By: Staff Writer

February 29, Colombo (LNW): Hard on the heels of six flight delays due to failure of mouse trap inside planes, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva has announced that an investor for SriLankan Airlines will be chosen following a live auction for the divestiture of SriLankan Airlines on 05 March.

He revealed that bids have been called, explaining that the live bidding will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 02:00 p.m. on 05 March, following which the bids will be evaluated, and sent to the Cabinet.

Any investor who can invest at least US$ 500 million and ensure job security for the 6,000 people who are working in the airline could submit bids to acquire the Airline, he added.

The minister faulted the “poor administration” of the management adding that it was the duty of the ground handling administrators to ensure the counters were adequately manned by staffers.

He blamed the trade unions as well as the management adding that neither had any interest in keeping this airline afloat. He also expressed concern that these irregularities are a discouraging factor for potential bidders due to ongoing disruptions and workforce attitudes.

He added that the airline can no longer be maintained by the government and a private investor is compulsory.  He criticized trade unions for disseminating misinformation and failing to deliver on promises made during a recent seminar.

Divulging different plan to government’s divestiture of the SriLankan Airlines Chairman Ashok Pathirage announced yesterday that fleet expansion of the national carrier remains an immediate focus.

Speaking to the media, he disclosed that the airline has contracted for three A320s, one of which is already received. Additionally, the airline has received offers for six A330s and hopes of finalising these acquisitions by the end of the year.

“The Government procurement processes are time-consuming and the global demand for aircraft is escalating. This has been a significant factor contributing to delays in securing additional aircraft,” Pathirage explained.

With the current fleet consisting of 17 aircraft, of three which are grounded, he underscored the importance of adding wide-body aircraft to the fleet to overcome limitations in servicing long-haul destinations such as the UK, France, and Australia.

“The absence of A330s aircraft poses challenges and acquiring them is essential to address these constraints,” he added.

Pathirage also highlighted the reluctance of lessors to take on the risk associated with Sri Lanka’s sovereign rating, posing an additional challenge in the acquisition process.

Despite these challenges, the Chairman expressed optimism about the airline’s financial outlook, noting the airline’s ability to break even this year with expectations of improved turnover.

“We are anticipating a better performance this year, to reach breakeven,” Pathirage added.

February 29, Colombo (LNW): To address the longstanding issue of scoliosis affecting children in the country, a public awareness walk is scheduled to take place in Colombo on the forthcoming Saturday, March 02.

Organised by Lanka E Doc in collaboration with the Apollo Hospitals Group of India, the initiative aims to raise awareness about scoliosis and its management.

The walk, coordinated jointly by the Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Health, will commence at 7 am from Independence Square to Vihara Maha Devi Park in Colombo, with the participation of students from numerous national schools in Colombo and Gampaha.

Following the walk, a complimentary medical clinic will be conducted at Vihara Maha Devi Park until 2 pm, featuring specialist doctors from both India and Sri Lanka.

Distinguished individuals including Jitu Jose, Vice President of the International Division of Apollo Hospitals Group of India, Sajan K Hegde, Chief of Surgery, and Dr. Appai Krishnan, Spine Surgeon, alongside Dr. Vignesh and other specialists from both countries, will partake in the walk and the subsequent clinic.

Dr. Niluka Welikala, Managing Director of Lanka E Doc, encourages parents of children exhibiting symptoms or diagnosed with scoliosis to attend the clinic.

Further information and registration can be facilitated through the WhatsApp number 0743913395.

1. President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasises Sri Lanka’s commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and stability in the Indian Ocean: addresses emerging security concerns, highlighted Sri Lanka’s role in the Indo-Pacific, and advocates for cooperation among major powers: stresses the need for nuanced diplomacy amid complex geopolitical dynamics and outlined Sri Lanka’s vision for the region as a hub for economic growth and cooperation.
   
2. SLPP MP Namal Rajapaksa says only a handful of members in his party who are holding positions in the government including ministries are of the view that the SLPP should back President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the next presidential polls: adds everyone else in the party is of the view that a decision in this regard should be taken by the party itself.
   
3. MP Dullas Alahapperuma warns President Ranil Wickremesinghe of legal action over potential violations of the Constitution, particularly regarding the postponement of elections: emphasises that even the President is not above the law and suggests that legal recourse via the Supreme Court may be pursued if constitutional breaches persist.
   
4. IMF team to conduct second review of Sri Lanka’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program starting March 7: The government expects a smoother review than the first, lasting about two weeks: Assessment will focus on meeting key commitments and economic health, including debt restructuring and revenue targets: First review cleared in December, providing $337 million amid the country’s financial crisis.
   
5. CEB proposes a 14% reduction in electricity tariffs, contrasting with the Energy Minister’s earlier 18% reduction claim: The reduction aims to benefit all customer categories and is made possible by measures to control the Central Bank: Adjustments in operational expenses, including personnel and material costs, are outlined: Dry season demand surge necessitates hydro machinery maintenance for optimal performance: Delays in maintenance projects require adjustments in disbursements for 2024: Discussions are ongoing at PUCSL regarding the proposed tariff revision.
   
6. Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe announces the completion of the verification process for the “Aswasuma” programme’s second phase, extending benefits to 2.4 million family units starting June 2024: Applications for the second phase close on March 15, with strict adherence to the deadline: Approximately 7,000 individuals receiving benefits based on false information were removed: Out of 3.4 million families certified in the first phase, 1.9 million are eligible for benefits: Payments for selected beneficiaries begin in July 2024 after resolving appeals and objections: Over 1.19 million appeals have been resolved, and efforts to raise awareness online have resulted in 200,000 to 250,000 applications: Applications will cease after March 15. Rs. 205 billion is allocated for compensation payments in 2024: Fraudulent beneficiaries will face legal action.
   
7. Sri Lanka imposes one-year ban on Chinese research vessels in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) starting January 3, 2024, following concerns over activities of Chinese vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 in the south Indian Ocean: The ban, prompted by Indian security concerns, drew praise from Indian media but sparked Chinese discontent, with authorities criticising external influence on Sri Lanka’s decision.
   
8. The Education Ministry directs schools to suspend outdoor activities and sports for the next three days due to high temperatures, effective immediately: The directive aims to protect students from the heat, with temperatures reaching ‘Caution’ levels in various parts of the island: The Department of Meteorology highlighted areas, including the North-western, Western, and Southern provinces, along with Ratnapura District, where caution is advised due to the high temperature: Foreign tourists have also been affected by the extreme heat.
   
9. Sri Lanka’s Elephant House, a subsidiary of Ceylon Cold Stores PLC, partners with India’s Reliance Consumer Products Limited (RCPL) to introduce its beverages in the Indian market: RCPL, a subsidiary of Reliance Retail Ventures Limited, aims to enrich its beverage portfolio with Elephant House’s iconic brands like Necto and Cream Soda: The collaboration aligns with RCPL’s vision to offer quality products to Indian consumers.
   
10. The Sri Lankan cricket team is set to tour Bangladesh for a series comprising three T20 matches, three ODIs, and two Test matches, starting March 4: With a focus on the upcoming T20 World Cup, the return of skipper Wanindu Hasaranga boosts SL’s confidence after recent victories against Zimbabwe and Afghanistan: Senior players like Angelo Mathews and Dasun Shanaka strengthen the team’s resolve: Despite injuries sidelining players like Pathum Nissanka, the team remains optimistic: Bangladesh, under coach Chandika Hathurusinghe, is prepared for a competitive series: SL’s T20 squad, led by Hasaranga and vice-captain Charith Asalanka, includes key players like Kusal Mendis and Akila Dananjaya.

February 29, Colombo (LNW): China has reportedly expressed its discontent to Sri Lanka regarding the imposition of a one-year ban on Chinese research vessels from conducting studies within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), effective from January 3, 2024.

The moratorium, which prohibits the involvement of any foreign research vessel, was implemented following concerns raised over the planned exploration activities of the Chinese research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 in the south Indian Ocean.

The vessel is officially owned by the Third Institute of Oceanology of the Chinese Ministry of Natural Resources.

Sri Lanka’s decision to impose the ban came amidst pressure from India, which cited security apprehensions arising from such activities in its vicinity.

The Indian media widely praised Sri Lanka’s decision, characterising it as a setback for China.

However, Chinese authorities expressed their dissatisfaction with the decision and conveyed their displeasure to Sri Lanka, attributing the move to external influence.

While the decision garnered praise from the Indian media, the Chinese media criticised India for allegedly pressuring neighbouring countries to adopt anti-Indian measures.

February 29, Colombo (LNW): In a recent development, the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has presented a revised proposal to the Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL), suggesting that electricity tariffs could potentially be reduced by an average of 14 per cent.

This contrasts with earlier assertions made by the Energy Minister regarding an 18 per cent reduction.

According to the CEB, this reduction in tariffs has been strategically facilitated by measures taken to exercise control over the Central Bank, resulting in substantial financial benefits.

By enhancing the affordability of project loans, the CEB aims to alleviate the burden of financing, thus enabling a reduction in tariffs.

The revised tariff proposal outlined by the CEB aims to provide relief across all customer categories. Notably, adjustments have been made in various operational expenses, including personnel expenses, material costs, maintenance of civil structures, fuel and vehicle maintenance, communication services, retail service costs, and other overheads.

Furthermore, the prevailing economic conditions in the country have influenced workforce availability, particularly in labour-intensive distribution divisions, leading to reductions in certain personnel and material costs.

As the nation approaches the dry season, there is a surge in electricity demand. Scheduled maintenance of hydroelectric machinery during this period is crucial to ensure optimal performance during the subsequent wet season.

Postponing maintenance activities presents challenges in meeting increased demand without resorting to costly plant operations or risking demand management procedures.

Delays in several maintenance and upgrade projects within the Generation Division have necessitated adjustments in disbursements for the year 2024.

Notable projects, such as those at the Victoria Power Plant, Kotmale, Ukuwela, Upper Kotmale, and Bowatanna plants, are either nearing completion or undergoing critical refurbishments aimed at enhancing efficiency and reliability.

At the time of this report, discussions were underway at the PUCSL regarding the decision to announce the proposed electricity tariff revision.

February 29, Colombo (LNW): Finance State Minister Shehan Semasinghe announced the completion of the verification and certification process for applicants in the second phase of the “Aswasuma” programme.

As a result, arrangements have been made to extend benefits to 2.4 million family units, with implementation set to commence in June 2024.

During a press briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre under the theme ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’, State Minister Semasinghe emphasised the imminent closure of the second phase of applications, scheduled to end on March 15, 2024.

Stressing the importance of timely submission, he cautioned that failure to adhere to the deadline would result in individuals forfeiting eligibility for programme benefits.

Moreover, the Minister highlighted that approximately 7,000 individuals who had received benefits based on false information were removed from the programme following appeals and objections.

Providing further insights, the State Minister disclosed that initially, 3.4 million family units were certified during the programme’s first phase, out of which 1.9 million families have been deemed eligible for benefits.

Following the adjudication of appeals and objections, the Welfare Benefit Board is set to initiate payments to selected beneficiaries starting July 2024.

With regards to the application process, Semasinghe reported that approximately 1,197,000 appeals and objections out of a total of 1,227,000 have been resolved.

Additionally, efforts to raise awareness online have resulted in the submission of around 200,000 to 250,000 applications. Application forms submitted directly to Divisional Secretariats are currently undergoing processing via the online system.

It is emphasised that the call for applications in the second phase will cease after March 15, 2024, with failure to submit rendering individuals ineligible for relief benefits.

Furthermore, following the completion of verification and certification for new applicants, all necessary preparations have been concluded to extend insurance benefits to 2.4 million family units from June 2024 onwards, with an anticipated allocation of Rs. 205 billion for compensation payments in 2024.

Minister Semasinghe reiterated that the allocation of these provisions has already been arranged.

Regarding individuals found to have received benefits through fraudulent means, Semasinghe emphasised the readiness to pursue fund recovery and legal action in accordance with the law upon identification of such cases.

In his address at the Pathfinder Indian Ocean Security Conference phase III held at Cinnamon Grand Colombo yesterday (28), President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized Sri Lanka’s dedication to maintaining a strategic position aimed at ensuring the absence of major power rivalries and upholding freedom of navigation in the Indian Ocean. The President highlighted that Sri Lanka’s commitment to freedom of navigation has prompted the country to engage in operations as guardians of prosperity in the Red Sea. He underscored the significance of the Suez Canal, particularly evident during the Six-Day War when its closure for ten years negatively impacted the Colombo port, emphasizing the necessity of ensuring unrestricted navigation.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also highlighted emerging issues, including security concerns in the undersea domain, prompting a reassessment of approaches. He expressed the belief that the future lies in the Indian Ocean, stressing the importance of understanding Sri Lanka’s role within the broader Indo-Pacific framework. The President noted that the dynamics of the Indo-Pacific, originating from post-World War II arrangements such as the San Francisco system and the Shanghai communiqué, have evolved, leading to questions about the country’s positioning and potential involvement in regional conflicts.

The two-day conference will see participation from delegates representing several nations, underscoring the significance of the Indian Ocean and its role in global security and supply chain resilience.

The President further highlighted the imperative to reconcile varying viewpoints on the Indo-Pacific, particularly regarding its geographical limits and implications for maritime security. Sri Lanka adamantly opposes the idea of confining the Indo-Pacific to India’s western boundary, stressing its wider territorial concerns that stretch to the African coast. This stance diverges sharply from China’s expansive outlook, prompting scrutiny into the underlying motives and potential repercussions of these contrasting approaches.

The President emphasized the importance of addressing emerging developments in the Indian Ocean amid complex geopolitical dynamics. This includes China’s growing presence, which is bolstered by infrastructure projects like the Friendship Highway in Pakistan and agreements with India concerning connectivity and harbour development. Furthermore, the evolution of economic corridors such as the Mumbai-UAE-Israel-Europe connection highlights the changing geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the need for long-term strategic planning.

In his address, President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted the interconnectedness of regional dynamics and the potential implications for maritime security and diplomacy, as evidenced by the recent conflict in Gaza. Stressing the arc of Islam stretching from the Middle East to Indonesia, he underscored the need for nuanced approaches to crisis management, considering geopolitical complexities and cultural sensitivities.

Emphasizing the importance of embracing the Indian Ocean’s identity and historical significance, President Wickremesinghe advocated for cooperation among major powers rather than competition. He outlined Sri Lanka’s vision for the region as a hub for economic growth extending beyond India to Africa.

Regarding the resurgence of Asia’s influence, particularly China’s pivot to the Indian Ocean and the Belt and Road Initiative’s impact, the President highlighted the necessity of re-evaluating traditional power structures and alliances. He also addressed Russia’s eastward shift and the evolving dynamics between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which further complicate the geopolitical landscape, calling for nuanced diplomacy and strategic foresight.

In conclusion, President Wickremesinghe reiterated Sri Lanka’s commitment to promoting stability and cooperation in the Indian Ocean region. He stressed the importance of maintaining an inclusive approach that respects the historical significance of the Indian Ocean and considers the perspectives of its diverse stakeholders for long-term peace and prosperity.

US Ambassador Julie Chung, Japan’s Deputy Assistant Minister for Southwest Asian Affairs Hayashi Makoto, Founder of Pathfinder Mr. Milinda Moragoda, Co-Chairmen of the Pathfinder Indian Ocean Security Conference, Mr. Bernard Gunathilake & Mr. Shivshankar Menon, along with High Commissioners, Ambassadors, officials from Ministries, line institutions of the Ministries and the tri-forces participated in this event.

By: Isuru Parakrama

February 29, Colombo (LNW): A few showers will occur in Eastern and Uva provinces and in Polonnaruwa and Matale districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (29).

Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Galle, Matara and Nuwara-Eliya districts in the evening or night.

Fairly strong winds about (30-40) kmph can be expected at times in eastern slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central, North-western, Uva and Eastern provinces and in Hambantota district.

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