During a parliamentary session, Dr. Susil Premajayantha, the Leader of the House and Education Minister, provided an update on the state of academic staff vacancies within Sri Lanka’s state university system. He revealed that currently, there are 2,070 vacant positions in the academic staff, and efforts are underway to promptly address these vacancies through necessary recruitment measures.

In addition to discussing the vacant positions, the Minister highlighted that between 2021 and 2023, around 1,300 employees had left the service, mostly due to retirements. He assured that the required recruitment processes will be initiated to fill these positions left vacant by the departing staff members.

Further elaborating on the numbers, Dr. Premajayantha stated that 519 employees had retired, and 663 had resigned during the mentioned period.

The response came during a session in which NPP MP Dr. Harini Amarasuriya raised the question, drawing attention to the critical issue of academic staff shortages in the state university system. The Education Minister’s assurances and commitment to swiftly addressing the vacancies are crucial in ensuring the smooth functioning and quality of education within the universities.

By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW):Sri Lanka is set to go for modification and updating of Sri Lanka’s existing legislative framework, in a bid to make the country an investment-friendly destination, Acting Minister of Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama disclosed.

Amunugama revealed that new investment laws are expected to be introduced by the end of this year.

Additionally, foreign investors do not receive their investment rights when they enter this country. As a solution, the government is to update legislative framework to ensure that their investment rights are protected.

A seven-member committee consisting of Director Generals of government institutions has already been appointed to look into the existing laws that restrict investments.

When the Members of Parliament sought clarification on the intricate situation surrounding matters like acquiring licences for investments in Sri Lanka, the Minister of State addressed their concerns by referring to the upcoming Investment Act that is currently under proposal.

Moreover, the Minister of State highlighted the establishment of an Investor Facilitation Center, situated on the 27th floor of the World Trade Center. He said this centre aims to provide comprehensive facilities, including addressing investor issues and will operate in close coordination with various government agencies.

Additionally, investors have been granted the opportunity to meet with the heads of relevant institutions to present their concerns. Amunugama emphasised that the Investor Facilitation Center would serve as a platform for investors to swiftly address their current challenges.

He further mentioned that this arrangement is temporary and will remain in place until the new law is enacted.

Similarly, the Minister of State pointed out that specific investment zones with the potential to attract investments to Sri Lanka have been identified. Active measures are being taken to promote these zones and attract new investors to contribute to the country’s economic growth, he added.

The Members of Parliament also emphasised the importance of providing accurate information concerning investments brought into the country.

They highlighted the need for transparency and the presentation of genuine information when engaging with international financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund

Referring to the Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) earned by the Board of Investments (BOI), the acting Minister noted that the target set by the BOI for FDIs for 2023 is US$ 1.5 billion, of which $211 million was realized in the first quarter.

The BOI has approved investments of $ 682 million from January to July 2023, he added.

Despite the ongoing economic crisis, the BOI has been able to attract Foreign Direct Investments of 1.75 billion US dollars exceeding the targeted amount of 1 billion US dollars for 2022, Amunugama mentioned.

The government intends to execute a program under concept of ‘One Village – One Product’ to empower entrepreneurs who produce export-level products in selected regional secretariats, involving them in the export process, and scale it up at the District and National levels.

In line with the government’s proposal to cultivate cannabis for medicinal purposes, 200 project proposals have so far been submitted. The Minister of Indigenous Medicine Promotion has undertaken the task of amending the relevant laws.

The government intends to launch the Cannabis Pilot Project by the end of 2023 following the passage of these laws.

Artificial Intelligence Integration Empowers International Expansion of Theravada Buddhism

President Ranil Wickremesinghe reaffirmed his dedication to securing and promoting Theravada Buddhism on an international scale.

He announced the implementation of an Artificial Intelligence program to support these efforts, collaborating with educated individuals under the guidance of the Maha Sangha of the three chapters. The President made this statement at the Edward Stadium in Matale during the 73rd National Upasampada Vinaya Karma Inaugural Ceremony of  the Maha Viharavanshika Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya, where 300 novice monks attained the higher ordination of Upasampada Sheela.

During the event, President Wickremesinghe conferred the “Philosophy Scholar Degrees,” Sri Sannaspatha, and Vijinipatha to the Most Venerable Makulewe Vimala Nayaka Thero of the Ramanya Maha Nikaya. Additionally, he presented Sannaspatras to Ven.  Mugunewela Anuruddha Thero and Ven. Mugunewela Anuruddha, the Chancellor of Uva Wellassa University. In honour of his participation in the 73rd Upasampada Vinaya Karma of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya, the President was bestowed with a commemorative gift. Furthermore, the Ramanya Maha Nikaya presented the “Patipada Sasthriya Sangraha” to both the Mahanayake Thero and President Wickremesinghe. The 73rd National Upasampada Discipline of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya will be held from July 20th to July 27th at the Sudu Ganga Udakukkhepa Seminary in Matale Bandarapola.

Addressing the event President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, 

With immense joy, I partake in the auspicious 73rd Upasampada Mahotsava of Ramanya Maha Nikaya. My heartfelt gratitude goes to the Lords and the Donor Council for accommodating my presence, despite my on-going official visit to India to strengthen bilateral relations.

During this visit, I express my sincere appreciation to the Indian government for their unwavering support during our country’s economic challenges. The ties between our nations are crucial for mutual growth and prosperity.

The Upasampada festival held by Ramanya Maha Nikaya in Matale holds profound significance for Buddhists, as this city plays a vital role in Buddhist history. It was at the Matale temple where the first steps were taken to enshrine and protect the Tripitaka—the sacred scriptures of Buddhism. As a government, we remain devoted to safeguarding the Tripitaka, for its preservation is synonymous with preserving the Noble Truth. Being a Buddhist nation, it is our earnest endeavour to promote Buddhism globally and share its wisdom with the world.

The Tripitaka holds significance in both Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism, with the Chinese-printed Mahayana Tripitaka, containing the Lotus Sutra, considered the world’s first printed text. Today, with advancements in technology, we can utilize Artificial Intelligence to protect and propagate the Dharma more effectively.

By inputting vast amounts of Buddhist data into Artificial Intelligence systems, we enable them to answer any questions about Buddhism accurately. This technology can provide insights into historical figures like King Dutugemunu and Queen Victoria, demonstrating its potential to enhance our understanding of Buddhist teachings.

Buddhism, unlike many religions, centers on the Dharma – a philosophy that one can choose to follow or not. By aligning with the Dharma, one can explore its depth and meaning. As we embrace the advancements in Artificial Intelligence, we must consider whether it may pose challenges or opportunities in the future.

Instances of distorted religious information on social media platforms, such as the case of Zen Buddhism in Japan, highlight the need to address these inaccuracies. While regulating such content legally proves challenging, it is essential for society to be vigilant and mindful of these distortions across all religions, including Buddhism and Christianity.

As we navigate the digital age, we must strive to use modern technology responsibly, ensuring that the core teachings of Buddhism and other religions remain intact, free from misrepresentation or manipulation.

To propel the dissemination of Theravada Buddhism globally through Artificial Intelligence, we recognize the need for thorough investigation and understanding. As a testament to our commitment, we have allocated 200 million rupees for these endeavours, with the flexibility to secure additional funding as required.

Our primary focus lies in utilizing Artificial Intelligence to spread the teachings of Theravada Buddhism worldwide. In this pursuit, a comprehensive analysis of Abhidharma is also on the agenda. We seek the invaluable guidance of the esteemed Maha Sangha to navigate this program successfully and, therefore, extend a cordial invitation to them for their invaluable insights.

In today’s digital age, religious reading habits have shifted, with fewer people engaging with traditional texts like the Bible and Tripitaka and instead resorting to social media browsing on their mobile devices. As Sri Lanka remains steadfast in its dedication to safeguarding Theravada Buddhism, we aspire to carry forward this noble cause by embracing Artificial Intelligence and collaborating with an educated and enlightened community.

To facilitate this mission, the President’s Secretary and the Secretary of the Buddha Shasana Ministry have been appointed to coordinate and lead these activities. We encourage all stakeholders to actively participate in discussions, ensuring the seamless progression of our efforts.

Together, with the integration of Artificial Intelligence and the wisdom of the Maha Sangha, we embark on a journey to preserve and propagate Theravada Buddhism, fostering its outreach and influence on a global scale.

Venerable Nadagamuwe Vijaya Maitri Thero, Deputy Registrar of Ramanya Maha Nikaya,

A year ago, our nation was engulfed in turmoil, akin to a vast expanse of raging fires. Amidst the chaos, no one stepped forward to shoulder the responsibility of guiding the country through these challenging times. It was then that our current President bravely accepted this daunting task and dedicated himself to alleviating the sufferings of our people.

During those tumultuous moments, Sri Lanka’s very democracy seemed to be in jeopardy, hanging precariously in the balance. However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s resolute actions prevented the nation from losing its cherished democratic principles. His courageous decision to take charge during those critical hours deserves the heartfelt praise and admiration of every Sri Lankan.

Through his leadership and determination, President Wickremesinghe kindled the flames of hope, igniting a path towards progress and unity for our beloved country. As we reflect on the challenges faced and the strength of character displayed by our President, let us stand united in honoring his unwavering commitment to safeguarding our democracy and working tirelessly for the betterment of all Sri Lankans.

Chairman of Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikayarakshana Council Former Speaker Mr. Karu Jayasuriya;

Despite an official visit abroad, the President graciously attended the prestigious Ramanya Nikaya Upasampada Vinaya Karmaya state ceremony, showcasing his support for the sect’s exceptional efforts to cultivate a disciplined monastic society.

Lately, media reports have highlighted a lack of discipline among both lay persons and priests. While laypeople may not have the authority to address this issue directly, the Sangha of the Ramanya sect has requested legislation to manage monks who violate their sacred discipline.

A year ago, our country faced a precarious state akin to lawlessness and uncertainty. The President’s decisive leadership during that critical period deserves our utmost appreciation.

In a significant development, the Parliament passed the Bribery and Corruption Act, a triumph championed by Ven.  Maduluwawe Sobitha Thero’s movement for a just society, which the President supported diligently.”

During the event, attended by distinguished guests including Venerable Matale Dhammakusala Thero and State Ministers, President Ranil Wickremesinghe held a profound discussion with the Most Venerable  Makulawe Wimala Nayaka Thero, the Mahanayake of the Ramanna Maha Nikaya, covering various religious and social matters. The President’s visionary initiatives to rebuild the country from an economic crisis also garnered praise.

As part of the event, President Wickremesinghe participated in the inauguration of the newly built Buddha sanctuary at Purijjala Sanghabodhi Pirivena in Matale, in conjunction with the 73rd National Upasampada Maha Vinaya Karma State Festival of the Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya, led by the Most Venerable  Makulawe Wimala Nayaka Thero of Sri Lanka Ramanya Maha Nikaya.

Amidst the religious rituals, the Maha Sangha  offered blessings and Seth Pirith Sajjayana to the President. Engaging warmly with the attendees, President Wickremesinghe sought to learn more about their experiences and concerns.

The presence of esteemed Ministers, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, and Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva added to the significance of the event.

By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): India and Sri Lanka have decided to cooperate towards the establishment of a multi-product petroleum pipeline from southern part of India to Sri Lanka, in a bid to ensure affordable and reliable supply of energy resources to Sri Lanka.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, on Friday (21 July), held bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, during which a wide range of issues was discussed.

Accordingly, it was also decided to undertake mutually agreed joint exploration and production of hydrocarbons in Sri Lanka’s offshore basins with an aim to develop Sri Lanka’s upstream petroleum sector.

The Trincomalee port currently has a World War II-era 99-tank farm, with a portion of the facility under the control of Lanka India Oil Corporation and the remainder under joint control of the Indian Oil Corporation and Ceylon Petroleum Corporation.

The construction of an oil pipeline to the Trincomalee port is expected to boost Sri Lanka’s energy security and improve economic cooperation between the two South Asian nations.

India officials have also affirmed their commitment to helping the country boost its energy security, with New Delhi officials announcing that India will maintain its support for Sri Lanka in developing oil infrastructure, as the two nations share common interests,

The resumption of passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai in Sri Lanka and Rameshwaram and Talaimannar, and other mutually agreed places, was alos discussed.

When considering the matter of trade and financial connectivity between the two nations, it was agreed to facilitate investments from India in the divestment of Sri Lankan State-owned Enterprises (SOEs), and also in manufacturing and economic zones in various sectors.

The two leaders also discussed people-to-people connectivity between the two nations, and agreed to establish land connectivity between Sri Lanka and India for developing land access to the ports of Trincomalee and Colombo, which would thereby propel economic growth and prosperity in both countries.

Thus both, Prime Minister Modi and President Wickremesinghe directed the respective officials concerned to expedite the realization of this shared vision.

Investment laws to be amended to make Sri Lanka an investment-friendly destination

• Plans to update current laws to ensure the investment rights of foreign investors 

• Measures to strengthen the connection between the rural exporters and the SL Export Development Board

• Cannabis Pilot Project to commence by the end of 2023

The target set by the Board of Investments (BOI) for Foreign Direct Investments (FDI) for 2023 is 1.5 billion US dollars and BOI FDI realized in the First quarter of 2023 amounted to 211 million US dollars, State Minister of Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama stated. The BOI has approved investments of 682 million US dollars from January to July, he added.

Despite the ongoing economic crisis, the BOI has been able to attract Foreign Direct Investments of 1.75 billion US dollars exceeding the targeted amount of 1 billion US dollars for 2022, State Minister Dilum Amunugama mentioned.

He expressed these views ,july (20) during a press conference themed ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’ held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC).

State Minister of Investment Promotion Dilum Amunugama further commented;

It is necessary to update and modify Sri Lanka’s existing legislative framework in order to make the country an investment-friendly destination. It is expected to introduce new investment laws by the end of 2023, without affecting other government entities’ current legal frameworks.

Additionally, foreign investors do not receive their investment rights when they enter this country. As a solution, we must update our legislative framework to ensure that their investment rights are protected.

A seven-member committee consisting of Director Generals of government institutions has already been appointed to look into the existing laws that restrict investments. 

The government intends to execute a program under concept of ‘One Village – One Product’ to empower entrepreneurs who produce export-level products in selected  regional secretariats, involving them in the export process, and scale it up at the District and National levels. A Central Export Center will be established for them and measures will be taken to strengthen the connection between the rural exporters and the Sri Lanka Export Development Board.

In line with the government’s proposal to cultivate cannabis for medicinal purposes, 200 project proposals have so far been submitted. The Minister of Indigenous Medicine Promotion has undertaken the task of amending the relevant laws. The government intends to launch the Cannabis Pilot Project by the end of 2023 following the passage of these laws.

President’s Media Division (PMD) 

State Minister of Urban Development & Housing, Arundika Fernando, announced that steps will be taken to offer commercially valuable lands in major cities across the country to investors as part of an initiative to contribute to the national economy. The government has also reached out to investors, urging them to resume projects on state-owned lands in Colombo that were halted midway due to economic challenges faced by the nation.

During a press conference organized by the Presidential Media Centre on July 21, Minister Fernando emphasized the government’s commitment to revive suspended projects and strengthen the economy. The investors have been given an ultimatum to decide on resuming their projects by the end of the following month. Failure to comply could lead to the government taking over the uncompleted projects and assigning them to new investors.

The state minister highlighted the decision to distribute properties with commercial worth, particularly in major cities like Colombo, to new investors. Notably, the government plans to safeguard employee rights and uphold conventions while improving the lucrative Hilton Hotel to bolster the country’s economy. Waters Edge Hotel in Battaramulla is also slated for a transfer of ownership to new investors.

Additionally, 24 coastal regions designated as tourist destinations will be accessible to investors to promote national economic growth. Temporary construction rights will be awarded to new investors with a focus on developing these zones into attractive tourist destinations with beach activities, similar to those seen in other countries.

Furthermore, under President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s guidance, Colombo, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Trincomalee are being developed as favorable tourist attraction areas.

The government is implementing several projects with the support of the Asian Development Bank and government agencies like the Urban Development Authority. Among these projects is the Aruwakkalu Scientific Sanitary Garbage Dump, part of the Colombo Solid Waste Management initiative, which is set to be completed and handed over to the public by the end of January next year.

By: Staff Writer

Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan delegation holds fruitful discussions with X-Press Pearl ship-owner, insurers in Singapore more than two years after the sinking of the cargo ship the X-Press Pearl, and still trying to claim compensation for the environmental damage caused to the country in an arbitration case filed in that country.

A nine-member delegation from Sri Lanka, led by the Attorney General, engaged in productive discussions with lawyers representing the interests of the X-Press Pearl ship-owner and their insurers this week, a statement issued by the President’s Media Division (PMD) noted.

It added that the meetings held on the 18 and 19 July, were organised in response to a request from the lawyers on behalf of their clients following the Sri Lankan Government’s claims action filed in Singapore back in April.

During the course of these discussions, both parties delved into various critical aspects related to the incident and its aftermath.

A significant focus was directed towards assessing the outstanding interim claims presented by the Marine Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) and the Ministry of Fisheries from the Government of Sri Lanka.

In response to the concerns raised by the Sri Lankan delegation, the ship-owner interests’ insurers provided assurance that they would promptly and efficiently evaluate these claims.

This reassurance comes as a positive development for the Sri Lankan Government, which has been actively seeking resolution and compensation for the environmental and economic impacts caused by the X-Press Pearl ship’s unfortunate incident.

The X-Press Pearl, which caught fire and sank off the coast of Sri Lanka on 20 May 2021, resulted in significant environmental damage and financial losses for the region.

The marine disaster which took place in May 2021 is considered to be one of the ‘worst marine disasters in the world’. Recent research by the Center of Environmental Justice (CEJ) found heavy pollution in the marine environment around the X-press Pearl shipwreck.

The incident drew international attention and prompted the Government of Sri Lanka to take legal action seeking compensation for the damages caused.

The recent meetings in Singapore mark a step forward in the negotiation process, as both parties work towards finding a resolution and addressing the aftermath of the maritime disaster.

The Sri Lankan delegation’s efforts to hold constructive discussions with the ship-owner interests’ lawyers and insurers demonstrate a commitment to finding a fair and equitable solution.

As the assessments of the outstanding interim claims proceed, it remains to be seen how the discussions will further unfold.

Both the Government of Sri Lanka and the ship-owner interests are expected to continue their engagement in search of a comprehensive resolution that will address the environmental, social, and economic implications stemming from the X-Press Pearl incident.

During his first official visit to India after assuming the presidency, President Ranil Wickremesinghe conveyed a firm commitment to fortify the bilateral relationship between India and Sri Lanka. The visit proved to be of great significance as it served to strengthen diplomatic ties and lay the groundwork for a joint vision for the future.

Addressing an esteemed gathering that included Prime Minister Narendra Modi and dignitaries from both nations, President Wickremesinghe expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended during his visit. He acknowledged the remarkable progress India has made under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, praising the country’s advancements in economic, infrastructure, and technological domains, which are positively impacting the entire region, including the Indian Ocean region.

In return, President Wickremesinghe briefed Prime Minister Modi about the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in the past year and the comprehensive reform measures undertaken to overcome them. He conveyed profound appreciation for the solidarity and support extended by India during Sri Lanka’s difficult times.

The leaders engaged in discussions focused on fostering economic recovery and sustainable growth in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe outlined his vision, which includes proposals for reconciliation, power-sharing through devolution, and a Northern development plan. He extended an invitation to all party leaders to work towards consensus and national unity on these important measures.

Both leaders emphasized the significance of enhanced connectivity between India and Sri Lanka to bolster economic partnership. Recognizing the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and commercial ties between the two countries, they agreed that the present moment presents an opportune time to embark on a joint vision for the future.

The Joint Vision forged during this momentous occasion is set to reinforce trust, strengthen geographical and civilizational links, and propel the Indo-Lanka relationship to new heights over the next 25 years. The discussions held during President Wickremesinghe’s visit are poised to pave the way for a prosperous and secure future for the people of both India and Sri Lanka, marking a crucial milestone in their bilateral relations.

1. President Ranil Wickremasinghe grants a pardon to former LTTEer Selliah Navaratnam, 69 years, who was sentenced to 200 years in prison after being found guilty over the 1996 Central Bank bombing that killed 91 people: another former LTTEer S. Sanmugarajah, who was serving a life sentence, also granted a Presidential pardon: both released from prison on 18th July 23.
2. President Ranil Wickremesinghe engages in bilateral talks with Indian PM Narendra Modi: asserts SL is steadfastly pursuing economic reforms which are showing positive results in stabilizing the country: says the measures taken have led to a “resurgence of confidence” both within the nation & from external observers in the progress of Sri Lanka: also says the ferry services between Talaimannar-Rameswaram & Nagapattinam-Kankesanthurai will add more impetus to sea travel between India & SL.
3. The SJB submits No-Confidence Motion against Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella to the Speaker.
4. Dept of Census and Statistics says Inflation (as per the NCPI) has recorded 10.8% in June 2023 following the inflation of 58.9% in June 2022: accordingly, a massive increase in cost of living of 69.7% has been officially recorded since June 2021.
5. Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe asserts Sri Lanka could exit bankruptcy by September 2023: says with the implementation of the Anti-Corruption Act, Sri Lanka will be transformed into a corruption-free country: further asserts that receiving the GSP+ tax relief for another 4 years is a big victory, and that international confidence has been confirmed about the economic stability of the country: claims “we are on the right track”.
6. CB Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe says it is essential for Sri Lanka to ensure it goes ahead with the current reform efforts, as otherwise, it runs the risk of having to face another Domestic Debt Optimisation exercise: asserts that the current DDO is strong and consistent with the expectations.
7. State Minister of Urban Development and Housing Arundika Fernando says final notice has been given to investors related to the resumption of projects being carried out on lands owned by the Govt in Colombo: warns that if investors do not take steps to complete the projects, the lands will be taken over by the Govt and given to new investors.
8. Education Minister Susil Premajayanth says 255 members of academic staff and 153 non-academic staff of the state universities have vacated their posts during the last one and a half years without tendering their resignations officially: also says 83 academic staff members and 277 non-academic staff members have officially resigned from all 17 universities during the same period.
9. The report of the Parliament Select Committee to Make Suitable Recommendations for the Expansion of Higher Education Opportunities in SL recommends the replacement of the University Grants Commission and the Vocational Training Authority by an independent National Higher Education Commission.
10. Police use water cannons to disperse student Buddhist monks protesting near Town Hall.