NewsRoom

 
Thursday 03 September 2009
India – Sri Lanka Centre for English Language Training
The government entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with India for setting up an India - Sri Lanka Centre for English Language Training (ISLCELT) at Peradeniya. [Full Story]
‘Tri-Star’ branch to North
As approved by the Sri Lanka’s Board of Investment (BOI), Tri-Star Apparel Exports (Pvt.) Limited goes to Northern Province of the country to open up a new plant which would create around 1000 direct employment opportunities. [Full Story]
Inflation down to 0.9 per cent in August
The rate of inflation, as measured by the point-to-point change in the Colombo Consumers’ Price Index (CCPI), decreased to 0.9 per cent in August, from 1.1 per cent in July. [Full Story]
President returns from Libya
President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in Sri Lanka today (3) after participating in the 40th anniversary of Libyan revolution. [Full Story]
LTTE still being promoted - SL Ambassador to U.S
“The LTTE lost the war, and now the pro-LTTE expatriate is trying to defeat the peace,” said Sri Lanka's Ambassador to the US, Jaliya Wickramasuriya speaking before the Homeland Security Policy Institute of The George Washington University. [Full Story]
US pledges support to resettle IDPs
"We strongly support the desire of the Government of Sri Lanka to return internally displaced persons to their homes safely and quickly so they can begin to rebuild their communities,” the editorial of the Voice of America reported quoting James R. Moore, US Charge d'affaires. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 02 September 2009
Mega irrigation projects in North    
The government has taken measures to reconstruct and renovate irrigation system in the Northern Province on the directive of Northern Task Force. [Full Story]
SPC Postal voting on Sep. 29   
Postal voting for the Southern Provincial Council Poll commences on September 29. [Full Story]
Govt. regrets criticism on Tissainayagam verdict
‘Comments undermine independence of judiciary’ 
The Government of Sri Lanka expressed its regret over the criticism on J.S. Tissainayagam verdict. [Full Story]
President meets Pakistan PM   
President Mahinda Rajapaksa, currently attending the 40th anniversary commemoration of the Libyan Revolution met the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani in Tripoli, yesterday (Sep. 1). [Full Story]
“President Rajapaksa an exemplary leader”
– Philippines President   
President Mahinda Rajapaksa held discussions with the President of Philippines Gloria Arroyo in Tripoli, yesterday (Sep. 1). [Full Story]
The steely hand behind demise of Tamil Tigers   
Under the firm guidance of Defense Secretary Rajapaksa, the Sri Lankan military did what the Tamil Tiger leadership least expected it to do—double its manpower and bring the fight direct to the enemy and inflict decisive psychological wounds. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 01 September 2009
Sri Lanka’s S&P sovereign rating –stable   
The Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) has revised Sri Lanka’s sovereign rating outlook to “stable” from “negative” to reflect the country’s improved external liquidity position and better prospects for policy formulation under the Stand-by Arrangement (SBA), approved by IMF on 24 July , states the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
President’s congrats to Japan Democratic Party
President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a message of congratulations to Dr. Yukio Hatoyama, leader of the Democratic Party of Japan states “its victory is a clear demonstration of the confidence the people of Japan have placed in your leadership and vision for a new era for Japan”. [Full Story]
‘Without development, there won't be peace’- President  
"Without development, there won't be peace; we must develop the economy, I don't want to just be the liberator, ... [Full Story]
India to connect ferry service with SL
The proposal for ferry connectivity between India and Sri Lanka, mooted at the SAARC Transport Ministers’ conference, may have received a further boost with the Union Shipping Ministry understood to have given a green signal in this regard, reported ‘The Hindu- Business Line’. [Full Story]
SL to call new oil exploration bids
Sri Lanka will soon call for fresh bids for oil exploration in the waters of the Mannar Basin off the north-west coast, Central Bank governor Nivard Cabraal told an investment conference in Colombo. [Full Story]
President arrives in Libya 
President Mahinda Rajapaksa who left for Libya for a two day official visit to attend the 40th anniversary of Libyan revolution arrived in the Mitiga International Airport in Tripoli yesterday(Aug. 31). [Full Story]
 
Monday 31 August 2009
Tissainayagam sentenced to 20 years RI
The Colombo High Court today (31) sentenced journalist J.Tssainayagam to 20 years rigorous imprisonment (RI) under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. [Full Story]
Romesh Jayasinghe-new Foreign Secretary
Mr. Romesh Jayasinghe, a senior Foreign Service Officer who is currently the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in New Delhi has been appointed by President Rajapaksa as the new Foreign Secretary with effect from 1st October 2009. [Full Story]
Search for LTTE cadres planning terror attacks
‘KP’ questioning provides many leads
There is an intense search on for LTTE cadres and active supporters who survived final defeat. Intelligence reports say they could rebuild the LTTE and even now are trying to carry out terror activities. [Full Story]
Govt. rejects baseless comments by Solheim
"Possible partisanship to LTTE as facilitator"
The Sri Lanka government deeply regrets the baseless comments contained therein and is perturbed by such statements being made by the Norwegian Minister against a friendly government. [Full Story]
 
Friday 28 August 2009
'Channel 4' gets flak for exploiting journalist
'Channel 4' UK , the news network which broadcast the false and unverified video footage on Aug 25 which allegedly showed the summary killing by Sri Lankan troops of Tamil civilians in January this year, has come in for heavy criticism from many quarters for the exploiting of a journalist to obtain a sensational news item. [Full Story]
LTTE cadres infiltrate Northern IDP ranks - Minister
The government has reliable information that LTTE cadres have infiltrated the ranks of the IDPs in the Northern welfare centers. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka comes to Dilli Haat
The “Shilpa Sri Lanka-2009”, a ten-day exhibition showcasing traditional art and modern handicrafts that are symbolic of Sri Lanka’s scenic beauty and its multi-ethnic and multi-cultural diversity is now at Dilli Haat in India. [Full Story]
Massive paddy cultivation in North
The government inaugurated a massive agricultural project yesterday (Aug. 27) in the Jaffna peninsula for the cultivation of 450 hectares of paddy land, under the ‘Uthuru Vasanthaya’ Northern development programme. [Full Story]
Switzerland donates essential drugs for IDPs
Switzerland has donated a 3rd stock of urgently required medical supplies to the Ministry of Health (MoH) for the treatment of Internally Displaced Persons in the North. [Full Story]
Digital technology for TV transmission in SL
Digital broadcasting technology is to be introduced in Sri Lanka next year, at present Sri Lanka deploys the analog technology for terrestrial television broadcasting. [Full Story]
ACHC welcomes the resettlement clergy
The All Ceylon Hindu Congress (ACHC) has welcomed the action taken by the Government to release Hindu priests and their families from IDP welfare villages. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 27 August 2009
FAO boost for Eastern farmers
The Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will provide significant assistance to enhance food security, nutrition and farming activities in the East. [Full Story]
Nearly 50,000 IDPs to be resettled
The government is proceeding with arrangements to re-settle at least another 50,000 IDPs from Vavuniya relief camps, in the next two weeks. [Full Story]
Channel 4: Absolutely false, deliberately sinister – Sri Lanka
There is a absolutely no truth to the allegations made in video footage shown on UK’s Channel 4 News on Aug 25 claiming alleged atrocities against the Sri Lankan Tamil community during the recently concluded military offensive against the LTTE;... [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 26 August 2009
"Channel 4" video absolutely false - Govt.
The video footage recently aired on 'Channel 4' UK claiming to show alleged atrocities committed by Sri Lankan forces against Tamils is absolutely false and has been deliberately put together to bring disrepute to the Government of Sri Lanka, states the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo. [Full Story]
LTTE associate arrested in Chennai
The special crime branch of CBI yesterday arrested a Sri Lankan Tamil, John Prabhakaran, who has been wanted in two fake passport cases. [Full Story]
Will the LTTE Resurrect?
Will the remnant LTTE fighters and suicide bombers who infiltrated the Sinhala dominated southern Sri Lanka melt away or are they still capable of mounting guerilla attacks and terror strikes? That’s a question which continues to haunt Colombo. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 25 August 2009
New roads to link N-E with South
Two new roads, Trincomalee outer Circular Road and Seruwila-Somawathiya Road have been planned by the Road Development Authority (RDA) with the active participation of the Sri Lanka Army to improve connectivity between the Eastern and Northern Provinces with the rest of the country and facilitate an efficient road network for the economic development of the country. [Full Story]
'Asian Elephant Day' in US
The two elephants of Sri Lankan lineage featured prominently in the 'Asian Elephant Day' celebration recently held at the Washington National Zoo (WNZ). [Full Story]
Srilankan progress in airline engineering
Srilankan Engineering recently carried out two major projects for Airblue, the privately owned Pakistani airline that has been one of its long-time customers. [Full Story]
More Malaysian help for IDPs
The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) has raised Malaysian Ringgit 12000 to assist IDPs in Sri Lanka during the second phase of their fund raising campaign. [Full Story]
US funds language training in EP
Sinhala and Tamil language training to elected government officials and staff from 11 local government authorities in Eastern Province to help them provide better services to the multi-ethnic communities they serve, is provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). [Full Story]
US Court upholds law against attempt to de-list the LTTE
The Federal Appeals Court in San Francisco ruled against an attempt to de-list the LTTE by the Humanitarian Law Project, which had challenged an executive order issued by President George W. Bush in 2001. [Full Story]
Fundamentals of Victory against terror
Sri Lankan Example
In an in-depth analysis of the Sri Lankan government’s defeat of the LTTE, the ‘Indian Defence Review’ has identified Eight Fundamentals of Victory. [Full Story]
Customs has immense responsibilities for progress-President
The Customs Service has far reaching responsibilities for the development of the country, protection of culture and improvement of society, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing Customs personnel at the ceremony to mark the 200th anniversary of establishing the Customs Service in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
 
Monday 24 August 2009
Another 1,898 persons re-settled in Mannar
In the second phase of the resettlement process by the government 442 families numbering 1,898 persons were resettled in Musali Divisional Secretariat Division in Mannar District last Friday, Aug. 21. [Full Story]
CB warns public of pyramid schemes
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka has again warned the public to refrain from participating in prohibited pyramid schemes. [Full Story]
Civil courts for Kilinochchi & Mullaitivu
The Ministry of Justice has taken a decision to set up courts in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts, before resettlements take place in those areas. [Full Story]
 
Friday 21 August 2009
SL defeated terrorism without British arms - Army Chief
The Army has vehemently rejected allegations in British press reports that weapons of British origin had been used against the LTTE in the Eelam War IV. [Full Story]
Archaeology dept. launches new digs
The Department of Archaeology is to launch 51 fresh projects within this year to excavate and preserve ancient sites with archeological values, said Acting Deputy Director of the Architectural Conservation Division of the Archaeology Department, Prasanna Rathnayake. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves top $3 bn- CB
Sri Lanka’s foreign-exchange reserves have exceed $3 billion after more than $ 875 million flowed in during the week from an international hedge fund in the US interested in investing in government Treasury bonds. [Full Story]
More Army engineering troops for de-mining
Sri Lankan Army has already sent more engineering troops for de-mining and sending more battalions to be trained in ‘humanitarian de-mining,’” the Army would soon send more of its engineers for additional de-mining work, said the Army chief Lieutenant-General Jagath Jayasuriya speaking at his Regimental Headquarters yesterday, Aug.20. [Full Story]
Govt’s goal resettlement of IDPs in original areas of residents
The government’s eventual goal is the resettlement of IDPs in the areas in which they originally resided, said Disaster Management and Human Rights Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe, addressing the parliament yesterday, Aug. 20. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 20 August 2009
Brazil to enhance economic ties with SL
The Brazil has identified the importance of enhancing economic and trade ties between Brazil and Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka is best place to invest - Indian developer
India's Puravankara Projects, a Bangalore-based developer is ready to start a villa project in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Shashindra Rajapaksa - Chief Minister of Uva
Shashindra Rajapaksa took oaths as the new Chief Minister of the Uva Provincial Council before President Mahinda Rajapaksa this morning, Aug. 20. [Full Story]
De-mining gets more from US
The United States is contributing an additional $6 million for de-mining activities in the North to help expedite the resettlement of the Internally Displaced persons (IDPs) in their original homes. [Full Story]
Island-wide census after 30 years
The Department of Census and Statistics is to conduct the first island-wide population and housing census after thirty years: the last survey done 10 years ago did not include the then LTTE dominated areas. [Full Story]
More aid from US for IDPs
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), is providing $2 million for short-term assistance to benefit 200,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in several areas including information, healthcare and sanitation. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 19 August 2009
BOI grabs wind power
The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka granted investment approval to four companies for investments worth US $ 68 million. [Full Story]
Nallur - thousands attend final rituals
Devotees in their thousands have flocked to the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil in Jaffna today, for the 24th day of the annual historic and cultural Hindu festival being held for the first time since the end of the war. [Full Story]
Govt. vigilant over potential for regrouping of LTTE - President
The Government stays vigilant over the potential for regrouping of LTTE terrorists and takes measures to arrest the LTTE's overseas leaders to protect National Security. [Full Story]
Japan-SL friendship helps Army
Japan - Sri Lanka Friendship Association handled over Rs.72 million worthy donation to Sri Lanka Army. [Full Story]
Tamil Nadu warns LTTE supporters
In an apparent warning to a pro-LTTE group, the Tamil Nadu government said "stringent action" would be taken against those speaking in support of banned organizations and eulogizing their leaders. [Full Story]
Bahrain gives US$ 1 mn for IDPs
The Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain has announced a cash donation of US$ 1 million to Sri Lanka for the resettlement and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 18 August 2009
End of war brings back tourists - The Independent
The end of the war in Sri Lanka has resulted in a rapid jump of the number of tourists coming to the country, states Britain's The Independent newspaper. [Full Story]
Tamil-Canadian student leader was LTTE VIP
Photos of a former Canadian Tamil student's association leader handling and firing guns at a LTTE camp have been unsealed by the United States prosecutors in advance of his sentencing on terrorism charges. [Full Story]
No change in interest rates - CB
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has decided to maintain the interest rates at their existing levels. [Full Story]
More Indian relief for IDPs
The Government of India yesterday handed over to the U.N. the fourth consignment of relief goods for IDPs in the North. The 600-tonne consignment is valued at more than $3-million. [Full Story]
More than 15,000 IDPs to be resettled
The Government yesterday said more than 15,000 IDP families from the Jaffna district will be resettled in their original homes soon. [Full Story]
 
Monday 17 August 2009
SL tops list of most satisfied persons in Asia Pacific region
The study titled “Eye on Asia” by the Grey Group Asia Pacific, a leading marketing communication company ranks Sri Lanka on top of the list of most satisfied persons in the Asia Pacific region, with 93 per cent of Sri Lankans stating they are most satisfied with their lives. [Full Story]
Devotees gather in large numbers at Madhu
More than 200,000 devotees from all parts of the country celebrated the feast of Our Lady of Madhu on August 15 without any fear after 30 years under the full state patronage. [Full Story]
World Bank gives Rs. 2,760 mn for health service
The International Development Association (IDA) of the World Bank will provide concessionary additional credit of Rs. 2,760 million for Health Sector Development Project (HSDP) with particular emphasis on the special health needs in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. [Full Story]
Vavuniya flooding subsides
More than 500 internally displaced persons, who are accommodated in the Menik Farm, who were taken to safer areas by the security forces due to the flooding, have now returned to their camps. [Full Story]
India to send agriculture experts to SL
The Indian government will send a team of agriculture experts to Sri Lanka to assist in activation of farming in former war-torn areas in the north. [Full Story]
 
Friday 14 August 2009
China funds more development in SL
The Exim Bank of China is to provide more than US$ 350 million for two major development projects in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Tourist arrivals up in July
The number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka went up 28 percent to 42,223 in July 2009, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, according to figures released by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. [Full Story]
Malaysia donates $100,000 for IDPs 
The Government of Malaysia has provided US$100,000 to assist the internally displaced persons (IDPs) of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka to issue US$500mn sovereign bond
Following the success of its recent Development Bonds issue, the Government is expected to issue a five year US$ 500 million sovereign bond in late September or early October to the international capital market, states the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka holds first SA Vocational Education Summit
The first South Asian Vocational Education and Training Conference will be held in Sri Lanka from August 19 to 22. [Full Story]
Dr. Palitha Kohona is new Permanent Representative of SL to UN
Dr. Palitha Kohona, will shortly assumed duties as the Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, New York. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka – new opportunity for U.S. Investors
The U.S. Government is encouraging U.S. companies and financiers to invest in Sri Lanka. It urges the U.S. business community to make Sri Lanka their next business stop, said the Washington DC embassy of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 13 August 2009
Large hauls of weapons and explosives found
The troops of 57 Division recovered following military items in a search operation conducted in the Vishvamadu area yesterday (12): 06 Hand Grenades and 11 Arrul bombs. [Full Story]
e-learning and ICT to Pirivena Education
Cabinet granted approval to introduce e-learning and ICT capacity building in Pirivena Education at a cost of USD 10 million utilizing funds received from the Chinese Government.
[Full Story]
Private remittances increased
Private remittances increased by 5.4 per cent, to US dollars 1,586 million in 2009, comparing to the corresponding period of the first half of 2008, states the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL). [Full Story]
Vidatha gives technical equipment to IDPs
Technical equipment worth of Rs. 756,192 was handed over to the Internally Displaced People, through the Vidatha Resource Centres, by Science and Technology Ministry this week. [Full Story]
Mobile network to North
A leading telecom company has activated the first phase of a network expansion to former war-torn areas in the north, which may cost up to 10 million US dollars, officials said. [Full Story]
Mobile Service to issue identity documents to IDPs
The Constitutional Affairs and National Integration Ministry in collaboration with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) implemented a program to issue legal documents including National Identity Cards (NIC) to the IDPs in Vavuniya. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 12 August 2009
BTI bacteria from Lanka and Cuba to combat dengue 
The Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry which said that both BTI bacteria produced in Sri Lanka and Cuba would be used as a subsidiary strategy to destroy dengue mosquito larvae, ... [Full Story]
Britain risks being 'safe haven for evil' - Lawmakers
Britain risks being seen as a "safe haven for evil" by criminals responsible for genocide, war crimes and torture abroad, who effectively face no threat of prosecution here, lawmakers warned on Tuesday. [Full Story]
Special bus, train services for Madu pilgrims 
The Transport Ministry has introduced special bus and train services to cater to pilgrims visiting the Sacred Madhu Church for the annual feast this season. [Full Story]
Japan provides Rs.35 Mn for Trinco children
The Government of Japan has provided US$ 302, 648 (approximately Rs.35 Million) for the “Early Childhood Care and Development Project in Trincomalee District” to be implemented by the Save the Children Japan (SCJ), ... [Full Story]
SL- Vietnam to expand trade links
Sri Lanka and Vietnam have expanded a number of new areas of cooperation including Agriculture, Fisheries and Security Cooperation, ... [Full Story]
Development Bonds oversubscribed
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) announced that the $150-million Development Bonds (SLDBs) it floated to eligible foreign and local commercial banks has been oversubscribed 1.3 times. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 11 August 2009
Ex-child soldiers sit A/L exam
More than 150 ex-child soldiers in the welfare camps of Vavuniya are among the 242,091 GCE Advanced Level Examination candidates. [Full Story]
Peacetime Sri Lanka will offer better returns - Jim Rogers
Sri Lankan stocks may offer better returns as the end of the 26-year war frees up government spending for investments in infrastructure and agriculture, ... [Full Story]
Sri Lanka strengthens coastal surveillance
Sri Lanka continues to maintain a close watch on possible terrorist related and other illegal and criminal activities on the country's coastal line. [Full Story]
New Archbishop is mission for faith and country - President
“The new Archbishop occupies a special place among the Archbishops in Sri Lanka who brought great honour and prestige to the country. [Full Story]
Central Bank to regulate payment card services
The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) has decided to regulate the payment card services in the country to enhance the level of security and efficiency to protect customers and increase public confidence in such payments. [Full Story]
Agreement to upgrade coastal railway
The Ministry of Transport and RITES of India have concluded an agreement for upgrading the coastal railway from Colombo to Matara at a cost of US$ 167 million. [Full Story]
 
Monday 10 August 2009
Nominations invited for SPC
Nominations are invited from political parties for the forthcoming Southern Provincial Council Election which begins August 21 and ends August 28, Elections Commissioner, Dayananda Dissanayake said in a news release. [Full Story]
U.S. extends additional US$ 15 million to North
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced a new donation of $15 million (Rs. 1.724 billion) of food aid to support the early return of displaced persons in the North. [Full Story]
All countries must join against terrorism - President
"Terrorism is not only a problem for Sri Lanka. It is also a problem for the whole world. [Full Story]
President appoints Tax Commission
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has appointed 10 members to a Presidential Commission on taxation to look into issues relating to the tax system in Sri Lanka in pursuance of section 2 of the Commission of Inquiry Act (Chapter 393). [Full Story]
Vavuniya and Mannar towns lit up
Vavuniya and Mannar towns where were in the dark during the separatist war, have now lit up with street lamps under the Uthuru Vasanthaya program. [Full Story]
President congratulates Ahmadinejad
President Mahinda Rajapaksa congratulated his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on his re-election for a second term at his country's president. [Full Story]
Polls results: Victory of policies to stabilize democracy
- President
The outstanding victory achieved by the United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) in the elections held yesterday to the Uva Provincial Council and the Jaffna Municipal Council is seen by me as a victory for all who love our motherland. [Full Story]
Democracy triumphs in Provincial and local polls
UPFA - crushing victory at Uva, majority in Jaffna
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) gained a crushing victory at elections to the Uva Provincial Council last Saturday (08) winning 25 of the 34 seats in the Uva Provincial Council election, and also won a majority of the seats in the Jaffna Municipal Council. [Full Story]
 
Friday 07 August 2009
Joint Railway-Bus service for Jaffna bound
The Government will shortly commence a joint Railway-Bus service from the Vavuniya railway station for the benefit of Jaffna bound civilians. [Full Story]
SL-Pakistan to expand trade links
With Pakistan and Sri Lanka expanding their existing trade links, industrialists are now talking in terms of joint ventures in tea, director general of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Mr Iqbal Jamshed had said the American News Network (ANN) yesterday. [Full Story]
KP arrested
Shanmugam Kumaran Tharmalingam alias Kumaran Pathmanathan or KP, who claims to be the new leader of the LTTE after the death of V. Prabhakaran, was arrested on Wednesday and brought to Sri Lanka is now being questioned in Colombo. [Full Story]
Uva, Jaffna & Vavuniya elections tomorrow
The Elections Department is ready to hold both the Uva Provincial Council and Jaffna and Vavuniya Local Government elections tomorrow, Aug. 8. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 06 August 2009
SL receives more assistance from Italy
The Italian government has decided to allocate another contribution of Euros 300,000 (Rs.48 million) to the UNHCR for the benefit of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
ICASL, AAT branch out to Jaffna
The Institution of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka (ICASL) and the Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) are now located in Jaffna too. [Full Story]
Significant increase in SL Reserves
The Gross Official Reserves of Sri Lanka have been estimated to reach USD 2,180 million as at 31.07.2009 showing an increase of 71% from the foreign reserve levels of USD 1,272 million as reported on 31.03.2009, states the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
British High Commissioner visits Yala National Park
Following the UK's decision to remove advice against travel to Yala, Arugam Bay and Trincomalee in early July the British High Commissioner with his family visited Yala National Park in the East (block 1) to observe the wild elephants and leopards. [Full Story]
Post war flurry of new investment interests in Sri Lanka-Barron’s online
War’s end has prompted a flurry of new share issues and Sri Lanka based investment, states Barron’s America’s premier financial magazine in its latest issue. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka - Cuba relations strengthened
Geographic distances, as well as cultural, ethnic and religious differences, have never become an obstacle preventing our relations of friendship and cooperation from being increasingly solid, said Cuban Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister,... [Full Story]
President assures safe custody of Raju and Sindu
President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday handed over the guardianship of the two baby elephants- Raju and Sindu by way of a scroll in keeping with traditions, now housed at the Temple of Tooth Relic to Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka living up to world record in re-settlement
Sri Lanka will live up its own world record on resettlement of displaced persons, which was established in IDP resettlement in the East, ... [Full Story]
India funds for Palaly runway project
India recently handed over bank drafts worth Rs. 117 million to Sri Lanka for the Palaly Runway Rehabilitation project in the Jaffna peninsula. [Full Story]
President declares open Uva-Wellassa University
President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared open the Uva-Wellassa University yesterday.  [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 04 August 2009
Polls campaigns end tomorrow
Campaigning for the local elections in Jaffna, Vavuniya and the provincial poll to the Uva Provincial Council will end tomorrow midnight. [Full Story]
Tug-of-war for LTTE drug cartel 
Following the LTTE Leader Prabhakaran's death, a massive tug-of-war is on in the drug world to grab his multi-million dollar drug cartel. [Full Story]
Pakistan to share commercial intelligence with Sri Lanka
Pakistan was prepared to share vital commercial intelligence with Sri Lanka, said Pakistan's trade authority yesterday. [Full Story]
Lanka-Nepal to begin direct flights
Plans are under way to have direct flights between Sri Lanka and Nepal soon, said Foreign Secretary, Dr. Palitha Kohona. [Full Story]
Madhu Feast on grand scale after 27 years
Catholics are ready to celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Madhu without any fear after 27 years. Under state patronage all arrangements are being made to hold the "Annual Madhu Feast" on a grand scale on August 15. [Full Story]
Inflation remains low
The rate of inflation, as measured by the point-to-point change in the Colombo Consumers’ Price Index (CCPI), recorded 1.1 per cent in July, 2009 after reaching five year low of 0.9 per cent in June, 2009. [Full Story]
Air travel facilities for Nallur pilgrims 
The Ministry of Tourism has made arrangements to provide air travel facilities for pilgrims to the annual Nallur Kandasamy Kovil festival in Jaffna which began on July 27 and continue till 19 August with thousands of devotees flocking daily to the venue. [Full Story]
Another 1500 IDPs to re-settle tomorrow 
Another batch of 1,500 civilians from the Menik Farm relief village will be re- settled in Omanthai, Nochchimotai, Piramanalamkulam, Pirappumadu areas from tomorrow, Aug. 05, under the government's 180 day resettlement program. [Full Story]
Southern PC dissolved 
The Southern Provincial Council (SPC) was dissolved by the Government at midnight yesterday. [Full Story]
 
Monday 03 August 2009
SL- India sign MoU to rebuild infrastructure
Recognizing the vital role of infrastructure development in human rehabilitation programmes the Institute for Construction Training and Development (ICTAD) of Sri Lanka recently signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with the Construction Industry Development Council (CIDC) of India, ...[Full Story]
All measures in place to meet Northern housing demand
The government has taken steps to meet the housing demand in the North under the 'Uthuru Wasanthaya 'programme. [Full Story]
US donates medical equipment to Northern hospitals
Hospitals in the Northern-Eastern provinces received $1.6 million worth of medical equipment, from the United States Pacific Command. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka tourism Promotion in Eastern China
To further enhance ties between Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau and Shanghai Municipal Tourism Bureau as well as to promote Sri Lanka in East China, a ten-member Shanghai Municipal Tourism Bureau delegation comprising officials from Shanghai Municipal Tourism Bureau, Chinese travel agencies and media, visited Sri Lanka on August 02. [Full Story]
Bank facilities to North & East
The people in the North and the East will soon have new banking facilities. [Full Story]
Extension of Indian medical & de-mining assistance
India has taken action to extend the medical support and de-mining activities in the North. [Full Story]
 
Friday 31 July 2009
No community systematically destroyed in Sri Lanka - President
"No community has been systematically destroyed in my country and no Sri Lankan government would stand such brutality and we do not bomb civilian targets thousands of miles away from our homeland. [Full Story]
Govt improves transport facilities in North
In parallel with other programs to develop the Northern Province, the government is taking actions to uplift the transport service in Jaffna. [Full Story]
Sri Lankan fishermen reap benefits of war's end
Sri Lankan fishermen reap benefits of war's end. The end of the war against the LTTE prompted the government to ease fishing restriction in Northern seas, breathing new life into the region's moribund fishing industry. [Full Story]
Major General Daya Rathnayake new Commissioner General of Rehabilitation
Major General Daya Rathnayake has been appointed as the new Commissioner General of Rehabilitation by President Mahinda Rajapaksa. [Full Story]
Over 400,000 devotees expected to visit Madhu Shrine
Over 400,000 devotees are expected to visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar to attend its annual feast. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 30 July 2009
Huge stocks of hidden LTTE weapons found
The troops of Task Force 08 recovered following military equipment in a search operation conducted in the Pudukuduirippu East area yesterday (29): ... [Full Story]
Lak sathosa to Jaffna
The Government opened the first new Lak sathosa outlet in Jaffna, July 28, to provide essential commodities at concessionary rates to consumers in the North. [Full Story]
Telecom suppliers to share facilities in N & E
Telecom firms racing to set up networks in the North and the East are being encouraged to share infrastructure under a new rebuilding plan. [Full Story]
New Rail bus service between Batticaloa - Tricomalee
Under the "Re-Awakening of East" program of the Government, a new Rail-Bus service launched to facilitate transportation between Battticaloa and Trincomalee yesterday. [Full Story]
Govt. in association with BOI launched a FDI promotion in USA
The Government of Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Board of Investment (BOI) launched a comprehensive Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Promotion in the West Coast of the USA recently. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 29 July 2009
Health conditions improving in IDP camps - WHO
Disease surveillance activities in the welfare centres in Northern Sri Lanka continue to improve, the World Health Organization (WHO) said in a recent report. [Full Story]
Bahrain commends President’s lead in defeating terrorism
The defeat of terrorism in Sri Lanka under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa was both admirable and commendable, ...[Full Story]
Sri Lanka - Bahrain bilateral ties
Several bilateral agreements in the fields of Foreign Affairs, Economics, Trade and Technical Cooperation and Tourism were signed today (July 29) between Sri Lanka and the Kingdom of Bahrain. [Full Story]
More facilities to resettle IDPs
Government has provided funds and vehicles to facilitate the well being of thousands of people who fled due to terrorist attacks in the Weli-Oya–Padaviya Sector when they are resettled before end August, official sources said. [Full Story]
More cinemas for North & East
Art Centre too for Jaffna
Plans are in place to resurrect 8 cinemas in the North and East, many of which have been ravaged by the war. [Full Story]
SL in link to promote tourism in South Asia
Sri Lanka has been included in an Asian Development Bank funded project to link and promote tourist sites in South Asian countries, especially for eco-tourism and pilgrimage tourism. [Full Story]
Bahrain Prime Minister warmly received at the Bandaranaike International Airport
Bahrain Prime Minister, Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa was received by the Prime Minister Rathnasiri Wickramanayaka and Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the Bandaranaike International Airport yesterday (28). [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 28 July 2009
Sigiriya Museum a treasured gift from Japan - President
As a nation we believe in providing our people the opportunity to view all things of historical value. [Full Story]
Weli-Oya, Padaviya IDPs to be re-settled by Aug 31
Government has decided to resettle thousands of families displaced from the Weli-Oya - Padaviya sector under the 180-day Uthuru Vasanthaya Programme before August 31. [Full Story]
G-15 chairmanship to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has accepted the Chairmanship of the Group of Fifteen (G-15), a coalition of 18 developing countries established to develop mutually beneficial cooperation among developing countries, especially in the areas of investment, trade and technology. [Full Story]
Bahrain Prime Minister on official visit to Sri Lanka
On the invitation of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Prime Minister of Kingdom of Bahrain, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Salman Al Khalifa, will be on an official visit to Sri Lanka from 28-30 July 2009. [Full Story]
Time to strengthen SAARC Intra-regional Connectivity - Govt.
The Government of Sri Lanka has emphasized that strengthened connectivity and seamless passage for peoples of the region would lead to enhanced trade and greater intra-regional people-to-people contact, ... [Full Story]
Sri Lanka keen on new investments from India
Sri Lanka is looking at investments from India to key sectors to assist the rebuilding programme initiated by the Government, said Deputy High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in Chennai, P.M. Amza on Monday. [Full Story]
US welcomes Govt. efforts for IDP relief
The United States welcomes the sustained efforts of relief providers, both from the Sri Lanka Government and the local and international organizers, to address the critical needs of this very large community of IDPs, said Eric P Schwartz, US Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees and Migration, on the situation of the IDPs in the North of Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
 
Monday 27 July 2009
Nepal - Lanka to boost cooperation in key areas
Nepal and Sri Lanka have agreed to boost cooperation in key areas and make economic, cultural, political and trade relations between the two countries. [Full Story]
Govt. aims to cushion impact of global crises on vulnerable
- LoI to IMF
The objective of the government's economic program is to cushion the impact of the global financial crisis on our economy and in particular its effects on the most vulnerable, ... [Full Story]
Plantation workers a vital part of Sri Lankan economy - President
The Up-country plantation workers are a vital part of Sri Lankan workforce. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka to take stringent action against human trafficking
The Government informed Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Christopher Evans, to illicit migration is very serious and that Sri Lanka is taking stringent action to prosecute those involved in such illegal activities. [Full Story]
New Katugastota Bridge opened
President Mahinda Rajapaksa opened the new Katugastota Bridge which connects Kandy town, Matale and Kurunegala, yesterday, July 26. [Full Story]
Large hauls of military items recovered
Sri Lanka Army Troops of the Task Force 8 conducted extensive search operations covering the entire Puthukudyruppu area on July 25 recovered the following haul of war materials during the search operations: [Full Story]
Indian-Sri Lanka to resume ferry service
India and Sri Lanka have decided to resume the ferry service between two countries soon and have already put in place the infrastructure for commence the proposed ferry service from Colombo to Kochi. [Full Story]
 
Friday 24 July 2009
Tourism drives post-war recovery in Sri Lanka - Manila Times
A tear-drop shaped island nestled seductively on the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka is blessed with more than its fair share of abundant and varied touristy delights from golden beaches and lush mountains to colorful festivals and a rich cultural past that dates back several centuries. [Full Story]
International Community Confidence on SL economy increased
End of the war against the LTTE in Sri Lanka, increased the confidence of International Community very high and Sri Lanka’s success in securing USB 2.5 billion IMF loan facility had reflected the confidence on International Community.  [Full Story]
USAID & Hayleys help Eastern farmers
USAID, in partnership with the Sri Lankan agricultural manufacturer Hayleys Group have started to help Tamil, Muslim, and Sinhalese rice farmers to increase their incomes through modern agricultural practices. [Full Story]
SL will support to counter scourge of terrorism
- Foreign Minister at ARF
“Sri Lanka will continue to support global measures to counter the scourge of terrorism, including the early conclusion of the Global Convention on Terrorism in addition to subscribing to the UN Convention dealing with Terrorism”, said Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at the ARF Conference held in Phuket, Thailand, yesterday, July 23. [Full Story]
Relief Villages improve in keeping with global norms and standards - Human Rights Minister
The conditions in the Relief Villages and welfare centres are continuously improved and upgraded in keeping with global norms and standards, said the Minister of Human Rights & Disaster Management, Mahinda Samarasinghe addressing in Parliament on July 22. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 23 July 2009
India earmarks Rs 500 cr for IDPs
India has earmarked Rs 500 crore for the relief and rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Fuel prices in North reduced
The fuel prices in the Northern Province reduced, said Secretary to the Ministry of Petroleum, W.B. Ganegala. [Full Story]
Washington Sri Lankans contribute to Api Venuven Api
Members of the Sri Lankan community in Washington, D.C. area raised several thousand dollars for the Api Wenuwen Api Ranaviru Housing Project Fund. [Full Story]
Moves to draw Northern interest in capital markets
The Securities and Exchange Commission has implemented key measures in Jaffna to attract people in the North to capital markets. [Full Story]
SL invites bids for coal
Sri Lanka has invited bids to supply 2.4 million metric tonnes of coal for the country's first coal power plant built by Ceylon Electricity Board, which is scheduled to be commissioned next year. [Full Story]
SL releases 21 Indian fishermen
Twenty one fishermen from India arrested on July 4 by Sri Lankan Navy have been released and were handed over to Indian Coast Guard (ICG) personnel at the International Maritime Boundary line on Wednesday, reported the Indian Express yesterday. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 22 July 2009
A-9 opened to public  
A-9 Jaffna - Kandy main highway reopened today (July 22), for the general public, after a lapse of 19 years due to terrorism. [Full Story]
Govt. to resettle more IDPs in next month
The Government yesterday announced that they have taken steps to resettle more Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), sheltered in the welfare villages in Vanni at the beginning of next month under the government's 180-day resettlement program. [Full Story]
Postal votes on 27 & 28 for Uva, Jaffna & Vavuniya
Commission of Elections has announced July 27th and 28th as the dates for marking of postal ballot papers. [Full Story]
Colombo Stock Market rally on IMF loan deal
The Colombo Stock Market continued its positive momentum with the market following the reports that the IMF loan is approved. [Full Story]
Air Force to begin commercial flights
Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is to begin domestic commercial flights using aircraft freed from regular transport missions. Charter flights are on offer to tourist destinations and other towns in the island using helicopters and light fixed-wing transport aircraft, said SLAF officials. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka again heads key ESCAP body on ICT
Sri Lanka was unanimously re-elected as the Chair of the UNESCAP – United Nations Economic & Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific - Committee on Information and Communication Technology. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 21 July 2009
Sri Lanka lauds US assistance
The Government of Sri Lanka thanked the United States for providing support, especially in terms of curbing the funding and logistical network in the effort to eliminate the LTTE. [Full Story]
IMF set to approve US$ 2.5 Billion to SL
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reached agreement with the Sri Lankan authorities on an economic program equivalent to 2.5 billion dollars, said Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, Mr. Dominique Strauss-Kahn in a statement on Sri Lanka yesterday. [Full Story]
Vavuniya-Trinco road opens after 11 years
The Vavuniya-Trincomalee road (B-65) which was closed for the past 11 years due to terrorist activities was opened for traffic yesterday. [Full Story]
Dengue; Cuban team to visit Hambantota
The Cuban specialists who are in the country to asses the dengue crisis will visit Hambantota today to carry out tests, official sources said. [Full Story]
Air Force cleared of any Human Rights violations
The Air Force, alleged by several international NGOs of killing school children in Naddalamottankulam LTTE training centre in an air raid, has been comprehensively cleared of any Human Rights violations, by the Presidential Commission of Inquiry. [Full Story]
Those killed all men above 18 in Sri Lanka now trying to teach us human rights - President
“Certain powers who killed all young men above 18 years following the great rebellion in Uva Wellassa in Sri Lanka are ridiculously trying to teach us human rights today. [Full Story]
Canada a key source of LTTE funding - National Post
Canada was one of the top sources of funding for Sri Lanka's LTTE, providing up to $12-million a year, says a secret intelligence report obtained by the National Post. [Full Story]
No more aged in relief villages - President
The Government has released all persons above 60, including leading LTTE cadres, from the relief villages for the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). [Full Story]
 
Monday 20 July 2009
Another LTTE submarine found
Troops operating in Vellamullivaikkal area in Mullaitivu on Saturday (July 18) recovered another submersible vehicle used by the LTTE for their underwater operations. [Full Story]
Special group on human rights issues
The Government is to appoint a special group headed by Attorney-General Mohan Peiris PC, to address important human rights issues and report to the Cabinet on measures to address them. [Full Story]
President congratulates Prof. Arulkumaran
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has congratulated Professor Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. George’s University of London on being conferred a Knighthood by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in her annual Birthday Honors List this year. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka urges EU to act against LTTE international network
Sri Lanka has told the EU that military capacity of the LTTE had been destroyed in Sri Lanka their international network, particularly in Europe, remained well intact and unless the EU acts urgently to arrest this trend, the situation could get worse, initially for the hosts. [Full Story]
Death rate in relief villages 'exaggerated'- WHO
The death rate speculated by some section of the media with regard to some relief villages and camps accommodating the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sri Lanka were “exaggerated”, said the new Representative for the World Health Organization (WHO) in Sri Lanka, Dr. Firdosi Rustom Mehta. [Full Story]
Rajapaksa could be champion of pluralism and economic liberalism – TIME
"Rajapaksa could reinvent himself once again as a champion of pluralism and economic liberalism. With few other political options, that may be Sri Lanka’s best hope for the future. [Full Story]
 
Friday 17 July 2009
President who won the war can also win the peace – Manmohan Singh
President Mahinda Rajapaksa had won the war against the LTTE and its terrorism, and can now win the peace. His enormous talent should help solve the long drawn out issue in Sri Lanka permanently, said Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to the Sri Lankan President yesterday. [Full Story]
HSBC pledges Rs.4.1mn to assist IDPs
HSBC pledged Rs 4.1 Million to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), to assist the displaced civilians in Sri Lanka’s North and East. [Full Story]
Wildlife safari park to Hambantota
Initial steps have been taken by the Ministry of Urban Development and Sacred Area Development to set up a wildlife safari park and botanical bio-diversity conservation garden of over 500 acres in Ridiyagama, Hambantota. [Full Story]
FIU of SL signed MOUs with FIUs of Philippines and Nepal
The Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) of Sri Lanka recently signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with FIUs of Philippines and Nepal to share financial information to facilitate the investigation and prosecution of persons suspected of money laundering and terrorist financing. [Full Story]
Cuban support for Sri Lanka appreciated
Cuba’s decisive support for Sri Lanka at the recent special session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva was highly appreciated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa when he met the Cuban leader President Raul Castro at Sharm El Sheik yesterday (16). [Full Story]
South African congrats for defeat of terrorism
South Africa was aware of the crisis faced by Sri Lanka through many years due to separatist terrorism, and welcomed its defeat under the leadership of President Rajapaksa. [Full Story]
New scope for Malaysian investment in Sri Lanka
The defeat of the LTTE and the extended period of terror in Sri Lanka had opened new opportunities for investment in Sri Lanka said the Malaysian Prime Minister Dato Mohamed Abdul Razak in discussions with President Rajapaksa in Egypt yesterday (16). [Full Story]
President Returns after busy NAM Summit
President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrived in Sri Lanka this morning after participating in the 15th Non-Aligned Summit, which concluded in Sharm El - Sheikh, Egypt last evening. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 16 July 2009
Special account to receive voluntary contributions for resettlement operations - Central Bank
On the request of the Government, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has introduced special account to receive voluntary contributions from interested parties towards the relief and resettlement operations. [Full Story]
Vietnam assures support to Sri Lanka
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Vietnam, Pham Gia Khiem, said Sri Lanka’s achievement in bringing an end to terrorism was commendable. [Full Story]
Govt. keen to release IDPs in shortest time – President to Ban Ki-moon
The Government remained committed to the resettlement and rehabilitation of the Internally Displaced Persons in the North of the country, who were the victims of the LTTE’s terror and were held hostage by the LTTE, in the shortest possible time, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa to the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at Sharm El Sheik, Egypt yesterday. [Full Story]
Serbia appreciates Sri Lankan support on Kosovo issue
Serbia was very appreciative of Sri Lanka’s firm position against the setting up of Kosovo as a separate state, which move was a threat to the principles of national sovereignty said President Boris Tadic of Serbia in discussions with President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday (July 15). [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 15 July 2009
UK commits to assist IDPs
The UK has today committed to help rebuild the lives and livelihoods of the displaced civilians in Sri Lankan, states a press release issued by the Department for International Development (DFID). [Full Story]
Sri Lanka poised for greater economic growth - Bill Gates
Sri Lanka is poised for greater economic growth and development, said world’s richest entrepreneurs, Bill Gates to President Mahinda Rajapakse via a special audio visual message at a ceremony to handover a plaque incorporating the first copy of the Sinhala Language Interface Pack (LIP), from Microsoft and ICTA. [Full Story]
Japan grants 13 mn for livelihood projects
The Government of Japan has provided Rs. 10 million for an agricultural and livelihood project in Monaragala and Rs. 3 million for a health project in Polonnaruwa to improve living environment, income, and health of targeted communities. [Full Story]
NAM summit focus on global financial crises
President Mahinda Rajapaksa will attend the 15th summit of Heads of State of the Non-Aligned Movement that opens in Sharm El-Sheikh, today (July 15) at the Maritim Congress Center, ... [Full Story]
We must address crisis of Climate Change in pragmatic manner
- President at NAM
The impact of human activity causing global climate change will result in serious adverse implications for agriculture, fisheries and related industries. [Full Story]
President warmly received at the Sharm El-Sheikh  International Airport - Egypt
President Mahinda Rajapaksa was received by the Minister of Environment of Egypt, Maged Geroge, at the Sharm El-Sheikh International Airport yesterday (14). [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 14 July 2009
Loan scheme to North 
Central bank of Sri Lanka has taken actions to give three billion rupees to several banks to lend to small and micro businesses in North. [Full Story]
The Man Who Tamed the Tamil Tigers - Time
Sri Lanka's 26-year civil war between the government and the LTTE came to a dramatic end in May with a decisive military victory and the killing of Velupillai Prabhakaran, the Tiger leader. [Full Story]
President gave vision and perseverance to defeat LTTE - FM
Defeating the world’s deadliest terrorist group was possible because of the single-minded commitment, vision and perseverance of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who has reunified Sri Lanka under one flag, further strengthening its territorial integrity, ... [Full Story]
President leaves for NAM
President Mahinda Rajapaksa who left the country to attend the 15th sessions of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) is expected to arrive in Egypt today, July 14. [Full Story]
 
Monday 13 July 2009
Inflation drops to 0.9 per cent
The rate of inflation as measured by the Colombo Consumers’ Price Index (CCPI) on a year on year basis declined steadily till June 2009 reaching 0.9 per cent, the lowest value recorded in around 5 years, said the Central Bank of Sri Lanka in a press release today (July 13). [Full Story]
Agricultural development to Kurunegala
The government has taken action to launch a massive agricultural development program in Kurunegala, under the organization of the Provincial Ministry of Lands, Agriculture and Irrigation, Animal Husbandry and Livestock Development. [Full Story]
Tough actions against child pornography
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has instructed the Inspector General of Police to take tangible and tough measures to curb child pornography in Sri Lanka, including capture and posting on the internet of photographs and video clips of unsuspecting persons, especially minors and women. [Full Story]
Access to IDPs improved, UN reports
According to the latest UNHCR report the United Nations humanitarian wing has observed a significant improvement in humanitarian access to IDP sites in the North. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka to expand trade ties with Pakistan
Pakistan and Sri Lanka bilateral trade should be enhanced by identifying more potential products and effective utilizing of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between both countries. [Full Story]
New appointments by President:
General Sarath Fonseka Chief of Defence Staff
President Mahinda Rajapaksa made several appointments to key positions in the Armed Services yesterday, when a new Chief of Defence Staff and new Commanders for the Sri Lanka Army and Sri Lanka Navy were appointed. [Full Story]
 
Friday 10 July 2009
Tourist arrivals up in June
The number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka went up 8.1 percent to 30,234 in June 2009, compared to the corresponding period in the previous year, according to figures released by Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. [Full Story]
Government bound to provide what children lost due to terrorism - President
The Government is bound to provide what the children in the North and the East have lost due to terrorist atrocities for the past 30 years, ... [Full Story]
BOI office to North
In keeping with the policies and development effort to re-awaken the Northern Province, BOI has taken steps to open up a branch office in the Jaffna Peninsula.
[Full Story]
India reiterates its support to Sri Lanka
India reiterated its consistent assistance in the task of rehabilitation, resettlement and reconstruction in Sri Lanka, referring to the aid and assistance being provided to Sri Lanka External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna made this statement yesterday in Parliament. [Full Story]
Britain revises advisory on travel to Sri Lanka
The British Government has revised its previous advice on travel to Sri Lanka the British High Commissioner, Dr Peter Hayes said “I am pleased to announce that we have relaxed the restrictions on travel suggested in the advice we give to British visitors coming to Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
War is over:
The need for ICRC lesser
The government of Sri Lanka on Thursday asked the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to scale down its operations in the country, particularly in the Northern and Eastern Provinces due to the end of war. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 09 July 2009
Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu to light up tomorrow
The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) has completed the initial steps to provide electricity to Kilinochchi and Mullativu. [Full Story]
ADB to help improve Water Management in SL
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is helping select urban centers in Sri Lanka improve water management to enhance economic opportunities and reduce waterborne diseases. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka is best place to invest - Czech Republic
A delegation from the Czech Republic said that Sri Lanka is now attractive destination to Czech and European Union investors who want to operate in a hassle free environment. [Full Story]
Hambantota Port to start operations by end 2010
Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is planning to start operating its upcoming Port in Hambantota by November 2010, said Ports Authority Chairman, Dr. Priyath B. Wickrema. [Full Story]
Canada to support post conflict development in Sri Lanka
Canada pledged its assistance to Sri Lanka's post conflict development, acknowledging that Sri Lanka had gone through an extremely difficult period with terrorism for nearly three decades, ... [Full Story]
LTTE pressured us to give false reports of civilian casualties - Northern doctors
It was under the pressure of the LTTE that we were giving exaggerated and contradictory figures about the civilian casualties. There were civilian casualties and deaths in the final stages of the battle. [Full Story]
U.S. never threatened to block the IMF loan to SL
The U.S. government has on no occasion, either publicly or privately, threatened to block the IMF loan to Sri Lanka on political grounds, said Mr. James Moore, chargé d’ affaires of the U.S. Embassy clarifying the U.S. position regarding the IMF loan facility to Sri Lanka on July 8. [Full Story]
China Exim Bank assures reconstruction help to Sri Lanka
The China Exim Bank is keen on assisting Sri Lanka particularly in this current juncture to achieve stability and sustainability. [Full Story]
Muslim community support too needed to develop country - President
There should not be divisions among races, religions and castes in this country hereafter. The friendship we had in the past should continue in future too, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing a large group of Islam religious and lay persons, at Temple Trees on July 07. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 08 July 2009
Military equipment recovered in Pudukuduirippu 
The troops of Task Force 02 recovered following military items in a search operation conducted in the Pudukuduirippu area yesterday (7): 14 Shells,04 Improvised Mortar bombs, 59 Mortar rounds ,01 T-56 Weapon and 01 Shot Gun. [Full Story]
Robert Blake brings proposals for reconciliation
Robert Blake, recently confirmed as the new Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, ... [Full Story]
Triumph did not bring attacks or humiliation on Tamils - President
The triumph of the government over the LTTE did not lead to any attacks or humiliation on the Tamils, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his extensive interview with The Hindu. [Full Story]
TamilNadu launches combing operation against LTTE
TamilNadu police aided by intelligence and Coast Guard personnel launched a massive combing operation on Tuesday in nearby islands and all the coastal districts of the state to check whether any LTTE carders had infiltrated into the areas in the aftermath of the outfit's defeat in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Saudi Arabia gives humanitarian aid to IDPs
King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, has ordered food aid and other forms of assistance be sent to Sri Lanka to help the government face the current humanitarian difficulties in the country as a result of the displacement of tens of thousands of people from their homes. [Full Story]
 
Tuesday 07 July 2009
SL-Kuwait concludes Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement
Sri Lanka and Kuwait successfully concluded negotiations on the proposed Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA) between two countries. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka - good opportunity for Indonesian investors
The government of Sri Lanka, is inviting Indonesian investors to have a wide look at new investment opportunities in Sri Lanka, particularly in the North and the East of the country, ... [Full Story]
Higher studies expo for Northern students
Students in the North are to have an experience of a large scale education exhibition providing them the opportunity to advance their studies by obtaining internationally recognized qualifications within the country and overseas. [Full Story]
India helps de-mining of North
India has initiated action to support de-mining activities in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
Mobile public services in North
At the request of Presidential Task Force (PTF), the Ministry of Public Administration and Home Affairs has taken actions to hold mobile public services in North to provide the local people and IDPs with services such as issuing National Identity Cards, Passports or attending to pensioners' problems. [Full Story]
We knew LTTE would never lay down arms and negotiate
-President
The military operations against the LTTE did not come without negotiations or without a reason. [Full Story]
ECOSOC's arrival in Geneva
The UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) is holding a session in Geneva from the 6th to the 30th of July. [Full Story]
China assures continued support to Sri Lanka
The government of China reiterated its continued support to resettle and rehabilitate the internally displaces persons (IDPs) now staying in relief centres in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
India gives US$100mn to IDPs
The Government of India on Monday offered 100 million dollars for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
 
Sunday 05 July 2009
Resettlement & Reconciliation my priorities – President on IDPs
My personal feeling is that as soon as possible, we have to re-settle these people. [Full Story]
 
Thursday 02 July 2009
Sri Lanka taught world the art of humane ops-President
Through our planning and strategies to defeat the terrorism of the LTTE we have now endowed the world with the true art of humanitarian operations, ... [Full Story]
Vavuniya IDP centres: Testimony to Govt. efforts to care for displaced Tamil community
– The Hindu
The centres for the Internally Displaced Tamil civilians in Vavuniya in the North of Sri Lanka are testimony to the Sri Lankan government’s efforts, ... [Full Story]
Transport curbs to North relaxed
The government has decided to relax stringent security procedure that prevailed on the transportation of goods to the North. [Full Story]
PMB extends help to farmers
Extending a helping hand to farmers, Paddy Marketing Board (PMB) expects to buy paddy in the forthcoming ‘Yala’ season at the same price PMB stipulated for the ‘Maha’ season in the years 2008/2009. [Full Story]
‘‘Tamil Eelam’ unrealistic dream- Karunanidhi
‘Tamil Eelam’ was no more a realistic dream possibility but an unrealistic dream, said DMK president and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on Wednesday. [Full Story]
New Ministers sworn in
National Freedom Front MP Nandana Gunatilake was sworn in as the Minister of Tourism while Mr. Piyasiri Wijenayake took oaths ... [Full Story]
UNHCR helps first IDP returns to Ampara
With the return of one thousand families for re-settle in the Ampara district on July 02 the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and partners have assisted with Government of Sri Lanka to the return process in Ampara today, ... [Full Story]
 
Thursday 02 July 2009
Historic unity for Development and Reconciliation
A historic meeting of all political parties represented in Parliament, and others too, to discuss the development and reconciliation needs of Sri Lanka, following the defeat of terrorism, took place in Colombo today. [Full Story]
US Extends Additional $6 million to North
The U.S. State Department announced an additional $6 million aid to help for de-mining operations in Northern Sri Lanka. [Full Story]
IDP students facilitated for exams
The Examination Department has started a streamlined process to facilitate the students who are in IDP Transitional Camps in Vavuniya, facing the upcoming G.C.E. A/L (Advanced Level), G.C.E.O/L (Ordinary Level) and Year Five Scholarship examinations. [Full Story]
Milinda Moragoda, new Minister of Justice & Law Reforms
Milinda Moragoda took oaths as the Minister of Justice and Law Reforms in the presence of President Mahinda Rajapaksa at President’s Office, today, July 2.  [Full Story]
Sri Lanka’s first solar power village established
Sri Lanka’s first solar power enabled village has been established at Galgamuwa in Madulla of Monaragala district under the government’s renewable Energy Development Programme. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka - India launch a joint tourism promotion programme
For the first time in the history of Sri Lankan Tourism industry, Sri Lanka and India have decided to launch a joint extensive tourism promotion programme to promote Chinese Tourist market attraction more and more tourists to Indian sub continent. [Full Story]
FM visits China to strengthen bilateral ties
Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama commenced a four day visit to China from yesterday to strengthen bilateral ties between two countries. [Full Story]
 
Wednesday 01 July 2009
AIADMK members evicted en masse from TN Assembly
Opposition AIADMK members were on Tuesday evicted en masse from the Tamil Nadu Assembly as they disrupted the proceedings by raising slogans to demand passage of a resolution on the Sri Lankan Tamils issue. [Full Story]
Troops recover more LTTE military hardware
Troops have collected a large stock of LTTE arms and ammunitions while conducting search and clearing operations in Pulliyanpokkanai, ... [Full Story]
More funds from UK to IDPs
The UK Department for International Development (DFID) has approved a grant of £500,000 to UNICEF for an emergency measles and polio vaccination campaign covering all the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in Vavuniya as well as the provision of nutritional supplements. [Full Story]
Northern railway to further boost
The stretch of the Northern railway line between Jaffna and Kankesanthurai (52 km) is to reconstruct on a special request by President Mahinda Rajapaksa to strengthen the railway services for the benefit of the people living in the Jaffna peninsula. [Full Story]
Security in Top Class - Pakistan Cricket Board  
The Pakistan Cricket Board says it is satisfied with the security arrangements made for Younis Khan and his men in Sri Lanka where they will play a Test and ODI series starting July 4. [Full Story]
Economic zone granted for China
Sri Lanka granted Chinese companies an economic zone, giving a specific area to a foreign country for the first time to develop and attract foreign investments into the country. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka's economic recovery to be driven by domestic factors - Economist
A lot of domestic factors, the end of war, rehabilitation, re-construction and improvement from agriculture will drive growth of Sri Lanka's economy, said HSBC Singapore economist Prakriti Sofat at a business forum in Colombo Tuesday. [Full Story]
BOI signs agreements for two new projects
The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka granted investment approval to Sterling Investments and Development Lanka (Private) Limited and D M L Holdings (Private) Limited. [Full Story]
Government has done best to IDPs - Akashi
Sri Lankan government has done its best to provide facilities to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). With the establishment of the fifth camp, the congestion had been reduced to a great degree, said Japanese envoy for Peace Building, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction in Sri Lanka, Yasushi Akashi. [Full Story]
Sri Lanka welcomes initiatives taken to promote Trade and Investment in IOR-ARC
Sri Lanka welcomed the initiatives taken to promote trade and investment among member states within the framework of the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC) during its Council of Ministers’ Meeting in Sana’a, Yemen. [Full Story]
‘Dawning of a new era… Opportunities and challenges’- Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2009
The Sri Lanka Economic Summit 2009 underlines the theme ‘Dawning of a new era… Opportunities and challenges’ organized by Ceylon Chamber of Commerce will explore in depth the various strategies available to address challenges, and to make effective use of the new opportunities that would accelerate the economic and social development of the country. [Full Story]
 
 
   
   

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