The Guardian: A British adventurer is among those aboard a submarine which has gone missing near the wreckage of the Titanic.
Hamish Harding, 58, is understood to be aboard the five-person OceanGate Expeditions vessel, which was reported overdue on Sunday evening about 435 miles south of St John’s, Newfoundland.
Harding is the chair of the private plane firm Action Aviation. His wife is called Linda, and he has two sons named Rory and Giles, as well as a stepdaughter named Lauren and a stepson, Brian Szasz.
As a student, he left Cambridge with a degree in natural sciences and chemical engineering.
Harding is an aviator, holding an airline transport pilot’s licence and business jet type ratings, including the Gulfstream G650. He is also a skydiver, was inducted into the Living Legends of Aviation in 2022, and is a trustee of the Explorers Club.
He also previously worked with the Antarctic VIP tourism company White Desert to introduce the first regular business jet service to Antarctica.
Harding has made many trips to the south pole and, in 2016, accompanied Buzz Aldrin, who became the oldest person to reach the south pole at 86. He also went into space last year with Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin company.
Harding is the current holder of three Guinness world records, relating to his work as an adventurer. In 2019, he was commended for the fastest circumnavigation of the Earth via both poles.
As part of a crew of eight astronauts and aviators in a Qatar executive Gulfstream G650ER ultra-long-range business jet, Harding led the mission to mark the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing by Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. He achieved the feat in 46 hours, 40 minutes and 22 seconds.
In 2021, he achieved the greatest distance covered at full ocean depth and the greatest duration spent at full ocean depth.
Alongside Victor Vescovo, Harding dove in a two-man submarine to the lowest point in the world’s oceans, the deepest point of the Mariana Trench, the Challenger Deep – a depth of about 36,000 ft.
The 13-hour underwater mission was also the longest duration spent at full ocean depth (four hours and 15 minutes) and the longest distance traversed at full ocean depth (4.6 km).
On social media at the weekend, Harding said he was “proud to finally announce” that he would be aboard the mission to the wreck of the Titanic – but added that due to the “worst winter in Newfoundland in 40 years, this mission is likely to be the first and only manned mission to the Titanic in 2023”.
He added: “A weather window has just opened up and we are going to attempt a dive tomorrow.”
PMD: During a press conference held yesterday (19) at the Presidential Media Centre, Minister of State for Finance Mr Shehan Semasinghe addressed the issue of false information being disseminated by various parties in the country regarding the domestic debt optimization program.
He emphasized that the government has not made a final decision on this matter. Minister Semasinghe further emphasized the sensitivity surrounding the optimization of domestic debt and assured that the government is approaching this issue with utmost responsibility.
Minister Shehan Semasinghe reaffirmed the government’s dedication to achieving improved optimization in order to uphold the stability of Sri Lanka’s banking and financial system. His remarks were made in line with the conference’s theme, ‘Collective path to a stable country’.
Expressing his views, Minister Shehan Semasinghe further said;
“No final decision has been made yet on the domestic debt optimization program. However, as a government, we always approach sensitive issues responsibly. President Ranil Wickremesinghe also addressed the matter of domestic debt optimization in Parliament. The Central Bank and the Ministry of Finance have provided clarifications on their stance. Our focus is on finding solutions for optimizing the banking and financial system of our country without negatively impacting stability, which is crucial. Consequently, various information and announcements are being released within the country.
Once the government reaches a final decision, we are prepared to inform both the parliament and the public. This is an extremely sensitive matter that significantly influences the market situation. Therefore, it is vital that we refrain from making statements that create doubts regarding this optimization, as it helps maintain stability in our financial market. We must all act responsibly in this regard. Following the President’s visit to France, we anticipate gaining a better understanding of these issues, particularly concerning the restructuring of foreign debt.
There have been criticisms on the political platforms concerning the current economic program implemented by the government. However, if the groups criticizing had a need or a plan, and possessed the capability, they would have an opportunity to confront that challenge. Only President Ranil Wickremesinghe has accepted that challenge. He has communicated to the people the progress made by the country since assuming office as President. While the leaders responsible for meeting the needs of the people fulfils their duties, those who have not taken on this responsibility continue to make various statements. Specifically, the JVP platform has expressed various opinions regarding the management of the economy. However, none of these statements present any practical ideas or programs for building the country.
The aim is to find a solution to the economic crisis without relying on the intervention of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The government seeks to address the challenges and overcome the crisis through its own program, without external financial assistance. The specific solution that does not involve the IMF’s intervention is not mentioned.
While there are claims of providing a solution without IMF support, it is implied that such claims may lack substance. The challenging times we have faced are gradually coming to an end, and there is a belief that better progress will be achieved through the government’s program.
The IMF predicts a decrease in the negative growth rate from -7.8 to -3 by the end of the year. However, the government’s commitment and efforts are expected to lead to positive developments in 2024.
The government has achieved more results than anticipated thus far, and it is important to maintain the commitment made by the government.
The country’s progress in terms of transparency, combating corruption, and addressing fraud has gained international attention. The parliamentary week, which begins today, is expected to enhance confidence in Sri Lanka’s economy, administrative structure, and financial system. The Budget Office Bill and an Anti-Corruption Bill will be debated and passed in parliament, contributing to the country’s progress.
Passing these bills is crucial to boost the strength of the country’s financial market and attract investments. It may also lead to a change in rating agencies’ opinions about Sri Lanka. The first review with the IMF in September will showcase the progress made and the current program being implemented. Alternative measures have already been taken to address the slight decrease in income levels. Overall, the economic process is being successfully implemented in the country, though it may take some more time for the people to feel its effects.
As a government, we are committed to advancing this program. Any opposition or attempts to destabilize the political and social stability established can have consequences worse than those experienced during the weak economy of the previous year. Despite short-term challenges, we need everyone’s support to steer the country onto a new path, ensuring a clear future and preventing similar crises from occurring again.
Two groups exist in the country: one that capitalizes on the people’s suffering during the economic crisis to advance their political goals, and another that genuinely supports the government’s efforts to overcome the crisis. Some individuals attempt to spread misinformation and false news. As a government, we strive to provide accurate information based on correct data and statistics to enable people to make informed decisions.
Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Northern provinces and in Galle, Matara and Puttalam districts, and a few showers will occur in North-Central province and in Kurunegala district, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (20).
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Uva province and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the evening or night, the statement added.
Strong winds about (40-45) kmph can be expected at times in western slopes of the central hills, Northern and North-Central provinces and in Puttalam, Hambantota and Trincomalee districts.
General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershower.
Marine Weather:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Matara via Mannar, Puttalam, Colombo and Galle. Showers will occur at a few places in the other sea areas around the Island.
Winds:
Winds will be south-westerly and speed will be (25-35) kmph. Wind speed may increase up to (50-60) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil. Wind speed may increase up to (45-50) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Hambantota via Kankasanthurai, Mannar, Puttalam, Colombo and Galle.
State of Sea:
The sea areas off the coast extending from Hambantota to Pottuvil will be rough at times. The sea areas off the coast extending Trincomalee to Hambantota via Kankasanthurai, Mannar, Puttalam, Colombo and Galle will be fairly rough at times. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
The Sri Lankan Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates Udaya Indrarathna, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of London Executive Coaching and Consulting, and celebrated creator of the revolutionary “7 Day-Mini MBA,” has been bestowed with a “Global Order of Outstanding Disruptors” (GOOD) Fellows award at last week’s Global Wealth Conference in London.
The SWFI Global Wealth Conference, hosted by the Sovereign Wealth Fund Institute (SWFI), is an unrivaled event that unites influential leaders, experts, and professionals from the global wealth management industry. It serves as an electrifying platform for thought-provoking discussions, cutting-edge knowledge sharing, and unparalleled collaboration opportunities.
Ambassador Indrarathna’s extraordinary contributions and visionary leadership in the fields of strategy and roadmaps, executive coaching, consulting, and wealth management have propelled him to this recognition. As the Sri Lankan Ambassador to the UAE, he plays a pivotal role in forging robust diplomatic ties and catalyzing bilateral trade and investment between the two nations.
Beyond his diplomatic responsibilities, Udaya Indrarathna became renowned as the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of London Executive Coaching and Consulting, where he has steered numerous professionals and organizations towards achieving their full potential and driving strategic business growth. He is a former Senior Advisor to the Chairman’s Office – Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority (DCT)– Government of Abu Dhabi for five years and held office as an Executive Director, Policy & Strategy for Government of Dubai (DTCM) for more than ten years. Ambassador Udaya Indrarathna is the former vertical CEO, Executive Committee Member for Ajlan Bros Holding, the Multibillion dollar global conglomerate based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The award bestowed upon Ambassador Indrarathna at the SWFI Global Wealth Conference serves as a testament to his exceptional achievements, unwavering dedication, and groundbreaking contributions to the global wealth landscape. Through his exceptional expertise and visionary approach, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to navigate intricate challenges and drive transformative change.
On receiving the award, Ambassador Udaya Indrarathna stated, “I am humbled to have been recognized with this coveted award at the SWFI Global Wealth Conference at the world famous Guild Hall. Sri Lanka may be a small country, but this shows that with the right strategy and determination, we can play a key role on the global stage. I remain steadfast in my commitment to empower leaders, foster economic growth, and spearhead advancements in the global wealth management industry.”
The SWFI Global Wealth Conference offered an unparalleled platform for industry leaders, experts, and policymakers to exchange groundbreaking ideas, explore emerging trends, and forge collaborative partnerships to shape the future of the wealth management industry. Ambassador Udaya Indrarathna’s eloquent speeches highly focused on Sri Lanka’s future prosperities, and invaluable insights infused the discussions with a renewed energy, leaving an indelible impact on the attendees.
Colombo (LWN): The Child Protection Alliance (CPA) has written to President Ranil Wickremesinghe demanding immediate legal reforms to address the country’s national child protection crisis, in the backdrop where child abuse is official recognised as the second biggest crime in the island.
Despite matters being raised on a number of occasions, the authorities remain maintaining a silent policy without addressing this national crisis, the CPA lamented.
Accordingly, the CPA has written to the President about the urgent measures to be taken to address the worsening child protection crisis in the country, reminding that Wickremesinghe as the Cabinet Minister for Women and Child Affairs and Social Empowerment must adopt clear and sustainable changes to eliminate this crisis immediately.
Thereby, the CPA further requested the President to grant them the opportunity to meet and discuss this matter and the measures to be implemented to protect and promote children’s rights.
The Child Protection Alliance (CPA) is a collective of children’s rights activists including Avanka Lanka Foundation, Bakamoono.lk, Hashtag Generation, iProbono, Meraki Sri Lanka, Promoters for Equal Partnership in Leadership, Right to Life Human Rights Centre, Schools 4.0 Lanka, Sri Lanka Unites, Stop Child Cruelty Trust, Youth Advocacy Network Sri Lanka, and Youth for Tomorrow.
Indian Naval Submarine ‘Vagir’, which is the latest indigenous Kalvari-class submarine of the Indian Navy, will undertake an operational visit at Colombo from 19-22 Jun 2023 to commemorate the 9th edition of International Day of Yoga (IDY) under the theme of ‘Global Ocean Ring’. The Commanding Officer of the Indian Naval submarine, Commander Divakar. S will call on Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Suresh De Silva. Further, during the submarine’s visit the vessel would be open for visitors and school children.
2. The High Commission of India in coordination with Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre is scheduled to organize a grand event at Colombo Port to celebrate IDY on 21 June 2023 with participation of senior defence hierarchy and personnel from Indian and Sri Lanka Navies. The Indian Navy is participating in the 9th edition of IDY with the unique initiative of performing Yoga on selected ports across the world forming a ‘Global Ocean Ring’. Connecting people the world over in a common pursuit of wellness, IDY 2023 resonates with the theme of India’s ongoing presidency of the G20, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam or ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’.
3. Further, it may be recalled that Indian Naval Ships Delhi, Sukanya, Kiltan and Savitri had earlier visited Colombo and Trincomalee earlier this year, during which Yoga sessions were organised with Sri Lanka Navy. Recently, in June 2023, Sri Lankan Armed Forces participated in the three-day Yoga workshop across five cities in Sri Lanka, which was organized by Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre. Visits by Indian Navy ships and submarines in Sri Lanka aim to foster brotherhood and togetherness between the two neighbouring navies in keeping with the India’s vision of ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and ‘Security and Growth for all in the Region (SAGAR)’.
COLOMBO, June 19 (Reuters) – The World Bank is likely to approve $700 million in budgetary and welfare support for Sri Lanka at its next board meeting on June 28, sources told Reuters, the biggest funding tranche for the crisis-hit island nation since an IMF deal in March.
The economy of the country of 22 million is expected to shrink 2% this year before returning to growth next year, the government estimates, following last year’s record contraction of 7.8% after foreign exchange reserves hit record lows.
The International Monetary Fund approved a bailout of nearly $3 billion in March, which Sri Lanka expects will bring additional funding of up to $4 billion from the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank and other multilateral agencies.
Of the proposed World Bank funding, $500 million will be for budgetary support and is likely to come in two tranches of $250 million each, one of the sources, from the World Bank, said.
All four sources, from the World Bank and the Sri Lankan finance ministry, sought anonymity as they were not authorised to talk to the media.
The first tranche is likely to be disbursed immediately after board approval with the next possibly in October, as the bank watches the progress of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring and the first review of the IMF programme, due in September, the World Bank source added.
The remaining $200 million will be earmarked for programmes to assist the poor, whose numbers have doubled to 25% of the population since the onset of the Indian Ocean nation’s worst economic crisis early last year, another World Bank source said.
“Households that have registered for support will be ranked … and the lowest 2 million will be eligible for support,” the source added.
The World Bank and the finance ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Colombo (LNW): Trade Minister Nalin Fernando said necessary instructions have been given to slash the prices of bread and short-eats by Rs. 10.
Following the declaration of wheat flour as an ‘essential commodity,’ a kilo a wheat flour, which was sold for Rs. 430, is now sold at Rs. 160 – 170, the Minister revealed, adding that the prices of bakery products can also be slashed on the assurance that wheat flour prices will not soar again.
He added that a discussion was held with relevant sectors about controlling the price hike of chicken and the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) is taking necessary action in this regard.
Colombo (LNW): Concessions on electricity can be granted by January next year, Power and Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekara assured, admitting that the existing utility prices are high.
Speaking at the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) electorate meeting in Nawalapitiya yesterday (18), the Minister revealed that the government of Sri Lanka has proposed the slashing of the electricity consumption charges by 27 per cent, adding that the assurance that further concessions will be granted by January, 2024 can be given.
He noted that certain reports on the decision to suspend offering fuel on credit had been misreported that there was a shortage of 95 Octane fuel, asserting that such incidents reiterate the need for ‘stronger media laws’ in the country.
