MEPs from many different European countries and political parties, as well as EU officials from the
Commission and External Action Service and other involved individuals, met in the European Parliament
yesterday (25 January 2012) for a roundtable discussion on recent developments in Sri Lanka. Discussions focused on the recent
‘Lessons Learned and Reconciliation Commission’ Report and the need for Europe to
be more supportive of Sri Lankan post-conflict reconciliation and reconstruction.
Interventions were made during the discussion by: Geoffrey Van Orden MBE MEP (ECR/UK) who visited Sri Lanka in November 2011;
Thomas Mann MEP (EPP/Germany) and Vice-Chair of the South Asia Delegation that visited Sri Lanka in February 2011; Anna Gomes
MEP (S&D/Portugal), a member of the S&D Delegation that visited Sri Lanka in December 2011; Jo Leinen MEP(S&D/Germany);
Hans Van Baalen MEP (ALDE/Netherlands); Jorge Pedro Aznar, Sri Lanka Desk Officer at the European External Action Service (EEAS); Dick Gupwell, Secretary-
General of the European Institute of Asian Studies and Ravinatha Aryasinha, Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the EU.
Media Release issued by the Friends of Sri Lanka group... Statement made by Sri Lanka Ambassador at the roundtable discussion...
2012 declared as the Year for Trilingual Sri Lanka
President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared 2012 as the Year for a Trilingual Sri Lanka today.
Former Indian President Dr. Abdul Kalam was the chief guest at the launch of 10-year National
Action Plan and the declaration of 2012 as the Year of Trilingual Sri Lanka held at Temple
Trees. Delivering the welcome speech Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga said as bridges link islands,
it is the vision of President Rajapaksa to make use of the language to bring together different communities.
Speaking at the occasion, the former Indian President said removal of poverty, hunger and pain from diseases
are some of the practical aspects of life which provide ground for nobility to arise in society and people
and this will need a development agenda based on the core competence of the nation and its entire different
people. When different societies come together to build a cohesive social system and a nation, it is
necessary to ensure that benefits of development encompass all sections of the society which comprise the nation,
he said adding world over, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and deprivation are participating into the forces of strife, anger and violence.
Read more...
Indian Minister of External Affairs on 4 day visit to Sri Lanka
Welcoming the Indian Minister of External Affairs S.M. Krishna to Sri Lanka, Minister of External Affairs
G.L. Peiris emphasized the deep rooted friendship and historical ties which exist between the two countries,
and elaborated that Sri Lanka and India are bound to each other geographically and in terms of their economies,
which have stood the test of time. Minister Krishna began a four day official visit to Sri Lanka on 16th January 2012,
at the invitation of Minister Peiris and called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne.
Minister Peiris observed that in times good and bad and those of turbulence, stability
and prosperity, the constant factor in Sri Lanka’s foreign relations has been the depth of friendship with India.
In this context, he recalled the manner in which India has always stood by Sri Lanka, and provided every
possible assistance. Minister Peiris upheld that there could be issues of concern in relations between
any two countries, and however the distinguishing feature of Sri Lanka’s relationship with India is the
spontaneity of dialogue. He said that no issue however controversial or emotive in connotation has
the two countries been unable to resolve, due to close engagement in an open manner culminating
in pragmatic conclusions. He was confident that the threshold that has been reached with regard
to Indo-Lanka relations was not something fleeting, but to nurture, safeguard and develop throughout the passage of time.
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Thai Pongal “A feast of freedom, peace, love and compassion ” - President
On this Thai Pongal Day, the most popular event in the Hindu religious calendar,
I wish the Sri Lankan Hindus prosperity, peace and happiness in the coming Year and beyond.
Traditionally a thanksgiving ceremony of the farming community Hindus offer prayers of
gratitude to the Sun God for a bountiful harvest and also pay tribute to the farm animals who helped them in the cultivation.
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Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels celebrates ‘Thai Pongal’ festival
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels celebrated the Thai Pongal festival at the Embassy premises
on 14 January 2012. ‘Thai Pongal’ is a harvesting festival celebrated by the Hindu community in Sri Lanka. The celebrations
were held in keeping with the tradition of the Embassy of Sri Lanka of celebrating the important religious festivals of Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims and Christians.
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From Belgium with love: Helping Lankans in need
Many countries, that come under the category of developed and rich countries, have established voluntary organizations
or charitable associations, to help other countries when needs arise. Such organizations are often called Non-Government
Organizations (NGO). In addition to the normal social service projects, these NGOs promptly respond to natural disasters
such as tsunami, floods, earthquakes, cyclones etc. In this charitable and philanthropic exercise,
these NGOs adopt an indiscriminate attitude, charity and assistance is available for any and all communities who are in need.
Extremely rarely we come across an NGO, founded to assist and help the needy of only a particular country.
One such organization of this rare calibre is found in Belgium. It is named Adoptie Sri Lanka Belgium VZW which is a Belgian
charitable association recognized by the Belgian government working exclusively for the benefit of needy people in Sri Lanka.
Read more...
Central Bank presents its ‘Road Map’ for 2012
The Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Mr. Ajith Nivard Cabraal presented a policy paper on the monitory
and financial sector policies of Sri Lanka for the year 2012 titled ‘Road Map’ on 03 January 2012.
Presented in seven chapters, this policy paper encapsulates the key macro economic and financial sector developments
in Sri Lanka in 2011 and proposes strategies to further strengthen the Sri Lankan Economy in 2012.
The policy paper also reveals that in 2011, Sri Lanka achieved a 8.3% GDP growth, which is first time in the history of
Sri Lanka to record a 8% GDP growth in two consecutive years. It is also an year that Sri Lanka’s GDP per capita reached
the level of US$ 2,830, inflation steadied at mid-single digit level, foreign reserves preserved at a comfortable level,
Sovereign Credit Ratings became stronger, while Foreign Direct Investments were expanded. 2011 also records the lowest unemployment rate of 4.3%, with significant reduction in poverty levels.
The policy paper also identifies trade and service sectors as main pillars in strengthening Sri Lanka’s positive economic growth in 2012.
Read more...
Tiger Stamps: La Poste places apology on website;
Blames ‘unscrupulous and manipulative customers’
In an announcement on the website of La Poste concerning the printing of stamps
“representing members and symbols of the Tamil movement ‘Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam’,
an organization listed as terrorist by the European Union since 2006”, the French Postal Authority says
“this is the first grave incident that Phil@poste has known in the printing of personalized postal stamps”.
The statement says La Poste has been the “victim of unscrupulous and manipulative customers”.
It says that in addition to written apologies, two directors, François Chalvet, Director of Sales and Marketing, and Louis Virgile,
Director of Strategy and International have apologized to the Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Paris, in person on behalf of Phil@poste.
Read more...
France will never support terrorism
The French Embassy in Colombo affirmed that France will never support any form of terrorism and
confirmed that the French Postal Service ‘La Poste’ has apologised to the Sri Lankan Embassy in Paris for issuing pro-LTTE stamps.
“France strongly condemns all forms of terrorism throughout the world and the French government could in no way have supported an initiative aiming at backing the LTTE,
a movement which have been listed since 2006 as a terrorist organizati0n by the European Union,” French Ambassador to Sri Lanka Christine Robichon said.
Read more...
Minister Peiris protests against publishing of stamps by “La Poste” of France
Minister of External Affairs, Professor G.L. Peiris called in the Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka Christine Robichon, on Tuesday 3rd January 2012,
to register Sri Lanka’s acute concern on the issue of four stamps by “La Poste” of France depicting images related to the LTTE including its
insignia, while being a proscribed group in France.
Minister Peiris observed that while the publishing of these stamps had not been facilitated by the Government of France,
however, it is its responsibility to ensure that such publication should not have happened and their circulation be
cancelled with immediate effect. He emphasized that this action by a front organization of the LTTE would portray
the French attitude to global terrorism in an erroneous manner as France has unambiguously postulated its opposition.
Therefore, he expressed the confidence that action would be taken by the Government of France not to give credence
to such moves by a terrorist front. Minister Peiris underscored that the history and modus operandi of
the terrorist group and its leadership are well known and has been working for the dismemberment of a friendly country.
Read more...
Message of peace on earth has relevance to world today - President
The message Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all that came with the first Christmas has relevance to the world today as it faces increasing challenges of hatred, terror,
national rivalry, economic crisis, climate change and food insecurity, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a message for Christmas.
“The prayers of Christians in this Season of Goodwill seek to ease the burdens of society with the love that is re-kindled with the nativity of Jesus Christ”, President Rajapaksa said.
Read more...
LLRC echoes the voice of our people - Cardinal
The report of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission is a result of in-depth study of the 30
- year war based on evidence recorded at sittings where a large number of persons, including those affected by war made representations.
This echoed the actual voice of the war-affected people unlike the report of the experts panel appointed by the UN Secretary General,
said Archbishop Most Rev. Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith when conveying his blessings at the annual Yuletide Evening at Temple Trees yesterday (Dec. 22).
Read more...
Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels celebrates Christmas
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels celebrated Christmas with the participation of the Sri Lankan community
in Belgium and other Belgian well wishers at the Sri Lanka Residence on
16 December 2011. Rev. Sister Ayesha Fernando led the prayers, which were conducted in Sinhala, Tamil, English, French and Flemish.
Read more...
Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) Report tabled in Parliament
The final report of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) was tabled in Parliament by Leader of
the House Nimal Siripala de Silva,on 16 December 2011. The LLRC was appointed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on 15 May 2010
to inquire and report on matters that may have taken place during the period
between 21 February 2002 and 19 May 2009. The Commission submitted its final Report to the President on 20 November 2011.
The report stated in its Principal Observations and Recommendations that, “in evaluating the Sri Lanka
experience in the context of allegations of violations of International Humanitarian Law (IHL), the Commission is satisfied that
the military strategy that was adopted to secure the LTTE held areas was one that was carefully conceived, in which the
protection of the civilian population was given the highest priority. The Commission also notes in this regard that the
movement of the Security Forces in conducting their operations was deliberately slow during the final stages of the
conflict, thereby evidencing a carefully worked out strategy of avoiding civilian casualties or minimizing them,”
Statement made by the Leader of the House in Parliament... Full report of the LLRC...
“More Supportive Approach to Sri Lanka is needed” - MEP Geoffrey Van Orden
Following a recent visit to Sri Lanka, the Chairman of the European Parliament’s informal ‘Friends of Sri Lanka’ Group has called for supportive engagement with Sri Lanka as it recovers from 30 years of conflict.
Conservative MEP and Defence Spokesman Geoffrey Van Orden has just returned from Sri Lanka where he met the President and senior Ministers,
as well as MPs from a range of government and opposition political parties including the Tamil National Alliance. He met the Northern and Eastern
Regional Governors, and on his visit to the former conflict areas in the North and East of the country,
the Bishop of Jaffna, military commanders and many local people. He also visited the Detention Camp at Boosa and a post-Tsunami village at Weligama.
Read more...
Meaningful democracy requires closest interaction between govt and community - President Mahinda Rajapaksa
If democracy is to be meaningful and command their respect, it must have a direct impact on their everyday lives. This necessarily calls
for the closest possible interaction between government and the community. The mechanisms of government must have effective application at the grassroots level, in order to address issues and to
provide relief, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said addressing the Bali Democracy Forum IV in Bali, Indonesia.
We have had experience of the first past the post electoral system, which continues to operate in many of the countries participating
in this Forum, as well as a version of proportional representation which applies in Sri Lanka today. We are now contemplating a hybrid system, combining elements of both these
approaches, as the solution best suited to the needs and circumstances of our country. The sum total of these comparative approaches
has imparted to us a maturity of outlook and a breadth of vision which have greatly enriched our political culture.
It is a matter of deep pride to us that Sri Lanka is one of the oldest practising democracies not only in the Asian
continent but in the world at large. Our people have enjoyed universal adult franchise since 1931, and they have been
accustomed, without interruption, to electing and changing governments in an entirely orderly and peaceful manner for eight decades. Even under the LTTE threat we were continuing election, President further said.
Read more...
The Radicalization of Tamil Youth - an insight into LTTE Administered ‘Thamil Chollai’ Schools in Europ
In the aftermath of the defeat of the LTTE, the functioning of LTTE-controlled ‘ThamilChollai’ schools
have become ever more important to the terrorist movement. Having lost its leadership and with its organisation being dismantled within Sri Lanka, the Thamilchollai schools
have become but a means to an end, namely to retain the support for the LTTE abroad and to keep the Tamil separatist cause alive internationally.
Below is a comprehensive document that gives an insight in to the LTTE administered/sponsored Thamilchollai schools, prepared by
the Defence Ministry of Sri Lanka. This document provides substantial evidence to prove the link between the LTTE and Thamilchollai schools and how they administer these schools and make use
of students not only to promote LTTE interest but also to radicalise the third generation of Tamils living overseas, particularly in Europe.
Read more...
Minister of External Affairs meets EU Parliamentarians
External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris met European Parliamentarians Ana Gomez, Richard Howitt and David Martin representing
the Socialists and Democrats (S & D) Party at the Ministry recently. The Minister underlined the strong connections Sri Lanka has
traditionally had with Western Europe and referred to the vibrant cooperation between Sri Lanka and the European Union, particularly
the strong economic partnership. The Minister briefed the delegation on post conflict developments and initiatives to economically empower
the people as well as the ongoing political dialogue. The European Parliamentarians appreciated the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka and to familiarize themselves with the situation in the country including a visit to the Northern Province.
The European Parliamentary delegation was also comprised Mrs. Brigitte Bataille, senior policy adviser of the European Parliament.
Sri Lanka thanks EU for strong livelihood support
“Sri Lanka is thankful for high EU support for various livelihood projects for the internally displaced, especially
in the Northern and Eastern regions. Sri Lanka also invites high level trade, business and industry delegations from
European Union for ‘Sri Lanka Expo 2012’, the mega export
show of international scale to be held in Sri Lanka after 15 years ” said Mr. Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka.
Minister Bathiudeen was addressing a visiting four member EU Parliamentary delegation representing the Socialists & Democrats Party (S&D)
on 06 December at the Ministry of Industry & Commerce, Colombo 3. The EU delegation consisted of Mr. David Martin (Member of EU Parliament), Mr. Richard Howitt
(Member of EU Parliament), Ms. Ana Gomes (Member of EU Parliament) and Ms. Brigitte Bataille (Policy Advisor & Assistant of S&D Party).
Read more...
Sri Lanka named among six “best of the world 2012” destinations by National Geographic traveler magazine
National Geographic Traveler magazine has named Sri Lanka among its top six destinations for world travelers in 2012, lauding the island nation’s heritage sites, wildlife, lush landscapes and pristine beaches.
Sri Lanka, Traveler writes in its November/December issue, means “resplendent isle, and the natural charms of this pear-shaped island in the Indian Ocean
that nearly kisses the southeast tip of India are indeed splendid….Sri Lanka’s hill country features stunning scenery, tea plantations, and ancient Buddhist temples.”
Read more...
MEP Geoffrey Van Orden calls on President Rajapaksa
Chairman of the European Parliament’s ‘Friends of Sri Lanka’ Group, MEP Mr. Geoffrey Van Orden (ECR/UK) called
on President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees on 28 November 2011. Mr. Van Orden is currently on
a seven day visit to Sri Lanka and is scheduled to meet ministers,officials and the representatives of private sector.
Exports to EU countries grow by 25.5% in first nine months of 2011
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha has said,
“ latest statistics from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka reveal that Sri Lanka’s exports to the EU grew by
25.5% in the first nine months of 2011 ( 2635 Million $), compared to the corresponding period of 2010 (2100 Million $).
Meanwhile, with respect to Belgium, which is the 4th largest destination among EU countries and the 6th largest destination
of Sri Lanka’s exports to the world, exports grew by 41.4 % in the first nine months of 2011 (382.53 Million $), compared to the
corresponding period of 2010 ( 270.6 Million $)”. He said “these growth rates are particularly impressive given the fact that
the after effects of the financial crisis, high unemployment in developed economies and austerity measures in Europe continue to shrink the possibility of
bouncing back world trade to its pre-crisis levels. It also reflects trade conducted without the benefit of the special preferential tariff concession GSP+”.
Read more...
Sri Lanka achieves 2011 tourist arrival target
Sri Lanka Tourism achieved the targeted 750,000 tourist arrivals for the year 2011 yesterday (Nov.24).
This is the first time ever; the tourism industry has received number of arrivals
exceeding 700,000 mark in any given year making it a ground breaking figure in tourism records, says the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau.
During year 2010, total number of 654,476 tourists visited Sri Lanka, compared to 750,000 in 2011, which is a 34.2% annual growth.
This year has seen a huge contribution from Latin American, Caribbean & western European countries including Austria, Belgium, Denmark ,France, the Netherlands,
UK and Germany. These regions alone have attracted 250, 847 tourists sharing a major portion out of the 750,000 arrivals recorded so far.
Read more...
Budget 2012: Aims for long-term development
President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his capacity as Finance and Planning Minister presented the budget for 2012 to Parliament today (Nov 21).
This is the 65th budget of Sri Lanka since independence and 7th budget presented by the President. It has a series of proposals to help uplift
the socio-economic conditions of the people and the development of the country. It will specially focus on strengthening free education,
health services and agriculture. It was prepared with widespread consultation with people of the country.
President Rajapaksa stated that 2012 will record an economic growth of 8%. By maintaining
this, the goal of reaching a per-capita income of US$ 4000 will be realized by 2016.
Read more...
Parliament approves PSC for a political solution
Parliament yesterday passed a motion to set up a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to formulate a political solution to the country’s ethnic issue.
The parliament announced that a motion to appoint a Select Committee of Parliament to recommend and report on political and constitutional measures to empower the people of Sri Lanka to live as one nation was passed by the House.
The political parties in Parliament are requested to name their representatives to the PSC.
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Minister Bathiudeen and private sector delegation explore business opportunities in Antwerp
Minister of Industry & Commerce, Rishad Bathiudeen, accompanied by the Sri Lanka private sector business delegation
on a two day official visit to Belgium, last week also visited several business enterprises in Antwerp - the commercial hub of Belgium.
Welcoming the Sri Lanka delegation Mr. Luc Luwel, CEO of the Antwerp Chamber of Commerce briefed them on the
attractive business environment in Antwerp and the potential it offers for furthering economic ties between Belgium
and Sri Lanka. Minister Bathuideen addressing the Chamber representatives highlighted Sri Lanka’s historical relations with the city of Antwerp, particularly
in the context of the diamond trade and seaport operations. He said there is considerable scope for expansion in both these areas, as well as others.
Read more...
Sri Lanka & Belgium Pledge to Consolidate Economic Ties
Sri Lanka and Belgium have pledged to expand and facilitate bilateral trade and investment, taking note
of the growing economic interaction between the two countries. This commitment was made during bilateral
discussions held with Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs,
Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, during the visit of the Sri Lankan Minister of Industry and Commerce Rishad Bathudeen to Belgium.
Minister Rishad Bathudeen, who was on a two day official visit to Belgium accompanied by a Sri Lankan business delegation,
was received by Mr. Steven Vanackere, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Belgium at the Palais d‘Egmont and later
held bilateral talks with Mr. Dirk Achten, Secretary General of the Ministry and senior officials on 17 November 2011. Sri Lanka’s
Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha and
Mr. Madhuka Wickramarachchi, First Secretary (Pol) of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Belgium were associated with the Minister at the discussions.
Read more...
Minister Bathiudeen says “Current global economic situation provides the impetus for EU firms to increase their exposure in Sri Lanka”
- Private Sector delegation has B2B meetings with over 80 Belgian companies
“Belgian companies need to invest more in Sri Lanka. The expanding growth opportunities in Sri Lanka, compared with the current
global economic situation, should provide the impetus for forward looking European companies to increase their exposure to the
country. Many of the 40 Belgian companies which visited the country for the first time only a year ago, have already begun
productive trade and investment ventures with their local partners, and are also supporting the major
infrastructure development efforts of Sri Lanka” said Rishad Bathiudeen, Minister of Industry and Commerce of Sri Lanka.
Minister Bathiudeen made these observations when he inaugurated the 'Sri Lanka Economic Forum', and the B2B meetings with
the participation of over 80 Belgian companies that included top Belgian firms such as Besix, CFE, on Thursday 17 November at the Brussels Enterprise Commerce and Industry (BECI) auditorium in Brussels.
Read more...
Sri Lanka Embassy in Brussels joins in “Deyata Sevana” National Tree Planting Programme
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Belgium joined the ‘Deyata Sevana’ national tree planting programme on 17 November 2011.
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha, planted a tree at the Embassy premises marking this day.
This tree planting ceremony is organized in line with the 'Green Country’ theme outlined in the ‘Mahinda Chinthana – Vision for the Future’
policy of the Government.
Belgians have been “early birds” in seizing on the new economic opportunities opening up in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha has said, Belgians have been
“early birds” in seizing on the new economic opportunities opening up in Sri Lanka since the ending of the
terrorist conflict in May 2009. Noting that both Sri Lanka and Belgium, where the SME sector is prominent,
presents a better fit to do business, he said this trend has been supported by the Government of Belgium
through its positive travel advisories, improved country risk ratings,
enhanced export credit facilities and by continuing to be an active partner in Sri Lanka promotional events.
The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) concludes its work -
The final report will be handed over to the President on 20 November
The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) officially concludes its work on 15 November, 2011.
The Presidential Secretariat has advised the Chairman and the Commission that the final Report be handed over to His Excellency the President on 20th November at the President’s Office.
Read more...
We will take action if the LLRC finds HR violations - President tells NDTV
President Mahinda Rajapakse told NDTV that if the reconciliation commission report endorses any human rights violation in the war against the Tamil Tigers, the govt will take action without shielding anyone.
President also said the Lanka Navy has been stopped from taking Indian fishermen into custody anymore.
Read more...
Now is the time for action - President tells SAARC
The issues which call for our attention, particularly in the areas of social justice and climate change,
require not further discussion but immediate action, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his address to
the 17th SAARC Summit, held in Addu City of the Maldives. “What is evident around us is a mood of
urgency and even impatience. This is especially so, because a large and influential part of our societies consists of young people, inspired by new ideas and looking
forward with enthusiasm to a promising future for themselves. They cannot be kept waiting for long. Patience is not infinite”, he added.
He further said, whether in regard to food and energy security, the preservation of the environment or protection of our societies
against the consequences of terrorism, the challenges we face within SAARC are certainly formidable. However, we are sustained by a
reservoir of insights and experience that equip us for this task. “The theme of our deliberations here in Addu City, ‘Bridge Building’,
highlights the reality that rapidly improving connectivity in our region makes
it possible for us to reach out to higher levels of achievement for the benefit of our nations”, the President added.
Read more...
Industry & Commerce Minister to lead business delegation to Belgium
– B2B meetings to be held with over 60 Belgian companies
A business delegation led by Minister of Industry & Commerce Rishad Bathiudeen is scheduled to visit Belgium from 16-17
November 2011. The delegation will include Mrs. Sujatha Weerakoon, Director General/Sri Lanka
Export Development Board and representatives from the private sector.
This is the first time in over a decade that such a high level business delegation visits Belgium.
It is considered as a reciprocal visit to the visit undertaken by the representatives of 40 Belgian
companies to Sri Lanka in November
2010 and is also intended to attract potential Belgian entrepreneurs to Sri Lanka’s premier exposition ‘Expo-2012’ to be held in March 2012.
Read more...
Sri Lanka awaits to welcome you - President tells CHOGM leaders
My country and my people who are experiencing economic revival, peace and tranquility throughout the country after many decades look forward to welcoming all of you to Colombo in 2013 President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
Addressing the concluding session of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Perth today President Rajapaksa
said that CHOGM comes to Asia after 22 years, last being in Malaysia. “I have no doubt that all my Asian colleagues will,
in 2013, join me and the people of Sri Lanka in welcoming you to our region, which is home to
over two thirds of the population of the Commonwealth, to deliberate on all issues in which we are collectively interested”, he said.
Read more...
Sri Lankan pilgrims visit Notre Dame Church in Banneux - Belgium
Sri Lankan community in Belgium joined with the fellow Sri Lankans from France, Germany and
Netherlands on a pilgrimage on 30 October 2011 to visit the Notre Dame Church in Bannexu, Belgium,
which is one of the best known places in the world where Virgin Mary appeared. A holy mass was celebrated at
the Notre Dame Church by Rev. Fr. Samantha Kurera, Rev. Fr. Roger Fernando and Rev. Fr.Claude Nonis. More than 200 Sri Lankans led by
Sri Lanka Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and to the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha , took part in this
pilgrimage organized by the Sri Lankans in France.
Read more...
President apprises Australian PM of Sri Lanka ’s progress
President Mahinda Rajapaksa who is in Australia to attend the 22nd Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) met the Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard at the Hotel Pan Pacific in Perth.
During the meeting President Rajapaksa apprised the Australian Prime Minister of the current situation in Sri Lanka and the progress made in the resettlement of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and in the development of North.
Read more...
Develop sufficient spaces within economies to face complexities - President
We have to ensure that we develop sufficient spaces within our own economies
so as to be able to comfortably face the inevitable complexities in the face of global challenges, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
“In our view, Individual policy interventions or ad-hoc measures which target just one or two outcomes are often flawed
and almost always, do not provide the desired results. Such responses are essentially short-term, and sometimes lead to
new difficulties. Although it may sound simplistic, I must say that, for growth to be sustained, we as nations, must get our basics and fundamentals right”,
President Rajapaksa said delivering the key note address at the Commonwealth Business Forum in Burswood Complex, in Burswood.
Read more...
Horizontal Air Services Agreement signs between Sri Lanka and the European Union
Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Mr. Ranjith de Silva and Ambassador/ Head of Delegation of the European
Union in Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mr. Bernard Savage initialed the Agreement between European Union and the Government of Sri Lanka
on certain aspects of Air Services, which is commonly known as the d’Horizontald‘ Air Services Agreement, on 27th October 2011 at the Ministry of External Affairs.
Read more...
Australian Government refuses to act on the court case filed against President Rajapaksa
The government of Australia has quashed a court case filed against President Mahinda Rajapaksa in the Melbourne Magistrates Court by Arunachalam Jegatheeswaran,a known LTTE operative based in Australia.
In a letter addressed to Sri Lanka's High Commissioner to Australia, Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe on October 27th, the Attorney General's Department of Australia has informed that, Australia has and will continue to comply with international obligations in this matter and as a result the Attorney General has considered and declined to proceed with the court case as the continuation of the proceedings against President Rajapaksa would be in breach of domestic law and Australia's obligations under International Law.
Read more...
Australian Based LTTE Network Exposed
Belgian tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka grows by 114.5% during the first nine months of 2011
Sri Lankad’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha has said d“Belgian tourist arrivals
to Sri Lanka grew by 114.5% during the first nine months of 2011d” and that d“Sri Lanka has become one of the most
preferred destinations in Asia for Belgian touristsd”. The Ambassador added that d“the number of Belgian tourists visiting
in this period which was 7200, surpassed the previous highest amount of Belgian tourists who visited Sri Lanka
in any given calendar year, which was 6,333 in 2006d”.
Read more...
Sri Lanka deserves more praise from int’l community - US Congress Members
Sri Lanka and its leader deserve much more praise from the international community than now for defeating the world’s worst terrorist organization. Leveling allegations
against them is a matter for regret, said the US Congress Members who are currently in a three-day tour to Sri Lanka.
Read more...
Minister G.L Peiris meets French Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Advisor to President Sarkozy in Paris
During a two day visit to Paris on the 12th and 13th of October 2011, Minister of External Affairs Minister G.L
Peiris met French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alain Juppé at the Quai D’Orsay. Minister Juppé welcomed
efforts of economic revival and reconciliation projects in post war Sri Lanka, while signaling as one of France’s priority interests and concerns, “Sri Lanka’s plans for greater regional autonomy”.
Minister Peiris noted the significant growth in Sri Lanka’s national economy and affirmed
readiness to encourage future investments in development projects.
Read more...
SL briefs Norway on reconciliation efforts
Leader of the House Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva told the Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store that several billion rupees
have been spent on infrastructure development and livelihood support and also for the programmes to uplift the quality of lives of
the people of the North and East out of local funding. The minister was leading a high level delegation to Oslo which also included
Environment Minister Anura Priyadharshana Yapa. The visit was pursuant to the bi-lateral meeting between President Mahinda Rajapaksa
and the Prime Minister of Norway, Jens Stoltenberg, in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
The ministerial delegation also had meetings with Erik Solheim, Minister of International Development and Environment and Morten
Høglund representing the Leader of the Opposition and the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence on the October 14, 2011.
Read more...
Ambassador Aryasinha says “human rights groups in indecent hurry to vilify Sri Lanka ahead of the release of the LLRC report”
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha has said the timing of the screening of the film
‘Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields’ at the European Parliament today ( 12 October 2011) was particularly sinister,
coming on the eve of the presentation of the LLRC Report due next month. The Ambassador said, “it would appear
that Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the International Crisis Group who sponsored the screening,
are intent on pre-judging and discrediting the LLRC report even before it is released”. He added that “this indecent hurry
to host such events and to call for international inquiries, is probably due to their fear that once the LLRC report comes out,
they will be short of one further excuse, with which to continue their obsessive attack on the Government of Sri Lanka”.
Ambassador Aryasinha made these observations when he intervened during a panel discussion that followed the screening
of the film ‘Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields’ held at the premises of the European Parliament on Wednesday (12 October 2011). The screening was jointly
organized by the three human rights organizations, and was also addressed by the Director/Producer
of the film and several Members of the European Parliament.
Read more... Read the full text of the speech... Read the Media Release in Sinhala...
Sri Lanka High Commission, UK screens the documentary “Lies Agreed Upon” at the British Parliament
The Sri Lanka High Commission in London organised the screening of Sri Lanka’s documentary titled “Lies Agreed Upon”,
which directly challenges the assertions contained in the Channel 4 video, at the Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, at the British Parliament on 12th October, 2011.
The screening of the documentary, proved extremely popular and was followed by a dialogue with Hon. Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha,
MP, and Sir Peter Heap, KCMG, Chairman, Friends of Sri Lanka. H.E. Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the
UK introduced the documentary and chaired the panel discussion. This was the first time the government’s response to
Channel 4 film “Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields” was screened in the UK to an audience consisting of British Parliamentarians ,
representatives from Academia, some media representatives including from Channel 4, and a cross-section of the Sri Lankan Diaspora.
Read more...
UPFA wins 21 out of 23 LG bodies
The United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) secured victory in all but two local government bodies. With this latest victory the
UPFA now control over 80 percent of the Local Councils that went to the polls during 2011. The party won 205 LG bodies out of 234
at the elections in March and later in polls held in July it won 45 out of 65 LG bodies. The UPFA overall secured 271 councils out
of 322 that went to the polls in 2011. The main opposition UNP won 10 local councils in all three stages. Also during the three
stages of local council elections
held in 2011, the ITAK secured 30 LG bodies while the government ally SLMC also won 5, the National Congress and the TULF won 2 each.
Read more...
Progress of National Action Plan on HR to UNHCR
The government yesterday announced that a new National Action Plan approved by the Cabinet for the protection and
promotion of Human Rights would assist to achieve reconciliation among the communities while not allowing the
terrorism to resurface. Addressing the media on the National Action Plan for the Protection and Promotion of
Human Rights, Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Plantation Industries and the Special Envoy of the President
on Human Rights, said Sri Lanka will update the progress of the Plan at the United Nations Human Rights
Council in March next year. He said the Plan was prepared in a transparent manner and developed through
a participatory process involving government and civil society. When it was submitted
to the Cabinet for approval and formal adoption, it was adopted with amendments made by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Read more...
Response of the delegation of Sri Lanka to comments made during the General Debate under Item 4
The Delegation of Sri Lanka wishes to respond to the references made to Sri Lanka by certain delegations.
To those who question the credibility and independence of Sri Lanka’s Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission,
I wish to reiterate that we cannot accept such a priori judgements of our
domestic mechanism even before it has had the chance to complete its work and make its findings public.
Read more...
Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by diplomatic immunity
It has been brought to the notice of the Ministry of External Affairs that an attempt has been
made by an agent to deliver summons issued by a New York Court on the Deputy Permanent
Representative of Sri Lanka’s Mission to the United Nations in New York Major General Shavendra Silva.
The Ministry is of the view that Ambassador Shavendra Silva as the Deputy Permanent Representative of Sri
Lanka to the United Nations in New York enjoys diplomatic immunities and privileges accorded under the
Convention on Privileges and Immunities of the United Nations as well as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Therefore,
Ambassador Shavendra Silva is protected by the relevant international treaties on diplomatic relations, immunities and privileges and accepted diplomatic practices.
Read more...
Sri Lanka committed to engagement with international community on post-conflict development
President Mahinda Rajapaksa had a bilateral meeting this afternoon ( 20th September 2011 ) with President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
President Rajapaksa warmly congratulated President Jonathan on his election and said that, in the situation which has now arisen
in Sri Lanka after the eradication of terrorism, there is ample scope to deepen the relationship between Sri Lanka and Nigeria in all sectors.
They discussed several areas in which enhanced collaboration would be appropriate.
Read more...
President Rajapaksa says “the might of powerful nations cannot prevail against justice and fair play”
Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa who addressed the UN General Assembly in New York today (23 September) said
“the might of powerful nations cannot prevail against justice and fair play”. The President observed that
“whilst clash of ideas, opinions and values continues, we have clearly to
recognize that dialogue, deliberation and consensus offer the only viable means for resolving differences”.
In his address President Rajapaksa noted that, “after three decades of pain and anguish, today, Sri Lankans of all ethnicities,
living in all parts of Sri Lanka, are free from LTTE terror and no longer live in a state of fear. However,
I am deeply mindful that the battle for peace is every bit as important and difficult as the struggle against terror.
After the eradication of terrorism, my government has turned its undivided attention to building anew, the foundations of a unified and vibrant nation and drawing upon the inherent
strengths of our country and in particular, the unique caliber of our human potential“.
Read more...
Motion to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth defeated in the Australian Senate
The Australian Government and the Opposition voted together today to defeat a motion moved in the Senate by Australian Greens Senator Lee Rhiannon (Senator for New South Wales) to suspend Sri Lanka from the Commonwealth.
Speaking on the motion, a representative for the Government of Australia said that they do not believe that complex foreign policy issues can be resolved through motions such as the one mooted by Senator Rhiannon.
Read more...
Sri Lanka Strongly Refutes Allegations of Channel 04 and Provides Succinct Analysis of Post-Conflict Development at Human Rights Council Side Event in Geneva
“Sri Lanka should be given the time and space required to complete the LLRC process, and the international community must take due cognizance of
significant progress achieved by Sri Lanka in rehabilitation and resettlement of IDPs, economic development of the North and the East, demining
activities and in the reconciliation process”, observed Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Minister of Plantation Industries and Special Envoy of the
President on Human Rights, who led the Sri Lanka delegation to the 18th session of the Human Rights Council (HRC). Minister Samarasinghe
made the above observations as the Chair at a side event titled “Sri Lanka - Humanitarian Operation: A Factual Analysis”,
organized on the margins of the HRC in Geneva by the Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in Geneva on Monday 12 September.
Read more...
Minister Samarasinghe addresses the 18th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva
Madam President,
It is my privilege to once again address this august body as head of the Sri Lanka delegation. We come here as always,
Madam President, to share with the members of this Council and the other representatives of the community of nations,
our experiences in overcoming the several challenges we face in the present era – an era that offers a fresh hope of
a new Sri Lanka. The dawn of this new era coincided with the end of the armed conflict in 2009 just over 2 years ago.
In that time, Sri Lanka, has made considerable – some may call it astounding
– progress in addressing the many challenges that nearly 30 years of conflict poses to a nation, her Government and people.
Full text of statement...
Ambassador of Sri Lanka responds to High Commissioner Pillay’s remarks on Sri Lanka
Madam President,
you must note, however unpalatable it may be to some, that terrorism has not been allowed to rear its ugly head since 2009, in Sri Lanka. We, like many other like-minded nations, are not willing to create nurseries for terrorists wherever they may be.
Madam President, The partiality of the High Commissioner has once again been manifestly demonstrated in the Council today.
Full text of statement...
Sri Lanka elected to the Chair of the Working Group on the Right to Development
The Ambassador (Ms) Tamara Kunanayakam, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, Geneva has been unanimously elected to the position of the Chair / Rapporteur of the Working Group on the Right to Development (R2D).
Ms.Kunanayakm was nominated by the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) at the organizational meeting of the Working Group on the Right to Development held on September 07, 2011, in Geneva, Switzerland.
Read more... Text of the speech made by Ambassador Kunanayakm...
Proud at defeating terror and making South Asia safer
– President Rajapaksa to Rotarians
“We now stand proud as a nation that has eradicated terrorism from our country.
In doing so, we have made South Asia too, safer from terrorism. We have achieved this
with much less of the assets, and none of the deceit and duplicity of those who have been waging a War on
Terror for more than a decade; those with much more economic and fire power than we had and many more
allies than we ever had, but are still caught up in the killing fields made by un-manned drones and
other lethal devices that attack civilians, too,” said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the Rotary
South Asia Conference on “Development and Cooperation”. Addressing the large gathering of Rotarians at
the Galadari Hotel, Colombo today, President Rajapaksa also said: “It is regretted that the very
individuals and institutions that point their fingers at us for our defeat of terror seem to be
unaware of the truth about our prolonged battle against terrorism, and the very nature of those terrorists.
Read more...
Republic of Korea expresses understanding of Sri Lanka’s position, increases economic assistance
- Prof. Peiris meets Korea’s P.M. and Foreign Minister
Sri Lanka and the Republic of Korea have undergone many similar experiences in the past and, overcoming difficulties of a formidable
nature, have every reason to look to the future with confidence – a consideration which establishes a powerful natural bond between
the two countries as a basis for close co-operation both bilaterally
and at the international level, Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik of the Republic of Korea said in Seoul on Thursday.
Read more...
Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels celebrates Iftar
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Brussels hosted the annual Iftar, the Muslim fast breaking
ceremony, on Friday 26 August, 2011, as part of commemoration of the Islamic Holy Month of
Ramadan. The event was presided over by Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha and was attended by members of the
Sri Lanka community, Muslim friends of Sri Lanka and members of staff of the Mission.
Read more...
President proposes to repeal emergency regulations
President Mahinda Rajapaksa proposed to the Parliament today that the
emergency regulations need to be repealed. “I am satisfied with the fact that
there is no need to extend emergency regulations for the administrative activities
of the country now”, he noted while making this proposal.
The country can function democratically under the ordinary law, he further said.
Read more...
It is unreasonable to expect a complete remedy in a short span – Prof. Peiris
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris said yesterday that it was unreasonable
for the international community to expect a complete remedy for all
issues in the short span of two and a half years since the Lankan conflict ended.
Read more...
China will assist Sri Lanka in necessary situations – Chinese PM
China is committed to strengthening the friendship with Sri Lanka and
will extend its fullest support in all necessary situations to Sri Lanka in
international fora said Chinese Prime Minister Wen Jiabao.
He said this during a bilateral meeting with the visiting Sri Lankan President
Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Prime Minister's residence in Beijing today.
Read more...
Former Sri Lanka Ambassador to Brussels Romesh Jayasinghe passes away
The Embassy of Sri Lanka announces with profound sadness and sorrow, the passing away of Mr. C
hrysantha Romesh Jayasinghe former Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs and previously Ambassador in Brussels,
in the morning of 08 August 2011. His funeral was held today (09 August) in Colombo.
Mr. Jayasinghe, a senior Foreign Service Officer was appointed as Foreign Secretary by
H. E. the President on 1st October 2009, a position in which he continued until
his appointment as an Advisor to H. E the President on 28th March 2011.
Read more...
Government of Sri Lanka refutes disinformation in ‘Darusman Report’ and Channel 4 Documentary ‘Sri Lanka Killing Fields’
On 1st August, 2011, the Ministry of Defence of Sri Lanka released a report titled
‘Humanitarian Operations Factual Analysis’ and a video documentary titled ‘Lies Agreed Upon’
as a critical and realistic response to the allegations made by the ‘Darusman report’ and
the ‘Sri Lanka Killing Fields’ video documentary produced by UK based Channel-4.
Read more...
Lofty ideals or political agenda? – Prof. Peiris asks at the launch of reports
The recent spate of unsubstantiated allegations on the last few days of the
conflict levelled at the Government of Sri Lanka, need to be examined in terms
of the political agenda behind such propaganda and distinguished from the genuine
expressions of concern on humanitarian issues, observed External Affairs
Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris in his keynote address at the launch of the
publication by the Ministry of Defence entitled “Humanitarian Operation:
Factual Analysis – July 2006-May 2009” on 1st August. Elaborating he
stated that the task of analysing where the political agendas end and
norms of human rights begin has now become more crucial and this issue
deserves to be judged dispassionately, without prejudice and bias.
The External Affairs Minister recalled an observation made by the
former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Mary Robinson on
the Goldstone Report on the Gaza issue, that it was guided “not by human rights but by politics”.
Read more... View the video
False allegations will be laid to rest with the ‘Factual Analysis Report’- Secretary Defence
The false claims and allegations made by Tamil Diaspora together with the LTTE international network will be laid to rest with the release of the factual analysis reports, said Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
He expressed these views addressing the gathering at the launching of the report titled “Humanitarian Operation Factual Analysis July 2006 - May 2009,” on Monday (Aug 01), at the Hilton Colombo.
Secretary Defence further questioned, “Why should the government, which directly looked after the family of LTTE leaders, kill those who surrendered to the military?”
“The sole purpose of these allegations is to discredit Sri Lanka and disrupt the prevailing peace in the country,” he said commenting on the Channel-4 canard.
Read more...
Humanitarian Operations factual analysis made public
The report compiled by the Defense Ministry containing detailed information regarding the Humanitarian mission was officially made public by Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa the Secretary of the Ministry of Defense at a formal ceremony held at the Hilton Hotel yesterday morning (01).
“Sri Lanka’s request to the EU to list LTTE front organization as terrorists is timely”- Ambassador Aryasinha
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha
has said “Sri Lanka’s request to the EU to list LTTE front organizations as terrorists is
timely, as the EU itself has now identified and arrested a number of individuals who are
culpable of many atrocities while being members of different front organizations
of the LTTE”. The Ambassador made this observation during an interview with the
BBC Sinhala service ‘Sandeshaya’ news program on 01 August 2011. He noted that
“since terrorism was defeated in Sri Lanka in May 2009, while only a handful of individuals
were arrested in connection with LTTE terrorism, in Europe during the same time frame around
37 individuals belonging to several LTTE front organizations were arrested and 21 have already been convicted”.
Transcript of the interview
Sri Lanka updates request to the EU to list LTTE front organizations as terrorist entities
The Government of Sri Lanka on 28 July 2011 updated its request to the European Union (EU) to list front organizations of the LTTE as terrorist entities, as they had done the LTTE since 2006.
This call was made, as the EU through Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 687/2011 of 18 July 2011 published in the official journal of the European Union on 19 July 2011, re-listed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a terrorist entity.
Read more...
Local Government Election concludes
President Mahinda Rajapaksa led United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA)
secured an overwhelming victory at the Local Government Elections 2011, concluded after final phase on voting on Saturday 23, when voters in most areas
of the North went to the polls for the first time since the defeat of the LTTE.
Elections to local bodies in the north could not be held for nearly three decades due to the terrorism of the LTTE that deprived the Tamil people in the region of all democratic rights.
Read more...
External Affairs Minister Prof. Peiris meets Heads of Mission of EU member countries and the EU Delegation Office based in Colombo
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris held a meeting with the Heads of Mission of EU member
countries and the EU Delegation Office based in Colombo on 12th July at the Ministry.
Ambassadors of Germany, France and Italy, the British High Commissioner and CDAs of
the EU Delegation Office, The Netherlands and Romania participated at the meeting. Secretary, Ministry of External Affairs,
K. Amunugama and other senior officials of the Ministry were also present.
Belgolux-Sri Lanka Business Council signs MOU with the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
The BelgoLux Sri Lanka Business Council (BLBC) signed a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Benelux Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber
of Commerce during an interactive business meeting held at the Sri Lanka
Embassy in Brussels last week. Mr. Willem Ceriez President of the Benelux
Business Council and Mr. Mahen Kariyawasan, Vice-Chairperson of the
Benelux Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce signed the MOU in the presence of Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium,
Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha and the members of the BLBC.
Read more...
“Time has come to overcome the suspicions that remain” - Prof. Wijesinha
Adviser on Reconciliation to the President of Sri Lanka and MP Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha has said,
“Now that the terror and violence in Sri Lanka is over, we need also to overcome the suspicions
that remain. It is vital that those abroad, who can remember only the distant past, will not
endeavour to revive tensions, but will rather visit the country and see what they can do
to help, their people of course, but through that the country as a whole. But I
realize that getting over their suspicions will also be difficult, and we
in government need to work concertedly to reassure them, to engage with
those willing to move forward.”
Prof. Wijesinha made these observations when he addressed
a forum held in Brussels at the European Institute of Asian Studies
(EIAS), in collaboration with the Embassy of Sri Lanka on Thursday, 07 July 2011.
Read more... Full text of the speech
EU accommodates Sri Lanka’s request for the use of Sulphur Dioxide in processing of Cinnamon
The European Union (EU) has allowed Sri Lanka’s request for the use of Sulphur Dioxide in the processing of Cinnamon.
Sulphur dioxide (SO2) has been used for 2 purposes, viz for its biocidal activity
and for bleaching. The cinnamon industry has traditional practices in cinnamon
processing and the use of SO2 in fumigation has been known to the industry for centuries.
Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) fumigation keeps the hygienic quality and fumigation functions as a preservative, anti-browning agent,
and helps in the fixation of the characteristic golden yellow colour of Ceylon Cinnamon.
Read more...
Acting High Commissioner Amza refutes Channel 4 Allegations in live BBC Radio debate
Refuting unsubstantiated allegations in “Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields”, Acting High Commissioner
P M Amza questioned the motive behind Channel 4’s vindictive campaign against Sri Lanka.
Emphasising that Sri Lanka has set a domestic mechanism in motion to look into all matters
of concern Acting High Commissioner Amza pointed out glaring errors in the film and
instances where the broadcaster has taken the liberty even to misrepresent what
is heard in Tamil. He charged the producer of blatant bias.
Read more...
SL envoys in US reveal inconsistencies in Channel 4 video
Sri Lanka’s Permanent Representative to the UN Dr. Palitha Kohona and Deputy Permanent
Representative Major General Shavendra Silva yesterday revealed about the inconsistencies
and the biased narration of the documentary aired by Channel 4 recently.
The Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the International
Crisis Group who claimed that the documentary reinforces the findings
of the Darusman Report organised a screening of the Channel 4 documentary
at the UN Church Centre yesterday.
The two Sri Lankan diplomats told the gathering the Channel
4 video fiasco is a well-planned ploy to tarnish a country which succeeded
in eradicating a deadly terrorist organization which held thousands of innocent civilians hostage.
Read more...
Channel 4 rejected previous request for video and textual information – LLRC
The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) has said the British television
Channel 4 network that aired two videos of alleged war crimes committed in Sri Lanka had
previously refused a request by the Commission for textual information on the first video.
LLRC Spokesperson Lakshman Wickremasinghe told the media the Commission was yet to
decide on the mechanism to probe the latest Channel 4 video telecast on June 14
since the Channel 4 had turned down a request for material made by the Commission earlier.
Read more...
Lankans among fastest-growing millionaires
Sri Lanka is among the six of the 10 countries in Asia with the fastest-growing millionaire populations, led by Hong Kong and Vietnam, which each
saw annual growth of 33 percent, a latest survey said. Others included Indonesia, Singapore, and India.
Read more...
Russia and China extend further support to Sri Lanka - Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris stated that
all politically motivated campaigns against Sri Lanka would fail as
they were based on wrong information and not on objective assessments.
Addressing the media at the Ministry on 21st June 2011, Minister Peiris described
the recent visit of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to St. Petersburg, Russia as
“unreservedly successful” which brought dividends to Sri Lanka. Addressing the
media at the External Affairs Ministry Prof. Peiris briefed on the highlights
of the visit which included the bilateral
meetings with the Presidents of Russia, China and Kazakhstan and the Prime Minister of Spain.
Read more...
European Parliament Report says “it strongly believes there is room for constructive and principled engagement between the EU and Sri Lanka”
The Report of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with
South Asia following their visit to Sri Lanka from 22-26 February 2011
for the 6th EP/Sri Lanka Inter-Parliamentary Meeting was tabled in Brussels last week.
The ‘conclusions’ contained in the report, which comments on the aspects of development
cooperation, devolution and reconciliation, practical steps suggested and Inter-Parliamentary
cooperation, state that “the EP South Asia Delegation would like to underline that it strongly
believes there is room for constructive and principled engagement between the EU and Sri Lanka –
despite the disagreements of the past and the fact that, in some areas, differences
in perceptions still subsist”. It also “calls on the diaspora to play a positive role
in supporting this approach by working constructively with the elected Tamil leadership
in Sri Lanka”.
Read more...
“What Sri Lanka needs from its friends is not threats but space and support” – Foreign Ministry
The Ministry of External Affairs of Sri Lanka has observed that “at this crucial
time what Sri Lanka needs from its friends is not threats but the space and
support for restoration of what was lost over three decades and the opportunity
to move rapidly forward towards reconciliation and economic development”. The
Government of Sri Lanka made this observation in response to a statement by the
British Foreign Office Minister for South Asia Alistair Burt on the Channel 4
documentary telecast on 14th June 2011.
The External Affairs Ministry Statement said, “This documentary, like the
Darusman Report, does no more than put together a sequence of events and images,
to justify a conclusion arrived at in advance. The origins of this footage are
yet to be established, and no one has so far taken responsibility for its
contents. It is a mere collection of visuals previously aired through LTTE
websites and a miniscule section of the international media, at the behest of
parties with vested interests to undermine the present efforts at reconciliation
and development taking place in Sri Lanka. The views expressed in the film are
without any guarantee of authenticity”.
Read more...
Government’s response to Channel 4 Film – “ Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields”
The Government of Sri Lanka categorically denies the allegations that
it has deliberately targeted its own civilians,
as the Channel 4 alleges in its film “ Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields” .
Read more...
BOI records rising FDI trend
The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka has announced the achievement of the highest
ever quarterly FDI inflow in Q1 of 2011. The inflow of US$ 236 million in realized
foreign investments for January to March this year is an increase of almost 160%
versus the corresponding period in 2010.
Read more...
Nordic Greens “Hearing” in EU Parliament, a mere gimmick - Ambassador Aryasinha
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha has said the so called “hearing” held at the
European Parliament today ( 1 June 2011) was “a mere gimmick”, and that “the
event attended by a handful of MEPs has no official standing and is a mere party
event organized by the European Nordic Left/Nordic Greens Left (GUE/NGL), a
fringe political party which has 35 out of 736 members in the European
Parliament”.
The Nordic Greens, together with other Left parties played a leading role three
weeks ago in moving for an ‘urgency’ resolution on Sri Lanka seeking the
”immediate establishment of an international justice mechanism on Sri Lanka” to
give effect to the Darusman Report, which attempt was rejected in a formal
plenary session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg on May 12.
Read more...
Statement by Attorney-General of Sri Lanka, Mohan Pieris, during the Interactive Dialogue on the Report of the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, Christof Heyns 17th Session of the Human Rights Council, 31 May 2011
Mr. President,
Sri Lanka welcomes the Special Rapporteur’s efforts to provide the government
an opportunity to respond to his technical note, we would however like to
observe that the whole exercise did not achieve its full potential. Firstly
the report contained blurred and illegible images which were not of
a quality that could be examined and therefore precluded the government
from making a proper assessment. It would therefore be useful for
legible copies to be made available in a timely manner. A request
was also made to provide documents in their original forms. These too were
transmitted by way of a scanned document of a faxed document. The illustrations
in the Spivac report were also illegible which meant that the images on which many assertions were made could not be revealed in time.
We assure the SR that the outcome will be shared with him once such analysis is complete.
Read more...
Statement made by Hon. Mahinda Samarasinghe, Head of Sri Lanka delegation at the 17th Sesion of the United Nations Human Rights Council
Mr. President
Excellencies
Madam High Commissioner
Distinguished delegates
I wish to commend the constructive manner in which you, Mr President, have been conducting
the work of the Human Rights Council. Our deliberations have been guided by you with sagacity
and sensitivity, aimed at achieving the objectives of our agenda in a fair and equitable manner.
You have the fullest cooperation and support of my delegation for the work of the Council.
Read more...
Statement by H.E. Kshenuka Senewiratne, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the UN, Geneva on the Statement of the High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay on 30 May 2011
Mr. President,
My delegation is perplexed to note the High Commissioner’s reference as
stated, to the report of the Secretary General’s Panel of Experts on
accountability in Sri Lanka. It is widely known that the said report
was borne outside of an intergovernmental process. It is a report
which was initiated solely by the UNSG to advise himself on the
modalities, applicable international standards and comparative experience
relevant to an accountability process in respect to the conflict in Sri Lanka.
It is extremely unfortunate, Mr President, that the High Commissioner has
thought fit to refer to it in her report to the 17th Session of the HRC,
a document which was compiled by a Panel to advise the SG, that too at
his own request, and well exceeding its mandate, thereby bringing
into question her objectivity. In this context, the High
Commissioner has resorted to drawing on recommendations
culminating from a report of a non intergovernmental process,
which also has no official status in the UN system.
This Council would agree that at no point has it sought this so
called information referred to by the High Commissioner.
Read more...
Minister of External Affairs addresses the XVI Ministerial Conference and Commemorative Meeting marking the 50th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) in Indonesia
Minister of External Affairs, Prof G.L. Peiris addressing the XVI Ministerial Conference and Commemorative Meeting marking
the 50th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) stated that the Non-Aligned Movement had
a critical role to play, in a changed global scenario, in collectively addressing common challenges
such as the scourge of terrorism, plaguing many countries of the world. Towards this end, Minister
Peiris stressed on the need for NAM to build synergies with other organizations, which share
similar values such as the G-15, BIMSTEC and SAARC. President Rajapaksa, in his capacity
as the current chair of the G-15 was ready to facilitate such an endeavour. Minister
Peiris delivered these comments during the thematic debate held under the
topic ‘Shared vision on the contribution of NAM for the next 50 years’.
Read more...
Sri Lanka signs Stand-by Arrangement with the UN for Peacekeeping Operations
Sri Lanka became the 63rd country to sign a Memorandum of Understanding on stand-by arrangements for United Nations peacekeeping operations.
The signing ceremony took place in the office of Assistant-Secretary-General and Military Adviser for Peacekeeping Operations, Lieutenant General Babacar Gaye on 20 May 2011.
Read more...
Only we can solve our own problems, and none other -
President at Ranaviru Day celebrations
We do not hesitate to ensure the democratic and human rights of the citizens
living in north and east. But we will not heed to the demands of separatists
or terrorists. When people in this country do not accept their demands, they
look for ways to make us bow down using foreign influence. But I must
emphasize that no one can do anything in this country without the
consent of our people. It is only we who can solve our own problems,
and no one else, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing
the nation, at the 2nd Ranaviru Day celebrations at Galle Face, Colombo today ( May 27).
“There is a truth we have to tell the world. We did not build Armed Services to invade countries.
What we have is an Armed Force committed to rebuild the country with utmost commitment to
the people…
Today we celebrate the victory of ensuring the right of every citizen of the country to live in harmony.
It is the victory of freeing thousands of civilians in the north, who were held as hostages, “ the President said.
Read more...
‘Maha Pirith’ ceremony in Brussels to commemorate the
2600th ‘Sambudhdhathwa Jayanthi’
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Belgium commemorated the 2600th Sambudhdathwa
Jayanthi (anniversary of the enlightenment of the Buddha) by organizing a ‘Maha
Pirith ceremony’ on 22 May 2011 at the Sri Lanka Residence. The event was
attended by over 100 persons, including Ambassadors and diplomatic
representatives from Asian countries, representatives of Buddhist Organizations
in Belgium, as well as members of the Sri Lanka community resident in Belgium
and Luxembourg.
The ‘Maha Piritha’ was followed by a colorful display of Vesak lanterns at the
Sri Lanka Residence organized by the children of the Sri Lanka community in
Belgium. The theras were also offered ‘daval dana’ at an alms giving held at the
Embassy Chancery in Brussels on 23rd May 2011.
Media Release in English Media Release in Sinhala
Sri Lanka & Luxembourg conclude negotiations on Agreement for the Avoidance
of Double Taxation
The Government of Sri Lanka & the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxemburg
have concluded negotiations on an Agreement for the Avoidance of Double Taxation
and for the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and on
capital.
Luxembourg companies have so far invested over US $ 6 million in six projects
in Sri Lanka
and the conclusion of this agreement would serve as catalyst in stimulating
greater flow of capital, technology and personnel between Sri Lanka and
Luxembourg.
Read more...
LTTE leader Nediyavan arrested and interrogated in Oslo
Norway based LTTE leader Perinpanayagam Sivaparan, known by his nom de guerre as
Nediyavan, has been arrested and was produced in an Oslo court last week. A
Dutch judge and five Dutch Defence Attorneys are in Norway to interrogate the
LTTE Leader Nediyavan, who is pointed out by several people to be a key leader
of the LTTE, and heads the criminal faction of the organization. Nediyawan was
reportedly working as a common aide in a kindergarten school in Norway at the
time of his detention.
Confirming the detention of Perinpanayagam Sivaparan , Chairman of the Defence
and Security committee of the opposition Conservative Party Peter Gitmark has
said he hoped the Norwegian Police will also be able to interrogate the man and
shed light on LTTE activities within Norway. “I think it is not in the interest
of the people of Sri Lanka for the LTTE to raise money in Norway and other
places to renew its violent struggle against the government of Sri Lanka,” the
Conservative Party MP has told the BBC. He has also called for the banning of
the LTTE in Norway.
Read more...
President appoints four key Commissions
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has appointed four Commissions under Article 41 A of
the Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka with effect
from May 16, 2011.
These Commissions are the Public Service Commission, the Human Rights Commission
of Sri Lanka, the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery and
Corruption and the Finance Commission.
Read more...
Netherlands arrest LTTE fundraisers
Several LTTE fundarisers including the alleged leader of the LTTE Dutch branch
who forced Tamils in Netherlands to pay for the LTTE were arrested by the
Netherlands authorities. Dutch court authorities said the LTTE held these people
in ‘a stranglehold’, forcing them to pay a ‘war tax’. The investigation has been
going on for two years.
Court documents, published by Dutch newspaper NRC Handelsblad, said that the
Tamil Tigers systematically extorted large sums of money from Dutch Tamils. If
they refused, they were threatened with reprisals.
Read more...
Sri Lankar’s first woman Chief Justice takes oaths
Justice Dr. Shirani A. Bandaranayake, the Senior Supreme Court Judge, took oaths
as the New Chief Justice of Sri Lanka before President Mahinda Rajapaksa at
Temple Trees on Tuesday.
The new Chief Justice, the first woman to head Sri Lanka’s apex court was
Associate Professor of Law and the Dean of the Faculty of Law, University of
Colombo, before appointment to the bench of the Supreme Court in October 1996.
She was then the first women to be appointed to the Supreme Court, and was also
first Sri Lankan woman to obtain a PhD in Law from a foreign university – the
University of London in 1986.
Read more...
Sambuddhatva Jayanthi Year declared
President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared the 2600th Sambuddhatva Jayanthi Year at the
historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi at Anuradhapura on Saturday. The Sambuddhatva Jayanthi
Year will be from May 17, 2011 this year’s Vesak Poya – Full Moon -
Day to next year's Vesak Poya Day. The President also declared open the
2600th Sambuddathva Jayanthi commemoration monument at the Anuradhapura
town and named the road leading to the monument as Sri Sambuddathva
Jayanthi Mawatha. The Vesak Festival this year, which marks the
Sambuddhatva Jayanthi, is of great significance to Buddhists
the world over as it marks the 2600th anniversary of the Enlightenment of Prince Siddhartha Gautama,
that made him the Buddha and brought the teachings of Buddhism to the world.
Read more...
Buddha’s teachings, a mean to resolve all disputes - President
The teachings of the Buddha help us to bring to the world the means of resolving all
disputes that arise from unbridled desire. Thus it behoves upon us to give to
the world the path to peace and consolation from these great teachings of
the Sammasambuddhatva or
Great Enlightenment of the Buddha, 2600 years ago, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
“On this Vesak festival it should be our determination to take refuge
in the teachings of the Buddha, and through the proper observation
of the teachings of Buddhism make this 2600 Sammasambuddhatva
Jayanthi meaningful to all people,” said President Rajapaksa in his Vesak message.
Read more...
Joint Press Statement issued at the conclusion of the visit of Minister of External Affairs Hon. Prof G.L Peiris to India
The Minister of External Affairs of the Government of Sri Lanka, Prof. G L Peiris
visited India from 15-17 May, 2011. During his visit, the External Affairs
Minister of Sri Lanka called on Dr Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of
India and met with Shri Pranab Mukherjee, Finance Minister, Shri S M Krishna,
External Affairs Minister and Shri Shivshankar Menon, National Security Advisor.
Smt Nirupama Rao, Foreign Secretary, called on the visiting dignitary.
Read more...
European Parliament rejects move “to seek the immediate establishment of an international justice mechanismn on Sri Lanka”
The European Parliament today defeated an attempt by the Socialist group
“to seek the immediate establishment of an international justice mechanism”
on Sri Lanka, during an ‘urgency’ debate called by the Socialist and Green
parties at the Strassbourg Plenary session to draw attention to the so called
“UN Panel Report” on accountability issues in Sri Lanka.
Read more... Final Resolution... Oral Ammendment defeated...
Ambassador Aryasinha says, ‘urgency’ debate outcome could be an important ‘turning point’ in Europe in relation to the discussion on Sri Lanka
Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha has said, the outcome of the ‘urgency’ debate
on Sri Lanka held in the European Parliament on 12 May 2011, “could be an important
‘turning point’ in Europe in relation to the discussion on Sri Lanka, and we should use
this moment
to reach out to governments, political groups, civil society groups and
individuals within Europe who continue to be misled by those who oppose Sri
Lanka due to various vested interests” . The Ambassador made this
observation in an interview with Rupavahini News on 13 May 2011.
Read more...
Darusman report tendentious -
We will expose all false allegations about Sri Lanka – President
The report of the Darusman Committee on the final phase of the operation
to defeat terrorism in Sri Lanka is a tendentious document that makes
grossly false allegations about Sri Lanka and its security forces. The
government will defend the good name of the country and expose the
false allegations that are abundant in this report. So said President Mahinda Rajapaksa, speaking
to editors of the print and electronic media in Sri Lanka at Temple Trees yesterday (10).
Read more...
European Commission provides €10 million for humanitarian actions in Sri Lanka
The European Commission extended its humanitarian support to Sri Lanka by another €10 million.
This will finance further assistance for internally displaced Sri Lankans, helping them to return
to their homes, and ensuring that basic services are in place for the returnees.
Kristalina Georgieva, Commissioner for International Cooperation,
Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Response said: “Europe will continue its
impartial support to the vulnerable communities in Sri Lanka, and
will work to build the bridge between relief assistance and long-term
development in the country”.
Read more...
‘Sri Lanka Pavilion’ attracts the European sea food experts at the European Seafood Expo 2011
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Embassy
in Belgium organized a ‘Sri Lanka Pavilion’ for the 3rd consecutive year at the annual
European Seafood Exposition (ESE 2011), held at the Parc des Expositions de Bruxelles
(Brussels Exhibitions Grounds) from 3rd to 5th May 2011. The exhibition coincided with the
‘Seafood Processing Europe’ exposition to promote machinery and equipment relating
to fisheries industry. These two exhibitions create Europe’s most complete seafood event for seafood business professionals
with access to a one-stop resource to reach global retail, food service and wholesale market.
Read more...
US wants a strong and long-term relationship with Sri Lanka- Assistant Secretary Blake
US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert Blake has said that
the United States wants a strong and long-term relationship with Sri Lanka. The Assistant
Secretary further said that Sri Lanka is an important country to USA, and particularly
in the areas of maritime security, counter terrorism and combating piracy, USA would
want to work closely with Sri Lanka. Mr. Blake made these observations when he called on the Minister of
External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris on 4th May at the External Affairs Ministry.
Read more... Transcript of the the press conference by Assistant Secretary Robert Blake in Colombo...
Accountability is up to locals – France
France said investigation into the alleged war crimes claims in Sri Lanka is
up to the Sri Lankan authorities. “Investigation is up to the Sri Lankan
authorities, as something they should do to ‘improve the reconciliation
process’,” the Inner City press reported quoting the Permanent Representative
of France Gérard Araud, who took over the UN Security Council presidency for May.
He was responding to a question that what France thinks should be done about the UN Panel of Experts report.
Allow SL to take its course in reconciliation – Russian Ambassador
The Sri Lanka government has appointed a committee to learn from the past mistakes
and to take steps to reconcile and the government should be allowed to take its
course in the reconciliation process, Russian Ambassador for Sri Lanka Vladimir
P. Mikhaylov said. The Sri Lankan government and armed forces have always
acted in a manner to protect civilians and I have seen the affects
Sri Lanka faced due to the terrorism in the past few years, he added.
Read more...
Minister of External Affairs Briefs Diplomatic Community on ‘Darusman Report’
The Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris addressed the Colombo-based diplomatic
corps at the Ministry of External Affairs in Colombo today to convey the response of the Government of Sri Lanka on the substantive aspects of the Darusman Report. The Minister stated that the Government of Sri Lanka was no longer
constrained to comment substantively as the Report is now in the public domain.
Read more...
The Government of Sri Lanka reiterates its position that the “Darusman Report” is fundamentally flawed in many respects
The Government of Sri Lanka refers to the release by the UN Secretary-General of the
“Darusman Report” on accountability in Sri Lanka. The Government of Sri Lanka reiterates its position that the “Darusman Report” is fundamentally flawed in many respects and that among other deficiencies,
the Report is based on biased material, which is presented without any verification.
Read more...
“LTTE involved in the trafficking of drugs and human beings” - Europol TE-SAT Report 2011
The European Police Office (Europol) has said “Terrorist groups are becoming more diverse and
flexible in their methods of operating, with signs of increased collaboration between groups,
increased use of the Internet, and a growing connection between organized crime and terrorism,
especially in regard to financing activities. Separatist terrorist groups such as the PKK/KONGRA-GEL and LTTE are involved
in the trafficking of drugs and human beings to raise funds for their terrorism activities”.
Read more...
Wrong to publish Moon panel report Advisory panel not a UN body – Minister of External Affairs
It is fundamentally wrong for the UN to publish the report or take action based on the recommendations by the UN panel of advisors, Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris said.
Speaking to media today (21) at the Ministry of External Affairs, Prof. Peiris said the report was not complied by the UN or a mandated UN body.
Read more...
Renewal in spirit and expectations- President
President Mahinha Rajapaksa in a message on the occassion of the Sinhala and
Hindu New Year has said, “this New Year will help bring a renewal in spirit and
new expectations to the people about future progress.” The President has noted
that “we celebrate this New Year at a time when production is progressing
rapidly in agriculture and all other areas of development” and that ”it is also
a time when all enjoy the freedom achieved in our motherland”.
Read more...
Sri Lanka says the UNSG’s Panel of Experts report fundamentally flawed
The Government of Sri Lanka has received a copy of the report of the Secretary General’s Panel of Experts on accountability in Sri Lanka.
The Government finds this report fundamentally flawed in many respects. Among other deficiencies, the report is based on patently biased material which is presented without any verification.
The Government will, in due course, comment in detail on the contents of the report
Ministry of External Affairs
13 April 2011
IMF happy with Lanka economy
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said it was pleased with the progress
in Sri Lanka’s economy.
Koshy Mathai, the IMF’s resident representative has told reporters in Colombo
the IMF was “pretty happy with the way (Sri Lanka’s) economy is progressing and
how it is run”.
The announcement came as the IMF released the seventh tranche of a USD 2.6
billion stand-by-facility approved in July, 2009......Mathai said the IMF has
full confidence in the Sri Lanka's economy having done six reviews of the
facility, and that no major policy changes are required to manage the economy.
Read more...
World should divert defence expenditure to development - President
The colossal sums of monies that nations spend on conflicts and wars must be diverted
towards development, research and technology to reduce poverty and suffering.
Sri Lanka’s humanitarian initiatives have enabled the government, not just to end
conflicts but to divert resources earlier spent on conflicts,
now towards welfare and development, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
Read more...
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris meets Dr. Liam Fox, Britain’s Secretary of State for Defence
External Affairs Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris had wide ranging
discussions on current issues in Sri Lanka including political developments,
the economy and rehabilitation with Dr. Liam Fox, Britain’s Secretary of State for Defence, in London.
Prof. Peiris Discusses Trade Opportunities with Lord Green, British Minister of State for Trade and Investment
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris met with Lord Green, Minister of State for Trade and Investment
of the UK at the Ministry of Trade and Investment in London on 4th April 2011.
Minister Peiris outlined the recent expansion of opportunities in Sri Lanka for
broadening business and trade links between the two countries following the end
of the conflict. He explained that Sri Lanka was engaged in a major programme of
infrastructure development while other sectors such as tourism and services have
also expanded considerably in recent months. Furthermore, arrangements such
as the India-Sri Lanka and the India-Pakistan Free Trade
Agreements offered major incentives for foreign companies
including from the UK using Sri Lanka as an investment
base for export into the vast South Asian markets. Against the background of
strong bilateral links and the mutual familiarity of each others administrative, financial and legal structures,
it was an opportune moment for strengthening interactions in the trade and business sectors.
Read more...
Growth in Garment Export Earnings
Continuing the increasing trend observed since the withdrawal of the GSP+ scheme
in August 2010, earnings from textile and garments exports increased by 121.9 per
cent to US dollars 385 million in January 2011, depicting a 143.5 per cent increase
to EU and 95.8 per cent increase to USA, Central Bank stated in its ’External Sector Performance – January 2011‘ report.
Read more...
Sri Lanka Runners-up in the Cricket World Cup – 2011
Sri Lanka was the Runners-up in ICC World Cup 2011.India beat Sri Lanka by 6 wickets
at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. The ICC Cricket World Cup is the premier international championship of ODI
cricket and is the world’s fourth-largest and fourth-most-viewed sporting event.
According to the ICC, it is the most important tournament and the pinnacle of achievement
in the sport. The first Cricket World Cup contest was organised in England in 1975.
In 1996 Sri Lanka won their maiden championship by defeating Australia by seven
wickets in the final, which was held in Lahore. Australia defeated Sri Lanka in the final in 2007.
The 2011 Cricket World Cup started on February 19th 2011 was co-hosted by Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka.
EU Heads of Missions in Colombo meet the Acting Minister of External Affairs Neomal Perera
The Heads of Missions of the European Union Member States Mr. Willy Vandenberghe,
Chargé d’affaires of EU accompanied by H.E. Mrs. Leoni Cuelenaere, Ambassador
of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Mrs. Christine Robichon, Ambassador
of France, Mr. Mark Gooding, British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Gianluca
Rubagotti, Deputy Head of Mission of Embassy of Italy met the ActingMinister
of External Affairs Neomal Perera on 31st March 2011 at the Ministry. Discussions centered
on strengthening of the bilateral and multilateral cooperation between EU and Sri Lanka.
Foreign Minister of Czech Republic compliments Sri Lanka on rapid progress- bilateral Talks with Prof. G.L. Peiris in Prague
The Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G.L. Peiris met with his Czech counterpart
Karel Schwarzenberg, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the
Czech Republic at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Prague on 28th March.
Minister Peiris is undertaking an official visit to the Czech Republic
at the invitation of Minister Karel Schwarzenberg.
This is the first high-level official visit from Sri Lanka to the Czech Republic in recent years.
Read more...
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris and Minister of Finance of the Czech Republic Miroslav Kalousek sign Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement at Ministry of Finance in Prague
Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris met with the Minister of Finance
of the Czech Republic, Miroslav Kalousek, at the Ministry of Finance in Prague
on 28 March 2011. The two Ministers concluded their discussions with the signing
of the Agreement for the Promotion and Reciprocal Protection of Investment between
Sri Lanka and the Czech Republic. The agreement provides for full protection of
foreign investment, guarantees against expropriation, granting of Most Favoured Nation (MFN) and National
Treatment to investors and their investments and also provides dispute settlement mechanisms.
Read more...
The new Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs assumes duties
The new Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. Karunatilaka Amunugama assumed office today (28th March 2011) at the Ministry at a simple ceremony. He was welcomed on his arrival by senior officials of the Ministry.
Mr. Amunugama was appointed as the new External Affairs Secretary succeeding Mr. Romesh Jayasinghe.
Mr. Amunugama joined the Sri Lanka Foreign Service in 1985 and has served in many Sri Lanka Missions abroad. He has also served as Sri Lanka’s Ambassador in Bangkok, Tokyo and Beijing, prior to his appointment as the External Affairs Secretary.
Ministry of External Affairs
Colombo
28th March 2011
Ambassador Aryasinha cautions Europe on LTTE’s false pretences
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha,
has said, “it is important that European States and institutions do not provide
any political or symbolic support, nor should they be fooled by the false
pretences
of those continuing to advocate mono-ethnic separatism in Sri Lanka “through
peaceful means”, while espousing the ideology of the LTTE, using its money and
being manipulated by its surviving military leaders”. He said “given that there
can
no longer be a dichotomy in the manner terrorist and criminality related issues
are treated across the globe between the law enforcement /criminal justice
community
on the one hand, and the political community on the other, there should not be a
disconnect between these respective institutions of Governance on how to deal
with this growing problem”.
Allow domestic accountability process
– SL delegation at UNHRC
Drawing the attention of the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) to the
Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) appointed by President
Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Sri Lanka delegation told the Council that the LLRC is
a domestic process pursuing an agenda of restorative justice to lay foundation
for continued reconciliation and allow it to proceed without international
interventions. Head of Sri Lanka mission in the United Nations in Geneva,
Kshenuka Seneviratne speaking in a right of reply in response to the
statement by the European Union said that “it would be more constructive
to desist from this repetitive refrain on accountability and provide
the required time and space for the domestic process already underway,
in fulfilling its objectives, designed for the better of our own people.”
Read more...
Sri Lanka shrinks HSZ in Jaffna
Sri Lanka Government is in the process of shrinking the High Security Zones in the northern
Jaffna peninsula. With civil and public administration getting streamlined on par with other
development programmes under the Wadakkin Wasantham (Uthuru Wasanthaya), and law and order
is restored by the Police in the peninsula, The Army is in the process of shrinking
its strengths in popularized areas and shifting camps to remote crown lands
Read more...
President expresses sympathy on Japan’s earthquake and tsunami
President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in a message to Emperor of Japan, Akihito expressed
sympathy on the earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan today (11) and stated,
’we pray for solace for those affected by the disaster and for the rapid recovery of the Japanese people and nation‘.
Japan is a very close and dear friend of Sri Lanka. At this moment
of challenge, our thoughts are with Your Majesty and your people, he said.
Read more...
Belgolux- Sri Lanka Business Council hosts Governor Cabraal at inaugural event
Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Ajith Nivard Cabraal, who was on an official
visit to Belgium and Luxembourg last week, was the Guest of Honour at the inaugural
event of the Belgolux- Sri Lanka Business Council (BLSLBC), which was recently
incorporated as a non-profit organization in Belgium. The Governor participated
in an interactive session attended by members of the BLSLBC, representatives
of Belgian companies which participated in the
’Belgian Business Week‘ in Colombo in November, 2010 and prospective investors.
Read more...
Governor Cabraal says Sri Lanka to develop as a financial hub in South Asia
Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal has said Sri Lanka
looked to learn from the experiences of countries such as Luxembourg,
as it seeks to find its own niche and develop as a financial hub in
the South Asian region. He said Sri Lanka’s hospitable climate
for expatriates, liberal policies on repatriation of funds and
recent restructuring of the tax base, would serve as
attractions in this endeavour. Governor Cabraal made
these observations when he participated in a round table
discussion titled “Investment and Financial Market
Prospects in Sri Lanka”, held at the Chamber of
Commerce of Luxembourg on 9 March 2011. During
his visit to Luxembourg, the Governor met with
Mr. Yves Mersch, Governor of the Central Bank of Luxemburg
and participated in bilateral discussions with senior officials of the Foreign Ministry of Luxembourg.
Read more...
“Exports flourish sans GSP Plus“ - Sunday Observer Editorial
“Today, it has been proved beyond a shadow of doubt that Sri Lanka’s garments
could make an indelible mark in the international arena. Sri Lanka vindicated
its position that it could compete in the international market despite the
withdrawal of the GSP Plus concessions. On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s exports
to the EU countries had grown by 38 percent in the last four months of 2010
despite the withdrawal of the GSP Plus concession. According to the Central Bank
Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal, this had been made possible as the country had
braced itself for this eventuality and consequently the impact of its loss was
minimal. The Governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka said that the exaggerated
fear that the withdrawal of the GSP Plus facility would lead to massive job
losses and a drop in exports did not materialise.......It is now opportune that
we take note of our potential and the quality of our products. Local products no
longer need concessions to compete in the international market as we could do so
on the basis of their quality, competitiveness and improved productivity”.
Read more...
Central Bank Governor Cabraal calls for OECD to reflect Sri Lanka’s improved
conditions in country ratings
Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal has called on the
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) to reflect Sri
Lanka’s improved conditions in their country ratings. In an address to the
European Institute for Asian Studies (EIAS) on the theme “Sri Lanka’s Economic
Resurgence and Future Prospects”, held in Brussels on Tuesday
(8 March 2011), the Governor described the current OECD overall rating of Sri
Lanka, as being a constraint to facilitate businessman of the OECD countries to
trade with and invest in the country, due to the higher risk premiums in
obtaining credit insurance. The Governor said that in his meetings in Brussels
with Belgian authorities, he had also made representation to make this
adjustment.
Read more... Governor’s presentation at EIAS...
South Asia Delegation of European Parliament Commends “tremendous efforts by the Government to remove legacy of conflict”
The leader of the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament, Mrs. Jean Lambert
(Greens/UK) has commended GOSL on the “tremendous efforts and progress made by the Government
to remove the legacy of the conflict”. The observations were made during the
concluding interaction between the Delegation and the Minister of External Affairs,
Prof. G.L. Peiris on 24 February 2011. The EU side thanked the Minister and the Government for the extensive efforts made to ensure the success
of their visit and appreciated the opportunity to interact with a cross-section of Sri Lankan society.
Read more...
Bishop of Jaffna Happy About Security in Jaffna
Jaffna Bishop Rt Rev Fr Dr Thomas Saundernayagam, in a letter addressed to
Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, attributes the significant drop in the
Jaffna crime rate to the intensified new security measures of the Army and the
Police now in effect. The Bishop commending the role of the Army, assisted by
the Police went on to state that timely action of the Security Forces in the
peninsula drastically lessened the number of criminal activities and other
unlawful acts. He also criticized organized crimes by certain sections and
praised the Army for restoring normalcy. “Once again law and order has been
restored and unlawful deeds have lessened”, the letter said.
Read more...
“EU decision, an eye-opener” - Sunday Observer Editorial
“The European Union (EU) took a bold decision last week by including the LTTE
again in its list of terrorist groups. The EU took this decision after a
comprehensive review and the announcement was made through the Council
Implementing Regulation on January 31 and published in the official journal
of the EU. ..... Sri Lanka is fast recovering having eradicated LTTE
terrorism on May 18, 2009 and the EU’s decision would indisputably shatter
even the wildest dreams of Tiger sympathisers. At a time when Sri Lanka is
bouncing back with a significant economic boom to regain its lost prestige
due to three decades of LTTE terror, it is incumbent on the international
community, especially those who strongly campaign against international
terror, to extend their wholehearted support. ”
Read more...
“EU grudgingly admits LTTE threat” - The Nation Editorial
“This week, the European Union (EU) announced that it was re-listing the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) as a terrorist
organisation, in a crucial decision that would have wide-ranging implications for Sri Lanka..........Only a few countries - which notably
include the likes of Russia, China and neighbouring India - among the global powers that be have been bold enough to acknowledge that it
is now time to move on in Sri Lanka and indicated that it accepts Colombo’s decision to eliminate the LTTE. Against such a backdrop, the
re-listing of the Tigers as a terrorist organisation by the EU is indeed significant. It is an indication that the EU grudgingly
admits that the LTTE - or what is left of it - does pose a threat to their own security and that the Tigers may not have changed their
stripes after all.”
Read more...
EU re-lists LTTE following comprehensive review of listed terrorist groups
The European Union (EU) has re-listed the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam
(LTTE) following a comprehensive review of listed terrorist groups. The
announcement was made through Council Implementing Regulation (EU) No 83/2011 of
31 January 2011,published in the Official Journal of the European Union. The
LTTE is re-listed among 26 Groups and Entities, on the determination that they
“have been involved in terrorist acts within the meaning of Article 1(2) and (3)
of Council Common Position 2001/931/CFSP of 27 December 2001 on the application
of specific measures to combat terrorism, that a decision has been taken with
respect to them by a competent authority within the meaning of Article 1(4) of
that Common Position, and that they should continue to be subject to the
specific restrictive measures.”
Read more...
Sri Lankan Dances add luster to ’Salon des Vacances‘ Tourism Fair in Belgium
Sri Lankan dances dazzled the Belgians who visited the ’Salon Des Vacances‘ tourism
fair which was held from 03-07 February 2011. Dubbed as the ’largest B2C tourism fair‘
in Belgium, this year’s ’Salon des Vancances‘ fair drew more than 150,000 Belgian visitors
during the five day exhibition. Sri Lanka which was participating in this fair after a
spell of four years, was part of the ’Asian Village‘ - which depicted the tourism
industry and the rich culture of Asia. The Sri Lanka Embassy in Belgium, together with
the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau represented Sri Lanka at the ’Asian Village‘ of the tourism fair,
while the dancers of the ’Sarasavi Ranga Ayathanaya‘ of Paris performed at this event.
Read more...
Ambassador Aryasinha calls on Sri Lankans abroad to rise against continued
attempts by vested interests to distort Sri Lanka’s image
Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha
addressing the celebrations to mark the 63rd Anniversary of Independence of Sri
Lanka in Brussels on 06 February 2011, has said “ as we celebrate our freedom,
let us not forget that these continue to be challenging times for Sri Lanka.
Even as Sri Lanka takes tangible measures to bring about reconciliation and
has embarked on a process of development and sustainable peace for all
communities in Sri Lanka, there are some with vested interests, who continue to
seek to distort the image of Sri Lanka particularly in the West. As a result,
the Sri Lanka which is projected out here, is very different from the Sri Lanka
that is over there. This is not a moment for any Sri Lankan or lover of Sri
Lanka to be mere spectators. It is a time for all those who are genuinely
interested in Sri Lanka’s future, to join in shaping Sri Lanka’s destiny. Sri
Lanka has a better story to tell, and I urge that each and every one of you, in
your own ways, to rise to meet this challenge”.
Read more... 63rd Anniversary of Independence celebration - Photographs
Change attitudes for true freedom & progress – President at Independence celebrations
The people of our country must change their attitudes about future progress of
the country, similar to the manner in which they began to think afresh about achieving
victory over the forces of terror. There is the need for an enormous attitudinal
change from children to adults to achieve national development, stated President
Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing
the nation at the 63rd celebration of Independence in Kataragama today (4 Feb).
Read more...
National Day Message - H.E the President
All Sri Lankans now have the opportunity to celebrate the 63rd Anniversary
of Independence with much glory. The unlimited sacrifices for the freedom and independence
of Sri Lanka make today’s independence Day celebrations one of great honour.
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National Day Message - Hon. Prime Minister
Sri Lanka celebrates the 63rd Anniversary of her independence on 04th February
2011 with high expectations of a bright future for the country. After defeating
terrorism that disrupted the lives of the people and slowed down the pace of
development of the country for nearly three decades, we have now brought peace
and stability to the country. The Government has established normalcy in
the North and East of the country by resettling all most all the
displaced persons; rebuilding their
houses, rehabilitating their villages and restoring their lively hoods.
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National Day Message - Hon. Minister of External Affairs
Today, we celebrate Sri Lanka’s 63rd anniversary of independence with
renewed hope and vigour. In the past years, Sri Lanka was able to sustain its economic
growth, even under trying circumstances. Despite encountering many challenges, our foreign
reserves grew and our foreign exchange increased. With the advent of a durable peace after
the successful elimination of terrorism in Sri Lanka, our principal focus has been on
steering the nation on the right course to achieve accelerated social and economic
development across the country, which would benefit people from all parts of the country.
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IMF applaudes Sri Lanka for strengthening the economy and macro-economic
management, releases $216.6 million more for rebuilding effort
The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on 2
February completed the fifth review of Sri Lanka’s economic performance under a
program supported by a Stand-By Arrangement (SBA), enabling the immediate
disbursement of an amount equivalent to SDR 137.8 million (about US$216.6
million), bringing total disbursements under the arrangement to an amount
equivalent to SDR 964.6 million (about US$1.516 billion).
Following the Executive Board’s discussion on Sri Lanka, Mr. Naoyuki Shinohara,
Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, stated: “The Sri Lankan authorities
have made good progress under the Fund-supported program and macroeconomic
developments continue to be favorable. Growth is strengthening; inflation
remains in check, despite some pressure in food and energy prices; and imports
have recovered. With strong remittance inflows, gross reserves remain at
comfortable levels. Improvements in fiscal performance are encouraging. The 2010
budget execution addressed past fiscal slippages and bolstered the credibility
of fiscal policy. The 2011 budget is generally sound, and reflects the
government’s strong commitment to the program’s goals.
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Govt. endorsed adoption of LLRC recommendations – Minister Peiris
The Government of Sri Lanka, in recognition of the importance of the issues
highlighted by the LLRC, endorsed the adoption of its recommendations,
stated Minister of External Affairs G. L. Peiris briefing the Heads of
Diplomatic Missions on the progress made by the Inter-Agency Committee (IAC)
in implementing the interim recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC).
In a series of briefings held on 1 and 2 February, Minister Peiris said that since
its establishment, the IAC has met regularly under the Chairmanship of the Attorney
General to review and implement the recommendations of the LLRC. These relate to measures
to be taken in the broad areas such as Detention, Land issues, Law and Order,
Administration and language issues, and Socio-economic and livelihood issues.
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President Mahinda Rajapaksa commissions the Sangupiddy Bridge which connects
Karaitivu with Pooneryn
President Mahinda Rajapaksa on on sunday (16 Jan) commissioned the Sangupiddy
Bridge which connects Karaitivu with Pooneryn
The bridge reduces a distance of 110kms between Mannar and Jaffna, limiting
travel time to three hours. The President vesting the bridge with the public
said “we are committed to developing the Northern areas and achieving equity in
development. You are experiencing development which has not been seen in these
areas for a long time”.
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End to all divisions from this Thai Pongal - President Rajapaksa
The promotion of separatism, and ethnic and religious divisions for narrow
political gains should end from this Thai Pongal, stated President Mahinda
Rajapaksa addressing the Thai Pongal festival in Jaffna on Monday (17 Jan). The
President said, politicians have the responsibility to build this country as one
nation, for the well being of its people, instead of spreading communal hatred.
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Sri Lanka Embassy Celebrates ’Thai Pongal’ festival
The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Belgium together with the Sri Lankan community
in Belgium celebrated the Thai Pongal festival at a colorful ceremony at the Embassy
premises on January 14, 2010. The celebrations were held in keeping with the tradition
of the Embassy of Sri Lanka of celebrating the important religious festivals of Buddhists,
Hindus, Muslims and Christians. Pundit Harinath Sharma of the Hindu Ashram in Brussels
conducted religious observances while Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha made introductory remarks. A representative
gathering of the Sri Lanka community in Belgium, the Embassy staff, participated in this event.
Commission provides € 2 million for flood victims in Sri Lanka
Today, the European Commission decided to provide emergency funding of
€ 2 million for humanitarian assistance to flood victims in Sri Lanka. Some of
the heaviest rains in Eastern and North Central Sri Lanka in recent weeks
have resulted in significant flooding affecting close to 1 million people. This
action will be implemented through international aid agencies to provide
primarily emergency food assistance, water and sanitation, and emergency
relief items.
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Government-TNA initiate structured dialogue toward reconciliation through
a political settlement
Representatives of the Government of Sri Lanka met with representatives of the
Tamil National Alliance to initiate a structured discussion directed towards
reconciliation through a political settlement and to address the urgent
humanitarian and reconstruction concerns. Hon. Ratnasiri Wickremanayake, Hon.
Nimal Siripala de Silva and Hon. G. L. Peiris participated on behalf of the
Government.
Hon. Maavai Senathirajah, Hon. Suresh Premachandran and Hon. M. A. Sumanthiran
participated on behalf of the Tamil National Alliance. Hon. Sajin de Vass
Gunawardena, Coordinating Secretary to the President, is the Secretary to the
Committee. The participants agreed to continue the dialogue with a sense of
commitment to identify the issues and to work towards solutions in a methodical
way.
President Rasjapaksa in New Year message makes call “ to recover with speed all
that was lost to Sri Lankan society in more than three decades”
With great determination and patience, we have built mutual understanding and
trust among the people about the nation’s development. Strengthening this should
be among our wishes for the New Year, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his
New Year message. We look towards the future at the dawn of this New Year with
renewed determination, firm commitment and many positive expectations, he said
adding, ‘Our aim is to recover with speed all that was lost to Sri Lankan
society in more than three decades’
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