The United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s development agenda during a high-level meeting held at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (12). UAE Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Khaled Nasser Al-Ameri, assured President Anura Kumara Dissanayake of his nation’s dedication to strengthening bilateral relations and fostering economic collaboration.
Ambassador Al-Ameri highlighted the UAE’s plans to expand investments in Sri Lanka and share technical expertise, particularly in digitalization and modern technology. He underscored the significant role played by the 150,000 Sri Lankans employed in the UAE and expressed a commitment to creating additional employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers in the UAE, further enhancing economic ties between the two nations.
The discussion also focused on diversifying and expanding Sri Lankan exports to the UAE, which is the island’s sixth-largest export market. Both parties emphasized the potential for mutual growth through increased trade and innovation.
As a gesture of goodwill, Ambassador Al-Ameri extended an official invitation to President Dissanayake to visit the UAE. The Ambassador reiterated the UAE’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka, assuring assistance whenever needed.
Minister Plenipotentiary Ahmad M.A.A. Al-Shehhi from the UAE Embassy in Colombo also attended the meeting. This engagement underscores the UAE’s role as a key partner in Sri Lanka’s journey towards becoming a developed and prosperous nation.
ussAgriculture Minister Lal Kantha, expressing gratitude to the Russian Federation, announced the arrival of a consignment of 55,000 metric tons of Potassium Chloride fertilizer at Colombo Harbour yesterday. The shipment, granted as humanitarian aid, will be distributed promptly among Sri Lankan farmers to boost agricultural production.
Speaking at the handover event, Minister Lal Kantha emphasized the significance of the donation in aiding the country’s farmers during a critical time. Over 30,000 metric tons will be allocated to paddy farmers, while the remainder will be distributed to coconut cultivators.
“This fertilizer is an additional support to the fertilizer subsidy provided to farmers, and it comes at a crucial moment to bolster production. The Paddy Marketing Board will purchase a significant portion of the next season’s harvest, and we are preparing warehouse facilities to manage the stocks,” the Minister said.
He acknowledged the lack of government-owned paddy stocks and storage facilities upon assuming office. Plans are underway to use storage facilities from other government institutions and private companies, as well as to collaborate with small and medium-scale mill owners for drying harvested paddy.
Russian Ambassador Levan Dzhagaryan highlighted that this consignment is part of over 260,000 metric tons of fertilizers stranded at Riga port since 2022 due to Western sanctions. He commended the strong bilateral relations between Russia and Sri Lanka and reiterated Moscow’s commitment to providing humanitarian aid to its friends.
The Ambassador also expressed appreciation for the support from the Sri Lankan Government, UN agencies, including UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche, and Uralchem Group of Russia for facilitating this initiative.
This fertilizer grant represents a significant boost for Sri Lankan farmers, ensuring improved agricultural output and strengthening ties between the two nations.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places elsewhere during the evening or night. Fairly heavy showers about 75mm are likely at some places in Uva province and in Hambantota district.
Showers can occur at some places of the coastal areas in the Western province and in Galle and Matara districts in the morning too.
Misty conditions can be expected in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Uva provinces during the morning.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): Lanka Milk Foods (CWE) PLC (LMF) has achieved an extraordinary milestone at its Ambewela Farms, recording a daily milk production of 62,000 litres.
This marks a remarkable leap from the mere 3,000 litres per day produced when LMF took over the state-operated facility in 2001. Today, the farm contributes an impressive 20 million litres annually to Sri Lanka’s national milk supply.
LMF attributes this success to meticulous planning, significant investments, and innovative farming practices. A game-changing upgrade occurred in 2019 with the installation of automated dairy housing and milking systems.
Part of a Rs. 5 billion modernisation drive, these advancements doubled production capacity in just two years, elevating Ambewela Farms to world-class standards.
These systems incorporate everything from dairy cow comfort to computerised management, reflecting a commitment to excellence.
Ambewela’s achievements are also driven by advanced breeding programs that use sexed semen from globally acclaimed stud bulls to produce high-yielding, genetically superior cows.
These cows, capable of producing up to 12,000 litres over a 305-day lactation cycle, are comparable to the world’s best commercial herds. Rigorous health monitoring and disease prevention strategies ensure the herd’s productivity and longevity.
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in sustaining high yields. Under international nutritionists’ guidance, precision feeding systems and purpose-bred grass varieties provide optimal nutrition for the cows.
This meticulous care extends to calves, ensuring superior growth and early maturity, which boosts overall herd productivity. As a result, Ambewela cows now produce an average of 40 litres per cow daily.
General Manager Farms Sarath Bandara credited the achievement to blending international expertise with local knowledge and dedication. He stated,
“This milestone reflects years of hard work, strategic planning, and innovation. By combining global knowledge with local expertise, we’ve set a new benchmark for dairy production in Sri Lanka.
” He also reaffirmed LMF’s commitment to improving the dairy industry and supporting national self-sufficiency.
The ripple effects of Ambewela Farms’ advancements extend beyond its operations. LMF empowers local farmers by sharing high-quality offspring from its herds and promoting best practices, thus strengthening Sri Lanka’s dairy sector.
This collaborative approach embodies LMF’s belief in “winning together as a nation,” fostering continuous improvement and national progress.
This success story highlights Ambewela Farms as a model for sustainable, high-tech dairy production, setting a new standard for excellence in Sri Lanka’s dairy industry.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): In a landmark initiative to promote environmental sustainability, the Government of Sri Lanka and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have partnered to implement the “Developing Sustainable Integrated Solid Waste Management Project in Uva and Northern Provinces.”
The agreement was signed at the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government (MoPCLG).
The ceremony was attended by KOICA Sri Lanka Office Country Director Kim Myung Jin, MoPCLG Secretary Alokabandara, Department of External Resources Director General Samantha Bandara, and other dignitaries. The project seeks to address solid waste management challenges in the Badulla and Vavuniya districts, with KOICA committing $11 million to the initiative.
This collaboration aims to enhance waste management infrastructure, introduce Korea’s best practices in the field, and strengthen the capacity of Sri Lankan officials. Speaking at the event, Alokabandara highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that it could lead to long-term sustainable benefits, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a shift toward eco-friendly waste management practices.
KOICA’s Country Director, Kim Myung Jin, emphasized the organization’s commitment to global environmental protection, expressing confidence that the project would pave the way for sustainable development in Sri Lanka’s waste management sector.
In addition to this project, KOICA plans to invest over $65 million in Sri Lanka over the next five years, focusing on climate change mitigation and adaptation technologies. This underscores KOICA’s dedication to supporting the country’s environmental and developmental goals.
KOICA has also pledged its support for governance and transparency reforms in Sri Lanka. During a recent meeting at the Presidential Secretariat, high-ranking KOICA officials assured their commitment to assisting the government in preventing fraud and corruption.
The agency agreed to provide tailored loan assistance to meet the country’s specific needs in strengthening accountability mechanisms.
Key officials, including Korean Ambassador Miyon Lee, Deputy Ambassador Songyi Jeong, and Sri Lanka Railways Deputy General Manager B.M.U Banneheka, were present at the discussions, reinforcing the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
This multi-faceted collaboration between Sri Lanka and KOICA signals a significant step forward in addressing critical environmental and governance challenges while fostering long-term sustainable development.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): The European Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (ECCSL) is entering an exciting new chapter, marked by its recent Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Colombo.
The event saw the appointment of John Wilson as President and Mario Stubbs as Vice President, ushering in a fresh leadership team to drive the Chamber’s efforts in strengthening European business ties with Sri Lanka.
In his inaugural address, President Wilson expressed gratitude for the members’ trust and outlined his vision for growth. “We are building momentum, focusing on strategic growth, and positioning ourselves to better serve our members. With your support, I am confident we will achieve great things,” he remarked.
Wilson acknowledged past challenges but emphasized the opportunities ahead for the ECCSL to enhance trade and investment relations between Europe and Sri Lanka.
To foster meaningful engagement, the Chamber plans to host networking events where members can exchange ideas and stay updated on global business trends. The continued publication of EuroLink, ECCSL’s trade and commerce magazine, will provide valuable insights into trade, investment, and business developments across Europe and Sri Lanka.
A key focus will be on regulatory updates, including the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the Deforestation Regulation, the Critical Minerals Regulation, and the Textile Labelling Regulation. By collaborating with relevant organizations, ECCSL aims to keep its members informed and well-prepared for compliance with these critical European regulations.
Wilson highlighted plans to expand membership, drawing new participants from both Sri Lanka and Europe to ensure a vibrant and diverse network. The Chamber also aims to strengthen ties with European Business Councils, Embassy trade desks, and other trade organizations to support members’ cross-border business endeavors.
Advocacy will remain a priority as the Chamber represents the interests of European businesses in Sri Lanka. Whether addressing challenges or pushing for favorable policies, ECCSL is committed to being a strong voice for its members. Additionally, its enhanced digital presence will ensure clear and consistent communication through social media and digital platforms.
Special recognition was given to retiring Board members for their contributions, with Wilson thanking them for their service and welcoming them to the Advisory Board. Vice President Stubbs was also commended for his vision and leadership in shaping the Chamber’s future direction.
Looking ahead, the ECCSL is focused on building a stronger business ecosystem, promoting sustainable trade, and encouraging collaboration between European and Sri Lankan industries. “The challenges are significant, but the opportunities are greater. Together, we can create a more prosperous future,” Wilson concluded.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): The Old Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum, nestled within Sri Lanka’s sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic complex, has been meticulously restored to its former grandeur through a $265,000 (Rs. 77 million) grant from the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP).
The U.S. Embassy, in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Buddhasasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs, marked this achievement with a grand reopening ceremony on December 11.
The event was graced by U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung and Sri Lanka’s Cultural Minister, Hiniduma Sunil Senevi, who underscored the importance of the project in preserving the nation’s cultural identity.
The restoration, initiated in 2021, unfolded in two phases. The first focused on structural conservation and improving accessibility for individuals with disabilities. The second phase upgraded the museum’s exhibits and facilities, creating an engaging space for education and cultural appreciation.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Chung emphasized the transformative impact of cultural preservation, stating, “The restoration of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace and Archaeology Museum symbolizes the enduring partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka.
This museum serves as a gateway for all to delve into Sri Lanka’s rich history, fostering appreciation while boosting cultural tourism. We are proud to support initiatives that celebrate Sri Lanka’s heritage and enhance its cultural and economic vibrancy.”
Minister Senevi highlighted the collaborative effort’s significance, adding, “This project ensures that visitors, including those with disabilities, can access and connect with Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
By conserving the historic infrastructure and enhancing the museum’s displays, we safeguard our history while showcasing it to the world, promoting education and cultural pride.”
The U.S. Embassy’s Counselor for Public Affairs, Heidi Hattenbach, noted that the AFCP embodies the United States’ dedication to safeguarding global cultural treasures. She explained,
“The preservation of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace exemplifies our commitment to protecting Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth. This site now offers a deeper and more immersive experience for all visitors.”
Over its 23-year history, the U.S. Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation has supported over 1,000 projects in more than 140 countries. In Sri Lanka alone, the AFCP has invested $1.3 million across 17 projects since 2001.
These initiatives range from conserving the Rajagala Buddhist forest monastery and preserving collections at the Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum to restoring the Batticaloa Dutch Fort.
Additionally, the fund is aiding the preservation of the Godawaya shipwreck, the oldest known vessel in the Asia-Pacific, located off Hambantota’s coast.
The restoration of the Kandyan Kings’ Palace not only preserves an iconic piece of Sri Lankan history but also reinforces the cultural bond between Sri Lanka and the United States, ensuring that future generations continue to learn from and appreciate this rich heritage.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): A recent audit by the National Audit Office has revealed that the Sri Lankan government has lost approximately Rs. 1,384 million in tax revenue due to a significant increase in the luxury tax exemption limit for electric vehicle imports.
This exemption, initially set at Rs. 6 million, was doubled to Rs. 12 million, resulting in financial losses for the state.
The controversial scheme, which allowed Sri Lankan migrant workers to import electric vehicles, granted the exemption to 510 vehicles, raising questions about the effectiveness and oversight of the programme.
Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Labour and Foreign Employment, the initiative was designed to incentivise remittances from Sri Lankan workers abroad by encouraging them to import electric vehicles.
According to the audit report, the scheme issued a total of 1,077 permits between September 2022 and June 2024. However, 77 of these permits were later cancelled, and only 510 of the permit holders proceeded with importing vehicles.
The report further indicates that by June 2024, only 375 of the imported vehicles had been successfully registered with the Department of Motor Traffic.
During this period, the scheme facilitated foreign remittances amounting to approximately US$ 121.5 million, while US$ 24.1 million was spent on the importation of the vehicles.
One of the key findings of the audit was the identification of significant lapses in internal controls and irregularities in the permit issuance process.
Several administrative procedures, including the acceptance and verification of applications, as well as the issuance and cancellation of permits, were handled unethically by some officials within the Ministry.
The audit also highlighted that the Ministry had failed to ensure compliance with the necessary eligibility criteria for the permit holders.
For example, permits were issued to four individuals whose foreign employment status could not be verified.
Despite receiving US$ 445,942 in foreign remittances, the Ministry did not carry out the necessary checks to confirm the legality of these funds.
Additionally, the report pointed out that the criteria for the duration of foreign employment required for eligibility were not clearly defined in the official circulars.
This lack of clarity resulted in permits being granted to individuals with minimal overseas employment or those with sporadic foreign travel.
The audit also noted a lack of coordination between the Ministry and other key authorities, such as the Treasury’s Department of Trade and Investment Policy and the Controller of Imports and Exports, which led to further breaches in governance and accountability.
The audit report calls for greater transparency and stricter oversight to ensure that such schemes are properly managed and do not result in the misuse of government resources or policies.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan Police have refuted reports circulating on social media and in print, which falsely claimed that the individual responsible for injuring three police officers with a sharp weapon during a protest outside the Ministry of Education on December 02, was an army intelligence officer.
In an official statement, the Police Media Division clarified that these allegations were unsubstantiated and inaccurate.
According to the police, misinformation had spread, suggesting that the Thalangama Police had provided such details to the Kaduwela Magistrate’s Court.
However, after conducting thorough investigations, the police revealed that there was no evidence to support the claim that an army intelligence officer was involved in the incident.
The police have also stated that the Police Special Investigation Unit has been instructed by the Acting Inspector General of Police to look into the matter further.
The investigation will focus on determining whether the individual who appeared in court on the day of the incident had made such a statement.
The protest, which took place in front of the Ministry of Education, was organised by a group of school development officers who were demanding teacher appointments.
During the demonstration, tensions escalated, leading to the injuries of three police officers.
The authorities have urged the public to refrain from spreading unfounded rumours and assured that they are committed to uncovering the truth behind the incident.
December 12, Colombo (LNW): Himalee Arunatilaka, the former Deputy High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Australia, has been handed a substantial fine of $117,028.80 by the Federal Court, following her conviction for mistreating her domestic worker, Priyanka Danaratna.
Danaratna, a Sri Lankan national, was employed by Arunatilaka at her residence in Canberra between 2016 and 2018.
During this period, she was required to work grueling hours—often exceeding 14 hours a day, seven days a week—without receiving fair compensation.
Over the two years of her employment, Danaratna was paid a mere $11,212.70, a sum far below the legal minimum wage.
The Federal Court ruled that Arunatilaka had breached several key provisions of the Fair Work Act 2009.
These included failing to provide proper pay slips, underpaying wages, and compelling Danaratna to work excessively long hours without adequate rest.
In addition to the fine, Arunatilaka had previously been ordered to pay Danaratna a compensation sum of $374,151.90 for unpaid wages and other entitlements.
The court’s ruling underscored the gravity of the exploitation Danaratna had endured and sought to provide some measure of justice for her.
Arunatilaka, who now holds the position of Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, was given 60 days to pay the fine.
The case has drawn attention to the issue of mistreatment and exploitation of domestic workers, sparking discussions about worker rights and the need for stronger protections.
