who had relatives in Europe, stating that the EU and the UK did not have the ‘Zero Chance’ stance that Australia had enforced on illegal migration

In 2022, approximately 1189 Sri Lankans were detained by Sri Lanka Navy while attempting an illegal maritime journey to Australia.

“We cannot be complacent. There is still plenty to be done in educating vulnerable Sri Lankans about the dangers and repercussions of these illegal journeys,” officials added.

Key to this education is the Zero Chance anti-people smuggling communication campaign, which informs, educates and deters vulnerable Sri Lankans from undertaking a dangerous and futile maritime journey to Australia.

Official sources have also revealed that they are investigating the brother of a Sri Lankan government MP over allegations of people smuggling to Australia.

The revelations paint a picture of the ineffective measures put forward by the Australian government to fix the issue, according to experts.

June 2022 saw the highest number of illegal boat interceptions by the Australian Border Force since 2013. All were from Sri Lanka.

The stark increase is in large part due to Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, which has cut off basic services to millions of people.

Shi Yan 6 vessel opens to conduct NARA research and public viewing.

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By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankans have been given a rare opportunity to visit Chinese geophysical scientific research vessel Shi Yan 6 now being anchored at Colombo Port with the permission of National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA).

The Chinese geophysical scientific research vessel Shi Yan 6 which is docked, is now open for public viewing on Friday and Saturday, official sources announced.

The NARA said permission was granted to conduct research with the Chinese geophysical scientific research vessel Shi Yan 6, which is docked at the Port of Colombo.

NARA Director General Dr. Kamal Tennakoon said permission was granted on Thursday (26) afternoon Research teams will be dispatched for this purpose over the next few days, he disclosed.

Dr. Tennakoon said the research will study the impact of the ocean system on the regional climate including in Sri Lanka.

The Chinese crew said Sri Lankans have the opportunity to visit the Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6 at the Colombo Port on Friday (27) as well.

The Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6 made regional headlines after India expressed concern over the movements of the vessel on its journey to Sri Lanka.

However, the Chinese geophysical scientific research vessel Shi Yan 6 docked at the Port of Colombo on 25th October, as planned.

The Shi Yan 6 is berthed at the South Asia Gateway Terminals of the Port of Colombo.

The Shi Yan 6 is equipped with the latest and modern technology that can monitor the ocean bed, and it also comprises laboratories to test the samples obtained from the ocean floor.

Weighing 260 tonnes, the Shi Yan 6 can accommodate 60 people. The Shi Yan 6 departed from Ghuangzhou in China on the 11th of September, and entered the Indian Ocean region on the 19th of September.

Its voyage included navigating the Ninety East Ridge, a mid-ocean ridge on the Indian Ocean floor named for its near-parallel strike along the 90th meridian at the center of the Eastern Hemisphere, in the Exclusive Economic Zone of India in the Indian Ocean, and other locations as well.

Maritime Data also revealed that the vessel moved within the Sea of Sri Lanka at times.

Earlier, it was mentioned that the Shi Yan 6 would be allowed to enter Sri Lanka on the 25th of October, and Foreign Minister Ali Sabry in New York said that permission was not granted for the ship.

However, as planned, the Shi Yan 6 reached the Port of Colombo, while the Foreign Ministry said that the vessel would only be in Sri Lanka for replenishment purposes.

Sri Lanka Advances ETCA Negotiations with India and Global Trade Initiatives

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Sri Lanka is gearing up for the 12th round of negotiations on the proposed Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) with India, as announced by the President’s Media Division (PMD). The two countries have already engaged in 11 rounds of bilateral talks from 2016 to 2019, aiming to expand and deepen the existing India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement (ISFTA).

The ETCA is set to have a broader scope than the current ISFTA, emphasizing the deepening economic ties between the two nations. The Sri Lankan government is focusing on two pivotal components: enhancing supply capacity and broadening market access as part of its multifaceted growth strategy designed to drive economic recovery.

In its pursuit of economic recovery, Sri Lanka is not only strengthening ties with its major traditional export destinations like the USA and the EU/UK but also actively integrating with regions in South Asia, South East Asia, and East Asia.

This multifaceted approach includes negotiations and execution of bilateral trade agreements. Currently, Sri Lanka has bilateral trade agreements with key South Asian partners, such as India and Pakistan, primarily focused on trade in goods. Sri Lanka also benefits from access to South Asian markets through regional trading agreements like the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) and the SAARC Preferential Trading Arrangement (SAPTA).

Sri Lanka is actively involved in Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) negotiations with Bangladesh, concentrating on trade in goods. These negotiations, initiated in June 2021, have already seen three rounds of discussions, with both countries preparing their initial offer lists for subsequent rounds.

Sri Lanka’s engagement with ASEAN countries is expanding through Free Trade Agreements. The country has a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with Singapore, with ongoing negotiations with other ASEAN countries like Thailand and Indonesia.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka is in discussions with China to resume negotiations for a proposed FTA. Six rounds of negotiations have already taken place, focusing on gaining market access for selected Sri Lankan products in China and establishing links to global value chains.

Sri Lanka is also making strides in establishing an economic integration program with ASEAN, Oceania, and East Asia by joining the world’s largest Free Trade Agreement, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement, underscoring its commitment to global economic integration.

All of these trade negotiations fall under the purview of the Cabinet-appointed National Trade Negotiation Committee (NTNC), led by the Chief Negotiator of the Office of International Trade under the Presidential Secretariat. The NTNC is supported by eleven subcommittees representing various ministries and departments, facilitating negotiations and stakeholder engagements.

SLT-MOBITEL named principal sponsor for IESL Techno Exhibition 2023

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Colombo (LNW): SLT-MOBITEL, the National ICT Solutions Provider, is delighted to announce its position as the Main Sponsor for the eagerly awaited IESL Techno Exhibition 2023, taking place from 20th to 22nd October 2023, at the BMICH, Colombo.

This exhibition, the annual premier event organised by the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL), acts as a stage to present the country’s most recent technological breakthroughs and innovations across various sectors.

By being the main sponsor, SLT-MOBITEL is underscoring its dedication to furthering technological advancement and stimulating innovation within Sri Lanka.

This collaboration with IESL Techno Exhibition 2023 cements the company’s role as a pivotal figure in the telecommunications and technology sectors and accentuates its commitment to supporting events that encourage knowledge exchange and industry growth.

The IESL Techno Exhibition 2023 is an essential congregation of industry experts, engineers, and innovators who unite to delve into state-of-the-art technologies, share thoughts, and propel advancement in their specific fields.

Over the three days, the event will showcase the newest innovations, products, and talents from across the globe, all the while upholding rigorous standards.

Suppliers, representatives, national policymakers, engineers, and consumers can attend the three-day exhibition, getting a first-hand look at the latest technology all under one roof.

With the backing of SLT-MOBITEL, the exhibition is set to be a vibrant and influential platform, spotlighting the latest progress in telecommunications and related industries.

The exhibition’s theme, ‘Engineering for Economic Revival’, resonates deeply with SLT-MOBITEL’s mission to accompany the nation on its path to economic rejuvenation and affluence.

Recognising the pivotal role engineering has in infrastructure growth, technological progression, and industrial output – all crucial for reinvigorating and fortifying the country’s economy – SLT-MOBITEL remains steadfast in delivering state-of-the-art solutions and services that bolster engineering ventures and creative engineering solutions.

As the main sponsor, SLT-MOBITEL seeks to offer a distinct value proposition to Techno 2023 and its participants. Attendees can count on consistent and uninterrupted connectivity during the event, facilitating smooth cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Additionally, by offering resources and networking chances, SLT-MOBITEL will cultivate an environment that champions and boosts innovative concepts and solutions among Techno 2023 attendees.

In the lead-up to the primary event, the unveiling of Techno Sri Lanka 2023 occurred recently. Janaka Abeysinghe, CEO of Sri Lanka Telecom PLC, spoke to the attendees, stressing the significance of technology, innovation, invention, and engineering for the nation’s flourishing.

Ornamental fish exporters demand reforms in present freight rates.

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By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): Although Sri Lanka is endowed with favourable climatic conditions and resources for breeding and rearing ornamental fish for export, a considerable number of ornamental fish producers as well as exporters have given up the industry within a relatively short period of time.

Most (75%) of those were identified as small scale farmers. A majority (56%) of them used only cement tanks for their culture activities.

Only 47% of farmers had proper technical knowledge or training on fish culture while 42% directly supplied their fish products to the expoters.

In a recent meeting with the Export Development Board (EDB) Ornamental fish Advisory Committee, stakeholders highlighted the pressing need for comprehensive reforms across various aspects of ornamental fish exports to reach the industry’s full potential.

The industry stakeholders voiced their concerns about competitive freight rates offered by other countries, potentially impacting Sri Lanka’s exports of ornamental fish to European and US markets.

The ornamental fish exporters also stressed the urgent need for reforms in importation conditions, import bans, regulations on tissue-cultured plants and the Department of Forest’s restrictions on exporting exotic species.

One of the major issues raised was the delay in obtaining fresh animal quarantine reports within a 48-hour timeframe. They pointed out that this delay not only hinders timely customer updates but also affects operations, especially during extended weekends.

During the first nine months this year , Sri Lanka exported US $ 19.44 million worth of ornamental fish recording a year-on-year growth of 25% compared to the same period last year.

The EDB is actively engaged in conducting webinars and awareness sessions with the support of foreign missions, to establish connections with clients in overseas markets and drive growth in the industry.

The Advisory Committee noted that efforts are underway to work collaboratively with stakeholders, regulatory bodies and industry champions to navigate these challenges and pave the way for a thriving ornamental fish export sector in Sri Lanka.

The facilitation of the growth of Sri Lanka’s export sector remains the overarching objective of the EDB Advisory Committees.

Georgia explores trade links with Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector.

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By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): Georgian business delegation explores enhanced trade links with Sri Lanka’s agriculture sector

A Georgian business delegation paid a visit to the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) recently, to enhance trading opportunities with the Sri Lankan agricultural sector.

Georgia is Sri Lanka’s 91st export destination and in 2022, Sri Lanka’s exports value to Georgia was $ 5.02 million, representing a 22.45% increase compared to 2021, reflecting the growing potential for Sri Lankan products in the Georgian market.

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Turkey which is accredited to Georgia organized the visit of the Georgia delegation to Sri Lanka demonstrating their untiring efforts to boost commercial relations between the two countries.

Sri Lankan Embassy in Turkey Minister (Commercial) Thavishya Mullegamgoda together with the EDB, coordinated the meeting for the Sri Lankan private sector companies.

The focus of the discussions was on Sri Lankan agricultural products, particularly fruits, vegetables, cinnamon, spices, vanilla, and coconut-based items.

Accordingly, Georgian delegation met representatives from AdamjeeL ukmanjee and Sons Ltd., Eastern Allied Ltd., Earth Scape Ltd., Agriceylon Ltd., Raudo Foods Ltd., Silver Mill Group, and Nelna Agri Development Ltd., made presentations showcasing their products and offerings.

The Georgian delegates expressed strong interest in the products offered by Sri Lankan exporters and encouraged direct communication for future business opportunities.

Sri Lanka extended recognition to Georgia in 1992 and established diplomatic ties in 1998. In August 2016, the first session of political consultation in Colombo was preceded by an MoU for political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and Georgia.

Both have developed relations in several areas of mutual interest. Furthermore, the trade between the two states includes frozen fish, tea, Ceylon cinnamon, desiccated coconut and activated carbon.

The Government of Georgia has been implementing significant investment projects in the agriculture sector during recent years.

The international financial institutions have played a big role in this process, among them the World Bank, which is an important partner and with which we have had very fruitful cooperation for many years,” said George Khanishvili, First Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia.

“Amidst the current situation in the region, increased agricultural production is becoming ever more crucial for the country.

Accordingly, the current and future engagement of the World Bank in the agriculture sector of Georgia is very important for the further growth and development of the entire economy of Georgia.”

Manusha Nanayakkara and Italian Ambassador Discuss Labor Migration and Bilateral Relations

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Hon. Minister Manusha Nanayakkara of the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment welcomed His Excellency Damiano Francovigh, the Italian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, for a meeting today to strengthen bilateral relations and address labor migration concerns.

The focal point of their discussion was the renewal of the bilateral Cooperation on Labor Migration agreement between the Government of the Italian Republic and the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. A noteworthy outcome of this dialogue was the emphasis on establishing a training center, generously sponsored by the Italian Government. This center aims to provide pre-departure training for Sri Lankans seeking employment opportunities in Italy.

Additionally, Minister Nanayakkara addressed concerns related to Italy’s Job Quota system, highlighting the challenges faced by Sri Lankan job seekers in securing sponsors due to Italy’s unique referral-based quota system. His Excellency Francovigh clarified the absence of recruitment agencies in Italy, setting its job market apart from many other nations.

The meeting also delved into issues regarding the Family Reunion Visa process for Sri Lankans. Minister Nanayakkara pointed out the difficulties faced by Sri Lankan citizens, including prolonged delays, DNA requirements, and external interventions during the visa appointment process. The Minister commended the Ambassador for his proactive stance in curbing external interferences in these processes.

In response, His Excellency Francovigh discussed Italy’s challenges in obtaining authenticated certificates from Sri Lankan authorities.

Described as a “productive” and “fruitful” meeting, it also involved the participation of the deputy ambassador of the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka, underscoring the importance of these discussions and the commitment of both nations to nurturing their partnership.

Dollar rate at banks today(Oct 27)

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The Sri Lankan Rupee demonstrated fluctuations against the US Dollar at commercial banks, marking a shift compared to Thursday’s rates.

Peoples Bank maintained a stable buying rate for the US Dollar at Rs. 320.18, while the selling rate experienced a slight decrease from Rs. 332.42 to Rs. 331.91.

Commercial Bank reported an increase in the buying rate of the US Dollar, rising from Rs. 320.16 to Rs. 320.65, with the selling rate also increasing from Rs. 330.50 to Rs. 331.

Sampath Bank, on the other hand, held firm with unchanged buying and selling rates for the US Dollar at Rs. 322 and Rs. 332, respectively.

Fire Erupts at Clothing Store in Pettah

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A fire incident occurred this morning, at a shop situated on 2nd Cross Street in Pettah, Colombo. The local police reported that the Colombo Fire Brigade has deployed seven fire trucks to the scene to combat the flames.

The affected establishment is reported to be a clothing store, and efforts are underway to extinguish the fire and mitigate any potential damage.

Dialog Axiata attains ISO 27701, reinforcing data security & privacy

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Colombo (LNW): Dialog Axiata PLC recently achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first telecoms provider in the country, and among a select group in South Asia, to receive the ISO 27701 certification, the international standard for Privacy Information Management Systems.

An extension of the ISO 27001 accreditation, ISO 27701 offers additional controls on data privacy and guidance on establishing, implementing, maintaining, and enhancing an organisation’s Privacy Information Management System.

The ISO 27701 standard provides a comprehensive framework for Privacy Information Management Systems (PIMS), allowing organisations to hone their data privacy practices and adapt to changing privacy threats and regulatory demands.

This approach is deeply rooted in stringent risk management and compliance principles, emphasising progress measurement and promoting continuous enhancement.

“Receiving this certification underscores our steadfast dedication to data security and privacy. The ISO 27701 certification is testament to our commitment to maintaining the trust of over 17 million Sri Lankans and Enterprises,” commented Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC.

ISO 27701, the first global standard for Privacy Information Management Systems, serves as a crucial tool for Dialog, ensuring the company’s consistent adherence to all relevant regulations in Sri Lanka.