By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): President Anura Kumara Dissanayake engaged in a productive dialogue with Indian High Commissioner H.E. Santosh Jha at the Presidential Secretariat on November 01, focusing on fortifying the strong ties between Sri Lanka and India.

Their discussions encompassed collaborative projects, energy sector development, digitalisation, and a commitment to resolving fishing disputes affecting both nations.

During the meeting, both leaders conducted a comprehensive review of Indian-backed initiatives in Sri Lanka, assessing their progress and identifying any hurdles in implementation.

The President expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support, particularly in areas of infrastructure and regional development, which remain central to enhancing the lives of Sri Lankan citizens.

A key topic of discussion involved the longstanding fishing disputes in the Northern Sea, a complex issue affecting fishermen on both sides of the maritime boundary.

Emphasising the need for a durable solution, both parties underscored the importance of balancing the livelihoods of local fishermen whilst fostering mutual respect and cooperation.

Dissanayake affirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to advocating for the interests of its fishing communities, seeking strategies that ensure sustainable practices and fair access for both countries.

In addition to resolving regional challenges, the President expressed keen interest in tapping into India’s extensive experience in power and energy advancements, as well as digitalisation initiatives.

Recognising India’s leadership in these fields, he conveyed Sri Lanka’s interest in learning from India’s successes, with the goal of modernising energy systems and advancing digital transformation within Sri Lanka.

Deputy High Commissioner Dr. Satyanjal Pandey also participated in the discussions, which highlighted the potential for deeper collaboration across a range of sectors.

Both parties expressed optimism for ongoing engagement and the shared objective of fostering progress and stability in the region.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): After three decades of restricted access, the Achchuveli main road has reopened under the directive of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, marking a significant step towards revitalising the Northern Province’s connectivity and development.

Closed since the height of the conflict in the region, the Palaly-Achchuveli road had remained inaccessible to civilians, despite the end of hostilities over 15 years ago.

For years, residents of the Northern Province have advocated for the reopening of this critical road, which they see as a vital link to support both economic activity and easier movement within the region.

Northern Province Governor Nagalingam Vethanayagam also underscored this need in a meeting with President Dissanayake on October 22, during which he highlighted the road’s reopening as an urgent priority for the local population.

Responding to this request, President Dissanayake issued instructions for a security assessment, aiming to ensure a safe reopening process.

With support from the Ministry of Defence and Defence Secretary, officials completed a thorough review, confirming that conditions allowed for civilian access.

The Achchuveli road’s reopening was finalised yesterday (01) and is expected to make a profound impact on the region’s socio-economic activities.

Local businesses anticipate increased opportunities and improved logistics, whilst residents are hopeful that the newly accessible route will restore connections with neighbouring communities.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The annual Poppy Flower Remembrance ceremony, organised by the Sri Lanka Ex-Servicemen’s Association, is scheduled for November 24 in Colombo, where the nation will pay tribute to its fallen soldiers.

In a briefing held today, President of the Association Lieutenant Colonel Ajith Siyambalapitiya (Retd) highlighted the symbolic significance of the poppy and the various ways the public can participate in this commemorative event.

As part of the initiative, the Association has produced poppy flower stickers, available for purchase at 50 rupees each, and badges priced at 100, 150, and 250 rupees, which can be displayed on vehicles or personal items.

These poppies have also been distributed to several schools, offering students the opportunity to contribute with donations starting at 20 rupees or more.

Lt. Col. Siyambalapitiya elaborated on how the funds generated will directly support the Ranaviru Home in Katana, a residence for about 30 elderly war veterans.

“The funds we raise go toward essential support for our veterans,” he explained. “This includes funding medical treatments, scholarships for veterans’ children, eyeglass provisions, loans, and training for self-employment.”

Retired Major General Udaya Perera, Chairman of the Poppy Flower Committee, underscored the poppy’s deeper significance beyond its traditional use, saying, “Wearing a poppy is an important gesture of respect towards our soldiers. It’s a symbol of honour that we hope all citizens will adopt, as it speaks more of respect and remembrance than mere financial support.”

He emphasised the meaningful tradition as an act of unity and collective memory, inviting the public to display the poppy as a tribute to the sacrifices made by the nation’s servicemen and women.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The Sri Lanka Police have announced plans to re-evaluate the security provisions allocated to former presidents, indicating that further adjustments may be made as necessary.

Police Spokesperson DIG Nihal Thalduwa clarified that this decision follows a review prompted by recent public and official requests regarding the matter.

According to DIG Thalduwa, the recent notifications on reducing security measures were issued based on the recommendations of a committee formed by the Ministry of Public Security.

This committee was tasked with assessing the current security requirements and identifying any potential areas where security details could be reduced without compromising safety.

Thalduwa further assured that any forthcoming protests or additional requests from the public or relevant authorities will be considered by the committee, which will make determinations in response to evolving security needs.

This process, he explained, is part of a comprehensive effort to ensure a balanced approach to security management for former heads of state.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): Following the tragic bus accident involving students and faculty of the Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) occurred yesterday (01) morningnear the Ambagas junction on the Dunhinda-Badulla road, the Defence Ministry of Sri Lanka issued a statement regarding the event.

The bus, transporting 42 individuals from KDU’s Southern Campus in Sooriyawewa, faced a serious accident that left two female students dead and injured 40 others, who were promptly hospitalised, the statement read.

The passengers included 36 students from the university’s 39th intake, alongside three lecturers, a supervising instructor, a senior military officer overseeing the group, and the bus driver.

The Ministry further stated that the two students who tragically lost their lives were residents of Kurunegala and Nivithigala. Of those hospitalised at Badulla General Hospital, seven individuals are being treated in intensive care, with one reported to be in critical condition.

KDU’s Vice-Chancellor expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, assuring that the university is providing complete support for the funeral arrangements.

Following instructions from the Defence Secretary, a Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 412 helicopter has been stationed at Diyatalawa Air Force Base, prepared to airlift critically injured individuals to Colombo for advanced medical care if necessary.

Preliminary information suggests that the accident may have resulted from a mechanical issue with the bus.

The Ministry of Defence extended its gratitude to the local community members for their swift response, which was instrumental in rescuing the injured, and to Dr. Palita Rajapaksa and the hospital staff for their immediate, dedicated service.

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By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The Presidential Secretariat has clarified recent reports suggesting that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s security detail has been reduced, labelling them as entirely false.

In a statement, the Secretariat affirmed that all entitlements under the Presidents’ Entitlements Act No. 4 of 1986 are being fully upheld for Rajapaksa, dismissing any claims to the contrary.

The Secretariat emphasised that Rajapaksa retains his full benefits as outlined by the law, including his official residence in Colombo 07, along with a pension and a secretary’s allowance.

Additionally, his official vehicles, consisting of a 2008 Mercedes Benz 600 Maybach, a 2017 Toyota Land Cruiser, and a 2013 Mercedes Benz G63 AMG 4×4, remain at his disposal.

For these, he receives a monthly fuel allowance of 1,950 litres, along with three dedicated drivers.

Rajapaksa’s security is provided by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Public Security. His protection detail comprises a combination of military and police personnel, including seven army officers, 56 other army ranks, and 180 police officers.

This extensive security team also includes specialised roles, such as 29 police drivers, and incorporates three commando officers and additional unit officers to maintain close protection.

To ensure that former presidents’ privileges remain relevant and appropriate, a Cabinet sub-committee has been established to assess these entitlements.

Future modifications, if any, will be based on the recommendations of this committee, according to the Secretariat.

November 02, Colombo (LNW): Doctors at the Karapitiya Teaching Hospital in Galle have begun a 24-hour token strike, organised by the Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA).

The action, announced by GMOA Treasurer Dr. Ubhaya Bandara Warakagoda, is in response to alleged threats made by one doctor against several of their colleagues within the hospital.

The strike reflects growing concerns within the hospital’s medical community over internal safety and professional conduct, prompting the GMOA to call for immediate action to address the situation.

Dr. Warakagoda emphasised the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment for medical practitioners, particularly in settings where teamwork and collaboration are essential for patient care.

The GMOA has urged hospital authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly to prevent similar incidents in future and to uphold professional standards among healthcare staff.

By: Isuru Parakrama

November 02, Colombo (LNW): The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by lightning during thundershowers as the atmospheric conditions are favourable further for afternoon thundershowers in most parts of the island, the Department of Meteorology warned in its daily weather forecast today (02).

Showers or thundershowers will occur in the most parts of the island during the evening or night, and showers or thundershowers may occur over the coastal areas of Western, Southern North-western and Northern provinces during the morning as well, the statement read.

Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and North-central provinces.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Marine Weather:

1. Dr Hans Wijayasuriya, former CEO of Axiata Group, has been appointed Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy in Sri Lanka: This role supports the nation’s shift to a digital economy, with a focus on building digital infrastructure and inclusivity: Wijayasuriya will step down from Axiata on 15 January 2025 after a 30-year tenure, transitioning into his advisory role: The appointment has been made by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
   
2. SJB Leader and former Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa criticises President Anura Kumara Dissanayake over what he described as showing “signs of media repression” by urging certain channels to practice “democratic journalism”: emphasises the President does not need to tell the journalists how to do their job, asserting that media is one of the core pillars of democracy: blames Dissanayake for maintaining double standards about his views on the media, which, according to Premadasa, are contradictory pre and post-presidential election.
   
3. The Presidential Secretariat denies reports that former President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s security detail has been reduced, affirming his entitlements per the Presidents’ Entitlements Act of 1986: Rajapaksa receives a pension, official residence, and vehicle allowance, with security provided by seven army officers, 56 army personnel, and 180 police officers: A Cabinet sub-committee will review former presidents’ privileges for future adjustments.
   
4. Sri Lanka’s Palali–Achchuveli main road in the Northern Province was reopened after 30 years, following President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s directive: Closed during the civil war and for 15 years post-war, its reopening comes after public requests and security clearance by the Defence Ministry, fulfilling a longstanding demand from the Northern Province’s residents.
   
5. The Department of Immigration and Emigration is introducing an online appointment system for passport applications, set to launch soon: Currently, 50,000 blank passports are available, with an additional 100,000 expected in November and 150,000 in December, aiming to streamline the application process and meet demand effectively.
   
6. Sri Lanka’s external debt reaches US$ 37.5 billion by June 2024, with US$ 503 million in debt service payments being made during the 1H’24, covering both principal and interest: Since April 2022, a debt standstill policy has paused payments to bilateral and commercial creditors, accruing US$ 5.67 billion in principal and US$ 2.53 billion in interest.
   
7. US-based Transdigm Group has invested US$ 8.5 million in Sri Lanka to establish SHIELD, a facility by subsidiary AmSafe BirdPort in the Wathupitiwala Export Processing Zone: Relocating from China, SHIELD aims to provide aviation engineering solutions and produce safety accessories for global clients, creating 500 jobs: The investment highlights US interest in diversifying supply chains and expanding trade with Sri Lanka.
   
8. Sri Lanka’s Department of Animal Production and Health has urged pig farm owners to register at local veterinary offices following the first reported cases of African swine fever in the country: Outbreaks have been confirmed in the Western, Uva, Northern, and North Western provinces, according to K.K. Sarath, Director of the Western Province Animal Production and Health Department.
   
9. Lithuania’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has announced stricter residence permit regulations from December 01 2024, with applications limited to family reunification, academic, highly skilled employment, and investment roles: Seasonal work and secondments are excluded: Sri Lankan applicants must apply in neighbouring countries due to local office closures, as Lithuania tightens security measures amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
   
10. Sri Lankan athletes face a busy 2025 with 11 major international events, including the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo from 13–21 September: Key events include the South Asian Senior Championship in April, World Indoor and Relay Championships in China, and the Asian Youth Games in Tashkent: Sri Lanka Athletics is preparing athletes through trials and national events, including the 103rd National Athletic Championship.