August 17, Colombo (LNW): The European Union (EU) has decided to deploy an Election Observation Mission (EOM) to Sri Lanka for the upcoming Presidential Election on September 21, following an invitation from the Election Commission of Sri Lanka. This marks the EU’s seventh EOM in the country, reflecting its ongoing commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s electoral processes.

Josep Borrell, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, appointed Nacho Sánchez Amor, a Member of the European Parliament, as the Chief Observer of this mission.

Borrell emphasized that the deployment of the EOM underscores the EU’s dedication to ensuring credible, transparent, and peaceful elections in Sri Lanka, in line with their longstanding partnership. Chief Observer Nacho Sánchez Amor expressed his honor in leading the mission, highlighting the election’s significance in Sri Lanka’s ongoing recovery and reform efforts following the 2022 political and economic crisis.

August 17, Colombo (LNW): Palestinian Ambassador Dr. Zuhair M. H. Zaid paid a farewell visit to Sri Lanka’s Speaker of Parliament, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardana, on Wednesday, August 7th. The Secretary General of Parliament, Kushani Rohanadeera, was also in attendance.

During their meeting, Speaker Abeywardena inquired about the current situation in Palestine, to which Dr. Zaid provided an update on the political, social, and humanitarian challenges the region is facing. The Ambassador expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Speaker and the people of Sri Lanka for their steadfast support during difficult times in Palestine. He also thanked Sri Lanka for the hospitality he received during his tenure and highlighted the historical ties between the two nations.

Dr. Zaid emphasized that the potential for increased private investments could be realized through the conduct of democratic elections. Speaker Abeywardena commended Dr. Zaid for his significant contributions to strengthening the diplomatic and cultural ties between Sri Lanka and Palestine during his time as Ambassador.

August 17, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry, PC, summoned the Canadian High Commissioner to express strong objections regarding the foundation stone laying for a proposed “Tamil Genocide Monument” in Chinguacousy Park, Brampton, Canada. The foundation stone was laid on August 14, 2024, despite previous protests from Sri Lanka.

Minister Sabry emphasized that the Government of Sri Lanka firmly rejects what it describes as a “false narrative” of genocide, which it believes is being promoted for political gains within Canada. He noted that the City Council of Brampton’s decision to support the monument is offensive not only to Sri Lankans but also to peace-loving Canadians. Sabry argued that the genocide allegations are unfounded and not supported by any credible national or international authority.

The Foreign Minister highlighted Sri Lanka’s ongoing efforts to foster reconciliation and peace in the country, particularly in the wake of its recent economic challenges. He asserted that such actions in Canada could undermine these efforts by glorifying terrorism and promoting division, which is contrary to the democratic values upheld by both Sri Lanka and Canada.

Minister Sabry urged the Canadian government to intervene and prevent the construction of the monument, recognizing the potential harm this narrative could cause to bilateral relations between the two countries. He called for immediate action to prevent further deterioration of these relations.

August 17, Colombo (LNW): US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, emphasized the critical role Sri Lanka plays in enhancing maritime security and curbing illegal activities in the Indian Ocean, during a speech on Thursday (15) at the inauguration of the “Ship in a Box” training facility at the Kirinda Coast Guard station.

Ambassador Chung highlighted that Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean places it at the forefront of efforts to secure vital trade routes and combat transnational crime. “Sri Lanka’s waters host vital trade routes that maintain the global supply networks and carry goods all over the world. Uniquely positioned in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka plays a key role in leading efforts to increase maritime security and prevent the illegal activities and movements of illicit enterprises,” she stated.

She underscored that strengthening Sri Lanka’s criminal justice and maritime security sectors remains a cornerstone of the US-Sri Lanka partnership. The Ambassador acknowledged the economic challenges Sri Lanka has faced in recent years and reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting the country through efforts aimed at promoting economic prosperity, food security, and inclusive governance. She stressed the importance of the rule of law, equal access to justice, and accountability as pillars essential to the safety and well-being of all Sri Lankan citizens.

The “Ship in a Box” simulator, funded by the US Export Control and Border Security (EXBS) Programme, is designed to enhance the training of Sri Lanka Coast Guard personnel and allied agencies, including the Sri Lanka Navy. This innovative facility will provide practical experience in maritime tactics within a controlled environment, preparing security forces for real-world scenarios.

Ambassador Chung also addressed the growing concern over maritime-related crimes, which are on the rise due to factors like economic hardship and poverty. She called for collective efforts to raise awareness and support maritime law enforcement agencies in combating the transportation of narcotics, human trafficking, and other smuggling activities.

“The U.S. Government, along with our partners and friends, recognize just how important the ports and shipping industries are to economic development in Sri Lanka, and other countries across the Indo-Pacific region,” she said, stressing the need for international collaboration to protect vital shipping lanes and maintain global supply chain integrity.

In her remarks, Ambassador Chung acknowledged the contributions of the private sector and international partners, including Aitken-Spence and Amentum Corporation, in supporting Sri Lanka’s maritime security efforts.

The event at the Kirinda Coast Guard station marks a significant step in bolstering Sri Lanka’s capabilities in maritime security, aligning with broader US efforts to ensure freedom of movement and safety in the Indo-Pacific region.

August 17, Colombo (LNW): Prevailing showery conditions are expected to continue in the south-western part of the island due to the low-level atmospheric disturbance in the vicinity of Sri Lanka during today.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle, Matara and Mannar districts. Heavy showers above 100 mm are likely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle and Matara districts.

Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places elsewhere over the island during the evening or night.

General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

August 16, Colombo (LNW): To meet the rising demand for nonstop flights, Jetstar Asia has introduced a new route connecting Singapore and Colombo, Sri Lanka’s largest city and financial hub. Starting in November, 

Jetstar Asia will be the sole low-cost airline offering direct flights on this route, making it easier for passengers to access the broader Jetstar network, including one-stop connections to Australia. 

The airline will operate five weekly round trips using Airbus A320 aircraft, adding over 90,000 affordable seats annually between the two cities.

Jetstar Asia is providing customers with greater flexibility by offering both morning and evening departures from Singapore’s Changi Airport. This schedule allows smooth connections to Jetstar Airways’ daily Boeing 787 flights to Melbourne and up to six weekly flights to Perth.

John Simeone, CEO of Jetstar Asia, highlighted Colombo as a gateway to Sri Lanka and an ideal destination for adventurers, couples, and families alike. He emphasized that the new route is part of the airline’s strategy to introduce exciting new destinations. 

Simeone expressed enthusiasm about making Sri Lanka more accessible, noting its stunning landscapes, welcoming hospitality, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural history.

Sri Lanka has seen a robust recovery in tourism following the pandemic, making it an increasingly popular destination. The new route will provide travelers from Sri Lanka with direct access to Singapore and the opportunity to connect through Changi Airport to various destinations across Southeast Asia, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region.

The service will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Jetstar Asia flight 3K331 will depart Singapore Changi at 21:00 on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, arriving at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport at 22:30. 

The return flight, 3K332, will leave Colombo at 23:30, arriving back in Singapore at 06:00 the following day. On Thursdays and Sundays, flight 3K333 will leave Singapore at 08:55, arriving in Colombo at 10:30, with the return flight 3K334 departing at 11:30 and landing in Singapore at 18:00.

Jetstar Asia, based in Singapore, is part of the Jetstar Group, which includes Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, and Jetstar Japan. The airline operates a fleet of 11 Airbus A320-200 aircraft, all configured in an all-economy layout with 180 seats. 

Jetstar Airways, based in Australia, uses a fleet of 11 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners for widebody services and operates 53 Airbus A320-200s and 21 Airbus A321 LRs for both domestic and international routes.

Bookings for the new Singapore-Colombo route are now available on the Jetstar website, with promotional one-way fares starting at SG$149 (around $113) for standard bookings, and SG$139 (approximately $105) for Club Jetstar members. 

These introductory fares are available until 23:59 SGT on August 20, 2024, or until sold out, with terms and conditions applying.

August 16, Colombo (LNW): The Colombo Marina Development Ltd has been declarered.as a key project with strategic development status, under the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act No. 11 of 2021. This status grants the company access to specific incentives and support relevant to the project.

The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday endorsed the nomination of Colombo Marina Development as primary venture in Port City

As part of this initiative, four plots of land in the Colombo Port City area have been leased to Colombo Marina Development. The company, a subsidiary of Browns Investment Private Company, is tasked with executing the ‘Recreation Port’ (MARINA) development project.

This project aims to build a cutting-edge facility capable of accommodating 243 marine vessels. Besides serving as a marina, the development will also include exclusive guest clubs, dining options, retail spaces, recreation areas, event venues, and ample parking.

The project is anticipated to significantly enhance Colombo Port City’s appeal as a top destination for marine tourism and recreation, thereby contributing to the region’s overall economic growth.

Additionally, the Cabinet of Ministers approved entering into agreements to lease land within Colombo Port City for the development of hospitals, schools, and universities, in accordance with Section 6(1)(C) of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act No. 11 of 2021.

 This section empowers the Colombo Port City Economic Commission to lease marketable state lands under its control.

Meanwhile the Commission has invited proposals from investors for the development of educational and healthcare facilities within Port City. Among the proposals submitted are plans by Asiri Port City Hospital Ltd., Gateway International School Ltd., and Gateway International University Ltd. 

These plans include a US $100 million investment for a hospital and $25 million each for a school and a university.

The proposal, submitted by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his role as Investment Promotion Minister, received approval from the Cabinet of Ministers.

August 16, Colombo (LNW):WindForce PLC, a leading player in Sri Lanka’s renewable energy sector, has demonstrated remarkable financial growth in the first quarter of the 2024/25 fiscal year.

 The company reported a significant 87% increase in EBITDA, reaching LKR 1.95 billion, up from LKR 1 billion in the same period last year. This growth underscores WindForce’s strategic advancements and strong market presence.

The company’s consolidated revenue for the quarter ending June 30, 2024, rose by 28% to LKR 1.56 billion, compared to LKR 1.22 billion in the previous year. Net profits also saw a notable increase of 27%, climbing to LKR 652 million from LKR 514 million recorded in the first quarter of the prior year.

A key driver of this success was the commissioning of the Hiruras 15 MW wind power plant in June/July 2023. This project significantly boosted WindForce’s production capacity and revenue. The wind energy sector, in particular, experienced a 37% increase in revenue. 

The hydro sector also performed well, with a 67% rise in electricity generation revenue, supported by the addition of the Mahoma plant as a subsidiary in January 2024, which contributed an extra LKR 74 million to the group’s earnings.

WindForce’s commitment to renewable energy was further recognized when its subsidiary, Solar Universe (PVT) Ltd, won the Gold trophy for outstanding solar power initiatives, and the Bulathwatte mini hydro power plant received the Bronze trophy in the mini hydro power category.

The company is focused on consolidating its projects within Sri Lanka over the next two years, according to Managing Director Manjula Perera. Despite economic challenges, 

WindForce managed to develop two power plants: a 10 MW solar power plant in Vavunathivu, Batticaloa, and a 15 MW wind power plant in Mannar district. 

This commitment was recognized by the Ministry of Power, which awarded WindForce two additional renewable energy projects—a 10 MW solar and a 15 MW wind project in the same locations.

WindForce, in partnership with LTL Holdings’ subsidiary Lakdhanavi and Singapore’s renewable energy company The Blue Circle, secured a major contract from the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) on August 16, 2023. 

This project involves the construction of a US$ 152 million solar power plant with a transmission facility in Siyambalanduwa, Moneragala district, which will increase Sri Lanka’s installed renewable energy capacity by one-third.

 Overseas, WindForce’s projects are progressing smoothly, with two solar power plants in Pakistan and Uganda, and additional hydro and solar plants in Uganda. 

The company’s 10 MW solar power plant in Ukraine has continued to operate despite the ongoing conflict, generating power steadily.

Mr. Perera also expressed support for the new Electricity Act, which aims to restructure the energy sector and introduce power wheeling. 

This restructuring would allow power generators to directly contract with customers, potentially transforming the market dynamics in Sri Lanka’s energy sector.

August 16, Colombo (LNW):The Free Trade Zone Manufacturers’ Association (FTZMA) has called on the Sri Lankan government to expedite the implementation of an Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded container-clearing yard in Kerawalapitiya, aimed at reducing the cargo delays currently plaguing the Colombo Port. 

The proposed facility, with a capacity to handle 3,000 containers, was recommended in a 2020 ADB study but is still awaiting approval from the Finance Ministry.

During a recent meeting between FTZMA representatives and senior officials of Sri Lanka Customs (SLC), it was revealed that the Colombo Port releases around 1,400 to 1,500 containers daily. 

However, due to limited capacity, SLC manages to clear only 600 containers, or about 45% of the total, which are then distributed across three existing yards: Grayline 1 Yard, Rank Container Terminal Yard in Orugodawatta, and Grayline 2 Yard in Grandpass. 

FTZMA has emphasized that the new facility, once approved, could offer five times the capacity of these current yards, potentially solving a problem that costs millions of rupees each day and causes significant delays in production schedules for exporters under the Board of Investment.

Sri Lanka Customs has expressed concerns over the Finance Ministry’s hesitation to approve the Kerawalapitiya container-clearing yard, which could alleviate the severe congestion that has been costly and time-consuming. 

The ADB, responding to a request from SLC, conducted a comprehensive feasibility study in 2020 on using a 25-acre land in Kerawalapitiya owned by the Urban Development Authority for this purpose. 

The proposed Rs. 7 billion yard, once completed, would significantly exceed the current capacity of all three private container yards and the Colombo Port itself.

The existing yards—Grayline 1, Rank Container Terminal, and Grayline 2—currently occupy a total of 17 acres and have limited capacity, accommodating up to 600 containers combined. 

The proposed ADB-funded yard, on the other hand, could hold up to 3,000 containers, dramatically improving the efficiency of cargo handling in the region.

A recent 24-hour strike by Customs officials against the proposed Sri Lanka Revenue Authority Bill exacerbated the problem, with over 1,000 containers left unloaded at the Colombo Port, in yards, and even along roads.

 A senior Customs official noted that while some trade union actions are inevitable due to government decisions, the establishment of the new yard in Kerawalapitiya could address many of these issues, including time wastage and financial losses.

FTZMA Chairman Dhammika Fernando pointed out that the ongoing delays in cargo clearance have caused vessels to bypass Sri Lanka, threatening delivery commitments to international brands and further tarnishing the country’s economic reputation. 

He expressed concerns that interference by owners of private cargo clearing yards may have influenced the Finance Ministry’s reluctance to approve the project.

 Fernando urged the government to prioritize the commissioning of the new yard to reduce congestion and improve the efficiency of container examination, which currently lacks a proper priority management system.