: Ceylon Telegraph :

All garbage mountains to be removed

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 14:44:00 +0000

Government has taken steps to remove all garbage mountains in the areas inundated by floods including Kolonnawa within three days.

A mechanism has been put in place on the directive of President Maithripala Sirisena to remove all garbage mountains in the areas inundated by floods including Kolonnawa within three days, Provincial Councils and Local Government Minister Faiszer Musthapha said.

The special junk clearance mechanism will be carried out through a special unit established under the Local Government Ministry.

Source:www.news.lk

Sri Lankan delegation visits Pakistan's historic Buddhist Monestry at Takht-i-Bhai

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 14:43:00 +0000

Sri Lankan delegation led by Minister of Primary Industry Daya Gamage and Deputy Minister of Petroleum and Natural Resources Anoma Gamage, which is currently in Pakistan, visited historic Buddhist site at Takht-i-Bahi in Mardan, in Pakistan.

While speaking on the occasion, Emeritus Dr. Madduma Bandara, University of Paradeniya said these archeological sites are considered most sacred and important for the Buddhists all over the world and we are privileged to visit these sites. He said the preservation of centuries-old Buddhist sites in a Muslim majority proofs Pakistan’s mutual respect and tolerance shown towards other religions.

Takht-i-Bhai was the part of Gandhara Civilization which is one of the earliest urban settlements documented in the history of the sub-continent. The heritage site was first excavated in 1936.

The ostentatious structure and imposing relics of the Buddhist monastery Takht-i-Bhai (Throne of Origins) has captivated a large number of locals and tourists who have flocked to see the ancient site which dates back to early 1st century AD.

Listed in the World Heritage List, it is considered one of the well-structured Buddhist monasteries in Gandhara district.

It is perched about 500 feet atop a small hill, about 2 kilometers east of the Takht Bhai bazaar in Mardan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), once known as the heart of the Gandhara civilization, which attracts tourists, historians, archaeologists and Buddhists from across the world.

After performing their religious rituals, the delegation visited the Hund museum in Swabi which is the last capital of Gandhara civilization. The delegates also visited the Pukhtun cultural stalls at the museum and showed keen interest.

Source:www.news.lk

Indian minister moots plan to deliver Ganges water by post

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 01 Jun 2016 14:42:00 +0000

INDIA: Devout Hindus may soon receive water from the River Ganges by post, a minister said Monday, as India moves to tap booming e-commerce platforms.

Many Hindus believe the water from the River Ganges has the power to wash away their sins and religious ceremonies are considered incomplete without a generous sprinkling of the holy water.

Communication and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said he had been inundated with requests for Ganges water to be made available through post.

“I have directed (the postal department) to utilise e-commerce platforms and make arrangement for providing pure Gangajal (Ganges water) from Haridwar, Rishikesh to people,” Prasad was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India news agency. “They have assured that they will take pro-active step to address cultural needs. “If a postman can deliver, mobile phones, sarees, jewellery, apparels, then why not Ganga water?”

Around 80 percent of India’s 1.2 billion population is Hindu, but the country is also home to large numbers of Muslims, Christians and Buddhists.

India Post, the state-run postal network, has in the past two years tied up with some 400 e-commerce companies including Amazon and Indian giant Flipkart to deliver a diverse range of goods.

The tie-ups have reaped rich results, with parcel deliveries increasing 15-fold to 75,000 daily deliveries since 2014.

Prasad also said that by the end of the year all postmen in urban centres would be given smart phones while those in rural post offices would be equipped with handheld devices by March next year. - AFP

Source:www.news.lk

Arcade Lk Launches

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:43:00 +0000

Arcade Lk, Sri Lanka's latest virtual marketplace, unveiled their services recently for the online community of Sri Lanka. Arcade Lk says they currently being provided wrist watches & plans were underway to expand it towards household items. Customers can be receive their products directly to his/her doorstep without having to leave the comfort of their homes & payments can be made on delivery.

Taliban announces new leader

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:38:00 +0000

Mawlawi Haibatullah Akhundzada has been named the new Afghan Taliban leader following the death of Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansour, a Taliban spokesman said in a statement.

"The Islamic Emirate's leadership council... decided to appoint Mawlawi Haibatullah Akhundzada as the new leader of the Islamic Emirate and Mawlawi Sirajuddin Haqqani and Mawlawi Mohammad Yaqoob as his deputies," the statement reads.

Haqqani is the leader of Haqqani terror network, long aligned with the Taliban and al Qaeda, and Yaqoob the son of former long-time Taliban leader Mullah Mohammed Omar.

Haqqani, who has a $10 million State Department bounty on his head, heads up a wide-ranging family-based network based primarily in North Waziristan, Pakistan. It held captured U.S. soldier Bowe Bergdahl before he was repatriated in a prisoner swap.

Meanwhile, ten people were killed and four others were injured Wednesday morning when a suicide bomber detonated explosives in Kabul, Najib Danish, a deputy spokesman for the Afghan Interior Ministry tells CNN. Two children are among the injured.

The attack targeted a vehicle carrying court employees of neighboring Wardak Province, according to Danish.

There is no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

Pledge of allegiance

"All the members of the leadership council pledged allegiance to the newly appointed leader," the statement continues, allegiance to the new leader is "a religious obligation," it said.

The same statement confirmed the death of the previous leader, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Pakistan's Balochistan province Saturday. It called on "all Muslims" to enter a three-day period of mourning for Mansour.

The Taliban had previously confirmed Mansour's death to CNN but today's announcement is the first public statement from the group to affirm the death. U.S. and Afghan intelligence agencies had also independently confirmed his demise. (CDN)

Source:www.news.lk

Steer econ growth to sustain well-being of Asia – President Sirisena calls on G 7

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:27:00 +0000

President Maithripala Sirisena said that Japan’s formal announcement that G7 will explore what is needed to sustain the well-being of Asia to steer economic growth, highlights the relevance of Sri Lanka being here. “It endorses Prime Minister Abe’s reasoning for selecting us.”

Addressing the G 7 Outreach Summit today (May 27) in Ise-Shima in Japan, he said that with a revolutionary change of governance, his government has succeeded in creating the path for viable development environment and for reconciliation in a multi-faceted society. Now, the people are free and respect human rights.

He described to the leaders of the world’s most affluent nations the steps taken since the national Unity Government was established to strengthen democracy, rule of law and good governance.

“We lack finances for extensive development efforts and therefore seek developed nations’ and multilateral and bi-lateral investors to invest in Sri Lanka,” President Sirisena said and expressed the hope that the G7 Summit of 2016 will look at countries like Sri Lanka in this regard.

“Your invitation to me would yield real benefits beyond bounds, if serious attention is drawn to our problems. I very much appreciate the feelings of friendship and understanding demonstrated by the Heads of State of G7 countries and the Heads of State of Outreach countries during these sessions,” he said in conclusion.

Full statement of President Maithripala Sirisena on ‘Stability and Prosperity in Asia’ at the Outreach Sessions of the G7 Summit. On 27th May 2016 in Japan

I thank the Prime Minister Hon.Shinzo Abe, for the invitation extended to me to attend the Outreach Sessions of the G7 Summit. It is a privilege and honor bestowed on Sri Lanka.

Japan’s formal announcement that G7 will explore what is needed to sustain the well-being of Asia to steer economic growth, highlights the relevance of Sri Lanka being here. It endorses Prime Minister Abe’s reasoning for selecting us.

The 2016 Outreach Session’s theme is on stability and economic prosperity in Asia. The terrorism and conflict that lasted for nearly 30 years resulted in the economic downfall in my country.

Stability and prosperity will depend on the opportunities, political and development environment, giving prominence to the huge public demands, good governance and the psychological needs for freedom, and protection from adverse situations.

With a revolutionary change of governance, my government has succeeded in creating the path for viable development environment and for reconciliation in a multi-faceted society. Now, the people are free and respect human rights. I am aware how G7 countries have appreciated the change we created. This change was endorsed by the people in January and August 2015 in two elections. It exhibited peoples’ opposition to abuse, corruption, and many such ills, which are detrimental to stability and prosperity.

These slowed down capital inflows and investments, which are the mechanisms for stability and prosperity.

To create stability we formed a National Unity Government under my Presidency, combining the country’s two main rival political parties in the Parliament. Our government introduced the 19th Amendment to the Constitution through which I transferred to the Parliament most of my executive powers, except those denied by the Supreme Court. It is democracy at its best.

As a demonstration of my commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law, and my firm determination to wipe out corruption, I established a Special Presidential Task Force to investigate Stolen Government Assets, and appointed a Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery and Corruption and established a Special Division within the Police titled the Financial Crimes Investigation Division to investigate major financial crimes.

Corruption and discrimination were factors that promoted political violence, withdrew investments and created an unstable economy. Therefore, our actions will instill stability and prosperity.

In addition to disengaging executive powers, I re-established the Independent Commissions such as for the Public Service, Human Rights, Police, Elections, Delimitation and Finance.

To focus on reconciliation, as I mentioned at the UN General Assembly, we move forward to establish mechanisms for Truth Seeking, Justice Seeking, Reparation and actions for non-recurrence, based on extensive consultation with all sections.

I wish to pay my tribute to the people of Japan and the Government of japan for the assistance they provided during the last few decades to enhance the economy of my country and to bring peace to my land at the time of war. I wholeheartedly thank the Government and the people of Japan for it.

We lack finances for extensive development efforts and therefore seek developed nations’ and multilateral and bi-lateral investors to invest in Sri Lanka.

Even as I speak to you today, Sri Lanka is recovering from one of the worst floods and landslides we ever experienced. Immediately several countries offered help in our rescue and reconstruction efforts. We thank them and look forward for more development commitments as the destruction is severe.

Therefore, I believe that the G7 Summit of 2016 will look at countries like ours focusing on all these fields. Your invitation to me would yield real benefits beyond bounds, if serious attention is drawn to our problems.

I very much appreciate the feelings of friendship and understanding demonstrated by the Heads of State of G7 countries and the Heads of State of Outreach countries during these sessions.

Finally, while thanking the Organizers for the wonderful hospitality provided to me and my delegation, I wish the outcome of G7 Summit to be a great success.

Thank You.

Source:www.news.lk

Japan extends Yen 38 billion ODA assistance to Sri Lanka

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:24:00 +0000

Japanese Prime Minister offered a Yen 38 billion ODA loan to Sri Lanka for water purification projects for Kidney diseases and establishment of electricity transmission lines connecting the entire country.

Prime Minister Abe thanks President Sirisena for raising Asia’s voice and explaining the Asian perspective to the Western nations at the G 7 Outreach Summit in Ise Shima in Japan.

Following is the joint media statement of Sri Lanka and Japan

Media Statement Japan

Sri Lanka Summit Meeting May 28, 2016 On May 28, 2016, H.E. Mr. Shinzo Abe, Prime Minister of Japan and H.E. Mr. Maithripala Sirisena, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, held a bilateral summit meeting in Nagoya, Japan, following the Outreach Meeting during the G7 Ise-Shima Summit.

Both leaders shared the view, considering the fact Sri Lanka is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, that the development of the country and strengthening regional connectivity are of critical importance to the prosperity of the entire region. Both leaders reaffirmed that they would strengthen cooperation for the implementation of the Comprehensive Partnership between Japan and Sri Lanka and the Partnership for Quality Infrastructure.

3.Economic Cooperation

Prime Minister Abe expressed his intention to provide ODA loans, which amount to approximately 38 billion yen, for the construction of transmission lines in the North Central and Eastern Provinces and water supply facilities in the North Central Province, in order to further promote socio-economic development of Sri Lanka. The project of constructing transmission lines will allow the electricity generated at the power plants that Sri Lanka planned in the Eastern Province to be transmitted to the City of Colombo.

Desiring to contribute to national development efforts in Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Abe expressed his intention to positively consider the provision of Development Policy Loan (DPL), which supports policy and institutional reform in macro-economic and public financial management, as well as the promotion of the private sector.

Both leaders recognized the importance of port development in Sri Lanka, as a key hub nation in the Indian Ocean given the rising demand and the rapid growth of the region. President Sirisena expressed his appreciation for the Japanese assistance provided thus far in this respect. Prime Minister Abe stated that Japan would actively continue its cooperation on the development of the Colombo port and its vicinity under the public and private sector cooperation. Prime Minister Abe also expressed his intention to send survey missions to study the needs and the logistics for hub development of the north port of Colombo and its surrounding areas, as well as the development of the port of Trincomalee.

Prime Minister Abe conveyed Japan’s decision to extend assistance for the development of a master plan of the City of Kandy, which would enable the urban development needs of the ancient city with appropriate consideration for the protection of the cultural heritage. Prime Minister Abe further expressed his intention to send a study mission.

President Sirisena expressed his appreciation for the Japanese assistance.

Both leaders welcomed Sri Lanka’s decision to adopt the Japanese system of Digital Terrestrial Television Broadcasting (DTTB) and the progress of bilateral work to ensure a smooth transition to the DTTB Japanese system, including the establishment of a bilateral Joint Committee to facilitate implementation of the project and holding the first meeting of the committee in June.

President Sirisena stated that the implementation of Digitalization of Terrestrial Analogue Television has been assigned to the Ministry of Parliamentary Reforms and Mass Media.

2. Maritime Cooperation

Both leaders welcomed the convening of the first round of the Policy Dialogue at the Senior Official Level of the two Foreign Ministries and the inaugural Sri Lanka-Japan Dialogue on Maritime Security, Safety and Oceanic Issues in January 2016 in Colombo, where the two maritime states reconfirmed the importance of maintaining the freedom of the high seas and maritime order based on the rule of law. As a part of strengthening maritime cooperation between the two countries, both leaders also acknowledged the importance of the steady progress of the Project for Maritime Safety Capability Improvement (worth approximately 1.8 billion yen), that includes the provision of two patrol vessels.

3. National Reconciliation and Peace building

Both leaders recognized the importance of the ongoing national reconciliation process in Sri Lanka, and welcomed the exchange of notes regarding the Project for the Establishment of Research and Training Complex at the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna (worth approximately 1.7 billion yen) on 18 May, 2016. Prime Minister Abe expressed Japan’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s efforts on national reconciliation, including the contribution by Mr. Motoo Noguchi.

Both leaders decided to establish a Joint Committee with a view to ensure the expeditious implementation of the Joint Declaration on Comprehensive Partnership between Japan and Sri Lanka and to promote concrete cooperation in such areas as economic development, maritime security, national reconciliation and peace building.

President’s Media Division

Source:www.news.lk

Late most Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha thero’s birth anniversary today

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:23:00 +0000

eremony to mark the 74th birth anniversary of the late most Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha thero will be held today (29th May) in the Elapathgama village in Vilachchiya, Anuradhapura.

The Elapathgama village was established by the most Ven. Maduluwawe Sobhitha thero.

Several community services have been scheduled to implement on this day, when the anniversary celebration is held.

The chief prelate of the Kotte Kalyani Samagri Sangha Sabha most Ven. Iththapane Dhammalankara thero, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, and the members of the National Movement for Just Society will be participated.

Source:www.news.lk

NCPI for April 2016 increased with 1.6 index points

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:18:00 +0000

National Consumer Price Index (NCPI) for the month of April 2016 has increased by 1.6 index points or 1.5 percent compared to the previous month of March.

NCPI has been compiled as 111.6 for April and it was 110.0 in March 2016.

According to the Department of Census and Statistics, this monthly change is due to the expenditure value of food items increased by 0.97percent and expenditure value of non-food items increased by 0.45percent.

The expenditure value of food commodity group has increased mainly due to the price increases in Fresh fish, Limes, Salt, Rice, Banana, Potatoes, Sugar, and Chicken, Eggs, Bread, Wheat flour, Vegetables, Big Onions Coconut oil and Garlic. However, decreases in prices were recorded for Papaw, Green chilies, Coconut, Mangoes, Tamarind and Sprats-dry.

The increase of the expenditure value of non-food commodity was mainly due to the expenditure value increases in non-food commodity groups of 'Alcoholic Beverages Tobacco & Narcotics’, ‘Transport’, ‘Clothing and Footwear’ and 'Furnishing, Household Equipment & Routine Household Maintenance' compared to March.

Further, very slight increases in expenditure values were also reported for groups of 'Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels’, ‘Restaurant and Hotels', and 'Miscellaneous Goods and Services'. The expenditure values of 'Health', 'Communication', ‘Recreation and Culture' and ‘Education’ groups remained unchanged during the month.

In a communique issued on NCPI, Dr. Amara Satharasinghe, Director General of Census and Statistics said that Year on Year inflation based on NCPI for the month of April 2016 was calculated as 4.3 percent.

Source:www.news.lk

Second WARP summit in September

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:11:00 +0000

Second Annual Commemoration of World Alliance of Religions’ Peace (WARP) Summit will be taking place from 17th -19th September in Seoul, South Korea.

The Summit aims to discuss how the global society could possibly spread “the Culture of Peace”, emphasized in Article 10 of the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War(DPCW) that was proclaimed in March 2016.

Over 2000 prominent figures including politicians, top level religious leaders, prominent law experts, women and youth leaders and major media journalists will be gathered, and this will be witnessed by 200,000 people at the very place. Especially, Ministry of Education, Minister of Home Affairs and Ministry of Justice of Sri Lanka are expected to participate this summit as the ones who have shown their support on HWPL by writing supporting document.

On 14th March, when DPCW was proclaimed, Wijeyadasa Rajapakse, the Minister of Justice in Sri Lanka, delivered a congratulatory speech, saying “Sri Lanka had a serious war which got just ended 16 years ago, due to differences of Race, Language, Religion, Geopolitical reasons etc.

WARP Summit is remarkable since the two main initiatives of HWPL were announced and after all, have been actively cooperated and supported by International Peace Youth Group (IPYG) and International Women’s Peace Group (IWPG), who are potential war-sufferers. Ever since DPCW was proclaimed, they have raised their voices for an enforceable form of an international law to end any kinds of conflicts in forms of active pledge-signing campaigns, which later on served as a proof of desire shown to the heads of state, international organizations, and the global society. Up until now, 190,000 supporting signatures have been gathered.

Source:www.news.lk

Deadline for GCE O/L applications extended to 10 June

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:08:00 +0000

The deadline, which was set to for the acceptance of applications for the G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination 2016, was extended until 10 June, the Ministry of Education stated.

The deadline was extended owing to the disaster situation, which arose in the country due to flood and landslides during the past few weeks.

Students are now able to collect the application forms from their respective schools, while private candidates will have to submit the application according to the specimen application published in national newspapers. (CDN)

Source:www.news.lk

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh to further strengthen trade relations

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:05:00 +0000

President Maithripala Sirisena held bilateral discussions with the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina on Friday (27th May) at the Hilton Nagoya Hotel in Japan.

During the meeting two countries agreed to further strengthen the trade relations and came into an agreement to maintain the export and import of garments from both countries under a stable pricing method.

The discussions were also held on strengthening the cooperation in investments between two countries.

A special attention was also drawn on the agreement signed by Sri Lanka with Bangladesh to purchase high quality drugs, by the President as the Minister of Health then. Implementation of a more favorable system to exchange drugs under concessionary prices were also among discussions.

Mihin Lanka flight frequencies were also discussed to be increased.

The President as an environment lover extended his best wishes to Bangladesh Prime Minister for receiving the highest environmental accolade “Champions of the Earth” award of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

President Maithripala Sirisena will be visiting Bangladesh in December this year according to an invitation extended by the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Source:www.news.lk

Delay Olympics or move it out of Rio, say experts

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 29 May 2016 14:04:00 +0000

Health experts on Friday urged the World Health Organization (WHO) to consider whether the Rio de Janeiro Olympics should be postponed or moved because of the Zika outbreak.

The 150 experts including a former White House science adviser issued an open letter to the UN health agency, calling for the games to be delayed or relocated “in the name of public health”.

The authors noted that despite increased efforts to wipe out the mosquitoes that spread Zika, cases in Rio have gone up rather than down.

Several public health academics have previously warned that having hundreds of thousands of people head to the Aug. 5-21 games in Brazil will inevitably speed up the virus’s global spread. (The Hindu)

Source:www.news.lk

Historic Lanka-Vietnam trade link established in Hanoi

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:23:00 +0000

The first ever Sri Lanka Vietnam official trade mechanism went live in Hanoi on 21 August. And the new mechanism, according to the Vietnamese side, is the practical way for bigger trade cooperation in the form of an Agreement.

“Today’s new beginning will open many new opportunities for both countries. I am fully convinced that setting up of a Joint Working Group (JWG) or Joint Trade Sub Committee, would lay a concrete foundation to enhance the existing bilateral trade and economic relations new heights. My Ministry would closely monitor the progress” said Industries and Commerce Minister, Rishad Bathiudeen at the Head Quarters of Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam, Hanoi on 21 August.

Minister Bathiudeen, who made an in-depth and lengthy submission, was addressing the opening session of the bilateral discussions to establish the first Joint Trade Sub Committee (JTSC) between the two countries, held at the Head Quarters of Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi on 21 August.

A six member team led by Minister Bathiudeen is currently in Hanoi for the talks to setup this first official trade mechanism. Along with Minister Bathiudeen in the delegation are RDS Kumararatne (DG-Department of Commerce), and Bandula Egodage (Chairman & CEO-EDB). Also joining the Sri Lankan team is Ivan Amarasinghe (Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Vietnam). The seven member Vietnamese official delegation is led by the powerful Minister of Trade and Industry of the Vietnam Vu Huy Hoang and joined by his top commanders-Nuuyen Phuc Nam (Head of Western Asia Markets), and Qui Hui Son (DG-Vietnam Trade Promotion) as well as Deputy Directors. RDS Kumararatne (DG-Department of Commerce) is leading the technical sessions of the first JTSC in Hanoi.

“We commend and highly appreciate Sri Lanka’s efforts on economic and social development strategies-in that povery alleviation and economic development in the short period after the end of war. We greatly appreciate Lanka’s improvements in Human Development Index rankings, poverty reduction and international economic development as well as policies and direction of Sri Lanka’s economic development strategy under Mahinda Chinthana development framework. Vietnam in fact wants to learn from Sri Lanka about the five hub strategy. These are good lessons for us to apply for the social development of our country as well. Vietnam economy too, similar to Sri Lanka has faced difficulties due to global recession. Despite this Vietnam too managed to reconrd strong GDP growth-in 2013 at 5.32% and in the first seven months of 2014 at 5.5%.

"Our inflation which was at 6.2% in 2013 fell to a very low 1.45% in the first seven months of 2014! Our total international trade which stood at $ 266 Bn in 2013, expected to rise to $300 Bn. We have managed to bring our poverty household rate to 9% by 2013. Both Sri Lanka and Vietnam have lots of unrealised potential in joint economic cooperation and investments-in that the current trade volumes are modest and not in par with the strong bilateral cooperation that exists between both countries-and there is vast potential for new heights and lets work together. I request Sri Lanka Ministry of Industry and Commerce under Minister Bathiudeen to establish the Joint Sub Committee on Sri Lanka side and work with us. We take note of Sri Lanka’s proposal and engage relevant agencies in Vietnam to for this effort-both sides will continue their exchanges in this regard. The most practical way after establishing the JTSC is to study the possibility of establishing the Preferential Trade Agreement between both countries.”

At the 3rd Meeting of the Joint Commission held in Hanoi in July 2012, an ambitious target was set at for the total value of bilateral trade to reach US$ 01 Billion in the long term, commensurate with the decision taken by the two leaders during the visit of President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s to Vietnam in October 2011 to Colombo. At present Vietnam ranks as the 40th export destination and the 23rd supplier, accounting for 0.43% of our total exports and 1.06% of our total imports respectively. The total trade between both countries which stood at US dollars 119.5 Million in 2012 increased to US dollars 224.4 Million in 2013 registering a remarkable growth of 88%. Since 2011, Petrovietnam Oil Corporation (PVOil) has supplied to its Sri Lankan partner with petroleum products. In the field of industry, the two countries have concluded a number of important documents, creating a legal framework for further enhanced cooperation activities. Those documents include: the MOU on Machinery Manufacturing Cooperation between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka; the MOU on Oil and Gas Cooperation between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam and Ministry of Industry and Prime Minister’s Secretary Office of Sri Lanka.

“Today’s new beginning will open many new opportunities for both countries” said Minister Bathiudeen, addressing the session, and added: “Sri Lanka being a founder member of the GATT 1994, as well as WTO has been fully committed to liberal and market oriented Economic policies which aimed at achieving greater integration into the world economy. Sri Lanka has been an active participant in the Doha Development Agenda, having tabled, together with other countries, proposals on: technical barriers to trade; geographical indications; labelling of textiles, clothing, footwear, and travel goods; preferences erosion; and trade facilitation. These initiatives and consistency in our economic policies under able leadership of Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President of Sri Lanka with his vision for the future under “Mahinda Chinthana” have brought Sri Lanka much closer with the global partners and in particular, with the countries in Asia. The trade objectives within "Mahinda Chintana" also focus on increasing integration of the Sri Lankan economy with global markets.

'The latest IMF assessment has given a glowing tribute to Sri Lanka’s economic performance. Its July 29th statement says: “Sri Lanka’s economic growth has been one of the fastest among Asia’s developing economies in recent years. After falling to 6.3 percent in 2012, real GDP growth accelerated to 7.3 percent in 2013”. The Free Trade Agreements that Sri Lanka entered into with India (year 2000) and with Pakistan (year 2005) have already become the gateways for the manufacturers and investors in Sri Lanka in accessing the sub-regional market with over 1.6 billion people.

'Sri Lanka is progressing towards becoming South Asia’s Economic nucleus, through developing 05 hubs namely Aviation, Commercial, Maritime, Energy and Knowledge. In the realm of bilateral relations, Sri Lanka and Vietnam have been enjoying warm and cordial relations over a long period of years and it has been steadily developed based on mutual respect and shared values. In this context, I am pleased to observe that the trade volume between Sri Lanka and Vietnam has been growing at a steady pace in recent years. The total trade between both countries which stood at US dollars 119.5 Million in 2012 increased to US dollars 224.4 Million in 2013 registering a remarkable growth of 88%. These facts signify that there is huge, unrealized trade potential between two countries that we jointly need to exploit. However, there is no mechanism in place between the two countries at the government level, at present, aimed at strengthening existing bilateral trade and commercial relations.

"I am glad to learn about growth in the Vietnam Economy and in particular the growth in the industrial and high tech sectors. I am also confident that both countries would find many business opportunities which may be complementary to each other. (H.E)Ton Sinh Thanh, the Vietnamese Ambassador who just returned to your country after his term in Sri Lanka, has been instrumental in further strengthening relations between our two countries. He recently opened a Vietnam Trade Center in Colombo. He is also of the view that possible Free Trade Agreement between the two countries would help to further improve the trade and economic relations. In this context, I am fully convinced that setting up of a Joint Working Group (JWG) or Joint Trade Sub Committee, comprising senior officials from the two countries would lay a concrete foundation to enhance the existing bilateral trade and economic relations new heights. I have no doubts that the deliberations of our technocrats would finalize modalities of the Joint Working Group. My Ministry would closely monitor the progress towards enhanced trade, investment and economic cooperation between our two countries. I am therefore, confident that we may jointly be able to create a trade facilitating environment towards this objective.”(KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Bill & Melinda Gates 2014 award for e- Nenasala Program presented to President

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:20:00 +0000

Minister of Telecommunications and Information Technology Ranjith Siyambalapitiya officially handed over ro President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the award received from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation's 2014 for Sri Lanka's e-Library Nenasala Programme at Temple Trees Thursday (21). The Secretary to the Ministry Gotabhaya Jayarathana was present at the occasion.

Sri Lanka’s e-Library Nenasala Programme (eLNP) won the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation‘s 2014 Access to Learning award of $1 million at a ceremony held in Lyon, France Monday (18).. The award was in recognition of eLNP’s thrust for providing free access to computers and the Internet to underserved Sri Lankans living in remote and rural areas. The Government of Sri Lanka launched the programme as a way to boost digital literacy and encourage economic development throughout the country based on its National Development policy “Mahinda Chinthana”.

A notable feature was the winning of the first place by the Nenasala Project from among 150 Projects launched in around 110 countries.

The eLNP’s centres, known as Nenasalas (wisdom outlets), have helped Sri Lanka increase its computer usage and IT literacy rate from below 10 percent in 2004 to almost 40 per cent today. Centres are located in rural areas to give residents increased access to high quality equipment, training, and locally tailored information to help them improve their lives. Microsoft, a foundation partner, will make available a donation of software to eLNP, It wll be offered as part of its commitment to bring the benefits of relevant and accessible technology to local communities around the world.

The majority of the Nenasalas are located within religious institutions, which have served as community centres and places of learning for centuries. This strategy has helped the Government earn the confidence and trust of Sri Lanka’s rural residents, who have had little access to technology to date. Whether housed in a Buddhist temple, Hindu kovil, Muslim mosque, or Christian church, each e-Library Nenasala is free and open to people of all religions and income levels.

In addition to access, the centres provide training to help people acquire basic computer and Internet skills, and the know-how to use email and social media platforms. Local youth often become volunteer computer trainers at the Nenasalas and are given basic training at the beginning of their service. Their skills are further enhanced through refresher courses, online training programmes, and peer to peer learning opportunities.

Nenasalas also provide extensive learning opportunities for school-age children, including a video-based programme for learning English. Women are given specialized content on critical issues facing children and families, including information on nutrition, breast-feeding, safe sanitation, and vaccines. Adults can perform job searches, learn how to create a resume, and access a wide variety of Government services, including passport applications, driver’s license renewals, and Government exams. Migrant workers who make up a significant portion of the Sri Lankan workforce can communicate via Skype with family members they leave behind.

eLNP is an ICTA project forming part of a larger country-wide strategy to “take the dividends of ICT to every village and every citizen.

Government-run development initiative will use $1 million Access to Learning Award to improve technology centres serving the rural poor.(KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Training for Sportsmen and Athletes in British Army to be explored

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:16:00 +0000

Possibilities for exchange of sports programmes and sports training opportunities between Sri Lanka Army and British Army are to be explored in the future through diplomatic channels in the UK as a result of extensive discussions that ensued when Dr Chris Nonis, Sri Lanka's High Commissioner for United Kingdom called on the Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayake at the Army Headquarters on Thursday (21) evening.

Dr Nonis who arrived in Sri Lanka in order to make concluding remarks at the just concluded 'Defence Seminar-2014' at Colombo Galadari Hotel during his meeting with Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayake extended his congratulations on the successful conduct of the sessions in the Defence Seminar and the wide gamut of contentious issues of both national and international importance that were taken up for deliberations by renowned scholars.

Lieutenant General Daya Ratnayake explained the visiting High Commissioner of the efforts, being made by the Army to elevate sports and athletics to greater heights after he took office a year ago and also the achievements that had been hitherto made by Army sports fraternity bringing laurels both to the Army and the country at large. Commander maintained that if more support were forthcoming from the UK, for example, for coaching/training of athletes, the prospects would shine further.

Dr Nonis assured that everything possible would be done at his level in the UK once he returns to UK. An exchange of mementoes signified the courtesy call.(Army/KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Vietnamese delegation visits Parliament

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:16:00 +0000

A delegation of members of the National Assembly of Vietnam led by the head of Justice Committee Nguyen Van Hien visited Parliament and held bilateral talks with Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkody at the Parliament complex today (21).

Mr Van Hien said that his government hoped to expand the bilateral trade and commerce relations between Sri Lanka and Vietnam. The delegation also expected to share the Sri Lankan experiences in legal and parliament methodologies and mechanisms.

Mr Van Hien also mentioned that his government was extremely satisfied and happy with Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s visit to his country and that visit had strengthened the relationships between the two nations.

The Vietnamese delegation comprised of Mr Van Hien, Nguyen Dinh Quyen, Nguyen Manh Chong, Nguyen Van Hien, Luon Van Thanh and staff members Cao Man Linh, Phung Thanh Ha and Dao Duy Trung. (Special Reporter/HC)

Source:www.news.lk

New Hospital for Kidney Diseases in Galle

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:13:00 +0000

The Government will lay the foundation stone for the biggest hospital for Kidney diseases in the Karapitiya Hospital premises in Galle today.

Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena will lay the foundation stone.

The 8 storied hospital project at a cost of one billion rupees.is expected to be completed within two and half years.

The project includes a ward complex with 19 dialyses machines, an intensive care unit and a research center. )KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Minister Basil opens ''Pro Foods Pack & Agbiz 2014' Exhibition

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:11:00 +0000

'Pro Food Pro Pack & Agbiz 2014' the most comprehensive food, beverage and packaging exhibition was inaugurated today (21) under the patronage of Basil Rohana Rajapaksa , Minister of Economic Development at the Sirimavo Bandaranaike Memorial Exhibition Hall (BMICH).

The exhibition will conclude on August 23. Pro Food Pro Pack & Agbiz 2014 for the 13th successive year is organized by Food Processors Association together with Lanka Exhibition & Conference Services (Pvt) Ltd.

This wide-ranged exhibition provides a one stop solution with the theme “From the Farm to the Kitchen”.

As Sri Lanka’s only agriculture, food and beverage and packaging event, it evidently attracts all stakeholders from the retail and wholesale food/beverage service sectors generating new connections and new business for everyone involved.

As in the past, Pro Food Pro Pack & Agbiz 2014 covers areas such as Agriculture, Poultry, Livestock, floriculture and many more income generating sectors.(SDF/KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Sachithra Senanayake returns to the island

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:10:00 +0000

Sri Lankan Off Spinner Sachithra Senanayake has returned to the island after ten days of remedial work with human movement expert Darryl Foster at the University of Western Australia.

Sachithra was working on remodeling of his bowling action at the University of Western Australia with the aid of the University consultant coach on corrective suspect bowling actions Darryl Foster. Darryl, together with the University Bio Mechanist conducted 10 days of remedial work to remodel Sachithra's action.

SLC will be presenting Sachithra to the ICC accredited Cardiff University for clearance testing subjected to the pending report from Perth. This report is expected to reach SLC within the next fortnight.

Sachithra was accompanied and assisted during this tour by SLC's Head of Coaching Jerome Jayaratne. (KH)

Source:www.news.lk

General Prayuth Chan-ocha voted as Thailand's Prime Minister

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Aug 2014 14:09:00 +0000

General Prayuth Chan-ocha is awaiting royal endorsement to become Thailand's 29th prime minister.

The National Legislative Assembly (NLA) has selected him to head the country's government by a vote of 191 for, 0 against and 3 abstentions, The secretariat of the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) has forwarded the nomination of Prayuth Chan-ocha as prime minister to the Office of His Majesty′s Principal Private Secretary for a royal command to officially appoint him to the post.

Prayuth seized control of the country on May 22, 2014 after months of unrest destabilized the elected government, led by former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra.

Gen Prayuth has said while in Chon Buri today that he wouldn't make any moves until he is officially named prime minister after the royal endorsement.

However, once in office, he has promised his cabinet would strictly adhere to the agenda and timeline set by the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO).

KH/SDF

Source:www.news.lk

President hands over Buddhist relics to temples in US and Korea

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 10:21:00 +0000

Sri Lanka has donated sacred Buddha relics to be placed in temples in the United States and Korea for the Buddhists in those countries to worship.

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa handed over the caskets of sacred Buddha relics to the delegations of the Missouri Buddhist Center in the US and Sokvansa Buddhist Center in South Korea last evening at the Temple Trees.

The religious event has been organized under the patronage of Chief Incumbent of Missouri Buddhist Center Venerable Thavala Bodhiseeha Thero and Chief incumbent of Sokvansa Buddhist Center Venerable Dombagahavela Damitha Thero.(ST/KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Deep and shallow sea areas off the coast

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 10:20:00 +0000

The Met Dept. Dept. says that showers or thundershowers will occur at several places over the sea areas around the island.

Winds will be Southwesterly and the speed will be 20-40 kmph. The winds can strengthen up to 50kmph at times.

The deep and shallow sea areas off the coast extending from Mannar to Hambantota via Galle and the sea areas off the Trincomalee coast will be rough at times as winds can strengthen up to 60kmph at times. Other sea areas around the island may be fairly rough at times.(SDF/KH)

Source:www.news.lk

Japan’s State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Calls on President Rajapaksa

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 10:17:00 +0000

Japan's State Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Mr. Kazuyoshi Akaba called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees this evening.

The primary focus of the discussion was enhancing the trade and economic relations between the two countries.

"We'd like to see new Japanese investors come to Sri Lanka," the President said.
Mr. Akaba said that among the several million companies operating in Japan, more than 90 percent are small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are trying to find new locations for investment for which Sri Lanka could be an option. He said that the new infrastructure such as the Hambantota airport and port, which are strategically located, would also be an added advantage for investors.

“I really strongly believe that countries like Sri Lanka and Myanmar have a lot of potential,” the Minister said.

He also said that investors who had visited the country felt that the investment environment in the island was much better than they had expected, adding that Sri Lanka had “very big promising potential in the medium to long term.”

Other topics discussed during the meeting included Japan’s willingness to assist Sri Lanka with digital broadcasting technology and tourism. Minister Akaba said that the number of tourists from Japan to Sri Lanka is increasing and that Sri Lanka is becoming more popular among Japanese tourists.

While the President thanked Japan for its continued support to Sri Lanka at international forums, Minister Akaba said that President Rajapaksa’s visit to Japan in March of last year and discussions between the President and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe made it possible for the two countries to renew their relations with each other and work towards further strengthening those bilateral ties.

Japan’s Ambassador in Colombo Mr. Nobuhito Hobo and several other officials accompanied the Minister for the discussion.

Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs Mrs. Kshenuka Senewiratne and Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Japan Admiral Wasantha Karannagoda were present during the discussion.

Source:www.news.lk

Dheerasinghe appointed as Chairman Com Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 29 Jul 2014 10:15:00 +0000

Mr Dheerasinghe, an eminent Economist with a distinguish career of over 40 years in the banking industry has been appointment as Chairman pf Commercial Bank PLC effective from 29th of July 2014.

Mr.Dheerasinghe was the Deputy Chairman of the Bank. Previously he was the Senior Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka and was also the Chairman of the Monetary Policy Committee and Sovereign Ratings Committee. He was also the Alternate Executive Director for Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Sri Lanka at the International Monetary Fund.

Mr Dheerasinghe has been a Visiting Lecturer and Moderator/Examiner in Universities of Colombo, Kelaniya, Sri Jayawardenapura and Moratuwa and several professional bodies in Sri Lanka.

He has made a significant contribution to the development of the government debt securities market by innovating and structuring key financial instruments and developing its institutional framework.

A graduate of the University of Colombo, Mr.Dheerasinghe is an Honorary Fellow of the Institute of Bankers of Sri Lanka and holder of Honorary ACI Diploma. (KH)

Source:www,news.lk