November 11, Colombo (LNW): Minister Vijitha Herath in his capacity as the Minister of Transport recently made a visit to Katunayake Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in response to an increasing number of complaints regarding delays in SriLankan Airlines flights.
During his visit, the Minister toured various sections of the airport, engaging in discussions with staff members to gain insights into the challenges faced by both employees and passengers.
Herath highlighted the urgent need for a dedicated unit within the airport to assist passengers facing delays. He proposed the establishment of a 24-hour support centre, staffed by representatives from both the airport and SriLankan Airlines, to keep passengers informed of flight status and provide timely updates.
This unit would also focus on ensuring that passengers receive enhanced services and facilities during extended wait times, aiming to improve their overall experience.
Additionally, he has directed relevant authorities to take proactive steps towards reducing the frequency and duration of flight delays.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): Worker remittances for October showed significant improvement compared to both the previous month and the same period last year, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s foreign currency reserves and bolstering the rupee’s stability.
Sri Lankans working abroad sent home an impressive US$ 587.7 million in October, just as the year-end festive season approaches—a period traditionally marked by increased remittances.
This inflow represents a rise from the US$ 555.6 million recorded in September 2024 and a notable increase over the US$ 517.4 million received in October 2023, showcasing the robust growth in remittances.
The latest remittance figures have pushed the total earnings from foreign workers to US$ 5,431.5 million for the year, marking an 11.7 per cent increase over the same period in 2023.
This surge brings Sri Lanka closer to the elusive US$ 7 billion annual mark, a milestone not achieved since 2020.
The decline in remittance inflows in subsequent years had contributed to the economic turmoil that culminated in early 2022. However, the current positive trend in remittances, coupled with strong tourism earnings, has enabled the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to buy US$ 189.5 million from the domestic forex market in October alone—an unusually large amount for a single month.
This extends the CBSL’s streak as a net foreign currency buyer and further strengthens the country’s gross official reserves, which have grown from US$ 5,994 million at the end of September to US$ 6,467 million.
The combined effect of these inflows and the debt standstill on foreign repayments has also contributed to a stronger rupee.
The currency has appreciated by 10.7 per cent so far this year, following a 12 per cent gain in 2023, reflecting renewed stability in the external sector.
Remittances and the strengthening rupee have also eased inflationary pressures by reducing the cost of imported goods, offering some relief to consumers after two challenging years of high inflation.
Looking forward, Sri Lanka’s remittance inflows are expected to surpass US$ 7 billion, driven by the large numbers of Sri Lankans who have migrated in recent years in search of better opportunities abroad.
Their continued financial support to families back home is likely to provide a steady source of foreign exchange, reinforcing the country’s economic recovery and financial resilience.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): Passengers who had booked tickets for the ferry service between Nagapattinam in India and Kankesanthurai (KKS) in Sri Lanka have been fully refunded after the service was suspended due to severe weather conditions.
The disruption began last Thursday (07) as the monsoon season brought hazardous maritime conditions.
S. Niranjan Nandagopan, Director of IndSri Ferry Service Pvt. Ltd, stated that the monsoon’s onset compelled them to halt operations.
Services were cancelled last Friday (08), Saturday (09), and Sunday (10), with future operations subject to weather assessments.
“We haven’t opened bookings beyond 16 November as we monitor weather conditions. Tomorrow’s (12) service is also tentative,” he explained.
Prior to the suspension, the ferry service was nearly operating at full capacity, with most of its 150 seats filled, according to Nandagopan.
He further elaborated on the safety protocols, noting that the company relies on weather forecasts from both Sri Lankan and Indian meteorological agencies, along with private forecasting sources such as the Windy app, to determine if conditions are safe for passenger voyages.
“Wave height and direction forecasts play a critical role in our decision-making process,” he added.
Sri Lanka’s Meteorology Department has also forecasted increased monsoon activity by the end of the month, with rough seas expected in the north due to a developing low-pressure area.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Health has issued an urgent alert to health professionals and the general public, cautioning against an organised group impersonating senior ministry officials to solicit funds fraudulently.
This group has reportedly been contacting individuals under the guise of high-ranking health officers, seeking monetary contributions.
The Ministry underscored that no health official has been granted authority to request donations or payments via phone calls, WhatsApp messages, or any other communication channels.
It warned the public to remain vigilant and avoid falling prey to these scams by refraining from transferring funds into any bank accounts or through any digital or offline payment channels as requested by these individuals.
Legal proceedings have already been initiated against those suspected to be involved in this criminal scheme, and the Ministry pledged to pursue all necessary steps to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The Ministry urges people to verify any unusual requests from alleged health officials through official channels, as a measure to safeguard themselves and prevent further exploitation.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): Campaigning activities for Sri Lanka’s 2024 general election will officially conclude at midnight tonight, ushering in a mandatory “silent period” during which all forms of electioneering are prohibited.
This restriction will remain in place until polling day on November 14, said National Election Commission Chairman R.M.A.L. Ratnayake.
He emphasised that, as of midnight on November 12, candidates must cease operations at all campaign offices established on an electorate basis.
Only the central offices of political parties or independent groups, based within each electoral district, will be permitted to continue functioning during this period.
Additionally, candidates may maintain campaign offices at their residences until midnight on Novmeber 12, though Ratnayake reminded them that no propaganda materials are to be displayed there.
Strict regulations also apply to locations near polling stations; any candidate’s campaign office or residence located within 500 metres of a polling station must ensure that no promotional content is visible from those locations.
The Election Commission has urged all candidates and parties to comply with these guidelines to uphold electoral integrity and avoid any potential legal consequences, whilst encouraging all registered voters to exercise their right to vote.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): Several spells of showers may occur in Northern and North-central Provinces and in Trincomalee district, with showers or thundershowers being expected to occur at a few places in Central, Uva, Sabaragamuwa and Southern provinces in the evening or night, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast this (11) morning.
Fairly heavy showers above 50mm are likely at some places.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara districts during the morning.
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:
Condition of Rain:
Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in the sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanthurai to Trincomalee. Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in the other sea areas during the evening or night.
Winds:
Winds will be North-easterly in the sea areas extending from Puttalam to Hambantota via Kankasanthurai and Trincomalee and Northerly or variable in direction in the other sea areas around the island. Wind speed will be (25-35) kmph in the sea areas around the island. Wind speed can increase up to (40-45) kmph at times in the sea areas off the coast extending from Trincomalee to Galle via Kankasanthurai, and Puttalam.
State of Sea:
The sea areas extending from Trincomalee to Galle via Kankasanthurai, and Puttalam can be fairly rough at times. Other sea areas around the island will be slight to moderate. Temporarily strong gusty winds and very rough seas can be expected during thundershowers.
November 11, Colombo (LNW): In immediate response to the LNW’s disclosure on former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella’s family’s attempt to retrieve an undisclosed sum of Rs. 50 million amidst the ongoing probe into Rambukwella’s alleged financial misconduct, the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has frozen the transaction from being made.
The probe had already led to the suspension of transactions on multiple fixed deposit accounts and life insurance policies linked to Rambukwella and five of his family members.
The attempt to retrieve this unexamined deposit was reportedly made by Rambukwella’s daughter at a Bank of Ceylon branch. However, the intervention of the FIU of the CBSL successfully blocked the transaction, ensuring that the funds remained accessible to investigative authorities.
This recent development follows LNW’s exclusive report on the matter, which shed light on the attempted transaction. LNW expresses its gratitude for the public’s support in advancing the investigation, emphasising its commitment to transparency and accountability in exposing potential misuse of funds.
The CID’s investigation into Rambukwella’s finances remains active, with further scrutiny expected to ensure that no undisclosed assets evade accountability.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pledges imminent developments regarding the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, emphasising an end to politically-facilitated murders: highlights unresolved cases, including the deaths of Thajudeen, Lasantha, and Eknaligoda, vowing to pursue justice and ensure citizens’ safety: promises the public “good news” soon on the Easter attacks investigation.
SJB former MP (Dr.) Harsha De Silva says the President can increase the threshold of the pay as you earn (PAYE) tax from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 200,000 without parliamentary approval: acknowledges such a move can be passed into law in Parliament after the election, but asserts the PAYE tax can be increased at the moment without any parliamentary power: confirms that funds have already been allocated in this regard as claimed by ex-President Ranil Wickremesinghe, asserting that Senior Economic Advisor to the President Duminda Hulangamuwa has already inked his signature for the move.
The Frontline Socialist Party (FSP) urges President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to investigate state-sanctioned crimes from the 1988-89 period, honouring JVP figures, including Rohana Wijeweera, ahead of the JVP’s 35th commemoration: urges a comprehensive probe into kidnappings, disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, demanding transparency and accountability, and pledges support, including evidence, to help achieve justice.
The Ministry of Health warns the public and health staff about scammers impersonating senior health officials to solicit funds: No authorised health official will request money through calls or messages: urges people not to transfer funds and has begun legal action against those involved in this fraud.
The Defence Ministry announces legal action will be enforced against civilians who fail to return firearms by the 21 November deadline: Firearms not returned or appealed for will be deemed illegal: A senior official stated that the ministry holds records of all issued firearms and will impose strict penalties for non-compliance.
Sri Lanka’s bid to join BRICS will be reviewed in due course alongside other applications, under Russia’s chairmanship: The Russian Embassy clarifies that reports of Sri Lanka’s rejection are inaccurate: Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath requested BRICS support for Sri Lanka’s membership, aligning with BRICS’s goal of strengthening ties with the Global South and promoting a multipolar global order.
Indian Navy submarine INS Vela arrives in Colombo for a formal visit, welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy with traditional honours: Commanded by Commander Kapil Kumar, the 67.5m-long submarine with a 53-member crew will allow its personnel to explore Sri Lanka’s tourist spots: INS Vela is set to depart on 13 November.
The Election Commission reports a rise in complaints related to the 2024 Parliamentary Poll, with 232 new grievances on 9 November, bringing the total to 2,580 since September 26: Of these, 1,999 have been resolved: The Commission is addressing remaining complaints as the General Election approaches on November 14.
The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) will launch a special unit on 12 November to manage potential disaster situations around the parliamentary election period: Coordinating with the Election Commission, this unit will oversee disaster readiness and response from two days before to two days after election day, ensuring safety and preparedness throughout the election process.
An IMF delegation, led by senior mission chief Peter Brewer, will visit Sri Lanka next week for the third review of the country’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) programme: This assessment will address Sri Lanka’s economic policies and reforms: Upon successful review, the IMF will release the next loan installment, as the government reaffirms its commitment to the IMF agreement.
November 10, Colombo (LNW): At the World Travel Market (WTM) 2024 in London, Sri Lanka unveiled an ambitious new vision for its tourism industry, centered on sustainability. The strategy aims to enhance engagement with visitors while safeguarding the island’s exceptional natural beauty and cultural heritage.
The event, which saw the participation of over 80 UK travel media professionals, marked a significant shift in Sri Lanka’s approach to attracting environmentally conscious tourists, while deepening its relationship with the UK market.
Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism, outlined the country’s commitment to integrating sustainable practices into all aspects of its promotional and marketing efforts.
He emphasized that this focus on sustainability reflects Sri Lanka’s dedication to preserving its scenic landscapes and unique cultural traditions, with the goal of attracting tourists who prioritize responsible travel.
This updated strategy is set to position Sri Lanka as a leader in eco-tourism, setting it apart in an increasingly competitive global tourism market.
Dushan Wickramasuriya, Director of Marketing at Sri Lanka Tourism, pointed to the significant 46 percent growth in UK visitor arrivals year-on-year, highlighting the UK as a vital market for the island nation.
In response, Sri Lanka has curated a diverse range of experiences designed to appeal specifically to British tourists. These offerings include eco-tourism, wellness retreats, cultural exploration, and adventure tourism, all tailored to meet the preferences of UK travelers.
This targeted strategy aims to boost Sri Lanka’s appeal as a premier destination for British tourists who are seeking sustainable travel options, according to Wickramasuriya.
Additionally, SriLankan Airlines and the Sri Lankan High Commission shared plans to expand air connectivity with the UK, strengthen diplomatic and trade ties, and increase direct flight services.
These efforts are intended to make travel to Sri Lanka more accessible, ultimately supporting an increase in tourism and fostering stronger bilateral ties between the two countries.
During the conference, Miguel Cunat, the founder of the Pekoe Trail—one of Sri Lanka’s renowned trekking routes—introduced new adventure tourism options along the trail.
These initiatives target travelers seeking immersive, active experiences amidst Sri Lanka’s varied landscapes.
To show appreciation for the UK media’s ongoing support, the event concluded with a raffle draw, offering travel prizes, including flights and exclusive stays provided by SriLankan Airlines, Jetwing, Browns Hotels, and other key hospitality partners.
This gesture highlighted the tourism industry’s dedication to promoting Sri Lanka’s sustainable tourism initiatives.
The response from the media was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm about promoting Sri Lanka’s eco-friendly travel options to the UK market, according to the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau.
November 10, Colombo (LNW): The U.S. Department of Justice recently unveiled new charges against Farhad Shakeri, an Iranian national accused of being involved in a series of assassination plots orchestrated by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Shakeri.
He, currently believed to be in Iran, has allegedly received orders to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump and target Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. The charges were announced on Friday, detailing the extent of Shakeri’s involvement in these terror plots.
According to court documents, Shakeri, 51, was recruited by the Iranian government in September 2024 to carry out the assassination of Donald Trump.
Prosecutors claim that the IRGC initially tasked him with surveillance of several U.S. and Israeli targets within the U.S. However, on October 7, the IRGC focused Shakeri’s mission exclusively on Trump, giving him a mere seven days to devise an assassination plan.
When Shakeri indicated that he could not complete the task in time, IRGC officials reportedly agreed to postpone the operation until after the U.S. election, anticipating Trump’s loss.
Shakeri, an Afghan-born national residing in Tehran, has a criminal background, having immigrated to the U.S. as a child before being deported in 2008 after serving 14 years for a robbery conviction.
In recent years, he has been involved with criminal networks that support the IRGC, reportedly assisting in surveillance and assassination operations targeting individuals of interest.
In addition to the plot against Trump, Shakeri was also tasked with surveilling two Jewish businesspeople in New York City.
He reportedly worked alongside two other individuals—Carlisle Rivera and Jonathan Loadholt, both U.S. citizens—who were arrested for helping the Iranian government track a U.S. citizen of Iranian descent.
The two men were charged and detained in New York, where they made their initial court appearance on Thursday.
Another significant component of the plot involves a planned attack on Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. Shakeri revealed to investigators that the IRGC directed him to plan a mass shooting targeting Israeli travelers in the Arugam Bay area of Sri Lanka in October 2024.
U.S. and Israeli authorities issued public warnings about this threat, and Sri Lankan authorities arrested several individuals linked to the plot. According to Shakeri, one of these individuals, referred to as “CC-2,” had previously surveilled the Israeli consulate in Sri Lanka and was involved in the attack planning.
The U.S. Justice Department charged Shakeri with several offenses, including conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which could lead to up to 20 years in prison. He also faces charges related to sanctions violations and providing support to a designated terrorist group.
Iran has strongly denied the allegations, calling the charges “baseless” and claiming that such accusations are part of a broader “malicious conspiracy” designed to worsen tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Iranian government has made similar denials in the past in response to accusations of state-sponsored terrorism.
