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Rainfall for the North of Sri Lanka

28.11 - 07:05

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Bangladesh wants to boost trade with Sri Lanka

25.11 - 08:51

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Fraud in importing Aussie heifers to Sri Lanka

24.11 - 17:43

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Sri Lanka may miss IMF December deadline, but will make request in January 2023 – CBSL Chief

24.11 - 13:59

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Sri Lanka a major trading hub in Indian Ocean – Sabry

24.11 - 12:23

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Sri Lanka’s crisis may worsen with no action from foreign creditors – HRW

24.11 - 08:25

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People in need of life-saving assistance hits 3.4 Mn in Sri Lanka

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09.11.2022 - 06:57

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COLOMBO (News 1st) – The United Nations (UN) team in Sri Lanka and non-governmental organisations have today revised and extended their joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, which aims to provide life-saving assistance to 3.4 million people amid Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis since independence.Since June, the HNP has been responding to the Government's request for UN-backed multi-sector support for Sri Lanka's debt and food and medicine shortages.

Governments and donor agencies have helped the humanitarian community reach over 1 million of the country's most vulnerable people with cash, food, school meals, medicine, protection, and livelihood support.

The HNP aligned with appeals from other UN agencies has raised US $79 million for Sri Lanka thanks to landmark support from the U.S and USAID, Australia, and Japan including JICA, the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), as well as Canada, Denmark, Norway, New Zealand, Italy, EU, Switzerland, France, and with additional support from the UK, Germany, Thailand, Sweden, Georgia, Latter Day Saint Charities and private individuals and organizations including Brandix Apparels Ltd, Hemas Holdings PLC, Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC, Daraz (Alibaba Group), Amana Bank PLC and the Citi Foundation.

The HNP's revision extends the plan through 2022 and requires US $70 million in additional funds to reach a total of US $149.7 million."We are immensely appreciative of the solidarity the international community has shown with the people of Sri Lanka, including through their generous contributions to the HNP.

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IGP expresses regret for delay in following court order

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Inspector General of Police Chandana Wickramaratne and DIG in charge of Administration Nandana Munasinghe unconditionally expressed deep regret before the Supreme Court on Wednesday (16).The duo expressed regret over the delay in carrying out the order issued by the Supreme Court on the 8th of May to promptly pay outstanding remuneration to Sub Inspector of Police Sugath Mendis for the period during which he was interdicted.Sub Inspector Sugath Mendis was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department for allegedly aiding and abetting former Director of the Criminal Investigation Department retired Senior Superintendent of Police Shani Abeysekara to fabricate evidence against former DIG Vaas Gunawardena, and was then remanded.The Supreme Court on the 8th of May issued an order for outstanding remuneration to be paid after taking into consideration a Fundamental Rights petition filed by Sub Inspector Sugath Mendis.However, the Supreme Court after considering facts presented on behalf of the petitioner stating the order has not been fulfilled, ordered the IGP and the DIG to appear before the court in person to provide an explanation.

Sri Lanka county Person Department Provident

Sri Lankan women auctioned in Oman; CID probing sex trafficking ring

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan women are being taken to Abu Dhabi in the UAE using Visit Visa, and are being taken away to Oman against their will where they are being auctioned to the highest bidder.According to reports obtained by News 1st, a group of 12 women have been taken to Oman by force.The group of women were taken away to Oman on Tuesday (16), and since then their mobile phones are switched off.Shashikala is one of them, and her husband stepped forward to speak to News 1st on the issue."They are kept in an office and were told that jobs will be given on Monday. I don't have many details.

Sri Lanka Oman city Abu Dhabi Uae Department reports Mobile

Parliament committee says government trying to restructure domestic debt

COLOMBO (News 1st) – It has been reported that the Sri Lankan government had taken a decision to restructure domestic debt.This was revealed in the first-ever report produced by the Sub-Committee in identifying short and medium-term programmes related Economic Stabilization of the National Council.Appointment of the Sub-Committee:The Resolution to constitute the National Council, moved by Dinesh Gunawardena, the Prime Minister was approved by Parliament on 20th of September 2022.According to the above Resolution, the National Council shall have general responsibilities and jurisdiction over three main areas. One of them is to agree on short and medium-term common minimum programmes in respect of the stabilization of the economy.At the first meeting of the National Council which was held on 29th of September 2022, the Secretary-General of Parliament, presenting the way forward of the Council, suggested to appoint a Sub-Committee to recognize short and mediumterm programmes for the stabilization of the economy. The members of the SubCommittee were announced as per the preferences indicated by them at the Second meeting of the National Council which was held on 6th of October 2022.The committee is chaired by Patali Champika Ranawaka and includes MPs Naseer Ahamed, Tiran Alles, Sisira Jayakody, Sivanesathurai Santhirakanthan, Wajira Abeywardana, A.

Dinesh Gunawardena Sri Lanka economy Government reports

Muthu Raja to stay in Sri Lanka; Ministry in talks with Thai Embassy

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation had blamed the unruly conduct of a caretaker or mahout for causing serious harm and torture to the Muthu Raja Tusker who was held at the Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama.The tusker Muthu Raja was gifted by Thailand to Sri Lanka in 2001 during the presidency of Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga, and it was moved to the Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama.The tusker, however, fell ill multiple times while at the Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama.Recently, a delegation from the Thai Embassy in Colombo visited the Kande Viharaya in Aluthgama to inquire into the well-being of the tusker, and following their inspection it was decided to move the tusker out of the temple and place it under the case of the Dehiwala National Zoo.The Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation said the Muthu Raja tusker is now under the protective care of the Dehiwala Nationa Zoo and its staff.However, the Thai Ambassador had decided to send the tusker back to Thailand.A statement from the Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Resources Conservation noted that Minister Mahinda Amaraweera had instructed the Secretary to the Ministry to immediately discuss the matter with the Thai Ambassador, as the Department of National Zoological Gardens had agreed to take care of the tusker.

Mahinda Amaraweera Thailand Sri Lanka president Department

Sri Lanka, India abstain on UN resolution calling on Russia to make reparations to Ukraine

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka, India and several other countries abstained from voting on a draft resolution approved by the UN General Assembly that recognised that Russia must be responsible for making reparations to Ukraine.The draft resolution, ‘Furtherance of remedy and reparation for aggression against Ukraine’, introduced by Ukraine, was adopted on Monday (14) in the 193-member UN General Assembly by a recorded vote of 94 in favour, 14 against and 73 abstentions, including by India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Egypt, Indonesia, Israel, Nepal, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka.Those voting against the resolution were Belarus, China, Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Russia and Syria.General Assembly resolutions are non-binding, but they carry political weight.The resolution, co-sponsored by nearly 50 nations, recognised that Russia “must be held to account for any violations of international law in or against Ukraine, including its aggression in violation of the Charter of the United Nations, as well as any violations of international humanitarian law and international human rights law, and that it must bear the legal consequences of all of its internationally wrongful acts, including making reparation for the injury, including any damage, caused by such acts.” In March, 141 members of the General Assembly voted to denounce Russia’s invasion, and 143 in October voted to condemn Moscow’s attempted annexation of parts of Ukraine. India had also abstained on those two votes.

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Construction sector cannot depend on govt-funded projects – CBSL Governor

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe told a forum organized by the Ceylon Institute of Builders that the country's construction sector boomed due to government-funded projects, but the same model will not apply in the future."After the end of the war mega-infrastructure development projects took place, largely are government-funded projects, either borrowed-money or taxpayers money," he said, adding that when the Sri Lankan government was finding it difficult to finance a comfort letter was given to the private commercial banks, where funding can be obtained from the banks for the government project and the money will be paid later."That was a trap," revealed the Central Bank Governor.He said that the country's construction sector developed to its present state was mainly due to government-funded projects, and going forward the sector cannot rely on government-sponsored projects."If we are going forward with the same model, we will see another round of restructuring, and debt sustainability issues.

Nandalal Weerasinghe Sri Lanka Government

China will support Sri Lanka to develop, as a friend and partner – Lin Songtian

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Head of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries has assured that China will support Sri Lanka to develop, as a friend and partner.Lin Songtian, the President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries said that China is proud of the fact that Sri Lanka has an ancient civilization."We always unite as one. We always think as one," he said adding that his visit to Sri Lanka is to foster new parterships with the island nation."I visited the Loturs Tower, and toured the Colombo Port City, and it is inspiring as it is the hope this country, and it is also giving hope for us," said Lin Songtian on Tuesday (15).The senior diplomat said that he was requested by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to visit Sri Lanka to inquire into the progresss made with regard to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Wang Yi China Sri Lanka city Port president Citi Assurant

Activists call on embassies to help end PTA; Indian HC rejects letter

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan activists handed over letters to Foreign Missions based in Colombo seeking their intervention to abolish the controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act and for the release of IUSF Convener Wasantha Mudalige, and Venerable Galwewa Siridhamma Thero, who are detained under the PTA.The group engaged in a silent protest opposite the UN compound in Colombo, and later handed over a letter to a UN representative.Thereafter the group proceeded to the Norwegian Embassy in Colombo, the EU office in Colombo, the British High Commission in Colombo, the US Embassy in Colombo, and the Canadian High Commission.The group thereafter attempted to hand-over a letter to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, however, it was not accepted.

Siridhamma Thero Usa India Sri Lanka Britain Eu Norway prevention

Opposition groups unite in call for LG polls

COLOMBO (News 1st) – All the opposition parties and groups in Parliament made an official request from the National Election Commission to call for Local Government Elections on time.Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa led a group of leading opposition lawmakers to the National Election Commission premises on Tuesday (15) morning to hand over a letter.The Samagi Jana Balavegaya, Sri Lanka Freedom Party, Freedom People's Congress, Uttara Lanka Sabhagaya, Democratic Left Front, Independent Group led by MP Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, National People's Power, All Ceylon Makkal Congress, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress, Tamil National Alliance, Tamil Progressive Alliance, Nawa Sama Samaja Party, as well as the Frontline Socialists Party that is not represented in parliament signed the letter.The letter signed by 21 parties and groups represented in parliament, and not represented in the house notes that if a response is not received to the joint request it will be assumed that the National Elections Commission is also planning on delaying the local government elections.The letter notes that if that is the case, necessary actions will be taken.

Sajith Premadasa Sri Lanka Government Party Progressive

SOE reforms necessary to overcome the crisis – CBSL Chief

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Central Bank Governor stressed that State-Owned Enterprises need to be reformed so that they are not a burden on the economy."For us to come of the crisis we have to address the root causes of the imbalances. This is where the government will have to collect more revenue, curtail expenditure, and maintain a sustainable level of sovereign debt.

Sri Lanka economy crisis Enterprise

21A says NO to applications for Constitutional Council – Wijeyadasa

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Minister of Justice, Prisons Affairs and Constitutional Reforms Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe said calling for applications to appoint civil society members to the Constitutional Council is not in accordance with the 21st Amendment to the Constitution.Recently the Sri Lanka Parliament said that applications are called for the appointment of Members, who are not members of Parliament to the Constitutional Council proposed by the 21st Amendment.Applications are called from persons of eminence and integrity who have distinguished themselves in public or professional life and who are not members of any political party, to be considered for the appointment as Members of the Constitutional Council which is to be established under the provisions of Article 41A of the Constitution of Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, said the statement.However, Justice Minister said that the 21st Amendment to the Constitution does not allow for such appointments via application, and the appointment of the civil society members to the Constitutional Council should be done by the Speaker, Prime Minister, and the Opposition Leader.

Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe Sri Lanka Party

Sri Lanka monitoring fuel distribution for farmers

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The additional secretary has appointed two officers to coordinate and supervise the work of providing fuel for farming, says the Ministry of Agriculture.The Ministry said Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has appointed an officer to supervise these activities.If there is an issue related to fuel during or after harvesting in a certain area, farmers can meet the district secretaries and request a solution.

China Sri Lanka Provident

Over 1,200 complaints against police this year

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The National Police Commission said that approximately 1,200 complaints were made against Sri Lanka Police since January 1st 2022.Complaints against police brutality can be made to the Police Commission hotline 1960.Sri Lanka's Human Rights Commission summoned the Public Security Secretary and the Police Chief on 21st November over recent incidents of police brutality.A statement from the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka said that it does not in any way accept the conduct of police officers who are committed to upholding the law to be acting in a manner that threatens the Rule of Law.The Human Rights Commission said that the Public Security Secretary and the Police Chief would be questioned on recent events and methods of preventing a recurrence.

Sri Lanka prevention

Public Security Secretary & Police Chief summoned to HRCSL over police brutality

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Human Rights Commission had summoned the Public Security Secretary and the Police Chief on 21st November over recent incidents of police brutality.A statement from the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka said that it does not in any way accept the conduct of police officers who are committed to uphold the law to be acting in a manner that threatens the Rule of Law.The Human Rights Commission said that the Public Security Secretary and the Police Chief would be questioned on recent events, and methods of preventing a recurrance.

Sri Lanka prevention

Over 3,000 undocumented leprosy cases in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Ministry of Health says that there are nearly 4,000 leprosy patients in society who have not been reported to the health authorities.The Director of the Leprosy Control Unit Dr Prasad Ranaweera said that there is a risk of leprosy spreading in society due to undocumented cases.He said during the first 7 months of 2022, over 450 leprosy patients have been treated in this country.

Sri Lanka patient Health reports

Reforms NOT limited to IMF – President

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday (14) told Parliament that the economic reforms introduced are not limited to those agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund. "These proposed reforms by the International Monetary Fund are limited only to economic stabilization," he said.The President also said that "Our envisaged reforms and reorganizations are what the country has needed for a long time to build a new economy. This is a role that many governments have opted to ignore with popularity in mind.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Government Health Provident

People on Universal Credit with any of these health conditions could be due an extra £627 each month

The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in August 2022 there were 5.6 million people across the UK receiving financial support through Universal Credit, a benefit intended to help those out of work or on a low income with daily living costs.

Britain Scotland information travelers Health

Wasantha Mudalige produced to court for the first time since detention

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The convener of the Inter-University Students Federation Wasantha Mudalige was presented to Tangalle Magistrate Hemantha Pushpakumara on Monday (14) afternoon following an order issued by the Supreme Court recently. Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday (10) ordered for the convener of the Inter-University Student's Federation Wasantha Mudalige to be produced to a Magistrate immediately.In addition, the Supreme Court also ordered for Mudalige to be produced to the Judicial Medical Officer of the Karapitiya Hospital.Wasantha Mudalige is being detained under the Prevention of Terrorism Act for 90-days.Upali Mohotti, PC told reporters that the state had requested for Wasantha Mudalige to be produced in other cases to which counsel expressed strong objection."His 90-days of detention will be completed on the 18th of November. If he is being moved for other cases, it is an attempt to detain him further," said the counsel.

Sri Lanka prevention reports

Budget 2023 | Major State-Owned Enterprises to be restructured

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The 2023 Sri Lankan budget has made significant reference to the restructuring of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs).The budget document noted that the urgency of restructuring State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) was reiterated several times during the last 6 months, and a Unit has now been established at the Ministry of Finance with the specific task of restructuring SOEs.Initially measures will be taken to restructure SriLankan Airlines, Sri Lanka Telecom, Colombo Hilton, Waters Edge and Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation (SLIC) along with its subsidiaries, the proceeds of which will be used to strengthen foreign exchange reserves of the country and strengthening the Rupee.In addition, the Gem and Jewellery Research and Training Institute will be merged with the National Gem and Jewellery Authority in order to provide services with better quality and efficiency to the gem-related craftsmen to increase export revenue. The government will also explore the possibility of setting up of a Gem Emporium (Gem Zone) for the benefit of the industry participants.

Sri Lanka county Major Waters Enterprise

Budget 2023 | Vehicles seized by customs to be released

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The 2023 Budget document has proposed that vehicles seized by Sri Lanka Customs owing to non-payment of applicable taxes and other reasons, will be released from Sri Lanka Customs, subject to the payment of applicable taxes and fines.The document notes that the vehicles falling under the following two categories can be released.(a) Any vehicle imported into Sri Lanka on or after May, 22, 2020 but before November 12, 2021 and not removed from the Sri Lanka Customs due to restrictions and prohibitions set out in the Regulations made under the provisions of the Import and Export (Control) Act, No.1 of 1969, or(b) Any vehicle propelled electrically, imported before November 12, 2021, and not removed from the Sri Lanka Customs due to nonpayment of applicable taxes.

Sri Lanka 2020

Budget 2023 | Amendments to casino, gaming, betting laws

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's 2023 Budget has proposed to make several amendments to the definitions made in the Betting and Gaming Levy Act, and the Casino Business (Regulation Act).Betting And Gaming Levy Act:The definition of "bookmaker" in the Betting and Gaming Lely Act will be extended to include a person receives or negotiates bets on all type of sports event, including online betting.A licensing mechanism for the business of bookmaker will be introduced, for a fee. Betting and Gaming Lely Act will be amended to permit the licensed bookmakers to register with hland Revenue Department.Engaging in the business of bookmaker without a license and will be prohibited by making it a punishable offence.Casino Business (Regulation) Act:Amendments will be introduced to extend the definition of gaming/ casino to include the oniline gaming/casino.The regulatory and licensing requirements will be applicable for online casinos operate in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka sports

Budget 2023 | Sri Lanka to allow marijuana for exports? Tax on Beedi sticks to be hiked

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka is proposing to explore the possibility of exporting marijuana.President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivering the 2023 Budget speech said that a committee of experts will be appointed to explore the possibility of cultivating marijuana in Sri Lanka ONLY for export purposes.In addition, to regularize the Beedi industry and deter people from Beedi consumption, the President proposed to impose a tax of Rs.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka experts president

Four Independent (SLPP) MPs join opposition

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Four MPs who contested from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna and decided to become independent have cross over to the opposition, and will become a faction of the Samagi Jana Sandanaya.The move came after talks with Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa at his office in the Parliament.Accordingly, MPs Anura Priyadarshana Yapa, Chandima Weerakkody, Jayaratne Hearth, and Dr.

Sajith Premadasa Sri Lanka

Amnesty for AWOL servicemen

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Sri Lankan Defence Ministry will grant a general amnesty from Tuesday (15) for all servicemen who are absent without official leave to officially discharge from service. The Defence Ministry said that the amnesty period will be from Tuesday (15) to the 31st of December.This amnesty will be awarded to the servicemen who had not reported to their respective stations on or before the 25th of October 2022.In addition, the Defence Ministry said that if the servicemen owe any dues to the military, those must be settled in full in order to be discharged from service.

Sri Lanka reports

22,000 MT of Urea unloading begins

COLOMBO (News 1st) – 22,000 MT of Urea Fertilizer reached the Colombo Port on Sunday (13) evening, and the unloading of the shipment commenced on Monday (14).The Ministry of Agriculture said that this is the second vessel with fertiliser to reach Sri Lanka under the financial assistance of USD 105 Mn given by the World Bank to buy urea fertilizer needed for paddy and maize crops in the maha season.A total of 35,000 MT of Urea Fertilizer was received by Sri Lanka under the World Bank provisions.The Ministry of Agriculture said that out of the 65,000 MT of fertilizer purchased under Indian loan assistance in the last Yala season, 34,000 MT of urea fertilizer remain unused.The Ministry further said that the same amount of fertilizer has been distributed to all agricultural centres for the first phase of urea fertilizer inclusion, in paddy cultivation in the Maha season.

Colombo Port India Sri Lanka

Police Commission tells IGP to probe brutality on police women

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka (HRCSL) says it has requested a report from the Inspector General of Police regarding the incident of a police officer harassing two female Police officers.The Chairman of the HRCSL, Supreme Court Judge (Rtd.) Rohini Marasinghe said that the report is expected to be received on Monday (14) and further action will be taken as soon as the report is received.Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Police Commission Chandra Fernando has also instructed the Inspector General of Police to investigate the incident.In addition, Police Spokesperson & Attorney Nihal Talduwa says that the Inspector General of Police has ordered the Director of the Police Special Investigation Unit to immediately launch an investigation regarding the relevant Chief Inspector of Police.A Police inspector grabbed the neck of two policewomen in the Gorakapola area in Panadura on Saturday (12) harassing them physically and forcing them to take action to arrest two other women who were engaged in a protest march.

Rohini Marasinghe Sri Lanka reports Action

The 2023 budget aimed at long-term, stable economic growth to be presented to Parliament tomorrow

PMD – President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as the Minister of Finance will present the 2023 budget to Parliament tomorrow (14) aimed at creating long-term, stable economic growth.The 2023 budget has given special attention to the sectors of capital market, export market, labour market and digital economy and it is expected to achieve the budget targets through the social market economy.

Ranil Wickremesinghe president economy Digital growth

Two-hour power cuts on Monday (14)

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka (PUCSL) has approved power cuts for 2 hours on the 14th of November as follows;Group ABCDEFGHIJKLPQRSTUVW: 1-hour during the day 1-hour during the night

Sri Lanka

Less for defence, more for health, education & social security – Siyambalapitiya vows

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The upcoming appropriation bill, which is due to be presented on Monday (14), will focus on more aid for the people, said the State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya. Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday (13), the State Minister said that defense expenditure will be decreased at this time while more will be allocated for social security.Accordingly, the State Minister said that Defense expenditure has been decreased to Rs. 410 billion, while social security has been allocated Rs.

Sri Lanka Government bill Health

Sri Lanka to host U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024

ICC – Top emerging talent will be heading to Sri Lanka in 2024 for the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup, as the ICC Board announced host countries for U19 events between 2024 and 2027.Zimbabwe and Namibia, Malaysia and Thailand, and Bangladesh and Nepal are also set to host ICC U19 events between 2024 and 2027, after the ICC Board approved the plans.The ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 will be hosted by Sri Lanka while the 2026 edition will be staged in Zimbabwe and Namibia. The ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 will be held in Malaysia and Thailand, and the 2027 event will be jointly hosted by Bangladesh and Nepal.Cricket World Cup qualification pathwaysThe qualification pathway for the 14-team ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027 was also confirmed with 10 teams set to gain automatic qualification. These 10 teams will include South Africa and Zimbabwe as Full Member hosts, and the next eight highest-ranked teams on the ICC MRF Tyres ODI Rankings on a date to be confirmed. The remaining four teams will qualify through the ICC CWC Global Qualifier series.The qualification pathway for the 10-team ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 was also approved. Eight teams will automatically qualify for the event, including the top three teams from each group at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2023, the host Bangladesh (if not in the top three of Group 1) and the next highest ranked teams on the MRF Tyres ICC T20I Rankings on 27 February 2023.

Thailand Sri Lanka Nepal Malaysia Bangladesh South Africa Namibia Zimbabwe recommendations

Eleven Lankan fishermen arrested by Indian Coast Guard

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Eleven Sri Lankan fishermen along with two vessels have been arrested by the Indian Coast Guard under charges of illegally entering Indian waters.At the time, the fishermen were fishing in Indian waters, 175 nautical miles off the coast of Kalingapatnam in Srikakulam district.Indian media reported that the arrested fishermen have been handed over to the Kakinada Police Station for further investigations.

India Sri Lanka reports Waters

Upcoming budget; what to expect?

Which areas will be given more attention in this year's budget?The State Minister of Finance stated that special attention will be paid to cover the bills which have so far remained unpaid, and will also include an aid program for the country's poor.Moreover, the State Minister Semasinghe said that more avenues for the promotion of tourism sector, the promotion of other sectors which function to increase the country's foreign exchange revenue will also be other areas which the bill would focus upon. The State expenditure will be mitigated, while loss-making entities will also be focused upon in this budget, he added.What of IMF negotiations?Meanwhile, State Minister Semasinghe stated that bilateral creditors of the country will continue to hold negotiations, while the Government expects to set the grounds to obtain the IMF Director board's approval by December. He stressed that NO country or any bilateral creditor party is acting on the premise of not extending its support towards Sri Lanka. The third set of negotiations with the IMF authorities will be initiated on 17th November, the State Minister added.

Sri Lanka Government bill Party

SLPP, SJB & Nidahas Janatha Sabhawa to moot budget proposals

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A special meeting of the ruling party is scheduled to be held on Monday (14) in connection with the upcoming appropriation bill.The meeting, which is scheduled to be held at 05:00 PM at the Temple Trees, will be presided over by the President and the Prime Minister.The General Secretary of the SLPP, Attorney-at-law Sagara Kariyawasam said that the ruling party MPs will be specially briefed about the upcoming budget proposals.Officials of the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank as well as several economic experts are also scheduled to be involved.Kariyawasam also said that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna will extend its full support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe's decision to restore the country's economy.However, Karivayasam stated that his party will take a decision on extending support for this year's budget after further consideration of the budget proposals presented tomorrow.Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya says that it has called a meeting of its parliamentary group on Monday (14) afternoon to discuss the budget proposals.Its General Secretary, MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that the meeting will be held at the Parliament Complex under the Chairmanship of the Opposition Leader.Moreover, MP Dallas Alahapperuma stated that a meeting of the reformist group of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna representing the Nidahas Janatha Sabhawa will be held at 5:00 PM on Monday (14) to discuss the budget proposals.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Temple Trees Sagara Kariyawasam Sri Lanka county Dallas experts president Party

‘What a shame’ – BASL chief condemns Police action

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The President of the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), Saliya Peiris PC states that Sri Lanka's Police force have deteriorated in many aspects, which is exemplified by many incident taking place.Referring to the Police manhandling two ladies who were protesting being manhandled, a senior officer of the WPC being held by her neck and a man being locked up for the non-possession of his NIC, the BASL President said that the incidents are examples of Police brutality. He added that such incidents of Police brutality continues because of the failure and the lethargic attitude of those who have the power and authority to deal with them.

Saliya Peiris Sri Lanka president Man Action

Sri Lanka will NOT be party to ‘Big Power Rivalry’ & will prepare legislation to protect undersea cables

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has made it clear that his country will not be a part of any big power rivalry, especially in the Indian Ocean region."The total competition in the world has gone from US and Russia to US and China," said the President adding that whatever happens in Russia is a sideshow."Whether the US is in the Indian ocean we have no objections. We have no objections to the Japanese or the Chinese being there, as long as there is no rivalry. We are the literal states, and we have to look after our interests.

Ranil Wickremesinghe China Japan Usa India Sri Lanka Russia county Ocean president Fighting Party

Dengue High-Risk Zones in Seven provinces

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The National Dengue Control Unit noted that multiple areas across seven provinces in Sri Lanka have been declared at Dengue High-Risk Zones.According to the latest data from the National Dengue Control Unit attached to the Ministry of Health Piliyandala, Homagama, Maharagama, Pitakotte, Kaduwela and Gothatuwa areas in the Colombo District have been declared as Dengue High-Risk Zones.13 MOH areas in the Gampaha District including Attanagalle, Biyagama, Divulaptiya, Ja-Ela, and Kelaniya have been declared as Dengue High-Risk Zones.The Beruwala and Kalutara MOH areas in the Kalutara District are also Dengue High-Risk Zones.Three MOH areas in the Kandy District also are Dengue High-Risk Zones, while the same number exists in the North and Eastern provinces.Sri Lanka has recorded over 63,500 dengue cases so far in 2022, and a majority of these cases are from the Western Province.

Sri Lanka Health MOH Kandi

Modified sniper & other weapons found in Beruwala

COLOMBO (News 1st) – In recent months people were gunned down by mysterious shooters and concerns were raised on matters like how did these criminals get their hands on such weapons and who owned them.On Thursday (10) night, Sri Lanka Police arrested a man for the possession of weapons and ammunition prepared to be used in a crime in Deenagoda, Beruwala.The man was arrested close to the Berwala Railway Station for suspicious behaviour and based on the information extracted during questioning his house was searched, where the weapons and ammunition were discovered.Sri Lanka Police said they discovered a Repeater Shotgun, a 0.22 mm firearm, and a locally manufactured weapon.Police said that the locally manufactured firearm has been upgraded to be used as a sniper rifle with laser targetting.In addition, Sri Lanka Police said that the barrel used for this weapon was manufactured in Germany and was modified to fit 0.22 mm bullets.In addition to these three weapons 101 bullets compatible with a 12-bore shotgun, and 489 .022 mm bullets were found in the possession of the 49-year-old suspect.In 2018, the suspect was arrested by police on weapons manufacturing charges.

Sri Lanka Germany information Man Manufacturing

US sanctions Sri Lankan businessman for links with Al-Qaeda

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated two business associates of a sanctioned al-Qa’ida financial facilitator and external operations plotter. The two individuals designated today are Mohamad Irshad Mohamad Haris Nizar and Musab Turkmen, who conducted businesses activities to assist Ahmed Luqman Talib (Talib), who was previously designated by OFAC for facilitating the international movement of individuals and finances in furtherance of al-Qa’ida’s objectives. Australian authorities arrested Talib on March 25, 2021, and days later charged him with plotting incursions into foreign states for the purpose of engaging in hostile activities.“Treasury is taking this action to further disrupt a transnational al-Qa’ida financial facilitation and operational plotting network,” said Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian E.

Usa Sri Lanka Australia Brazil Colombia Turkmenistan Tanzania BLOCK Provident

President welcomes eight new diplomats

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Seven newly appointed Ambassadors and a High Commissioner to Sri Lanka presented their credentials to President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat on Friday (11).Accordingly, His Excellency Mr. Federico Salas Lotfe, the Mexican Ambassador to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mr.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Oman France Russia Bhutan Ghana Mexico Luxembourg Paraguay president

Lost at Sea: Skipper not among Sri Lankans taken to Vietnam

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Authorities in Vietnam have reported that the skipper of the large migrant boat that was rescued by its Navy was not among those who were rescued.Vietnam media quoting the rescued Sri Lankans reported that the captain of the iron-hulled ship LADY R3 abandoned the boat after it started drifting at sea, and then did not return.A border guard commander of Ba Ria – Vung Tau province had also confirmed the information.A Sri Lankan man had reportedly said that his group had traveled from Sri Lanka to Myanmar and from there they had boarded the LADY R3 boat to travel to Canada by sea.It is unclear if all 303 Sri Lankans traveled together or in groups to Myanmar, and how they made it to Myanmar, as investigations are pending.Before 303 Sri Lankan citizens were rescued by the Helios Leader Vessel on the afternoon of November 6th, their ship had been stalled for nearly 40 hours, unable to maneuver and was drifting freely. On the afternoon of November 8th, when the SAR 413 vessel from the Vietnamese Coast Guard organized to welcome the 303 Sri Lankan citizens from the Helios Leader vessel to shore, initially four men got off the ship, the rest refused to get off despite the persuasion of the Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka, who took an entire hour to pursuade them to leave the Japanese freighter.At this time, the authorities considered the option for these four people to return to the Helios Leader, but they refused and said that if they returned, they would be beaten. Thereafter, all 303 Sri Lankans were taken off the Helios Leader in batches and brought ashore.For humanitarian reasons, the Ba Ria – Vung Tau Provincial Command for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control and Search and Rescue has arranged for 303

Sri Lankans Japan Sri Lanka Canada Vietnam Burma travelers reports Citizens

Man arrested with 188 gemstones

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Sri Lanka Police Special Task Force arrested a 27-year-old man from Thamankaduwa, Gallella for possessing 118 stones believed to be gems.The STF said that the raid was carried out on the Akkaraipattu main road following an intelligence tip received by the officials of the Kalavanchikudi camp.Therefore, 188 stones of various colours suspected to be gems were seized from the possession of the suspect.In addition, a Gemstone Testing and Identification device were taken into custody.

Sri Lanka testing Man

Civil Groups want China to help Sri Lanka’s debt

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Several civil organizations visited the Chinese Embassy in Colombo to request China to support Sri Lanka's debt restructuring efforts.However, the Chinese Embassy in Colombo reportedly refused to accept the letter from the civil organizations.The Liberal Democratic Youth Collective, The Sarvapakshika Aragalakaruwo (A movement formed after the people's struggle) and several other groups visited the Chinese Embassy in Colombo to request China to support Sri Lanka's debt restructuring efforts.Sri Lanka Police did not allow the activists to approach the Embassy and hand over the letter.

China Sri Lanka reports

Travel ban on Diana Gamage over citizenship case

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A Sri Lankan court on Friday (11) imposed a travel ban on State Minister of Tourism Diana Gamage.The Colombo Chief Magistrate ordered to prevent the State Minister from travelling overseas until the 17th of December 2022.The case filed against the citizenship of the State Minister was called up via a motion that was filed by Attorney Gunaratna Wanninayake and several other counsels.On Thursday (10) the Colombo Chief Magistrate's Court ordered the OIC of the Criminal Investigations Department to immediately investigate whether State Minister Diana Gamage is remaining in Sri Lanka without a valid visa, and submit a progress report to the court on the 15th of December.Attorney Gunaratna Wanninayake told reporters outside the court that attempts were made earlier to undermine this investigation.

Diana Gamage Sri Lanka prevention travelers reports

Critics unaware of sacrifices during war – Sec. Def.

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne during an inspection visit made to the CSD Headquarters in Katubedda on Thursday (10) noted that in addition to the three-armed forces and the police, the Civil Security Department (CSD) also contributed a lot for the dawn of peace, that the people rejoice today.The Defence Secretary while addressing CSD staffers recalled the hardships experienced during the conflict also mentioned the dedicated service rendered by the former CSD members during the battle to eradicate terrorism from the island. “Those pointed their finger towards the armed forces during the recent turmoil weren’t aware of the hardships their parents had gone through during terrorist war”, he said citing several recent incidents.

Kamal Gunaratne Sri Lanka Department SEC

Indian & US Diplomats together at LIOC

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Bagley and the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung were seen at the Lanka IOC Terminals in Trincomalee together accompanied by diplomatic staff on Thursday (10).The Indian High Commission in Colombo said that the diplomats were welcomed by the staff at Lanka IOC who briefed the two diplomats on its operations that contribute to energy security of Sri Lanka.The Indian High Commissioner also flagged off the first delivery of Lanka Super Diesel from the Trinco Terminal for Sri Lankan market.

Julie Chung Usa India Sri Lanka

Urea fertilizer shipment due next week

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The National Fertilizer Office says that a cargo vessel carrying 22,000 MT of fertilizer is scheduled to arrive in the country from Malaysia next week.The Director of the National Fertilizer Office Chandana Lokuge says that the relevant fertilizer will be used for the maha season cultivationEarlier, 13,000 MT of Urea fertilizer was brought to Sri Lanka and the relevant fertilizer was distributed to farmers across the country.

Sri Lanka Malaysia

Sri Lanka to establish Budget Office

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A special meeting was held in Parliament to discuss the draft bill for the establishment of the Budget Office of the Parliament.The special meeting was attended by the Party leaders and members of the Committee on Parliamentary Business. The Members of Parliament who were present had a lengthy discussion on the draft bill related to the establishment of the budget office of the parliament. Also, it was decided to meet again in two weeks after further study of this bill.

Sri Lanka bill Party

IMF says not to release agreement until negotiations are done – President

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe President told the Parliament on Thursday (10) that the IMF had requested not to release the agreement reached between Sri Lanka and the International Monetary Fund until the current round of negotiations are complete.The President said that previously when the country approached the IMF, talks were only with the International Monetary Fund, however, this time around discussions need to take place with other countries as well."Japan is speaking India and China because they are not members of the Paris Club. Amendments may take place," the President told the house"IMF says don't release it till we finish this round of negotiations. I won't put anyone in to trouble.

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United States	Cases: 46 252 513 Deaths: 750 423 Recovered: 0
India	Cases: 34 321 025 Deaths: 459 652 Recovered: 0
Brazil	Cases: 21 835 785 Deaths: 608 235 Recovered: 0
United Kingdom	Cases: 9 215 683 Deaths: 141 607 Recovered: 0
Russia	Cases: 8 494 589 Deaths: 237 619 Recovered: 0

People in need of life-saving assistance hits 3.4 Mn in Sri Lanka

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