News Bulletin

Issued  by the High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka 13, Hyde Park Gardens, London W2  2LU  

POLITICAL

PRESIDENT ADDRESSES OXFORD UNION

President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressed the Oxford Union on an invitation of the Oxford Union and the Sri Lankan Society of Oxford University on 13 May.

In his speech President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated that if Sri Lanka failed in the war against the LTTE, the world will fail in its fight against terrorism and democracy will be the victim.

"The LTTE is the most brutal terror outfit the world has ever seen and defeating them requires global support. What Sri Lanka is doing is fighting the terror outfit single handed to ensure that democracy and respect for human life prevail in the world," President Rajapaksa told the Oxford University Student Union on Tuesday, he said.

Calling the LTTE the main obstacle to development in Sri Lanka , the President said it was time the world raised its united voice

to express its utter revulsion of the barbaric practice of suicide bombings and that form

of political expression, if it could be described as such is utterly unacceptable in the civilised world.

President Rajapaksa said, unfortunately we are being challenged by 'the most brutal terrorist group in the world' as the LTTE has been described by the FBI. Suicide killings using even women and children have become their hallmark. It is this terror group that invented the deadly suicide vest for the suicide killer. Having pioneered the suicide vest they have freely given this technology to other terror groups in the world. This has now become a global menace.

"They killed Rajiv Gandhi, the former Prime Minister of India and Ranasinghe Premadasa, the former President of Sri Lanka. Most recently a senior Minister of my Government, a Tamil speaking Catholic was brutally murdered by a suicide killer along with a former Olympic athlete among many others participating in a sporting event."

"It has become incumbent upon us to confront this group to the extent of our ability deploying all the resources of the State to protect the people of Sri Lanka and their democratic way of life.

However I must state that the LTTE is the most brutal terror outfit the world has ever seen and defeating them requires global support. "Although many have said that the LTTE is invincible we have freed our Eastern Province of their terror. Within one year we have restored democracy there after nearly two decades. Only last week we

conducted free and fair elections to the first ever Eastern Provincial Council contested by several political parties.

"As our forces seek to defeat and disarm the LTTE we are firm in our resolve to have a negotiated solution to the crisis in Sri Lanka . I do not believe in a military solution. We have attempted talks with the LTTE on several occasions - thrice since my election as the President - but they have not reciprocated. They have always left the talks with lame excuses. We are still ready to talk once we are certain of their genuine intent for a political solution and their readiness to give up arms."

Source : Daily News

Full text of speech: http://www. dailynews.lk/ 2008/05/15/fea01.asp

Before the address at the Oxford Union President Mahinda Rajapaksa met the members of the Oxford Sri Lanka Society. Here he is seen lighting the oil lamp. Minister of Export Development and International Trade Prof. G. L. Peiris and the President and the Secretary of the Oxford Sri Lanka Society are also in the picture.

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama calls on UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama met on Wednesday 7^th May, with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in continuation of the regular dialogue to apprise the United Nations of the recent developments in Sri Lanka , particularly, with regard to the unfolding of the road map for the restoration of democracy in the Eastern Province . He also briefed the Secretary General on the Task Force set up to expedite development of the North.

The Foreign Minister briefed on the process of recovery currently underway, on the directions of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, to empower the people of the Eastern Province following the eviction of the LTTE by the security forces and the Provincial Council Elections in the Eastern Province currently being held.  He also provided an update on the APRC process and the status of implementation of the 13^th Amendment as well as the Government’s efforts to address issues on human rights including children in armed conflict and other humanitarian concerns.

The Secretary-General said that he valued the frank and candid dialogue with the Foreign Minister and appreciated the efforts made to reach out to the UN agencies. He referred to his several meetings with President Rajapaksa even prior to his assuming office as the head of the United Nations and also mentioned his personal respect for President Rajapaksa and his continued good wishes for Sri Lanka to return to peace and stability. 

The UN Secretary-General appreciated in particular, the dedicated commitment of Sri Lanka to the goals of the United Nations and referred to the Sri Lankan peace-keeping troops as “exemplary persons and very disciplined”.

The UN Secretary-General also referred to his interest in the Millennium Development Goals and expressed the hope that President Rajapaksa would attend the UN high-level meeting on MDGs proposed for September in New York , which would be an opportunity for Sri Lanka to present its success in meeting most of the MDG goals.

The Secretary-General also referred to his new initiative on global food security and conveyed a special invitation to President Rajapaksa to attend the proposed FAO high-level meeting scheduled for June 3-5 in Rome . The Foreign Minister suggested that Food Security should have a regional focus.

Source : Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka to the United Nations, New York

Minister Bogollagama receives H.R.H the Duke of Gloucester

Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester, first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, was warmly welcomed by the Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama on his arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport , last Sunday (04). He was hosted a dinner by H.E. the President at the President’s House in Colombo .  His visit to Sri Lanka  marks 60 fruitful years of Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka and the United Kingdom .

EASTERN PROVINCIAL COUNCIL ELECTIONS

UPFA victorious in East

The United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) recorded an emphatic victory at the first ever Provincial Council Election in the East, securing 20 (18+02 bonus seats) out of 37 seats on offer, while polling 52.21 per cent of the total votes.

The United National Party (UNP) which obtained 42.38 per cent of the total valid votes got 15 seats while the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and the Tamil Democratic National Alliance secured one slot each.

While dedicating the UPFA victory to the Eastern masses its General Secretary, Minister Susil Premajayantha called it both a mandate for the Eastern resurgence and a slap in the face of LTTE terrorism and the separatist lobby. He added that the Eastern polity in their endeavour had delivered the death blow to the so-called Eelam dream.

"The Eastern masses braved all odds to make the election both a reality and a victory. Apart from the Sinhalese, Muslims and Tamils voted overwhelmingly for the UPFA," the Minister said citing numerous attempts by LTTE to sabotage the event.

"Even the last minute attempts by LTTE targeting innocent civilians in Ampara town, the attack on the ship and the subsequent mortar attacks in some villages, had failed to break the will of the people," the Minister added.

The UPFA won two out of the three districts, - Batticaloa and Ampara while the Trincomalee district was won by the UNP.

A total number of 591,676 (65.78 per cent) voters had exercised their franchise out of a total of 982,721. However in comparison to other elections the number of rejected votes was quite high with 54,780 (8.47 per cent) getting annulled. Analysts cited the residents' unfamiliarity with the complex Proportional Representation system for this trend.

Out of 10 polling divisions in the East, the UPFA took the upper hand in seven (Batticaloa, Kalkudah, Padirippu, Ampara, Sammanthurai, Pottuvil and Seruwila while the UNP won three (Muttur, Trincomalee and Kalmunai).

In the Batticaloa district the UPFA (105,341), secured six out of the 11 seats available, with a lead of 46,739 votes over its closest rival the UNP (58,602), which got four seats while the TDNA won one seat polling 7,714 votes.

In Batticaloa all three polling divisions were won by the UPFA, namely Batticaloa, Kalkudah and Padiruppu, where the total voter turnout reached 61.17 per cent.

In a close contest the UNP (70,858) edged out UPFA (59,298) in the Trincomalee district where it won five seats against the four won by the UPFA. The JVP which polled 4,266 secured one seat.

In Ampara the UPFA won with a majority of 22,975 votes securing eight seats while the UNP got six. Also the UPFA won three out of the four polling divisions with the UNP getting the nod in Kalmunai.

Meanwhile the main election watchdog PAFFREL which deployed over 2,500 election observers including foreigners in their ranks said that despite some scattered incidents the election was conducted in a free and fair manner.

While observing that there had been 83 recorded incidents on the election day the PAFFREL said these cases in whole could not be viewed as ones which would affect the overall result.

The PAFFREL in a statement also added that the poll was an important step which powered the aspirations of the people in the East through an electoral process.

They called it an important step towards empowering the people of the Province to democratically determine their future. The post election period provides yet another opportunity to the Government and the newly established Council to demonstrate commitment to the democratic process and to promote good governance and ethnic harmony in the region.

Meanwhile Police sources said that the security net linking the Province would continue with the intention of preventing post election violations.

Source : Daily news

Statement on the Eastern Province Elections

The first ever Provincial Council elections for the Eastern Province was successfully held in Batticaloa, Digamadulla and Trincomalee districts on 10th May 2008 with the participation of 18 political parties and 22 Independent Groups. The polls registered a voter turn out of 65%, which is a clear indication of peaceful environment

prevailing in the province. People have exercised their sovereign rights freely in spite of LTTE terrorist attempts to disrupt voting in Ampara.

 
Holding elections in the East is an important milestone in the Government’s policy of restoring democratic rights of the people in areas once dominated by the LTTE’s terrorism. This election accentuates the policy of the Government to create an environment in which all the communities could enjoy freedom, harmony and economic prosperity.

The successful clearing of the East of LTTE terrorism by the Military and the restoration of normalcy paved the way to hold elections as promised by the Government. Security forces conducted these Military operations with great care to ensure minimal disruption to civilian life.

The significance of the election is that the political freedom has been added to the overall economic progress of the region already benefiting from the mega development drive launched in the Eastern Province through “Reawakening of the East” (Negenahira Navodaya) programme. This programme has provided immediate infrastructure development and livelihood projects will be undertaken.

The conclusion of the election in the East will undoubtedly encourage all the peace loving people to support the Government’s unwavering commitment to bring democracy and similar benefits to the people of the un-cleared areas in the North.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Colombo

Poll free and fair, say Foreign Monitors

The international election monitoring group, the Association of Asian Election Authorities (AAEA), called the May 10 polls in East as one of the best behaved and effectively conducted elections they had ever witnessed.

Releasing their observation report on the polls, the AAEA said that the elections were totally free and fair and that they had not encountered a single untoward incident during their monitoring process.

The AAEA comprised 17 members from 10 Asian countries, with the team including eminent personalities in their respective countries including several elections commissioners in their ranks, who had a thorough experience in international election observations.

Group leader Ming-Hwa Tsai said the team had been divided into three groups and had done an extensive monitoring process before arriving at the conclusion.

The AAEA praised the conduct of polling agents, election and security authorities for their active participation in the process which they called as one which acted as an effective form of check-and-balance preventing malpractices. They also noted that the professionalism demonstrated by the election administrators had greatly contributed to the credibility of the result.

The AAEA also praised the behaviour of the Eastern polity, describing the voter participation, discipline and enthusiasm as exemplary. The AAEA pointed out that this in itself was ample testimony to their understanding of the importance of the electoral exercise and adhering to democratic norms.

The AAEA concluding their mission said the fact that people themselves embraced the elections, more than anything else, proved that the poll was free and fair.

Source : Daily news

No major incidents - PAFFREL

Except for certain violent incidents including a bomb attack carried out by the LTTE targeting innocent civilians on the eve of the election at a restaurant in Ampara, no major incidents took place in connection with the Eastern Provincial Council Election, People’s Action for Free and Fair Election (PAFFREL) Chairperson Kingsley Rodrigo said.

“After nearly two decades for the first time a free and fair election was held in the Eastern Province ”.

He said nearly 60 per cent cast their votes to elect their representatives to the Eastern Provincial Council.

Addressing the media at the National Library and Documentation Services Board Auditorium, Rodrigo said there were a large number of rejected votes out of the votes cast. He said a ship was also was sunk beyond the Trincomalee sea area.

He said 83 complaints had been made to PAFFREL in connection with the election violence. Most had been made by UNP-SLMC combine. Nearly 25,000 police officers had been deployed along with the Armed Forces to ensure security of the candidates and voters.

Malaysia based National Institute for Electoral Integrity Chairperson Yunus Ali said Saturday’s election was the symbol of the restoration of peace and democracy in the Eastern Province after two decades. He said candidates without any fear was able to carry out their election propaganda campaign throughout the province.

Source : Daily news

President condemns attack on civilians

I hasten to unreservedly condemn the latest act of cowardice and brutality by the LTTE, in exploding a bomb that has killed and injured many civilians and police personnel, in Colombo .

I wish to first extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved families of those killed, and call upon blessings for a speedy recovery to all those injured in this act of wanton savagery.

With this bomb attack on a busy street, the LTTE has once again demonstrated to the world its total commitment to violence and terror to achieve its separatist goals in Sri Lanka , and its absolute contempt for democracy and human rights..

Repeated savagery of this order underlines and reiterates the need for concerted action by all those who cherish democracy, human rights and the values of civilized society, to eradicate the menace of terrorism of which the LTTE remains the bloodiest example today..

While understanding the deep shock and revulsion felt by all at this loss of life and limb caused by the LTTE, I call upon the people to remain calm and not be provoked by this further display of its unmitigated terror. Your continued patience and restraint in the face of such undisguised savagery is the best way to assist the Security Forces to succeed in their operations to defeat terrorism in our country..

Source : Policy Research and Information.

Presidential Secretariat, Colombo

HUMAN RIGHTS

National Action Plan on Human Rights

Disaster Management and Human Rights Minister Mahinda Samarasinghe told the UN Human Rights Council that the Government's ultimate aim was to implement a National Action Plan on the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights in Sri Lanka .

Addressing the working group of the UNHCR, during the Universal Periodic Review (UPR), the Minister acknowledged that the Government regarded safeguarding human rights of all Sri Lankans as a primary duty.

Elaborating on the National Action Plan, the Minister said this would be a countrywide initiative, including a national mapping exercise on human rights, to identify challenges, constraints and gaps in human rights promotion and protection.

The Action Plan will also focus on implementing recommendations of the UN Treaty Bodies, special procedures and mechanisms, pledges Sri Lanka made for our election to the Human Rights Council and recommendations that emanate from the review process, the Minister said. " Sri Lanka 's National Report presents an accurate picture of our current human rights situation.

It highlights strengths and identifies challenges we face as a nation in our efforts to promote and protect human rights," the Minister said.

"We have identified our priorities and highlighted the capacity building needs that will enable us to actualise those priorities.

As all rights are mutually reinforcing and inter-dependent, the Government believes equal attention should be given to civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights as well as the right to development," the Minister noted.

He also added that Sri Lanka had fulfilled international obligations through participation in most key human rights instruments and labour conventions.

"We expect one of the outcomes of participation in the UPR process will be that international partners will come forward to assist us achieve the priorities set out in our National Report."

Commenting on establishing an Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Sri Lanka the Minister noted that the Office was already represented in the country, by a Human Rights Adviser, working within the UN Country Team since June 2004, supported by a national legal officer and an assistant.

While noting that Sri Lanka has an independent and robust judiciary and other vibrant public institutions and mechanisms, the Minister emphasised that the imposition of foreign institutions will stifle the potential for growth of national institutions charged with these functions.

The Minister also said "as High Commissioner Louise Arbour noted after her visit: "Sri Lanka has many of the elements needed for a strong national protection system" He also observed that over the years Sri Lanka has not hesitated to invite special procedure mechanisms even under difficult circumstances brought about by the grave threat of terrorism, citing many visits by UN envoys.

Answering a query regarding recent elections and the role played by ex-militant group TMVP, the Minister commented that the TMVP was a lawfully and validly registered political party under the electoral laws of Sri Lanka .

He also added it is worthy of note that the Government has thus successfully created a conducive environment for democratic pluralism and facilitated the entry into the political mainstream of groups who hitherto resorted to armed violence in the pursuit of a separate state.

"This constitutes the first step in the realisation of effective devolution of power based on the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, as envisaged in the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord signed between the President of Sri Lanka and Prime Minister of India in 1987," he said.

Replying to a query on disappearances, abductions etc. the Minister had said that the Government had taken some critical and practical measures to address the issue.

He noted that the Ministry had set up a hotline to receive information of incidents of arrest, detention or suspected abduction/disappearance and to guide victims or their families to avenues of redress within the criminal justice and human rights protection systems.

The working group of the UNHCR after the UPR review is scheduled to hold a vote on its members on May 21.

Source : Daily News

HR hotline established

The Ministry of Disaster Management and Human Rights on May 6 established a 24-hour hotline enabling the public to seek information on questionable arrests and alleged detentions, abductions and disappearances.

The public could access the hotline on 011 2676413 or 060 2119246. People who seek information would be able to clarify matters in all three languages - Sinhala, Tamil and English.

This follows concerns by the families of persons who are thought to have been taken into custody or detained by government authorities other than the police or thought to have been abducted or disappeared.

The hotline will be operational for a period of eight months – May to December this year. According to the Ministry the necessity for continuing with this initiative will be assessed on the basis of need.

Source : www.priu.gov.lk

Four Tiger suspects charged in UK

British police have charged four men with conspiring to support the Tigers, Scotland Yard said.

The four were arrested under anti-terror laws and are accused of owning computers, radio equipment and high-power magnets for terrorist purposes, AFP reported from London .

They were to appear in court in London later in the day, said a spokesman. The men were arrested under the Terrorism Act 2000 in the last two weeks as part of a long-term police investigation into activities linked to the Tamil Tigers, an organisation banned in Britain . Three were detained at the end of April in dawn raids at homes and business addresses in Wales and London . A fourth was arrested this week in the Swindon area of southwest England .

All four have been charged with conspiring to receive equipment for terrorist purposes between January 2003 and December 2006. Other items which they are accused of procuring include laptops, head torches, circuit boards, lithium coin cell batteries, GPS (global positioning systems) and antenna equipment, transceivers, radios and navigation systems.

The four men were named as Arunachalam Chrishanthakumar, also known as AC Shanthan, 51; Jegatheswaran Muraleetharan, also known as Muralee Tharan, 46; Jeyatheswaran Vythyatharan, also known as Vithy Tharan, 39; and Murugesu Jegatheeswaran, also known as M Jegan, 33. A fifth man has also been charged in connection with the investigation, Scotland Yard said. They refused to release his name.

Source : Daily news

Canadian police unearth WTM Tiger connection

Canadian police have submitted an affidavit to the Federal Court in Canada on April 1, 2008 showing World Tamil Movement (WTM)’s inextricable links to the LTTE. It showed that the WTM has used Canadian electoral lists to track Tamil residents and collect funds and has organised various events for the same purpose. A letter allegedly written by the LTTE leader giving instructions about fund raising was also included in the affidavit.

The police claimed that as much as $50,000 a month was being drawn from bank accounts in Toronto and funnelled to the LTTE. Canadian contribution is about 15 percent of the global funding received by the LTTE, the affidavit said.

In 2006, the RCMP raided the Montreal and Toronto offices of the World Tamil Movement, just days after the Conservative government declared the Tamil Tigers a banned terrorist entity.

Source : www.priu.gov.lk

LTTE continues to extort money from Tamils - US country report

The LTTE continued to finance itself with contributions from the Tamil Diaspora in North America, Europe, and Australia, by imposing local "taxes" on businesses operating in the areas it Sri Lanka and reportedly by extortion operations in Government-controlled areas, the US State Department said in its recent Country Report on Terrorism released  on May 1.

The report said the LTTE also used Tamil charitable organizations as fronts for its fundraising.

"In November, the US Government designated under Executive Order 13224 and froze the US-held assets of the Tamil Rehabilitation Organization, a charity associated with the LTTE. The LTTE previously used such funds for weapons purchases on the international black market and also captured arms from Sri Lankan security forces. The Sri Lankan Navy sunk three LTTE supply ships in September and another in October," the report said.

After a period of targeting Sri Lankan military and official personnel throughout 2007, the LTTE appears to have recently resumed its targeting of civilians, the Report added.

It said the Government took effective control of the Eastern Province in midyear, but the LTTE continued to control much of the north and carried out attacks throughout the country.

"The LTTE and the Karuna faction were charged with forced conscription and child recruitment. In general, the LTTE did not intentionally target U.S. citizens or assets, limiting attacks to Sri Lankan security forces, political figures, civilians, and businesses.

However, attacks occurred within the vicinity of the U.S. embassy and personnel; the U.S. Ambassador was travelling in a helicopter that came under mortar fire in February. The LTTE subsequently apologized for the incident," the report added.

It recalled that Sri Lankan cooperation with the FBI resulted in arrests of persons charged with material support to terrorist groups.

The U.S. provided training for relevant Sri Lankan government agencies and the banking sector. The Government of Sri Lanka cooperated with the United States to implement both the Container Security Initiative and the Megaports programme at the port of Colombo .

Source : www.priu.gov.lk

EASTERN PROVINCE DEVELOPMENT

Oluvil Port construction commenced

The construction of the Oluvil Port Project get off the ground on May 6 under the Nagenahira Navodaya development programme.

The Sri Lanka Ports Authority has already signed an MoU with a Danish company with the construction cost being euro 46.1 million. The port is expected to commence operations in 27 months.

The project is also expected to generate a large number of direct and indirect employment opportunities with a major share being provided to youth from the area.

During the first stage of the project engineers have planned to build a breakwater with a length of 475 and 740 metres.

The Port will also have the capability to cater to large ships with in-built tanks exceeding the eight meter depth level mark.

Also the main harbour is expected to be spread over 16 hectares and during stage two the depth level is to be increased to 11 metres enabling it to cater to large vessels weighing over 16,000 tons.

The capacity in the main harbour is to be expanded to 24 hectares during stage two.

Source : www.priu.gov.lk

Negenehira Navodaya: A new road under construction in a remote village at Padiyatalawa in the Ampara district. Picture by Sudath Nishantha

Lanka sends 20 tonnes of relief items to Myanmar

The Government has decided to dispatch 20 tones of relief assistance to Myanmar and urged the public to come to the aid of the people affected by the current tragedy in that country.

Addressing a press conference, Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena said Myanmar was hit by cyclone Nargis on May 2 which caused devastation in five provinces comprising 600 villages killing over 100,000 with around 49,000 missing.

"A great devastation had stuck one of our close friends and a neighbouring country in the Asian region. There has been a large number of deaths and people missing. When the LTTE attacked the Dalada Maligawa, the Myanmar Government and its people contributed to reconstructing the temple and the Ruwanweliseya Chudamanikya was enhanced in quality with the help of the Myanmar Government," he added.

Minister Yapa said the Ven. Seewali Thera of Kalutara made arrangements to collect goods to be dispatched to the cyclone victims in Myanmar immediately the tragedy took place on May 2. "The Government will intervene to facilitate the dispatch of relief goods to Myanmar collected from donors.

The Ven. Seewali Thera said Sri Lanka and Myanmar has long-standing historical ties as both countries are bound by similar cultures and traditions, religion and in many other areas. "When Cyclone Nargis hit Myanmar , we approached the Myanmar High Commissioner and asked what sort of aid they are seeking and he responded by requesting for material assistance," the Thera added.

"We sought help from many companies and factories and collected a large amount of relief goods from many sponsors as well as from many schools in Colombo . After fruitful discussions between Tourism Minister Milinda Moragoda and the Norwegian Ambassador, the Norwegian Government donated $100,000 and the air tickets," the Thera pointed out.

Tourism Minister Milinda Moragoda asserted that Sri Lankans can do more to assist the people affected by the cyclone in Myanmar . "Our target is to collect 20 tons of relief items and to send 16 tons initially.

The people of Myanmar were living simple lives prior to the devastation which had dislodged communities and taken a heavy toll on the country. People in Myanamar extend their hand of generosity when we were in crisis. In such a situation it is our duty to reciprocate the gesture, Chief Justice Sarath N. Silva said.

"Collection of goods and other support from the public can be done during the Vesak period. We can announce to the public at each temple all around the country to come forward and extend their support and also bring donors to their respective temples," Ven. Madhuluwawe Sobitha Thera said.

Norwegian High Commissioner Tore Hattrem noted that the Royal Norwegian Government had contributed $100,000 and transporting goods to the people in Myanmar . "We are happy to co-operate and contribute in the relief efforts made by the people in Sri Lanka to the people in Myanmar . It will be a great assistance to the people of Myanmar ," he added.

Source : Daily news

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sri Lanka Tea Promotion at Harrods

HE the High Commissioner participated as the chief guest at the official opening of the Sri Lanka tea promotion at Harrods departmental store in Knightsbridge. The tea promotion under the theme “Organic Tea”   from Sri Lanka will be held until 17^th May’08. All teas on display have been packed in Sri Lanka exclusively for Harrods by Stassen Tea, the supplier of Sri Lankan tea to Harrods. 

Another characteristic of the promotion was that the tea selected for promotion have been drawn from unblended factory fresh tea by the exporter with great care. Tea buyers from Harrods are scheduled to visit Sri Lanka in July this year on a familiarization tour to tea plantations.

Source : Sri Lanka High Commission

“Boat Show Sri Lanka 2008”, Colombo

  8-10^th June 2008 

The Boat Building Technology Improvement Institute Lanka (GTE) Ltd in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board will be organizing the first ever “Boat Show” from 8 – 10 June 2008 at the Bandaranaike International Memorial Conference Hall (BMICH), Colombo.

The show is expected to attract interested parties from the leisure, marine, tourism, fishing, service providers and other related industries. Trade exhibition will specially focus on promoting the industry among the international buyers, sellers and investors falling under the following categories.

•          Hotels / resorts

•           State fisheries departments

·                           Underwater diving and salvage    services

•          Fisheries and cooperatives

•          Navy & costal guard

•          Water sport enthusiasts

•          Luxury safari operators

•          Yachting & sailing clubs

•          Ports & harbours

·                           Marine educational centre and  diving schools

•          Water transport

·                           Tour operators, other service providers

•          Boat builders

•          Tourism authorities

•          Adventure clubs

•          Joint ventures

Please visit www.boatshowsrilanka.com for more details.

POEM FOR VESAK

Renunciation

He was but a common man, though born to rule a Kingdom

Supernatural powers he had none; but  loads of compassion  & wisdom

Shielded from pain & poverty for fear he would renounce it all

King Suddhodana  ensured his son was groomed to reign above all

A patient doubled in pain, crying aloud in agony

A corpse being carried to the pyre, by a sad bereaved family

A senile man so crippled, who could hardly find his way

A serene monk so peaceful no worries to cloud his day

These four foretokens did, so disturb his mood of mind

How do we alleviate suffering? He felt compelled to find

Musicians & dancing girls performing for his fun pleasure

He quietly stole away, depressed & filled with displeasure.

He peeped into Yassodara's bedchamber, where lay their newborn son

No time for fond farewells, only a glance at either one

Channa-his lifelong friend confidant &able minister

Was woken to fulfil his role; a final task to administer

The birth of a son & heir, is unique special we'd say

How could he leave Rahul on such a memorable day?

Abandoned without any warning, such a loving & dutiful wife

He left to show us the way to ease suffering in life

Kantaka - his favourite staffion; was saddled up ready for the night

Ahead lay an uncertain journey, as he prepared to take flight

He rode into the moon lit midnight, no star to guide his way

Until he reached “Neranjana; reached  the flowing waters filled  the bay

With several sweeps of his sword, the long hair locks were shaved

Discarding princely attire, a saffron garb was draped

It was too much to bear, it broke  loyal Kantaka’s heart

To watch his lifelong master, renounce &  thus depart

Life is shallow & fickle, birth brings suffering & pain

Birth after birth in Sansara, it does perpetuate the same

To break this vicious cycle, do avoid greede & attachment

As in the Eightfold Noble Path, practice compassion & detachment

In Four Noble Truths he taught us; Greed is the cause of pain

Pain needs to be abolished, but how can we achieve this aim?

Torturing himself in extreme, he sought this route in vain

Walk the  Middle Path - he finally  did proclaim

18/04/2008   Rasieka Leelanada Jayatunga

News Bulletin

Issued  by the High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka 13, Hyde Park Gardens, London W2  2LU  

POLITICAL

State Visit of His Excellency

Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad,
President of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Sri Lanka ,
28 – 29 April 2008

President Mahinda Rajapaksa explains a point to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad during an inspection tour of the Sapugaskanda oil refinery whose expansion is being funded by Iran . Work on the project has started.

Joint Statement

His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, accompanied by a high ranking delegation paid a State Visit to Sri Lanka from 28 to 29 April, 2008 at the invitation of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

The President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was officially welcomed by the Sri Lankan President His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa at a formal ceremony held at the Bandaranaike International Airport .

His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad held wide-ranging discussions with President Rajapaksa, attended by Ministers and senior officials of both sides. The discussions which took place in a cordial atmosphere, were detailed and substantive, covering issues of bilateral, regional and global interest. Both Presidents, while noting with satisfaction the progress achieved in bilateral relations, stressed their firm commitment to further enhance mutual cooperation in the political, economic, trade, cultural, educational, scientific and technological fields. The discussions reaffirmed the close and friendly ties that exist between Sri Lanka and Iran .

The two Presidents agreed to broaden and deepen their bilateral cooperation, in a spirit of mutual goodwill and friendship. They also agreed to continue regular high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The two Presidents also discussed important regional and international issues and stated that unilateralism would undermine internationally accepted norms.

The two Presidents briefed each other on issues of common interest and current developments in their respective countries.

Both sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and emphasized the need for enhanced international cooperation to eliminate this global menace. The Iranian side expressed its support for the sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka and welcomed the positive political steps taken to end the conflict through negotiations, leading to a durable settlement, acceptable to all the people of Sri Lanka .

The Sri Lankan side supported the peaceful use of nuclear energy by Iran , within the framework of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The two sides confirmed the full and non-discriminatory implementation of Article IV of the NPT on peaceful nuclear co-operation.

The two sides reiterated the importance of global nuclear disarmament, particularly the need for the nuclear powers to destroy their nuclear weapons, based on the decisions of the relevant international meetings.

The two sides expressed their deep concern over the violence against the Palestinian people in the Palestinian territories and recognized the inalienable rights and the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people at the highest level, and will continue to express their solidarity with the Palestinian people. Both sides also expressed the hope that the differences among the different groups in Palestine will be resolved amicably.

The two sides, stressing the need for the consolidation of national unity and understanding, peaceful co-existence and the preservation of the stability, security and peace in Lebanon, supported initiatives among different Lebanese parties through consensus and the participation of all Lebanese political groups in the process of deciding all issues of concern, as the only way out of the current crisis in Lebanon.

Both sides emphasized the need for the preservation of the territorial integrity and unity of Iraq and the participation of all Iraqi groups in the political process and expressed their support for the efforts of the elected Iraqi government to restore security and stability in Iraq .

The two sides expressed concern over the escalation of insecurity and instability in Afghanistan , and supported, as a matter of priority, the endeavour by the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan for the restoration of peace and stability.

The two sides underscored the potential for expansion of bilateral economic co-operation, which would greatly strengthen the existing bonds of friendship and co-operation between the two countries and be conducive to the common progress and prosperity of the peoples of Iran and Sri Lanka, inter alia, by encouraging the private sectors of both countries to invest in each other.

Recalling the visit of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka to Iran in November 2007, and the Agreements and MOUs reached between the two countries in the areas of power supply and irrigation as well as the expansion of the oil refinery facility in Sri Lanka, both sides expressed their deep satisfaction at the ceremonial inauguration of the Uma Oya multi purpose development project and the Sapugaskanda oil refinery project respectively, with the assistance of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, during the visit of His Excellency the President of Iran to Sri Lanka.

Both sides also noted with satisfaction, the conclusion of the following MOUs and Agreements during the visit of the President of Iran to Sri Lanka .

(i) MOU on the Establishment of the Political Consultation Mechanism between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Islamic Republic of Iran.

(ii) MOU between Mahinda Rajapaksa Sports Development Foundation of Sri Lanka and Mostazafan Foundation of the Islamic Revolution of Iran to build and operate "Iranian Club-Colombo" in Diyagama, Homagama, Sri Lanka.

(iii) Heads of Agreement between the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation and the National Iranian Oil Refining and Distribution Company.

(iv) Financing Agreement between the Ministry of Finance & Planning of Sri Lanka and the Export Development Bank of Iran for the Uma Oya multi-purpose development project.

(v) Contract Agreement between the Ministry of Irrigation and Water Management of Sri Lanka and Farab Energy and Water Projects Company of Iran for the Uma Oya multi-purpose development project.

The President of Sri Lanka His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa expressed his profound appreciation and sincere thanks to the President of Iran His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad for the assistance that has been pledged for the socio -economic development of Sri Lanka , which would be of direct benefit to its people.

Given the ever increasing importance of regional co-operation, both sides agreed to welcome and support various initiatives for the strengthening of such co-operation in Asia, inter alia, such as the Economic Co-operation Organization (ECO), South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation (SAARC), Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Co-operation (IOR-ARC), Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), Asia – Middle East Dialogue (AMED) and the Colombo Plan.

The President of the Islamic Republic of Iran His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad thanked the Government and the people of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka for the warm hospitality accorded to him and his delegation during his visit.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Colombo

29 April 2008

Source : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

President lauds patience and support of working people

President’s May Day Message

I am pleased to send greetings to the working people of Sri Lanka when the workers of the world proudly celebrate May Day – the International Workers’ Day.

The cooperation extended by the working people towards our efforts to build a prosperous Sri Lanka in keeping with the policies of the Mahinda Chinthana, that give priority to the aspirations of the people to take the country towards major development, is very much valued by me.

Many are the victories brought to this country by the working people, and I am privileged to share this honour with them. I believe they are honoured by our steps to take this country on the correct path of development with a good understanding of the aspirations of the people.

It is a great strength to the country for its working people to be united irrespective of any differences of race, religion, caste and politics. Those who suffer most when peace in the country is destroyed are the working people and their children, and this awareness has made the workers of the country to be patient and support the government in its efforts to defeat terrorism and bring peace to the country. This is a great encouragement towards securing the future of the country.

Facing up to these challenges, the government has implemented policies to provide relief to the working people and bring prosperity to their lives. That is why we act to safeguard the rights of workers in the private sector while strengthening the rights of those in the state sector. It is because this is a pro-people government that we have acted to bring down the prices of a range of consumer items while implementing policies directed at the long-term goal of strengthening the national economy and achieving real freedom for the country. We will continue our strong commitment to safeguard the rights of the working people, and strengthening the economy.

I look forward to the continued cooperation of the working people in meeting the challenges of bringing about lasting peace in the country and strengthening our economy. It is my wish that we will all succeed in building a New Sri Lanka that is beneficial to all.

Source: www.priu.gov.lk

Sri Lanka hosted the 7th Commonwealth Youth Ministers' Conference from April 27 to 30 in Colombo .

The inaugural ceremony of the conference was held on 27th April under the patronage of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Youth Ministers of 53 Commonwealth countries, the Secretary General of the Commonwealth Mr. Kamalesh Sharma and many other delegates from international organisations as observers attended the Conference.

The theme of the conference was 'Youth and Peace Building '. A new stamp worth Rs. 5 was issued to mark the occasion.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrives at the BMICH  for the opening of the Conference in Colombo on 27 April. Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, Youth Affairs Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi and Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma were also present.

Source: Daily News

President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that Sri Lanka has for the past three decades been facing threats from the most brutal terrorist organisation in the world, a terror outfit that does not hesitate to use youth as pawns and cannon fodder in brutal operations to undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country. President Rajapaksa was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Seventh Commonwealth Youth Ministers' Meeting held at the BMICH on Sunday 27 April.

The recruitment of young boys and girls as child soldiers for forces of terror has been condemned by the United Nations and all those who seek peace and democracy in the world including members of the Commonwealth, the President said. "I am aware that Sri Lanka is not alone in facing this brutality of child soldiers," he added.

President Rajapaksa said that it is our resolve not to give into these forces of terror to save our youth from the clutches of these forces. Sri Lanka has an extensive rehabilitation programme for children who were involved in armed conflict and the children must be returned to their parents. Sri Lanka has a clear view on the need for better empowerment of youth to overcome the growing challenge of unemployment.

Youth must be empowered through a balanced education, skills development sports and recreation in an environment enriched by culture and religion with harmony, the President said.

Therefore, priority should be given to the political stability and economic development of the country.

The President said that in Sri Lanka 40 per cent of the nominations of contesting Local Government elections are from youth between 18 to 35 years of age because youth proved that they are a powerful force for development democracy and peace building Sri Lanka .

The President explained the projects implemented for youth in the country ensuring free education with free textbooks, restrictions for drugs and liquor, special programme for studying English language and developing IT skills of youth.

Minister of Youth Affairs Pavithra Wanniarachchi and Commonwealth General Secretary Kamalesh Sharma also addressed the parley.

 Source: www.dailynews.lk

FM calls for effective action against terrorism by the Commonwealth

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama has underscored the importance for the Commonwealth to combat  terrorism, as value dedication to its global agenda. He  made this observation during a meeting on 26/04/2008 with the Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma, who was on a visit to Sri Lanka to attend the Commonwealth Youth Ministers' meeting, which is his first meeting at Ministerial level, since assuming duties as Secretary General earlier this month. They both agreed on the imperative need for member countries not to be misled by the machinations of terror groups, and  to stand in solidarity with one another against such threats.

In this context, they recalled the decision, endorsed by the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kampala last year, to convene a meeting on terrorism, which would be hosted by Sri Lanka .  While noting  that this meeting has been tentatively scheduled for  the last quarter of this year, Minister Bogollagama pointed out the need for preparatory work  to be commenced immediately, and to ensure non- duplication of related issues and  value addition, as its foundation.

Secretary General Sharma appreciated Sri Lanka 's undertaking to participate in the Commonwealth Group at Heads of Government level, to study the reform of international institutions.  This initiative which is also a Kampala mandate, will bring approximately 10 -12 Heads of Government to consider issues related to the reform of the IMF, World Bank etc.  The Foreign Minister shared the view that such a dialogue would link the Commonwealth with the World Bank, thus profiling the organization on the global economic agenda.  He confirmed that President Mahinda Rajapakse would attend the  meeting to be held in London in June 2008.

Foreign Minister Bogollagama emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to be re-admitted to meetings of the Commonwealth Councils.  The Secretary General while endorsing the Minister's view, briefed him on the preparatory work for the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) scheduled for early next month, which would consider this matter.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Colombo

27^th April 2008

Source : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

UK Parliamentary delegation visits Sri Lanka

A delegation of British Parliamentarians led by Mr Andrew Love, MP, Co-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Sri Lanka, Dr Ashok Kumar, MP, Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group on India, Mr Andrew George, Lib Dem MP, and Mr Stephen Hammond, Conservative MP visited Sri Lanka from 29 March to 5 April on the invitation of the Government of Sri Lanka.

During their visit they toured the Jaffna peninsula in the northern province , Batticaloa and Trincomalee districts in the eastern province and Puttalam in the north western province where they met with civil society representatives, University academics, religious dignitaries of all denominations and government officials.

In Colombo they met with Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama, Prof Tissa Vitharane, Chairman of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC), Opposition leader Ranil Wickremasinghe, leaders of all political parties, representatives of civil society groups and the media.

Source : Sri Lanka High Commission, London

Three men were arrested in London and Wales on 29/4/08 as part of a long-term police investigation into the LTTE, Scotland Yard said.

The trio were arrested following dawn raids on homes and business addresses in Newtown in Wales , in Mitcham, southwest London as well as raids elsewhere in Surrey .

Two men aged 39 and 46 were arrested at separate addresses in Newtown . A third, aged 33, was held in Mitcham. All three men were arrested on suspicion of the "commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism".

"It is not linked to Al-Qaeda-type activity or inspired terrorism.  It is in relation to support, procurement and fundraising for a proscribed organisation, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam," a police spokesman said of the arrests.

"This is part of a long-term investigation into alleged funding and procurement activity in support of terrorism overseas and two people have already been charged in connection with this investigation," he added.

They were to be questioned later at the high security Paddington Green police station in central London . Two men, both from south London , appeared in court last June charged with offences in connection with the same operation.

One is accused of arranging meetings of the Tigers and addressing an event in London 's Hyde Park . He is also accused of amassing machetes, combat boots, camouflage clothes, spades and handcuffs. He denies the offences.

Source: www.dailynews.lk

Tigers kill innocents in desperation

It was late Friday (25 April)  evening  around 6.40   in  a  heavy drizzle as  the passenger bus filled to capacity bearing number 63-4170  was  on its way  from the crowded Kesbewa Bus Depot  to Kahapola,  a suburb of Piliyandala in the outskirts of Colombo. Being Friday, the bus consisted of passengers   returning from work, school children going home after tuition classes, teachers and shoppers returning for   the week end. Passengers who had escaped the disaster were unable to give an exact figure who in the bus at the time of the explosion but it may not be incorrect to put the number of passengers around 80.

The bus was a total wreck with the steel roofing shattered and shattered window panes hurtling across the roads. The shops alongside the main road which included many show room was also severely damaged.   The terrorists triggered this explosion a little more than two hours after the Wolfendhal Police, Colombo , recovered a 11 Kg Claymore mine after being   tipped off by a civilian thus averting another disaster involving innocent civilians.

The bus had just about turned  from the Piliyandala bus terminus  when the bomb which had  been placed on the rack three seats behind the driver's seat exploded  in a devastating fire - ball.   The placement of the bomb on the rack resulted in increasing the gruesome injuries resulting in 26 killed and 64 injured. Eye witnesses were "horrified" seeing the scattered human bodies, limbs and heads. Among the killed was a 11 year old school boy  Rasika Thilanga , and a Buddhist Monk the Venerable Wepahe Indrananda Thero of the Kesbewa Pirivena . There was also 14 year old student Eshani Perera of Anula Vidyalaya, Nugegoda  and her 11 year old brother Anjana Perera frantically looking for their mother who had also been in the bus   the young and the old .  Eleven (11) bodies are now lying at the Piliyandala Hospital including that of the Venerable monk, five males and five females. Fourteen Bodies are lying at the Kalubowila Hospital including ten (10) males and four (04) females and a body of a female at the National Hospital , Colombo .  Forty nine (49) were reported injured including 38 males and eleven females. Seven of them have undergone surgery and one is in the Intensive Care Unit of the Kalubovila Hospital Colombo.  

To the "Tigers" and their sympathizers the carnage they have inflicted on innocent children returning home from school and tuition classes and the others returning after work would have given them satisfaction after their debacle in Muhamalai about 48 hours earlier. This gruesome incident has only driven another nail into the coffin of the LTTE.  The damage to the LTTE can be ascertained as according to LTTE terrorist communications monitored by the Army, the LTTE has so far released 98 of their dead besides the hundreds severely injured.  

Source: www.nationalsecurity.lk

I strongly condemn the explosion in a C.T.B bus at Piliyandala that took the lives of 26 innocent civilians and left over 60 seriously injured. This is undoubtedly another savage act of the blood thirsty LTTE, TULF leader V. Anandasangaree stated.

Is it with these barbarians that the International Community wants the Government to start talks with? In all seriousness I wish to pose a question to the International Community as to what it intends to do with the people who had fled their traditional places of residence for fear of the LTTE and are living with the Sinhalese and the Muslims peacefully in the South, he said a news release.

Also I wish to know what the fate is going be of those in the Eastern Province , just liberated and of those who fled the country out of fear for the LTTE and wanting to return when peace is restored.

He said: "Above all no one has bothered so far to find out the views of those who are living in the areas under the control of the LTTE.

The LTTE is fighting a war with the Government. They take pride in sending the bodies of a few Sinhalese Soldiers through the ICRC to the South everyday and receive with pleasure bodies of their dead cadre from the ICRC daily. The soldiers are fighting in defence of the country and the LTTE cadre, thoroughly brainwashed, is fighting in defence of their leader's pride.

But why should innocent civilians die for no fault of theirs? How will that help the warring LTTE other than sparking off a backlash in the country. The Sinhalese are now wise enough to keep the few trouble makers, under control and have successfully prevented any such person from getting involved in spreading or sowing the seeds of communalism.

The ordinary citizens have become wiser. It is only some highly educated who should learn many things from the ordinary civilians in this connection. The credit also goes to the Government for keeping the country under control inspite of several and frequent provocations the LTTE give.

I want peace in this country and protection for everybody. Unfortunately now the people need protection only from the LTTE. Let those who are reluctant to condemn this type of killings that keep the people in constant fear and tension, put themselves in the place of the victims and realise the pain the kith and kin undergo. Those poor victims are also having kith and kin who love them dearly and are there to weep and wail for them.

I am glad that on a tip off 2 1/2 hours before this fatal incident took place, a claymore mine of 11 kg had been detected by the police. Every one of us has a duty to pass on any information we get, promptly to the authorities.

I convey my deepest sympathies to the kith and kin of the victims of this unfortunate incident and plead with the LTTE to give up their brutal attacks forthwith.

Source:www.dailynews.lk

Security Forces who regained the sacred Madhu Church on 24 April without firing a single shot, asserted that they have no intention to deploy Armed troops to provide security for the Church premises.

“Our only intention is to hand over the Church to the relevant Church authority ensuring the security of the Church by deploying our troops out of the sacred area,” Lt. Colonel Senerath Bandara, Brigade Commander of the 372 Brigade told the Daily News.

He made these comments to the Daily News after we visited the Madhu shrine area, hours after troops attached to the 572 Brigade took control of the Church premises without any confrontation.

“We reached our objective without firing a single bullet within the Church premises,” Lt. Colonel Bandara added.

The Sacred Madhu Church remained intact except for minor damage caused to the roof of the main Church and the adjoining auditorium by fleeing Tigers.

Troops have been given strict instructions to keep the sanctity of the place after carrying out a search within the Church premises.

“Our next objective is to carry out a proper de-mining programme to clear all anti-personnel mines and booby traps the LTTE,” Lt. Colonel Bandara added.

He said the Security Forces’ Headquarters will immediately contact the Church authorities to safely hand over the Church to them. Lt. Colonel Bandara said it was after a time consuming effort that they were able to capture the Church from the LTTE’s clutches.

“It was after the last batch of Tiger cadres left the Church premises that troops entered the Church on Thursday around 1.00 p.m,” Lt. Col. Bandara added.

Troops observed Tiger movements within the last three days prior to entering the Church. Tiger cadres have shifted furniture within the Church.

When troops entered the church compound they found no Tiger movement,” Military Spokesman Brigadier Nanayakkara told the Daily News. Facing heavy defeats on the Wanni front the LTTE fled the areas surrounding Madhu.

Brigadier Nanayakkara charged that fleeing LTTE cadres caused damage to the Mahdu Shrine and to another compound connecting to the church.

“Troops consolidating their positions inside the Church after evacuation of the LTTE cadres found a roof sheet of the main hall of the Madhu church and another building of the church wing damaged by the LTTE. The Tiger cadres also damaged windows and doors of the Church,” he added.

The LTTE set up bunkers all around the Church. “Several bunkers were erected as close as 500 m to the premises and almost all bunkers were interconnected through trenches,” Brigadier Nanayakkara said.

The Security Forces also engaged in removing booby traps and landmines placed by the fleeing Tiger cadres in the area surrounding the Madhu Shrine.

Brigadier Nanayakkara said the Bishops should negotiate and decide to bring back the Sacred Statue of Our Lady of Madhu for public veneration.  “If they seek any assistance from the Security Forces, we are ready to cooperate fully”.

Source: www.dailynews.lk

The Chairman of the All Party Representative Committee and Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Tissa Vitharana who announced the convening of the APRC meeting this week after a lapse of two months said that during his visit to Britain, the British and North Ireland experts who successfully dealt with the North Ireland crisis said that the Lankan national crisis should also be dealt with extreme patience and flexibility to reach an amicable settlement.

Prof. Vitharana who visited the United kingdom to explore the methods of resolving the North Ireland crisis, Scotland and Wales issues told the Sunday Observer that the integrity and flexibility of the British politicians had played a major role in solving those complicated issues successfully.

“The APRC meeting is expected to be convened this week to make fresh initiatives.  Therefore, the discussions and feasibility studies which were made during my stay in Britain last week would help in sharing the British experience in dealing with our national crisis.

My delegation spent three days in North Ireland and witnessed the Parliamentary activities where the North Ireland ’s Anglican and Catholic representatives now deal with their politics amicably since the Irish Republican Army denounced violence and entered the political mainstream.

Shinfein, the political wing of the IRA is currently playing an effective role since the North Ireland crisis was settled a few years ago,” Prof. Vitharana said.

The APRC Chairman said that the North Ireland crisis which was worse than the Lankan crisis and remained a big challenge to the British Government was settled under a unitary system with the optimal devolution of powers.

The Memorandum of Understanding reached with regard to the North Ireland crisis has been made an Act of the British Parliament.  “Therefore, the North Ireland settlement is a good example for all political parties in Sri Lanka in dealing with our own crisis.

The Scotland and Wales issues were also settled under a unitary system with optimal devolution of powers,” Prof. Vitharana said.

Commenting on the concerns of British political circles over the Lankan crisis, Minister Vitharana said they insisted that utmost patience and flexibility were vital in dealing with extremely complicated political issues and it was only through political means that the Lankan crisis too could be settled.

Source: www.sundayobserver.lk

EASTERN PROVINCE

Around 40 per cent of the total eligible postal voters had cast their votes for the Eastern Provincial Council elections, authorities said.

Authorities said public officers unable to cast their vote would be allowed time until May 10.

According to the Election Secretariat, there are 22,412 eligible postal voters - 4,427 from Batticaloa, 9,468 from Ampara and 8,517 in Trincomalee.

Returning Officer for Digamadulla District Sunil Kannangara told the Daily News that postal voting was being conducted in 152 centres and not a single incident of violence was reported so far.

According to the Assistant Commissioner (Elections) for Batticaloa T. Krishnandalingam, voting was progressing sans any incidents in 150 centres and had received over 500 envelopes containing votes cast out of a total of 4,427.

The Assistant Commissioner (Elections) for Trincomalee district Bandara Mapa said that he had received envelopes containing of more than 50 per cent of the total eligible votes .

Meanwhile, with only 12 days remaining for the Eastern Provincial Council Poll, the Elections Commissioner had given an undertaking to make the production of identity cards or other valid documents compulsory for voters in accordance with the Elections Special Provisions Act, when the writ application filed by PAFFREL asking for an order to impose the above was taken up before the Court of Appeal.

The main election to elect 37 members for the Eastern Provincial Council would be held on May 10 in 1,022 polling stations in the East, with a record number of 1,342 candidates from 18 political parties and 73 independent groups in the fray.

Source: www.dailynews.lk

The Government has launched a massive development drive in the Eastern Province including the recently liberated areas to develop the province on par with other provinces.

Attention has been drawn towards highway development and road development, the health sector and provision of good sanitation facilities to the public, agriculture sector, community development programmes. While developing the infrastructure facilities special attention will be paid to human resource development.

Advisor to the Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry Jeganathan said that the Government has allocated Rs. 450 million to develop the health sector in the province and to provide good sanitation facilities to the public.

The funds will be spent to develop hospitals, dispensaries, staff quarters and ward complexes.

He said MBBS doctors have been employed in the hospitals in the recently cleared areas including Vakarai.

The Government has launched a massive agricultural development drive in the Eastern Province under the Neganahira Navodhaya Programme to assist the farmers and to increase agricultural output.

The financial requirement for the upcoming three years are Rs. 153.8 million, 134.3 million and 44.35 million respectively for the year 2008, 2009 and 2010 to carry out agricultural development work in the Eastern Province. Rs. 2.935 million has been allocated so far. With the funding of the Treasury and other sources, Agrarian Service Centres, fertiliser warehouse and minor tanks are to be renovated.

The Government has distributed 64 two wheel tractors under the "Yen grant for Agriculture equipment. Meanwhile, the Government has reserved 11,000 metric tons of fertiliser to the Eastern Province for the 2007/2008 Maha season. The Government intends to distribute 6,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser for the Yala season this year.

Matharaarachchi said that the Periyakallar Causeway, Kodikallar Causeway, Kalkudah-Valachchanai road (4.42km), Oddamawadi-Vahaneri road (3.0km out of 9.25km), Padiruppu-Vellaveli road (2.0km out of 6.03 km) and Valachchanai Nasivanthivu-Navaladi road (2.12km out of 5.12 km) have been completed so far.

The Periyakallar causeway, Kodikallar causeway projects were completed with a Japanese grant.  Construction work on the Ambilanthurai-Weeramunai road costing Rs. 641 million funded by the Asian Development Bank is now in progress.

Construction work on the Maha Oya-Chenkaladi road with a Rs. 1,100 million

funding of the Asian Development Bank will commence shortly. The Oddamavadi bridge will be constructed costing Rs. 380 million with funding from the Spanish Government.

Meanwhile, Vocational Training Authority Director W.A. Ranaweera said the Vocational Training Authority has initiated vocational training programmes in the province with a view to create skilled employees for the development of the country.

In addition to the existing Vocational Training Centres, three training centres have been built, at Ninthavur costing Rs. 98 million, Sammanthurai costing of Rs. 230 million and the Central Camp costing Rs. 122 million will be established.

Rs. 20 million has been allocated for the development of Akkaraipatthu training centre and Rs. 30 million for the development of Karathivu training centre respectively. These funds will be utilised to construct buildings and to develop other infrastructure facilities related to technical education and training students.

Rs. 27 million will be spent to construct the Pottuvil training centre and the GTZ will spend Rs. 3 million for other basic infrastructure development.  Rs. 591 million will be spent in total for human resource development in the area.

Source: www.dailynews.lk

Many projects including housing schemes, roads and major bridges are being completed under the Government’s accelerated development drive in the Eastern Province . Residents will overcome the risky transport problems by ferry when a major project, the bridge over the Kinniya lagoon, linking China Bay and Kinniya is completed. Pic : K.Ashokkumar

Source: www.dailynews.lk

ECONOMIC

Sri Lanka plant blazes green trail for Marks & Spencer

UK retailer, Marks & Spencer says a newly re-built eco-friendly apparel factory in Sri Lanka is part of a plan that will see all operations being 'greened' by 2012, in response to growing environmental consciousness in its markets.

M&S, commissioned a completely re-built 'green' casual wear manufacturing plant run by Sri Lankan apparel giant Brandix, north of Colombo Friday. The plant employs 1,600 people.

Officials say the green factory has already cut energy costs by 43 percent and water by 60 percent

The retailer says climate change and environmental issues have become more important in the UK following former US vice president, Al Gore's documentary, "The inconvenient truth."

"In the space of 12 months or so, it has become a huge political issue in the UK and it has become a huge topic of conversation with the general public," M&S Paschal Little from M&S lingerie & casual wear division said.

"Our brand within the UK holds a very special position and our customers expect us to take a lead on environmental issues like this."

"We wanted to work with a key supply partner to establish some model green factories of which the Brandix factory is one." he said.

Global Benchmark

M&S says Brandix' 'green' factory will be accredited with a leadership in energy and environmental design [LEED] rating by Green Building Council of the US .

This will help set up the plant as a benchmark for eco friendly apparel manufacture in the world.

"As a redesigned factory, it marks a new benchmark for the apparel industry independently accredited by LEED to the highest possible standard," Little said.

"It will certainly represent a benchmark for other garment makers around the world," he said.

M&S is also looking at 'greening' their stores and achieving carbon neutral status at its 600-strong retail outlets network.

A 'green' branding could also qualify Marks & Spencer to price garments manufactured in green factories at a premium.

"We would like to at some stage to identify products within our stores as coming from green factories," Little said. "We want to give our customer the choice. We want to communicate to our customers what's happening in this project," he said.

The Brandix green factory initiative is part of Marks and Spencer's 'Plan A' initiative which hopes the make the chain carbon neutral and help customers and suppliers reduce their emissions.

Resource Efficient

Under plan, M&S wants its suppliers to top sending waste for landfills, buy more 'sustainable' raw materials like cotton and set new standards for 'ethical' trading by treating trading partners fairly.

Brandix which is hopeful of a LEED top ranked platinum certificate by end June. This would be the first such certification of an apparel factory.

"We are hopeful by June that we will get the LEED certificate accreditation on a point system on how much of green you have, how much of energy and water you have

saved," Brandix Lanka director A J Johnpillai said.

The 30 year old factory in Seeduwa which cost 270 million rupees to convert to green status has 70,000 square feet of space.

"Seventy percent of all workers will have day light, 91 percent of girls will have views to the greenery outside," he said.

Brandix says investing in energy reduction makes commercial sense amidst rising energy costs although with a payback time estimated at around three and a half years.

Source : Lanka Business Online 

Royal Visit to Sri Lanka

His Royal Highness Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester will pay an official visit to Sri Lanka from 4-7 May 2008. The Royal visit is to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations etween Sri Lanka and the UK this year. The Duke of Gloucester will during his visit meet with President Mahinda Rajapaksa and open the new British High Commission building in Bauddhaloka awatha, Colombo 7. He will also participate in celebrations to mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

ANNOUNCEMENT

SRI LANKA HIGH COMMISSION

Cordially invites all Sri Lankans

to a

Vesak commemorative Sermon

by Ven. Ajahn Vajiro Thero

(Incumbent, Amarawati Buddhist Monastery, Hemel Hampstead)

on Saturday 17 May 2008 at 5.00 pm

at the High Commission premises

All those who wish to participate are kindly requested to contact telephone number 020 7262 1841 Ext 239/240.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Sri Lanka Police welcomes its first ever batch of Tamil stream police recruits

Secretariat for Coordinating the Peace Process (SCOPP)

29^th February 2008

Saturday February 16^th saw a historic moment in the 141 year old history of the Sri Lanka police with the passing out parade of 175 new police constables trained at the Kallady Police Training College in Batticaloa.

The 125 young men and 50 young women who proudly marched into the parade grounds, escorted by the ceremonial band of the Kalutara Police Training College, comprised the very first intake of recruits to the Kallady Training College, the first police training school established in the Eastern Province. This batch of recruits were Tamil Sri Lankans from Batticaloa and Ampara Districts, the first recruits taken specifically from these areas and trained in the Tamil medium.

It has been a matter of regret in recent years that the Sri Lankan security forces have not been clearly multi-ethnic in composition. Though applications have always been called from all citizens of the country, for various reasons, including diffidence caused by previous language policies, very few Tamils have joined in the recent past. More recently, there have been fears amongst Tamils, given the terrorist approach that Tamils serving in security forces were specifically to be targets of attack, being denigrated as traitors. Tamil officers serving in the Department were threatened by the LTTE to force them to leave the service, and renewed attempts by the Government to recruit Tamil officers to the service did not have desired results. It seemed likely then that Sri Lanka ’s proud record of a multi-ethnic police force, with two recent Inspectors General of Police being Tamil, would not easily be maintained.

The government however is committed to such a record, and in the short term it is certainly essential to have Tamil officers serving in Police Stations in North and East as per the ratio of the population in the respective areas. Another important aspect is to give an opportunity to Tamil youth in these areas to serve their own communities, which will more easily allow the force to show the required concern and commitment.

Since there was a dearth of Tamil officers, to fill this vacuum the Inspector General of Police was instructed by H.E. the President to implement a special project to recruit Tamil officers to serve in the North and East. Mr Victor Perera, Inspector General of Police, discussed the issue with Secretary Defence, Col Gotabaya Rajapaksha and Chairman/National Police Commission, Mr Neville Piyadigama and received necessary instructions to proceed. A special team consisting of Mr S K Shanker, DIG/Traffic Admin & Road Safety, Mr K P P Pathirana, DIG/Recruitment, Mr Arsaratnam/SSP and Mr S Selvarajah/SP was appointed by I.G. Police to visit Batticaloa and Ampara and speak to youths and senior students in schools to encourage them to join.

There was an overwhelming response to the recruitment drive and about 1200 applications were received. Initially only a small number had been accepted, since because of the conflict many of these young men and women had suffered numerous disadvantages which had an adverse impact on their education, so that successful training presented a great challenge. However the successful applicants had clearly shown a high level of intelligence and potential. The usual educational standards as well as age restrictions were varied in a progressive and modern approach, to enable these recruits to enter the college and complete a four month intensive training which would enable them to return to their communities and serve them with intergrity and professionalism. The proposal submitted by the I.G. Police to facilitate the programme was duly approved by the National Police Commission so that implementation could commence expeditiously.

The requirement of establishing a separate Police College in the Batticaloa area was fulfilled by conversion of a few buildings at Kalladi, earlier used by security forces, to a training facility, through the special efforts of the Police Logistics Range headed by Mr D M M J Paranathala, DIG/Logistics. Mr Mahinda Balasuriya as Senior DIG in charge of the North and East coordinated the entire project on behalf of I.G. Police.

Training of these new recruits commenced on 08.10.2007 at Kallady Training Centre and the trainees were provided four months of training which included community policing aspects and language training. The intake of Tamil youths into the service, to transform them into sensitive and skilled Police officers for work in their respective areas, will immensely help the full implementation of the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution which the Government has decided on. The next intake of 250 men and women will take place shortly and a similar programme would also shortly target the Estate Sector area in the middle of the country too.

These new training policies are in keeping with the commitment of the Government to fully implement the official languages policy, and develop confidence in all citizens that they are full stakeholders in government institutions. They will provide the backbone of the reawakening that the government brings to the East now, and which it is hoped will soon be extended to the North. All the recruits received copies of the Evidence Ordinance, the Penal Code, Code of Criminal proceedings and other such relevant legislation in the Tamil language.

After the rigorous training, as in all our services, the new recruits had their moment of pomp and ceremony, according to service traditions in a beautiful setting in the Province. The Chief Guest on this occasion was Senior DIG North and East Region and the Commandant of the Special Task Force Mahinda Balasooriya. He was escorted by the Directors of the new Kallady Training College and the senior Training establishment in the country, the Kalutara Training Colleges. Senior DIG Balasooriya took the salute of the new police personnel as they marched past to the sounds of the police band, with the Sri Lanka and Police flags flying proudly overhead, while the families of the new recruits who had come in great numbers looked on from their special enclosure. All announcements and speeches were transmitted in both Tamil and Sinhala throughout the ceremony.

In his speech Snr DIG Balasooriya noted that this great day in the lives of the new constables and their families was also a historic occasion for the  country. He welcomed the participation of the Batticloa District Court judge and representatives from the Attorney General’s department and the Peace Secretariat at the ceremony. He told the young police personnel, “By joining the Police you have promised to serve your people, your communities and your country. I welcome you into the Police as our brothers and sisters.” He concluded by saying that “Now you are part of us, so please join hands with us and serve your people who are our people. I thank your parents and families for supporting you in this endeavour and ask them to be assured that their loved ones are in good hands.”

Media Release