President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Severine Chappaz, the newly appointed Head of Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), yesterday (25) at the Presidential Secretariat to discuss collaborative efforts between Sri Lanka and the ICRC.
Key topics of discussion included the ICRC’s support for the new government’s policy framework, particularly in strengthening the Office on Missing Persons (OMP). As part of this initiative, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society has committed to providing technical assistance and capacity-building support.
President Dissanayake emphasized that the 2025 budget has allocated funds for ongoing programs aimed at searching for missing persons, reflecting the government’s commitment to addressing this critical issue.
Additionally, the President announced plans to introduce “Sri Lankan Day,” a national initiative designed to promote unity and strengthen the country’s collective identity by transcending ethnic and religious divisions.
Expressing his gratitude, President Dissanayake commended the ICRC for its humanitarian efforts in Sri Lanka since 1989 and acknowledged its continued commitment to the country.
Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) MP Rauf Hakeem has called for a comprehensive assessment of illegal weapons possessed by underworld groups, emphasizing the urgent need for the government to trace and neutralize them to curb rising criminal activities.
Speaking during the second reading debate of Budget 2025 in Parliament yesterday, Hakeem stressed that unchecked shootings pose a severe threat to public safety. He urged authorities to take immediate steps to dismantle underworld networks by identifying and deactivating all illicit arms.
He further noted that Prime Minister had assured Parliament of the government’s commitment to controlling underworld activities. Recalling past incidents, Hakeem pointed out that various armed groups had operated illegally in the country, sometimes with the support of ruling parties. He also highlighted cases where weapons were looted from armories, fueling criminal networks.
“We need to locate these weapons and bring them under government control. Without doing so, we cannot effectively combat underworld activities,” Hakeem asserted. He urged the government to take decisive action in ensuring these weapons do not remain in circulation.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Indonesian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Dewi Gustina Tobing, at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (25), reinforcing the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
Ambassador Tobing conveyed Indonesia’s best wishes to the new Sri Lankan government and reaffirmed her country’s commitment to further strengthening the 70-year-old bilateral ties. She also noted that both Sri Lanka and Indonesia recently held elections and established new administrations, emphasizing the potential for enhanced cooperation.
During the discussions, the Ambassador expressed Indonesia’s support for Sri Lanka’s ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ programme, highlighting similar initiatives undertaken in Indonesia. The two sides also explored the possibility of establishing new trade agreements and free trade arrangements to boost economic collaboration.
Further discussions centered on expanding markets in a mutually beneficial manner while deepening economic, social, and cultural ties between the nations.
Senior Additional Secretary to the President Roshan Gamage and Indonesian Deputy Ambassador Fiki Oktanio also participated in the meeting.
Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Northern, North-central, Eastern and Uva provinces and in Matale, Nuwara-Eliyaand Hambantota districts. Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places elsewhere during the afternoon or night.
Fairly heavy showers above 75mm can be expected at some places in Eastern and Uva provinces and in Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, Polonnaruwa, Galle, Matara, Kalutara and Rathnapura districts.
Fairly strong winds of (30-40) kmph can be expected at times over Northern, North-central, Eastern and North-western provinces and in Matale, Nuwara-Eliya and Hambantota districts.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lankan government has reiterated its strong and unwavering commitment to fostering a united nation that celebrates the diversity of its citizens, free from divisions based on race, religion, class, or caste.
Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath made these remarks during his speech at the High-Level Segment of the 58th Regular Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva on Tuesday (25).
Minister Herath stressed that Sri Lanka is determined to prevent any resurgence of divisive racism or religious extremism. He assured the international community that the government would continue to strive towards a society where every citizen can freely practise their religion, express their language, and live according to their cultural values, without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
“We will not allow any room for the return of divisive forces in our society,” Herath declared, emphasising that Sri Lanka’s Constitution, which upholds the democratic principles of freedom and human rights, will remain the cornerstone of the nation’s progress.
The Foreign Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to human rights, reconciliation, and sustainable development, highlighting the steps the government has taken towards national unity and international cooperation.
He further stressed that the country’s fundamental rights framework would be fully respected, ensuring that all citizens can live in an inclusive society, where differences in beliefs, culture, or political views do not lead to marginalisation or undue pressure.
Minister Herath also mentioned the government’s ongoing efforts to advance national reconciliation, including the President’s proposal to establish a “Sri Lanka Day,” symbolising the country’s commitment to bridging divides and celebrating unity among its diverse communities.
The government, he said, is committed to strengthening domestic mechanisms aimed at addressing the aftermath of the conflict.
Key institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), Office for Reparations, and the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation (ONUR) will be empowered to continue their crucial work independently and with credibility.
The Minister outlined plans to further engage with all stakeholders in the development of a comprehensive truth and reconciliation framework, designed to gain the trust of all Sri Lankans.
He highlighted the importance of a commission capable of investigating violence driven by racism and religious extremism, which have historically created tensions within Sri Lankan society.
Furthermore, Herath noted that the government is fully aware of its responsibility to deliver on the aspirations of all Sri Lankans, including those from the Northern and Eastern provinces, ensuring a just and prosperous society for all.
As Sri Lanka continues its journey towards national unity and inclusive development, the Foreign Minister emphasised the vital role of international support in this process.
He reiterated the country’s commitment to engaging in genuine dialogue and cooperation in human rights, maintaining a constructive relationship with the UN Human Rights Council and other international bodies.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Herath reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s readiness to collaborate with the UNHRC and support the global effort to address pressing human rights challenges, in alignment with the UN’s principles of universality, impartiality, and objectivity.
Full Speech:
“Mr. President, I wish to congratulate you on your election as the President of this Council.
At the Presidential and Parliamentary elections held a few months ago, the people of Sri Lanka took a progressive decision to elect a new government with a strong mandate to direct the country towards economic, social and political transformation. The results of these elections held in November 2024 bears special significance on several fronts. It reflected a collective and unified voice from people of all regions of the country – North, South, East, West – and of all ethnicities and religions, in support of change and positive transformation. The current Parliament which was formed after the election is one of the most inclusive in our history, with a record number of women, representatives of different communities including two women from the Malayaga community and a visually impaired person being part of the Legislature of the country. This inclusivity represents Sri Lanka’s new path focused on upholding the rights of all its people irrespective of differences based on gender, ethnicity or other grounds.
I would like to quote from the speech delivered by our President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, at the inauguration of the first session of the Tenth Parliament: “Elections create a contract between the people and us. This bond is formed when we present our policy statements and ideas, outlining how the country’s future should be shaped. People who place their trust in these ideas cast their votes for us. With their votes, the people have fulfilled their part in this relationship by granting us the mandate to govern. Now, it is our turn to fulfil our part by serving the people.”
In 2022, Sri Lanka went through its deepest and most complex social, economic and political crisis since independence. As you know, the impact of the economic crisis gave rise to a humanitarian situation affecting all segments of the population, especially the poorest and the most vulnerable segments of the society. The Government led by President Anura Kumara Disanayake has emerged successful in stabilizing the economy, and we are currently in the process of laying the foundation toward economic transformation and greater economic democratization through fair distribution of opportunities.
We are acutely aware of the continuing impact of the economic challenges on our people, particularly the most vulnerable, and the government continues to take decisive steps to advance the economic and social rights of the people. In the National Budget for 2025 presented to the Parliament last week, we have committed to take series of measures to extend much needed relief and empowerment to the people including increased allocation for social welfare and security. Significantly, the budget proposals have also made historic allocations for health and education and provide for a series of empowerment measures to vulnerable groups such as women, children including orphaned, disabled or autistic children, estate sector population, students, persons with disabilities and people living in conflict affected or under-developed areas of the country. Special attention has been paid to improving the socio-economic conditions and address critical needs such as resettlement, housing, compensation and infrastructure development in the conflict-affected Northern and Eastern Provinces.
The Government has been actively working to develop infrastructure, support livelihoods and promote industries in the Northern and Eastern Provinces, aiming to enhance connectivity and support regional development.
With the launch of the “Clean Sri Lanka” project by H.E. the President on 01 January 2025, the Government has taken steps to introduce a new political culture and commitment to moral and ethical governance. The ‘Clean Sri Lanka’ programme is a holistic undertaking aimed at nation-wide efforts of environmental, social, and governance initiatives to bring about change, integration, and collaboration, in environment, social and governance structures.
In line with the mandate given by the people, the Government will prioritize integrity and addressing issues of mismanagement and corruption that were at the root of the economic collapse, in taking our country towards sustainable development. Through digital transformation of government structures at all levels, we hope to ensure that inefficiency and corruption will be minimized.
The Government led by President Anura Kumara Disanayaka is firmly and sincerely committed to working towards a unified Sri Lanka that respects and celebrates the diversity of its people with no division or discrimination based on race, religion, class and caste. We will not leave room for a resurgence of divisive racism or religious extremism in our country. The fundamental and longstanding principles of democracy and freedom enshrined in our Constitution will be fully respected and safeguarded while protecting the human rights of all citizens. Every citizen should feel free to practice their religion, speak their language, and live according to their cultural values without fear or discrimination. No one should feel that their beliefs, culture, or political affiliations will make them targets of undue pressure or prejudice. Administrative, political and electoral processes will be activated towards this end.
The Government has pledged to take tangible steps in the interest of further advancing national unity and reconciliation. The President has proposed to declare a Sri Lanka Day, in line with our vision for a reconciled Sri Lanka and commitment to bridging gaps between communities. We will ensure that the domestic mechanisms and processes established to address challenges emanating from the conflict will continue their work in an independent and credible manner within the Constitutional framework. Domestic institutions such as the Office on Missing Persons (OMP), Office for Reparations, and Office for National Unity and Reconciliation (ONUR) will be strengthened. The contours of a truth and reconciliation framework, will be further discussed with the broadest possible cross section of stakeholders, before operationalization to ensure a process that has the trust of all Sri Lankans. Our aim is to make the domestic mechanisms credible and sound within the constitutional framework. This will include strengthening the work towards a truth and reconciliation commission empowered to investigate acts of violence caused by racism and religious extremism that give rise to tensions within Sri Lankan society.
A number of confidence building measures have also been taken in the last few months towards reconciliation. In November 2024, a number of roads in the Northern Province including the Palali- Achchuveli main road were opened for public use after several decades. The President, during his visit to the North in January this year, made an open invitation to Tamil-speaking youth to be part of Sri Lanka’s police service. The 2025 budget includes significant allocations to upgrade the libraries throughout the country, including the historical Jaffna library which is a symbol of education and enlightenment for the Tamil community.
The Government is fully cognizant of the responsibility that accompanies the people’s mandate, including the people of the Northern and Eastern provinces, to fulfill their aspirations for a just, fair and prosperous society for all our citizens. As we move forward on our path towards national unity and reconciliation and inclusive development, the continued encouragement and support of the international community will be important.
Sri Lanka is an active member of the United Nations since 1955. We are a State Party to all the 09 core UN human rights instruments and engage with Treaty Bodies and regular mechanisms of this Council on a regular basis. In the past few years, we have received over 10 Special Procedures and engaged productively with Treaty Bodies, most recently with the CEDAW Committee, ICCPR and the Universal Periodic Review process. We are committed to genuine dialogue and cooperation in human rights through continuous and constructive engagement.
Conflict, inequality, and extreme climatic conditions are driving millions into poverty daily, while countless men, women, and children continue to suffer or perish in wars across the globe. Addressing these critical challenges is essential to protect human rights and safeguard our planet for future generations.
Sri Lanka stands ready to support the Human Rights Council in addressing these pressing global challenges in a balanced and holistic manner in line with its founding principles of universality, impartiality, objectivity and non-selectivity. We believe that States must be encouraged and empowered to address their challenges through robust national human rights frameworks, supplemented by assistance upon request. .
As a nation on the trajectory towards people-led and people-centric national transformation and as a responsible member of the international community, Sri Lanka will continue to work in a constructive spirit of dialogue and cooperation with the members of the United Nations including this Council within our national legal framework.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The second reading of the 2025 Budget was successfully passed in Parliament today, receiving approval from a commanding majority of 109 votes. A total of 155 members voted in favour of the Budget, while 46 members opposed it.
A significant 24 members were absent during the crucial vote, which marks a key moment in the legislative process.
Interestingly, despite being part of the opposition, MP Selvam Adekaranathan cast his vote in support of the Budget, adding an unexpected twist to the proceedings.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka must prioritize the further development of its manufacturing and services sectors to ensure long-term economic sustainability.
Strengthening these areas will not only boost the country’s economic resilience but also create employment opportunities and drive export growth.
A key focus should be on fostering innovation within the industrial sector, encouraging technology-driven advancements, and enhancing value addition across various industries.
To achieve this, Sri Lanka must implement policies that promote research and development (R&D), encourage investment in high-tech industries, and streamline regulatory frameworks to attract both local and foreign investors.
By fostering an ecosystem that supports innovation and industrial modernization, the country can enhance its competitiveness in global markets while ensuring a steady expansion of its economy.
The manufacturing sector started 2025 on a positive note, improving in January compared to December, according to the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
Compiled by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the PMI for Manufacturing recorded an index value of 59.0 in January 2025, indicating continued expansion.
All sub-indices contributed positively to this growth, reflecting broad-based improvements. This was an increase from the index value of 57.2 in December 2024.
Notably, the textile and apparel sector experienced favorable developments, leading to growth in new orders, production, employment, and stock of purchases.
Additionally, the food and beverage manufacturing sector remained positive even after the December festive season. The Suppliers’ Delivery Time sub-index also increased in January, aligning with the rise in overall activity levels.
Looking ahead, the CBSL anticipates that manufacturing activities will continue their positive trajectory over the next three months, supported by expected improvements in business conditions.
In contrast, the services sector exhibited a slower expansion in January 2025 compared to December. The PMI for Services recorded an index value of 58.5 in January, lower than December’s 71.1.
Despite this slowdown, several sectors showed notable improvements in business activity. The financial services sector, for instance, continued to grow, driven by increased lending activities.
Tourism also played a significant role in the services sector’s performance, with accommodation, food, and beverage services experiencing steady growth due to rising tourist arrivals. Furthermore, education, professional services, and transportation-related businesses recorded improvements.
New business activities expanded in January, particularly in financial services, transportation, and tourism-related sectors. Employment also increased as companies continued to recruit, while backlogs of work declined month-on-month after an increase in the previous month.
The CBSL remains optimistic about the services sector’s prospects, expecting further improvements over the next three months, driven by seasonal demand and favorable macroeconomic conditions.
By prioritizing innovation and modernization in both manufacturing and services, Sri Lanka can ensure sustained economic growth and enhanced global competitiveness.
The manufacturing sector has kicked off 2025 with an improvement in January as against December, whilst the services industry has lagged, as per the Sri Lanka Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).
Its compiler, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), said the PMI for Manufacturing recorded an index value of 59.0 in January 2025, indicating a further expansion in manufacturing activities. All sub-indices contributed positively to this improvement. In December 2024, the index value was 57.2.reported favourable developments in January, driving expansions in the New Orders, Production, Employment, and Stock of Purchases sub-indices.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s government has outlined an ambitious plan for the country’s tourism industry, targeting over 2.5 million visitors in 2025. With a budget allocation of Rs. 500 million, key focus areas include infrastructure development, promotional campaigns, and the adoption of a digital ticketing system to enhance the visitor experience.
To meet this ambitious goal, Sri Lanka needs to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for both local and international tourists. Expanding tourism beyond well-known destinations is crucial.
To achieve this, the government aims to promote lesser-known historical and cultural sites such as Anuradhapura, Yapahuwa, and Jaffna. By branding these locations as unique travel destinations, authorities hope to encourage tourists to explore more diverse regions, thereby distributing the benefits of tourism across the country.
A significant step in modernizing the tourism sector is the introduction of digital travel tickets and entry passes. This shift is designed to simplify the tourist experience and streamline entry to attractions. However, challenges remain, as fraudulent activities and illegal profiteering have emerged within the system. While some offenders have been arrested, authorities need to take stricter measures to eliminate such practices entirely and ensure a secure and transparent system for travelers.
Despite these challenges, Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is experiencing strong momentum in 2025. In just the first 20 days of February, the country welcomed 175,436 tourists, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The year-to-date (YTD) total now stands at 428,197 arrivals, representing a 19% year-on-year (YoY) growth.
Breaking down February’s figures, the first week saw 61,667 arrivals, followed by 63,164 in the second week, and 50,605 tourists between February 15 and 20. To achieve the month’s target of 310,937 visitors, an additional 135,501 tourists need to arrive within the remaining eight days, requiring an average daily influx of 16,938 travelers.
Tourism data highlights a positive trend, with daily arrivals rising from an average of 7,644 in early February 2024 to 8,772 in the same period in 2025. This also represents an 8% month-on-month growth from January’s average of 8,153 daily arrivals.
India remains the top source market for Sri Lanka, with a YTD total of 68,668 visitors. Russia follows with 56,376 tourists, while the United Kingdom, Germany, and France contribute 40,515, 12,393, and 11,187 arrivals, respectively. In February alone, India sent 25,293 visitors, Russia 22,280, and the UK 18,785.
Industry experts remain optimistic about surpassing the 2.5 million target and potentially reaching 3 million visitors, generating over $5 billion in revenue for 2025. They attribute this confidence to ongoing strategic marketing, enhanced infrastructure, improved airline connectivity, and heightened safety measures.
In 2024, Sri Lanka recorded 2.05 million arrivals, generating over $3.2 billion in tourism revenue—a 52.38% YoY increase. To sustain this growth, the government must invest in promoting Sri Lanka as a premier travel destination while addressing grassroots-level challenges.
A well-implemented digital ticketing system can significantly enhance the efficiency and security of Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. By allowing visitors to book entry tickets in advance, the system can reduce waiting times, minimize overcrowding, and offer valuable insights into visitor patterns. These insights will help authorities plan infrastructure improvements, refine marketing strategies, and manage cultural and natural heritage sites more effectively.
While these initiatives mark a strong start, long-term success will depend on continued investment, strategic planning, and a firm crackdown on fraudulent activities within the industry. If Sri Lanka remains committed to enhancing its tourism sector, the country is well-positioned to achieve its ambitious 2025 targets and establish itself as a leading travel destination.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): The Employers’ Federation of Ceylon (EFC) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping a resilient and competitive private sector in Sri Lanka. Recognizing the evolving challenges businesses face in the current economic landscape, the EFC is committed to fostering sustainable and inclusive business practices.
Through its initiatives, the Federation aims to equip enterprises with the knowledge and strategies needed to thrive amidst turbulence while promoting long-term growth and stability.
A key initiative in this regard is the highly anticipated Employers’ Symposium 2025, scheduled for 28 February at the Monarch Imperial.
This annual event, a flagship gathering for EFC member companies and business stakeholders, will be held under the theme “Traversing Turbulence – Fuelling Enterprises for Success.”
Featuring esteemed speakers and industry experts, the symposium will delve into crucial issues impacting businesses, providing actionable insights for sustainable progress.
Joni Simpson, Country Director of the International Labour Organization (ILO) for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, underscores the need for businesses to be competitive, socially responsible, and adaptable to external challenges, such as climate change.
At the symposium, she will address the topic, “Responding to the Demographic and Social Environment by Building an Inclusive Workplace.” Simpson highlights that fostering workplace diversity is essential for business success, driving innovation, productivity, and employee retention.
According to her, inclusive policies contribute to economic growth, promote decent work, and uphold social justice by ensuring fair treatment, equal opportunities, and protection from discrimination.
The EFC’s role in championing inclusive workplaces is significant, Simpson notes, as it leads efforts in promoting responsible, sustainable, and equitable business practices.
She sees the symposium as an invaluable platform for companies to exchange ideas, learn from industry experts, and advance strategies for a stronger private sector.
Another key speaker, Nirmal Perera, Senior General Manager – Group ESG and Compliance at Brandix Apparel Ltd., will provide insights into the critical role of compliance in business stability and growth. Perera emphasizes that adherence to regulatory and social compliance requirements not only mitigates legal risks and operational disruptions but also enhances brand reputation, fosters customer trust, and ensures workplace safety.
Compliance, he asserts, aligns with sustainability goals, improves financial stability, and enables access to global markets.
Despite its benefits, compliance presents significant challenges, particularly for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Perera highlights issues such as rapidly evolving regulations, high compliance costs, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and the complexities of maintaining supply chain accountability.
He notes that adherence to compliance standards can serve as a safeguard during economic crises by ensuring business credibility, investor confidence, and workforce stability.
Initiatives like the EFC Symposium provide a much-needed platform for businesses to address these challenges. Perera acknowledges the event’s role in fostering meaningful discussions, offering strategic guidance, and advocating for policies that support sustainable business growth.
By facilitating collaboration among industry leaders, the symposium aims to equip enterprises with the tools necessary to navigate uncertainties and seize emerging opportunities.
February 25, Colombo (LNW): SLT-Mobitel, committed to providing superior value, reliability, and seamless connectivity across Sri Lanka, has introduced innovative Fibre Speed-Based Unlimited data packages.
Designed to cater to diverse user requirements, these packages offer internet speeds ranging from 100Mbps to 1000Mbps, ensuring uninterrupted browsing, streaming, video conferencing, and gaming experiences.
With the increasing demand for high-speed internet, SLT-Mobitel’s Speed-Based Unlimited packages set a new benchmark in Sri Lanka’s broadband market.
These plans cater to different usage patterns, ensuring smooth streaming, lag-free gaming, and seamless video calls. The company has also incorporated enhanced reliability, improved latency, and flexible data usage, allowing customers to work remotely, engage in e-learning, and enjoy high-definition entertainment without interruptions.
Additionally, the packages include value-added services such as parental controls, Wi-Fi optimisation, and bundled entertainment features, making them ideal for modern households.
Leveraging advanced fibre-optic technology, SLT-Mobitel delivers unparalleled speed, reliability, and performance. Users can enjoy buffer-free 4K streaming, uninterrupted cloud gaming, and crystal-clear video conferencing.
The superior signal strength of fibre ensures consistent performance even during peak usage hours, making it a preferred choice for multi-device households and heavy internet users.
These new packages are designed to provide extensive coverage for home broadband users, ensuring unimpeded access to entertainment, remote work, online learning, and gaming. Whether for professional use or leisure, SLT-Mobitel’s Fibre Speed-Based Unlimited packages provide a comprehensive digital solution tailored to meet modern connectivity needs.
Customers can conveniently upgrade their existing plans or subscribe to new ones via the user-friendly MySLT app or by visiting any SLT-Mobitel branch. New connections can also be requested through the company’s website at www.sltmobitel.lk. For additional details or assistance, customers can reach out to SLT-Mobitel’s 24/7 hotline at 1212.
SLT-Mobitel’s Progress in 2024
As part of its 2024 expansion strategy, SLT-Mobitel has significantly upgraded its network infrastructure, extending high-speed fibre connectivity to underserved regions across Sri Lanka.
The company has also introduced AI-driven network optimisation, enhancing speed and stability for a more efficient online experience. These advancements align with SLT-Mobitel’s mission to bridge the digital divide and support the country’s digital transformation.Additionally, SLT-Mobitel has expanded its 5G trials and introduced new smart home solutions, reinforcing its position as a leader in telecommunications.
With investments in cybersecurity, cloud services, and enterprise solutions, the company continues to empower businesses and individuals with cutting-edge digital innovations.
Through these initiatives, SLT-Mobitel remains at the forefront of Sri Lanka’s telecommunications sector, ensuring seamless connectivity for a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
