In a significant move to support Sri Lankan entrepreneurs in the United Kingdom, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in London, in collaboration with NLC Consultants – UK, hosted the inaugural “Sri Lanka Business Promotion Dialogue” on 31 January.

The event aimed to foster business development for Sri Lankan startups and SMEs in the UK, facilitate international market expansion for Sri Lankan-origin products, and enhance employment opportunities for Sri Lankans residing in Britain.

Delivering the opening remarks, Minister (Commercial) of the High Commission, Somasena Mahadiulwewa, emphasized the event’s importance as a platform to strengthen Sri Lankan entrepreneurship in the UK.

He outlined the long-term vision of the initiative, which includes a series of similar events across various UK regions.

Ultimately, the mission is to establish a dedicated SME Entrepreneurs’ Hub at the High Commission, aligning with the new Sri Lankan government’s policies and the strategic guidance of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and other relevant ministries.

A key highlight of the event was the address by Ranganath Abeykoonge, a Fellow Chartered Accountant and Managing Director of Sonic Builders, London. Sharing his journey from corporate roles, including experience at TK Maxx, to successfully running his own business, Abeykoonge provided invaluable insights and motivation to aspiring entrepreneurs.

He encouraged young Sri Lankans to explore business opportunities in the UK, emphasizing the potential for creating employment for fellow Sri Lankans.

The event also featured an insightful presentation by Thilak Dharmarathne, a past member of the Sri Lanka AAT Council and an MBA holder.

As a director of NLC Consultants – UK, Dharmarathne discussed strategies for business growth and market penetration, equipping attendees with practical knowledge to navigate the competitive UK business landscape.

Adding further value to the discussion, a panel of experts led by Minister (Commercial) Mahadiulwewa provided specialized guidance on crucial aspects of business management and operations in the UK. Chartered Accountant Nayana Kularathne covered the essentials of maintaining company accounts and tax compliance, while Sri Lankan lawyer and NLC Consultants – UK Director Heshan Mathugamage elaborated on the startup process for businesses. UK Solicitor Mohamed Sameen addressed legal considerations, and HR Consultant Kosaka Perera discussed UK employment policies, offering clarity on key human resources and regulatory frameworks.

Minister (Commercial) Mahadiulwewa also highlighted trade incentives available for Sri Lankan exporters under the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS), introduced by UK authorities in June 2023. He detailed UK product labelling requirements, food and product standards, and outlined investment and tourism opportunities available in Sri Lanka.

The Food Policy and Security Committee convened under the leadership of Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security, and Co-operative Development, Wasantha Samarasinghe.

The meeting took place at the Presidential Secretariat.During the meeting, the importance of a strong data system to make policy decisions related to food security was strongly emphasized.

Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe pointed out that accurate data and information are crucial when making decisions related to food security, and the government is not willing to take the risk of making decisions without such data.As a result, discussions were held on prioritizing the development of a proper data and information system.

Additionally, the committee focused on ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential food items and maintaining price control during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year.The purchase of paddy was also subject to in-depth discussion.

The committee discussed expanding the networks of Cooperative and Lanka Sathosa outlets to provide essential goods to consumers at affordable prices.Minister Samarasinghe gave instructions to committee members to take necessary steps to prevent food wastage as well.

Several key areas were also discussed, including developing a National Food Security Policy Framework, maintaining an essential food information system, introducing a new program based on internationally recognised standards, and increasing local production and distribution through scientific, evidence-based strategies. The meeting further addressed food security, food pricing, and market management.

Key concerns discussed included ensuring the uninterrupted supply of essential food items during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year season and maintaining price controls on these goods.

 A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to the paddy purchasing process, particularly the loan facilities provided to mill owners for purchasing paddy. The necessity of conducting a thorough review of the quantities purchased under these loan schemes was also emphasised.

The meeting also focused on expanding the Cooperative and ‘Sathosa’ networks to provide essential goods at affordable prices to consumers. Additionally, strategies were discussed to regulate prices and create a consumer-friendly market.

A new mosquito species unique to Sri Lanka has been discovered through extensive research, according to entomologist Gayan Sri Kumarasinghe of the Medical Research Institute (MRI).

This newly identified species has not been reported in any other country, making it exclusive to Sri Lanka. Scientists have found that this mosquito feeds on both animal and human blood, raising concerns about its potential to transmit viruses from animals to humans, posing a significant public health threat.

Ongoing Research and Genetic Confirmation

Research on this mosquito species has been ongoing for about a year, and gene identification tests conducted in South Korean laboratories have confirmed its distinct genetic makeup. However, the species remains unnamed, with plans in place for its official naming and unveiling in the near future.

Over the past five years, the Medical Research Institute has identified four new mosquito species, underscoring the evolving entomological landscape in Sri Lanka.

This research is being conducted under the guidance of MRI Director Dr. Suranga Dolamulla and mosquito expert Dr. Rohitha Muthugala. Scientists emphasize the importance of continued surveillance and control measures to mitigate the potential health risks posed by this new mosquito species.

The Government’s decision to establish an Independent Prosecutor’s Office will not abolish the position of the Attorney General (AG) or the AG’s Department, ensuring that both institutions will function concurrently to uphold justice without legal loopholes.

Cabinet Spokesperson Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa made this statement yesterday during the weekly Cabinet decisions press briefing at the Department of Government Information (DGI) premises.

Strengthening Justice and Prosecution

Minister Jayatissa emphasized that the new Independent Prosecutor’s Office will be a significant step forward in ensuring justice and independence in the prosecution of crimes. It will operate with greater capacity than the AG’s Office, focusing on issues of prosecutorial independence and addressing past concerns regarding political influence and bias.

He further stated that the new office will be free from allegations that have affected the AG’s Department in recent times, ensuring greater public confidence in the legal system.

Formation of an Expert Committee

As a preliminary step, the Ministry of Justice and National Integration has proposed forming an expert committeeto lay the groundwork for the Independent Prosecutor’s Office. This committee will comprise:

• The Attorney General (AG) or two representatives nominated by the AG
• The Secretary to the Justice Ministry
• A senior judge with expertise in criminal law
• The President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) or a representative nominated by the BASL President

This committee will be responsible for drafting preliminary plans for the structure, scope, and functions of the new prosecutorial body.

Public Consultation and Policy Alignment

Minister Jayatissa confirmed that the Justice and National Integration Ministry will seek public and civil society input before finalizing the concept paper for the Independent Prosecutor’s Office.

This initiative aligns with the National People’s Power (NPP) Government’s policy vision, “A Thriving Nation and a Beautiful Life,” aiming to enhance transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in Sri Lanka.