Colombo (LNW): A protest was held in front of the Colombo Fort Railway Station this (26) afternoon demanding the immediate cancellation of the controversial “Online Safety Bill.”
As response to the government’s latest move of regulating Social Media in an attempt to restrict the people’s freedom of speech, the protest held under the slogan “Cancel The Online Safety Bill Immediately” demanded that the said bill be scrapped immediately and the people’s right to speech and right to expression be protected.
The event was organised by the Socialist Youth Union (SYU), and was attended by members of the SYU, civil and political activists and many other concerned individuals.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s recent visit to the United States has stirred controversy among the opposition, but according to Mr. Ruwan Wijewardene, Presidential Adviser on Climate Change, the nation stands to benefit significantly from the trip.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Presidential Media Centre today (25) under the theme Collective Path to a stable country,’ Mr. Wijewardene highlighted the strengthened bonds between America and Sri Lanka, as well as with other global powers, as a result of the visit.
“The long-term friendship between the United States and Sri Lanka, along with our positive relations with other world leaders, has been further reinforced during this visit,” stated Mr. Wijewardene.
He went on to underscore the significance of the visit in the context of this year’s United Nations General Assembly session in New York, which focused on ‘Climate Change and Sustainable Development Goals.’ President Wickremesinghe held discussions with numerous heads of state during the event, with expectations running high for favourable outcomes.
During a meeting with the President of the World Bank, Mr. Ajay Banga, on the first day of the visit, President Wickremesinghe received praise for the government’s economic policies and plans for future assistance in climate change initiatives and development programs were announced. Mr. Banga expressed his intention to visit Sri Lanka later this year.
In talks with the President of Korea, it was agreed to provide employment opportunities for a significant number of Sri Lankan youth and offer support for development initiatives. President Wickremesinghe also participated in the 3rd Annual Indo-Pacific Islands Dialogue, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation to safeguard the identities of island states.
The visit solidified Sri Lanka’s relations with the United States, particularly in the context of climate change and sustainable development and President Wickremesinghe stressed the need for developed countries to play a significant role in addressing climate change and assist developing countries, including Sri Lanka, achieve their sustainable development goals.
President Wickremesinghe also touched upon global concerns such as inflation, food and energy security. Sri Lanka aims to meet 70% of its electricity needs through renewable energy sources by 2030. Plans are in place to increase forest protection by 32% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 14.5%, with the goal of achieving zero emissions by 2050.
Despite opposition criticism of President Wickremesinghe’s visit, Mr. Wijewardene concluded that the trip was of paramount importance to the nation, strengthening trust in Sri Lanka on the global stage through productive discussions with world leaders
Sri Lanka’s Labour Movement should modernized in line with Global Trends – President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
The launch event for the investigative book titled “The Right Eye,” authored by Mr. Manusha Nanayakkara, the Minister of Labour and Foreign Employment, took place yesterday afternoon (24) at the Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo. President Ranil Wickremesinghe presided over the ceremony, with Prime Minister Mr. Dinesh Gunawardena in attendance.
During the event, Minister Manusha Nanayakkara presented the inaugural copy of “The Right Eye” to President Ranil Wickremesinghe. Subsequently, the book was shared with esteemed guests, including Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.
Book represents the culmination of a 23-year journalistic quest initiated by Mr. Manusha Nanayakkara.
This gives an opportunity to read the history of the labour movement in Sri Lanka with a right-wing analysis in one book, and the book also presents a clear vision of the entire labour movement and the future labour market.
By studying all the books and publications that have been written so far regarding the labour movement, this book has make an effort to bring out the reality of the hidden events in the history of labour.
Notably, all proceeds from the book’s sales will be dedicated to the welfare of the Kaffir community residing in the Sirambiadi area and the children of workers in Sri Lanka.
President Ranil Wickramasinghe, who addressed the ceremony, said that along with the global labour movement, the Sri Lankan labour movement should also be modernized.
Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinghe said;
Interestingly, the labour movement in Sri Lanka had a unique beginning. Unlike other countries with industries, our nation lacked a significant industrial base. Even when considering the struggles of carters, industries weren’t a driving force. Our trade unions predominantly originated from government employees. The government played a pivotal role as it controlled industries, ports, petroleum companies and bus services. In essence, this movement had its roots in the government.
Today, we’ve witnessed a transformation in the status of workers, as many have transitioned from the working class to the middle class. They are now referred to as trained individuals, graduates, trainees and engineers. As employees, their needs have evolved, reflecting a global trend. 25-30% in the Western world now work remotely, without a fixed workstation, offering flexibility in work hours. This new work paradigm is unfolding worldwide. Manusha has provided a thorough analysis of these developments in his book and its imperative that we consider how we will navigate this changing landscape in the future.
Are our trade unions embracing the digital realm? Are they adapting to forge new connections in this evolving landscape? The trade union movement, once rooted in the physical gathering of people, now faces a different reality—people are dispersed and connected online. In light of this transformation, we must contemplate fresh approaches to organizing the labour movement. I will pass it to Manusha, whose birthday we celebrate today.”
Addressing the gathering Labour and Foreign Employment Minister Manusha Nanayakkara said;
“When I ventured into the realm of politics, Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe stood as a visionary leader whom we deeply respected and looked up to as our mentor. Through politics, the President not only guided us but also encouraged us to explore a wide range of subjects. Whenever the forward-thinking leader, Ranil Wickremesinghe, made decisions for our country, the populace often opposed him. However, history showed that each time he defeated, our nation faced severe consequences within a year.
Our President possesses a remarkable vision for the future, unrivaled by anyone else in foreseeing the destiny of our country. Regardless of the electoral outcomes, when our nation teetered on the brink and our citizens faced adversity, you fearlessly stepped up to confront the challenges. This is why I am honoured to present this book to him first, as we have successfully met those challenges to this day.
The event was graced by the presence of notable figures, including Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena, Cabinet Ministers Nimal Siripala de Silva, Wijayadasa Rajapakshe, Mahinada Amaraweera, Tiran Allas, Ministers of State Jagath Pushpakumara, Lasantha Agaliyawanna, Arundika Fernando, Members of Parliament Wajira Abeywardena, Vadivel Suresh, President Director General (Trade Unions) Saman Ratnapriya, President’s Advisor (Parliamentary affairs) Ashu Marasinghe, President Director General (Community Affairs) Rajith Keerthi Tennakoon, former parliamentarians, ambassadors, representatives from international organizations, political activists, ministry secretaries, retired government officials, prominent business leaders, family members, friends, trade union representatives and journalists, both domestic and international.
Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s control body for organic agriculture – the National Organic Control Unit (NOCU), operating under the aegis of the Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), has taken a significant step towards promoting and regulating Sri Lanka’s organic agriculture sector with the launch of its official website – www.nocu.lk.
This website development was done through the project support to Small and Medium Enterprises in the Organic Agriculture Sector in Sri Lanka which was jointly co-financed by the EU and BMZ implemented by GIZ Sri Lanka.
The inauguration ceremony was held at the EDB headquarters with the presence of dignitaries included the Head of Cooperation at the EU delegation to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Dr. Johann Hesse, and representatives from the GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH), EDB Chairman Kingsley Bernard, and Acting Director General Ms. Malani Baddegamage.
The objectives of NOCU are manifold, including safeguarding the credibility of organic agriculture products within the domestic and international markets, the implementation of Sri Lanka Organic Regulations, as well as the promotion of organic agriculture systems.
The establishment of an official website was deemed imperative to facilitate communication with stakeholders and provide essential information, thereby fostering a sustainable organic agriculture ecosystem in Sri Lanka.
The website – www.nocu.lk – will serve as the primary interface for NOCU to directly engage with stakeholders.
This digital platform will enable NOCU to implement an effective communication strategy, ensuring transparent and efficient interactions with all the relevant parties and the online registration of stakeholder
The launch of www.nocu.lk represents a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s organic agriculture journey, solidifying its commitment to ensure the highest standards of organic practices and fostering sustainable organic agricultural systems.
With this dedicated online platform, NOCU is poised to connect with stakeholders, disseminate vital information, and fortify Sri Lanka’s reputation as a trusted source of organic agricultural products in the local and international marketplace.
The fifth Asia Pacific Forum of Ministers and Environment Authorities, the largest regional environmental event in the Asia Pacific region will convene in Colombo from October 3rd to October 6th. This forum is jointly organized by the Ministry of Environment and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
During an awareness press briefing held today (25) at the President’s Media Centre (PMC), Mr. Nazeer Ahamed, Minister of Environment, announced that this significant international event will witness the participation of 41 member countries of UNEP Asia Pacific, with 25 countries and 16 ministers already confirming their attendance, so far. Organizers expect more than 300 foreign delegates and 100 professionals to engage in discussions alongside stakeholders from Sri Lanka.
The primary objective of this ministerial forum is to provide regional inputs for the sixth session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA), scheduled for February 24th to March 1st, 2024, in Nairobi.
Minister Ahamed also said that the opening of the forum on October 5th will be officiated by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, with the chairmanship being handed over to Sri Lanka during the event.
Throughout its duration, the forum will cover a wide range of topics, including side events and excursions for the delegates. Sri Lanka intends to propose the establishment of a Climate Justice Forum to address the debt burden faced by climate-vulnerable developing countries, a proposal expected to garner attention at COP28 in December 2023.
Hosting an event of this magnitude will strengthen international relations, facilitate access to foreign grants and allow Sri Lanka to showcase its environmental best practices. The United Nations Environment Programme has generously supported the event, recognizing Sri Lanka’s economic challenges, the Minister added.
Meanwhile speaking at the briefing Dr. Anil Jasinghe, the Secretary of the Ministry of Environment also said that in addition to the main forum, there will be several related events, including the Asia-Pacific Youth Environment Forum, Asia Pacific Major Groups and Stakeholder forum and Asia Pacific Science Policy Business Forum on the Environment.
This forum comes as part of the on-going efforts to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution with a focus on sustainable multilateral actions. The event will provide a platform for governments, intergovernmental organizations and stakeholders to discuss and prioritize environmental issues in the Asia-Pacific region, contributing to the global effort to combat these challenges.
Colombo (LNW): India and Sri Lanka recently agreed to promote and popularize the Buddhist circuit, Ramayana trail and ancient places of Buddhist, Hindu and other religious worship places in Sri Lanka.
The bilateral document released by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) read, “To promote awareness and popularize India’s Buddhist circuit, and Ramayana trail as well as ancient places of Buddhist, Hindu and other religious worship in Sri Lanka for enhancing tourism.”
The bilateral document was released as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe held bilateral and delegation-level talks in Delhi recently..
The two sides agreed to explore cooperation between educational institutions on both sides including through the establishment of new higher education and skilling campuses in Sri Lanka as per the requirements and priorities of Sri Lanka.
Telangana Tourism Minister V Srinivas Goud called on Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and briefed him about initiatives being taken by the Telangana government in promoting temple and medical tourism and discussed the advent of Buddhism and the Buddhist roots found in Telangana.
“Paid a courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Sri Dinesh Gunawardena & discussed over the advent of Buddhism traced back during the 5th century B.C. and the Buddhism roots found in the Telangana State,” the Telangana Minister for Excise and Prohibition wrote on ‘X’ on Friday.
Briefed the Sri Lankan Prime Minister on the various initiatives of State Government under the able leadership of Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao Garu in promoting Temple & Medical Tourism, Industrial Policy and on the revolutionary agricultural reforms” Goud posted on X.
The Sri Lankan Prime Minister was briefed on the various initiatives of the Telangana government under Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao’s leadership. This includes promoting temple and medical tourism, industrial policy and revolutionary agricultural reforms.
“Sri Lankan MP Yadamini Gunawardena, Sri Lankan Govt Secretary Sugeshwar, Sri Lankan Parliament Secretary Kuruppu, Chairman Light of Asia Foundation and Radiance films International (Pvt) Ltd., Navin Gunaratna, Actor Gagan Malik & other dignitaries were also present,”.
India and Sri Lanka agreed to expand cooperation between research and academic institutes in areas of mutual interests such as agriculture, aquaculture, IT, business, finance and management, health and medicine, earth and marine sciences, oceanography, space applications, as well as history, culture, languages, literature, religious studies and other humanities.
The bilateral document released by MEA read, “To establish land connectivity between Sri Lanka and India for developing land access to the ports of Trincomalee and Colombo, propelling economic growth and prosperity in both Sri Lanka and India, and further consolidating the millennia-old relationship between the two countries. A feasibility study for such connectivity will be conducted at an early date.”
Colombo (LNW):The World Bank has said that it will continue to support the Aswesuma social welfare benefit program to protect Sri Lanka’s poor and vulnerable.
Faris H. Hadad-Zervos, the World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he met with State Minister Shehan Semasinghe and the Chairman of the Welfare Benefits Board on the progress of the Aswesuma payment scheme, and commitment to reach the 2 million families target.
On the 9th of May 2023, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe gave out directions for the initiation of “Aswesuma” welfare benefit payments, which are scheduled to commence from July 1st.
Accordingly, these payments will be distributed among four social categories, namely transitional, vulnerable, poor, and extremely poor.
Additionally, the usual allowances for the differently-abled, elderly, and kidney patients will also be provided
According to the President’s Media Division, the distribution of funding is as– 400,000 transitional beneficiaries will receive Rs.2,500per month until December 31, 2023,– 400,000 vulnerable beneficiaries will receive Rs.5,000 per month until March 31, 2024,– 800,000 poor beneficiaries will receive Rs.8,500 per month
– Extremely poor beneficiaries will receive Rs.15,000 per month for three years beginning July 1, 2023.
Effective from July, the Welfare Benefits Board implemented a direct crediting system, ensuring that beneficiaries’ bank accounts are directly credited with the necessary welfare benefits.
This encompasses the correction of any previous errors in social welfare benefits and the continuation of existing Government assistance programs such as Samurdhi and Elderly Assistance, said the President’s Media Division.
The ‘Aswesuma’ welfare benefit program, initiated by the President as part of the social safety net to alleviate the ongoing economic crisis, is being overseen by Minister of State for Finance Shehan Semasinghe, with involvement from various Government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance.
President Wickremesinghe highlights the need for historical reassessment and preservation of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, speaking at the “Sitawaka – Sisu Arunalu” program held at Rajasingha Central College Hanwella this morning (25), called for a fresh analysis of the life and character of King Sitawaka Rajasingha, a courageous and patriotic king of historical significance. The event, which distributed school equipment and uniforms to 12,000 schoolchildren, was made possible through the support of the Chinese government.
The President emphasized that King Rajasingha, has been overshadowed by history due to a reference in Chulavansa made two centuries after his reign. President Wickremesinghe urged a reconsideration of the historical approach that has favoured victorious figures while neglecting those who faced defeat.
Symbolizing the distribution of school equipment and uniforms, the President presented school equipment to several students during the event. It is worth mentioning that this assistance is a direct outcome of the Prime Minister’s visit to China. Hanwella, Avissawella, situated in the Western Province, boasts an advanced education system. The Prime Minister is making a substantial commitment towards its further development.
Highlighting the significance of preserving historical and cultural heritage, President Wickremesinghe revealed that he has instructed the Department of Archaeology to explore the archaeological treasures of Sitawaka Kingdom. This effort aims to shed light on the historical significance of the region and pave the way for the construction of a museum dedicated to Sitawaka’s history.
President Wickremesinghe emphasized the need for the country’s children to receive both modern education and knowledge about Sri Lanka’s rich cultural history. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that Sri Lankan youth are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to shape the nation’s future.
Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe called for a re-evaluation of the character and history of King Sitawaka Rajasingha, suggesting that the narrative surrounding those who lost battles in history should be reconsidered. In an effort to encourage knowledge-sharing, President Wickremesinghe invited local school students to submit facts about the Kingdom of Sitawaka and King Sitawaka Rajasingha. He pledged to reward the school that submits the most compelling information.
Despite recent economic challenges, President Wickremesinghe assured that the government remains committed to allocating more resources for free education and healthcare. He expressed his dissatisfaction with the current education system and his determination to transform Sri Lanka into a vocational training centre while providing children with an education system that empowers them for the future.
Regarding the General Certificate of Education (GCE) at both Ordinary and Advanced Levels, there is a coexistence of the public school education system and private tuition services. This situation entails significant parental investment in education. The government is actively seeking input from educators and students to develop a new education system that addresses these aspects.
Additionally, efforts are underway to create an environment conducive to providing professional education to children. The government aims to transform Sri Lanka into a hub for vocational training through the reorganization of vocational education programs. This initiative aims to equip citizens with the necessary professional knowledge for the nation’s future development, following models adopted by countries like Australia.
During the event, a poem was recited in honour of King Rajasingha, highlighting his historic significance. King Rajasingha’s actions are recognized for preventing Sri Lanka from facing a fate similar to Mozambique or Angola and for being the only South Asian king to successfully defeat the Portuguese.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe expressed the importance of preserving the historical legacy of Kingdom of Sitawaka, emphasizing its role in safeguarding Sri Lanka’s independence. To ensure this heritage is passed down to future generations, he announced plans to establish a museum in the Sitawaka area.
Furthermore, the President instructed Chief of Defence Staff Mr. Shavendra Silva to oversee the construction of memorials at key historical battle sites, such as Mulleriyawa and Danthurei. These efforts aim to commemorate the bravery and sacrifices of those who contributed to Sri Lanka’s history.
President Wickremesinghe emphasized the need to revisit the legacy of King Sitawaka Rajasingha, a courageous and patriotic leader who has been overlooked by history. He pointed out that historical accounts, like Chulavansa, have often favoured winners over losers, neglecting those who lost battles. As a result, he called for a re-evaluation of King Sitawaka Rajasingha’s character and contributions.
In addition, President Wickremesinghe instructed the Department of Archaeology to commence work on preserving the archaeological significance of the Sitawaka region, which is expected to undergo rapid urbanization in the coming years. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the historical heritage of Sitawaka from potential loss, similar to what occurred in the city of Kotte.
President Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of understanding the past while building the future. To encourage this, he invited students from Sitawaka schools to submit essays detailing the history of Kingdom of Sitawaka. A prize will be awarded to the school with the most outstanding submission, promoting a deeper appreciation of Sri Lanka’s historical heritage among the youth.
Meanwhile Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena underscored the significance of education as a vital investment in the country’s future. He emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to the educational sector and acknowledged the importance of providing essential school equipment, generously provided by the Chinese government, to students.
The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the historical role of Rajasingha Central College Hanwella as the first Central College in the Kelani Valley, which has educated numerous students who have gone on to contribute significantly to the nation’s development. He emphasized the collective efforts of various governments that have made substantial contributions to the growth and advancement of Rajasingha Central College, Hanwella.
Mr. Qi Zhenhong, the Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka also highlighted the strong and friendly partnership between China and Sri Lanka, characterized by mutual respect and trust. He emphasized the collaborative nature of the relationship, where both nations consistently support and assist each other.
Acknowledging the temporary difficulties faced by the Sri Lankan people, Ambassador Qi expressed confidence that, under the leadership of President Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Mr. Dinesh Gunawardena, the country would overcome these challenges and pave the way for a brighter future.
Ambassador Qi reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in achieving sustainable development and addressing prevailing economic issues.
The event was attended by Justice Minister Dr. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, Public Security Minister Tiran Alas, Members of Parliament Jagath Kumara and Yadamini Gunawardena, Western Province Governor Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Gunathilake, Jagath Surasena Principal, Rajasingha Central College as well as teachers, parents, students and other dignitaries.
Colombo (LNW): In a historic milestone, Sri Lanka witnessed the grand unveiling of its very first centrally-monitored, fully-automated, women-operated Lanka IOC Filling Station, recently.
This event symbolizes empowerment, inclusivity, and technological advancement. Situated in the heart of Colombo, at Hospital Square.
It is the first new filling station inaugurated within the city limits in the last two decades and will serve its customers 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The close proximity to the hospital ensures that doctors, patients, and all visitors have easy access to essential services, LIOC officials said.
More than just a fuel station, this initiative represents a leap forward in the realm of women’s empowerment and the diversification of professional roles.
Behind this visionary project is Ninewells Hospitals, renowned as the largest specialized hospital in Sri Lanka and a champion of women’s and children’s health.
Ninewells Hospitals is also a participant in the UN Global Compact’s women’s equality programme, underscoring its commitment to advancing gender equality on a global scale.
The Lanka IOC filling station, embracing cutting-edge technology, redefines the refuelling experience.
At its core is the revolutionary NPND system, short for ‘No Print, No Delivery’, a marvel of automation that streamlines transactions, enhancing efficiency and customer satisfaction.
This system ensures that the next customer is served only when the receipt for the previous transaction has been successfully delivered.
A number of distinguished guests were present at the inauguration ceremony, including the. DV Chanaka – State Minister for Power and Energy, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey – India’s Deputy High Commissioner in Sri Lanka, Mr Sumal Perera – Chairman of the Access Group of Companies and Mr Dipak Das – Managing Director of Lanka IOC PLC.
The new filling station also features automated pricing, guaranteeing accurate and up-to-date rates, across a wide range of available fuels, including LP 92, LP 95, Lanka Auto Diesel, Lanka Super Diesel, Extra Premium Euro 3, and Extra Mile Diesel, along with lubricants and Laugfs LP Gas cylinders.
Beyond fuel, the station offers comprehensive vehicle services, from detailing to tyre and wheel alignment, Café 9, a delightful cafeteria is a special feature awaiting for customers.
The Absolute Detailing and Tyre Shop by Access Motors, specializing in interior and exterior cleaning services, provides your vehicle with the utmost care and attention, all while offering exceptional value for money.
The Sri Lankan Rupee continues to maintain its stability against the US Dollar at commercial banks in Sri Lanka on September 26, showing consistency compared to the rates observed on Monday.
At Peoples Bank, the exchange rates for the US Dollar remain unaltered, with the buying rate at Rs. 316.91 and the selling rate at Rs. 330.13.
According to the Commercial Bank, the buying rate for the US Dollar has seen a slight decrease from Rs. 318.18 to Rs. 317.20, while the selling rate remains steady at Rs. 328.50.
Similarly, at Sampath Bank, the buying and selling rates for the US Dollar remain unchanged at Rs. 318 and Rs. 328, respectively.
