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Sri Lanka approaches 1.4 mn tourist arrivals for 2024

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has witnessed a strong influx of nearly 1.4 million tourists so far this year, reflecting a robust recovery in the country’s tourism sector.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) announced that, from January 1 to September 8, a total of approximately 1,395,773 visitors arrived on the island.

February saw the highest number of arrivals, with 218,350 tourists recorded, while both January and March also exceeded 200,000 visitors.

This steady stream of tourists highlights Sri Lanka’s appeal as a destination despite global economic uncertainties and challenges in the travel industry.

Tourists from India, Britain, Russia, Germany, and China constituted the majority of international visitors, showcasing a diverse mix of arrivals from both neighbouring and distant countries.

Sri Lanka has been actively promoting its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and hospitality to attract these key markets, leading to the encouraging numbers recorded this year.

In comparison, the previous year saw a total of 1,487,303 tourists, and 2024 is on track to potentially surpass that figure.

The island nation’s tourism sector, a critical contributor to the economy, has been recovering steadily after years of disruption caused by the pandemic, and these latest figures signal a positive outlook for the rest of the year.

University of Sri Jayawardenepura closes amid student clashes

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): The University of Sri Jayawardenepura has announced a temporary closure, effective from 6:00 pm today (12), following a violent altercation between two groups on campus.

In a statement, the university administration instructed all students to vacate the premises by the set deadline, though further details about the groups involved in the clash remain undisclosed.

The sudden closure has raised concerns about campus safety, but the administration has refrained from commenting on the nature of the conflict or the identities of those involved.

No timeline for the university’s reopening has been provided, leaving students uncertain about when academic activities will resume.

This incident highlights rising tensions among student groups, an issue that has plagued several universities across the country. Despite efforts to promote unity and maintain a peaceful academic environment, clashes have periodically disrupted educational institutions, affecting not only students but also staff and administration.

Sri Lanka rejects UN Human Rights Report, criticises lack of balance

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has firmly rejected the latest report by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), arguing that it fails to address the full scope of the country’s past conflict, particularly neglecting the atrocities committed by the LTTE during the prolonged civil war.

The government views the report as one-sided and lacking in nuance.

Speaking in Geneva during the 57th Session of the Human Rights Council, Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Himalee Arunatilaka, strongly opposed Resolution 51/1 and the external mechanism established by the OHCHR.

She argued that such interventions are both unnecessary and counter-productive, especially as the country continues to address its own reconciliation efforts.

Ambassador Arunatilaka highlighted that Sri Lanka has implemented significant social protection initiatives, including the Aswesuma programme, which aims to assist vulnerable communities.

She further criticised the report for overstepping its mandate by commenting on areas such as macroeconomic policy, which she insisted falls strictly under the purview of Sri Lanka’s Parliament.

Despite international scrutiny, Sri Lanka has made strides in both economic recovery and national unity. The Ambassador pointed to progress in domestic processes aimed at reconciliation, including the Office on Missing Persons, the Office for Reparations, and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation.

These institutions, alongside the newly created Interim Secretariat for the Truth and Reconciliation Mechanism, were presented as evidence of the government’s ongoing commitment to healing past wounds while maintaining economic stability.

Sri Lanka also reiterated its continued engagement with the United Nations and its commitment to the Universal Declaration on Human Rights, reinforcing its adherence to international treaties.

Ambassador Arunatilaka underscored the nation’s financial recovery, noting that prudent economic decisions have been acknowledged by the international community.

During the Human Rights Council’s dialogue on the OHCHR report, many countries expressed support for Sri Lanka, commending the nation for its economic recovery, social protection measures, and continued efforts in fostering national unity.

The interactive dialogue saw participation from 55 nations, with a majority questioning the necessity of the OHCHR’s “Sri Lanka Accountability Project.” Critics described the initiative as “unjustified,” “misaligned with the UN Charter,” and “disconnected from the complex realities on the ground.”

The Sri Lankan delegation to the 57th session included officials from the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva and the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

They reaffirmed the government’s commitment to navigating the post-conflict landscape through homegrown solutions, while also defending the sovereignty of their nation against external pressures.

Official exchange rates in SL today (Sep 12)

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) indicates slight depreciation against the US Dollar today (12), in comparison to yesterday, as per the official exchange rates released by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL).

Accordingly, the buying price of the US Dollar has increased to Rs. 296.41 from Rs. 296.08, and the selling price to Rs. 305.69 from Rs. 305.36.

The Rupee has also appreciated against a basket of foreign currencies, including Gulf currencies.

Postal Voting for Presidential Election 2024 concludes today

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): The final day of postal voting for Sri Lanka’s 2024 Presidential Election is today (12), bringing an end to the extended voting period.

Government employees who were unable to cast their postal votes during the initial phase, which took place on the 4th, 5th, and 6th of September, were granted an additional opportunity to do so yesterday and today, ensuring no eligible voter was left behind.

The extended period was introduced to accommodate those with conflicting work schedules or other unforeseen circumstances, demonstrating the government’s commitment to an inclusive and accessible voting process.

This year’s postal voting covered a wide array of public sector workers, whose participation is crucial given the size and influence of this voter base.

As the postal voting comes to a close, the Election Commission is now preparing for the next stages of the electoral process, leading up to the main election day.

Election Commission raises concerns over Cabinet’s pre-Election decisions

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): The Election Commission of Sri Lanka has voiced significant concerns over several recent decisions by the Cabinet of Ministers, which are being interpreted by some as endorsements of a particular candidate in the upcoming presidential election.

Speaking to the media, Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake revealed that, while the Commission lacks the authority to intervene directly in Cabinet decisions, it has nonetheless expressed its unease regarding the timing of certain policies.

One such policy is the approval of a special Rs. 3,000 monthly allowance for pensioners, set to begin in September. The Commission recommended deferring the implementation of this benefit until after October, to avoid any perception of bias or electioneering.

Criticism has been mounting against the Cabinet for its perceived alignment with proposals advanced by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Many political observers and election watchdogs argue that these decisions appear to disproportionately benefit one candidate, thus potentially compromising the impartiality of the electoral process.

Manjula Gajanayake, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Reforms and Electoral Studies (IRES), has been particularly vocal in condemning the recent Cabinet actions.

He argued that by approving these measures in the lead-up to the election, the government may be undermining the democratic process and creating an unfair advantage for certain candidates.

The Election Commission’s warnings, along with growing criticism from civil society, highlight concerns about maintaining a level playing field during this crucial election period.

There are increasing calls for the government to be more cautious and transparent in its decisions, ensuring that public policy is not used as a tool for political gain.

President inaugurates new higher education institution in Colombo

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): President Ranil Wickremesinghe officially launched the Times School of Higher Education (TSHE), a cutting-edge educational institution developed in partnership with three international universities.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the iconic Galle Face Hotel, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Sri Lanka’s higher education landscape.

The Times School of Higher Education offers a wide range of academic programmes, including Certificates, Diplomas, Higher Diplomas, Bachelor’s Degrees, and Postgraduate Degrees.

Many of these courses are conducted in collaboration with foreign universities, providing students with globally recognised qualifications.

The institution aims to meet the growing demand for diverse educational pathways, with an emphasis on both local and international standards.

In addition to academic degrees, TSHE also offers vocational training opportunities through programmes endorsed by Sri Lanka’s Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission (TVEC) and TQUK, a leading British awarding organisation.

This dual focus ensures students can pursue both academic and practical qualifications, catering to a wide range of professional aspirations.

As part of its forward-thinking approach, TSHE’s Digital Academy continues to prioritise online education, particularly in the realm of Continuous Professional Development (CPD).

By partnering with established online educational platforms, the Digital Academy offers flexible learning options for professionals seeking to enhance their skills in an increasingly digital world.

During his address, President Wickremesinghe emphasised the importance of international collaboration in education, highlighting how partnerships with foreign institutions can contribute to Sri Lanka’s development by producing a globally competitive workforce.

He also stressed the need for adaptable learning models, particularly in light of the technological advancements shaping the future of education.

Public Security Minister denies visa allegations amidst election speculation

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): Public Security Minister Tiran Alles has firmly dismissed rumours that government ministers are securing visas to leave Sri Lanka following the upcoming Presidential election.

Addressing the media during his visit to the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy yesterday (11), Alles revealed that he already holds a visa allowing him to reside in any country for up to ten years, making it unnecessary for him to obtain any additional visas after the election.

Responding to media questions about reports suggesting that 80 ministers had obtained visas to flee the country after the election, Alles downplayed the claims, noting that they were likely baseless remarks made during the heat of an election campaign.

He pointed out that it is common for various unverified statements to surface during such periods, especially from opposition members.

The minister further expressed confidence that no one would have any reason to leave the country post-election.

Alles’ statement comes at a time when political tensions are running high, with public discourse often fuelled by speculation and misinformation.

Sri Lanka secures $100 mn ADB loan for water sector reforms

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Water Supply and Estate Infrastructure Development has expressed its approval following the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) decision to grant Sri Lanka a US$ 100 million policy-based loan.

The loan is set to drive transformative reforms in the country’s water supply and sanitation sector, aimed at improving sustainability, climate resilience, and operational efficiency.

This initiative builds on ongoing efforts by the Ministry to ensure equitable access to clean water while modernising infrastructure to meet the challenges posed by climate change.

With growing concerns over water scarcity and environmental degradation, this programme is seen as a crucial step towards addressing these issues on a national scale.

The ADB’s Water Supply and Sanitation Reform Programme is structured into two main sub-programmes.

These will focus on establishing comprehensive national-level policies and strategies while ensuring their effective implementation through the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB), the primary agency responsible for managing water distribution in Sri Lanka.

The reforms seek to resolve pressing issues, including the fragmented management of water resources, insufficient adaptation to climate change, and governance inefficiencies that have hindered progress in the sector.

Amongst the core elements of the reform package are the development of a Climate Change Resilience Roadmap, frameworks for climate-resilient project appraisals, and business efficiency action plans.

Additionally, the programme will encourage private sector participation and implement water safety plans to ensure long-term water quality and safety.

A key aspect of the project is its emphasis on gender-sensitive service delivery and the equitable allocation of water resources, ensuring that marginalised communities are not left behind.

The NWSDB will play a central role in these reforms, tasked with improving its operational performance, reducing water wastage, and promoting sustainable water usage practices across the country.

By supporting these reforms, the ADB loan is expected to strengthen the resilience of Sri Lanka’s water supply system, ensuring it can meet future challenges and serve the growing needs of the population amidst the increasing threat of climate change.

Speaker endorses Bill to increase Minimum Wage ahead of Presidential Election

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September 12, Colombo (LNW): Just days before Sri Lanka’s presidential election, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena has signed off on a bill that raises the national minimum wage by 12.5 per cent.

The bill, titled the National Minimum Wage of Workers (Amendment) Bill, was formally endorsed on Wednesday, following its swift passage through Parliament.

The bill, which underwent a second reading in Parliament on September 3, was passed without any amendments or the need for a vote. The legislation, amending the National Minimum Wage Act of 2016, is now set to elevate the monthly minimum wage to 12,500 Sri Lankan rupees, up from the previous 10,000 rupees.

Similarly, the daily minimum wage will increase from 400 rupees to 500 rupees.

This wage increase is expected to benefit employees primarily within the private sector, giving a financial boost to low-wage workers who have long advocated for better compensation in a struggling economy.

Given the proximity of the wage hike to the upcoming presidential election, some analysts have speculated about its potential impact on the election’s outcome, as economic issues remain a central concern for voters.

Announcing the bill, the Speaker’s office emphasised that it had been approved in accordance with Article 79 of the Constitution, marking a significant legislative achievement.

The timing of the bill’s passage, however, is noteworthy, as it follows various economic reforms aimed at addressing the rising cost of living and unemployment across the island.

In recent years, Sri Lanka has faced mounting economic challenges, including high inflation, currency devaluation, and rising prices for essential goods, placing significant pressure on low-income workers.