Month: September 2023
President Ranil Wickremesinghe Addresses G77 & China Summit in Cuba
- Highlights the role of science, technology and innovation in addressing global development challenges.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivered a compelling address at the Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the G77 & China in Havana, Cuba yesterday (15). In his speech, President Wickremesinghe emphasized the crucial role of science, technology and innovation in overcoming the current development challenges faced by developing nations worldwide.
President Wickremesinghe began by commending Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez for convening the summit and acknowledging Cuba’s historic role as a champion for the concerns and aspirations of developing nations within various multilateral forums.
He noted the unprecedented challenges confronting the global South, including the pandemic, climate change, food, fertilizer and energy crises, which threaten the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and exacerbate the global debt crisis.
President Wickremesinghe then delved into the historical perspective of technological development, highlighting how Europe’s advancements in the 15th century, such as gunpowder, cannons and ocean-going ships, enabled it to conquer other parts of the world, resulting in the technological divide seen today. He underscored that a new technological divide is emerging in the 21st century, necessitating the adoption of digitalization and new technologies, such as Big Data, IoT, AI, Blockchain, Biotechnology and Genome Sequencing, to bridge the gap.
He emphasised the importance of an educated manpower well equipped with knowledge and technological know-how essential for the smooth flow of the needed transformations which will lubricate the development and catching up process in developing nations.
The President outlined his government’s initiatives, including the evaluation of underperforming Science and Technology Research Institutes and the establishment of a Technology and Innovation Council and a Digital Transformation Agency. Additionally, Sri Lanka plans to create four new universities specializing in new technologies, with one being the result of technological cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The International Climate University will be the 05th.
Addressing the digital divide, President Wickremesinghe cited challenges such as limited access to costly technology, insufficient digital skills and infrastructure, cultural and institutional barriers and financing constraints.
He called for effective cooperation mechanisms within the G77 and China, including the revitalization of the Consortium of Science & Technology & Innovation for the South (COSTIS) and the commitment of member countries to earmark 1% of their GDP for R&D over a decade.
President Wickremesinghe stressed the importance of collaboration between governments and the private sector and proposed creating technological platforms in fields like digitalization, health, medication, AI and renewable energy including green hydrogen, inspired by the European Union’s Technology & Innovation Platforms.
The brain drain from the South to the North and the resulting loss of educated manpower is another threat to the development of Science Technology and Innovation of the South, President Wickremesinghe said, adding that China, India, Japan and South Korea have developed Science Technology and Innovation by nurturing their manpower. “Therefore we must ask for compensation from the North for the loss of our manpower,” he added.
He also urged increased South-South cooperation and proposed a scheme akin to the Colombo Plan to enhance collaboration, exchange best practices and develop policies that harness the transformational potential of science, technology and innovation.
In conclusion, President Wickremesinghe reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to supporting the new Havana Declaration and called for the collective voice of G77 and China to be heard in international fora.
The President’s address underscored the significance of science, technology and innovation in shaping the future of developing nations, making it a pivotal moment at the G77 and China Summit.
Sri Lanka’s vision for the Indian Ocean: A new nexus of security, economy and environmental harmony unveiled
- Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sgala Ratnayaka maps out ambitious strategy at high-level discussion in Colombo.
In a landmark discussion held yesterday (12) in Colombo, Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, the President’s Senior Advisor on National Security and the President’s Chief of Staff, unveiled a bold vision for the Indian Ocean region. The event was attended by notable figures including President Ranil Wickremesinghe, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya and high-ranking diplomats. The event highlighted Sri Lanka’s pivotal role in shaping the future of this strategically vital region.
Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka attended as the keynote speaker at the Geopolitical Cartographer discussion on the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific dimensions of recent high-level visits. He commenced the discussion by highlighting the profound transformation of the Indian Ocean from a mere maritime trade route to a global nexus encompassing security, economics, environmental concerns, social issues and strategic interests. He also emphasized the implementation of a robust reform program, which is poised to bring harmony to the Indian Ocean with its commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, while noting that the national interests of individual states significantly influence the international system.
He also underscored Sri Lanka’s unique position in the Indian Ocean region, highlighting the nation’s on-going economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of robust reform and revival programs. These initiatives have positioned Sri Lanka to play a crucial role in fostering harmony within the Indian Ocean.
One of Sri Lanka’s central policies in the region is the promotion of a free and open Indo-Pacific, encompassing maritime safety and security, protection of undersea cables, combating illegal fishing and trafficking, addressing human trafficking and tackling environmental issues, including disaster relief and maritime pollution. Mr. Ratnayaka drew attention to Sri Lanka’s responsibilities in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and stressed the importance of stability and growth through reform.
Mr. Ratnayaka acknowledged the importance of maintaining a stable and credible image, emphasizing that Sri Lanka’s reform processes and economic stabilization are crucial for attracting international support and cooperation. The domestic debt restructuring process in Sri Lanka is currently approaching its final stages, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s economic recovery efforts. This comprehensive restructuring initiative is designed to address and manage the country’s domestic debt obligations more effectively. One crucial step in this process involves the enactment of the Central Bank Act, a legislative framework that will provide the necessary regulatory framework and guidelines for managing domestic debt. Once this act is enacted, it will facilitate the completion of the domestic debt restructuring process. As part of this restructuring, Sri Lanka plans to convert existing treasury bills into bonds, a strategic move to better manage its debt portfolio and ensure long-term financial stability.
In the initial phases of the debt restructuring process, Sri Lanka sought assurances and support from international partners. Notably, the Paris Club, along with India and China, responded positively and cooperatively, extending their assistance to help Sri Lanka navigate its economic challenges. As Sri Lanka nears the completion of the domestic debt restructuring, it anticipates continued support from these key partners in the upcoming rounds of restructuring.
The discussion further emphasized connectivity in various forms, including air, sea, road, logistics, energy security and power grid development. Sri Lanka aims to collaborate with countries like Japan to build confidence in its reform process and attract investments.
France’s role in combating climate change and the establishment of a School of Regional Maritime Safety and Security in Trincomalee were among the key highlights of the discussion. Additionally, the talk emphasized the significance of Chinese investments in Sri Lanka, including the Port City and Hambantota, in driving economic growth and creating job opportunities.
As Sri Lanka positions itself as a key player in the Indian Ocean, the discussion underscored the pivotal role of the private sector in driving the nation’s vision forward. With global diplomatic support and ambitious plans, Sri Lanka’s aspirations for the Indian Ocean region have taken centre stage on the international platform.
The culmination of discussions during President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s visit to India resulted in the issuance of a visionary document that outlines Sri Lanka’s strategic goals for the region. This document underscores the central theme of connectivity, highlighting the importance of fostering robust connections by air, sea and road. It also emphasizes the significance of logistics, an efficient economy and the trading of currencies. Additionally, the document places a strong focus on digital finance and energy security, acknowledging their pivotal roles in Sri Lanka’s economic future.
The commitment to enhancing connectivity extends to the development of a power grid and pipelines for fuel, not only within Sri Lanka but also extending to its neighbouring regions. This ambitious approach aims to provide greater flexibility and reliability in meeting the energy needs of Sri Lanka and its surrounding areas.
Furthermore, the vision document prioritizes food security, with an emphasis on high-tech agriculture and the development of livestock and dairy sectors. These initiatives are aimed at bolstering Sri Lanka’s self-sufficiency in food production and reducing its reliance on imports. In addition to these economic facets, the document recognizes the importance of tourism, with India playing a vital role in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The focus on education, as emphasized by President Wickremesinghe, highlights Sri Lanka’s commitment to fostering a skilled workforce and promoting educational partnerships with India and other nations.
The recent high-powered visit to China was of great significance and it was noted that President Ranil Wickremesinghe will soon embark on his third Belt and Road Initiative visit to China. Notably, President Wickremesinghe had previously represented Sri Lanka as Prime Minister during the inaugural Belt and Road visit. In terms of China-Sri Lankan relations, Sri Lanka has benefitted from two substantial Chinese investments. One of these is the ambitious Port City project, which, while encountering occasional challenges, is currently undergoing consultations for the finalization of new legal frameworks. These legal adjustments are expected to be particularly enticing to prospective investors.
Additionally, discussions included the Hambantota investment, where the port has faced challenges due to a lack of sufficient maritime traffic resulting from delays in the development of the investment zone. Addressing this issue is deemed crucial for Hambantota’s full potential to be realized, as it holds the promise of job creation, the establishment of export industries and a significant increase in revenue for Sri Lanka. These topics, among others, constituted key areas of focus during the discussions between the leaders.
Both Japan and Sri Lanka emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in driving Sri Lanka’s development. This emphasis on the private sector’s leadership was a central theme in discussions and the vision document. Recent visits by Japanese officials highlighted discussions on climate change and education, aiming to build confidence in Sri Lanka’s reform process. Concerns among Japanese investors and private sector players prompted a call for reform, standardization and improved safety regulations to attract foreign investment. Overall, the focus remains on fostering a business-friendly environment and instilling confidence in foreign investors, particularly from Japan, to participate in Sri Lanka’s growth and prosperity.
Subsequently, during the diplomatic engagement with France, President’s discussions were conducted efficiently. A significant portion of the dialogue was dedicated to the critical subject of climate change, including the establishment of a Climate Change University. Moreover, the talks cantered on enhancing cooperation in regional maritime safety, with a specific proposal to establish the School of Regional Maritime Safety and Security. This institution is slated to be headquartered in Trincomalee while maintaining affiliation with the prestigious Kotelawala Defence University.
The discussion attended by notable figures such as High Commissioner of India HE Gopal Bagley, Ambassador of China HE Qi Zhenhong, Ambassador of France HE Jean-Francois Pactet and Ambassador of Japan HE Hideaki Mizukoshi, each providing unique perspectives on the region’s evolving dynamics and expressed their support for Sri Lanka’s Role in Shaping the Future of the Indian Ocean Region.
Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ms Aruni Wijewardane was the moderator at this event.
Cabinet approves establishment of three private medical colleges – Minister Keheliya Rambukwella
In a significant development, Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella announced today that the Cabinet has granted approval for the establishment of three private medical colleges within Sri Lanka. Minister Rambukwella emphasized that these new medical institutions will adhere to the standards set by existing medical schools in the country.
Addressing a media briefing held at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) today (11) on the theme ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’ ‘ Minister Rambukwella elaborated on the initiative, stating: “The Cabinet has already given its approval to launch three new medical colleges. These institutions must maintain the same high standards as our existing medical schools. We must consider the number of our youth who choose to study in private institutions or abroad. It is our moral duty to provide adequate facilities and opportunities for our country’s children.”
The Minister further stressed that “Professors who have worked as consultants in the medical colleges of our country have outlined minimum qualifications. There is a law that mandates other recognized medical schools in this country to meet or exceed these standards. Additionally, three hospitals have been integrated into these universities.
The minister also revealed that these universities have been urged to allocate scholarships to 10% of their student population, acknowledging the existence of qualified students who face financial barriers to pursuing medical education.
Minister Rambukwella took the opportunity to address concerns about the brain drain of medical professionals, attributing it to economic challenges faced by the country in 2019. He assured that the government is committed to addressing these issues, particularly regarding doctors’ remuneration.
He highlighted the need for comprehensive short, medium and long-term plans to address these challenges and pointed out that countries like England offer significantly higher salaries to medical professionals educated in Sri Lanka’s free education system.
In furtherance of our commitment to addressing critical healthcare challenges, it is essential to consider augmenting the intake capacity in specific domains. Currently, there exist stipulated minimum qualifications and approximately 13 medical faculties throughout the country. Regrettably, only around 2000 individuals are admitted into these institutions. It is evident that there is ample room to expand these numbers, as the intellectual capabilities of
our nation’s youth are beyond question. It is imperative to provide opportunities to those with foundational qualifications who aspire to excel in the medical field.
In a related development, the motion of no confidence presented against Minister Rambukwella in Parliament was defeated. He acknowledged the constructive suggestions provided during the debate and pledged to take steps to implement them. He also presented evidence countering false allegations made during the motion, including concerns about the quality and availability of medicines
“In response to allegations raised within the no-confidence motion, particularly concerning the quality of medicines, I had the opportunity to present evidence substantiating the veracity of our claims. Reference was made to a report from 2017 highlighting issues related to substandard medications, with subsequent years showing varying numbers of such incidents: 85 in 2018, 96 in 2019, 77 in 2020, 88 in 2021, 86 in 2022 and 43 so far in 2023.
It is worth noting that, in some cases, reports of substandard drugs have emerged years after their approval, registration and utilization. We have initiated a comprehensive investigation into these reported incidents of inferior quality medicines. Additionally, there were allegations regarding the shortage of essential medicines, a concern we take seriously and are actively addressing.
Our on-going commitment remains to bolster our healthcare system, ensure the availability of high-quality medicines and provide opportunities for aspiring medical professionals. We recognize the need for continued dialogue and effective action to overcome the challenges facing our healthcare sector and to uphold the well-being of our citizens.”
Regarding lower quality medicines, Rambukwella referenced reports from recent years, indicating that these cases are being addressed. He affirmed that the government takes such matters seriously and is committed to ensuring the quality and availability of essential medicines for the public.
President awards Advanced Level high achievers
- Presents certificates and cash rewards.
The award ceremony and appreciation of high-achieving students who excelled in the GCE A/L 2021 and 2022 examinations was held today at the Presidential Secretariat, presided over by President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.
Students who excelled in each stream at the GCE (A/L) examination in 2021 & 2022 Academic years were presented certificates and cash rewards by President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat where a total of 90 students including the top 10 students from the 6 streams in the 2022 Academic year and the top 5 students from the 6 streams in the 2021 Academic year were rewarded at this event.
Cash prizes of Rs. 50,000 each were distributed to the students securing the first, second and third positions in all six advanced-level subject streams across the country. Meanwhile, students in other positions received cash prizes of Rs. 25,000 each.
In a friendly exchange with these accomplished advanced level students, President Wickremesinghe invited them to share their thoughts on education. One student expressed concerns about the potential brain drain, as many of her friends aspire to pursue higher education abroad, leaving Sri Lanka’s talent pool depleted. She emphasized the need for programs that encourage educated individuals to contribute to the country.
Another student pointed out that the 40-minute time slots allocated for subjects during A-level exams might hinder a deeper understanding of the topics. She suggested that extended hours in supplementary classes might contribute to the perceived success of such programs. Furthermore, she praised the quality of government-provided textbooks at the advanced level and proposed that these materials could be enhanced in tuition classes. She also stressed the importance of incorporating practical applications into the curriculum to retain high-achieving students.
A university student, who excelled in the 2021 A-level examination and is currently in the first year at the University of Moratuwa studying fashion design, raised concerns about job prospects in Sri Lanka after completing a degree in that field. This raised questions about the availability of career opportunities in his chosen path within the country.
He suggested that if the government offers guidance to students when they are selected for universities, it could lead to the formation of a more effective group of students.
During the event, a first-year university student added that the absence of a direct platform for discussing university issues with the government has caused numerous problems. She proposed that a suitable opportunity for such discussions should be provided monthly, which could help reduce misunderstandings and build trust between the government and the university student community.
Another student chimed in, suggesting that providing opportunities for students to make degree-related decisions before the 13-year leading to the advanced level examination could expedite their education, increase their chances of finding employment and promote stability.
In response to the students’ suggestions and ideas, the President expressed his commitment to paying attention to them.
Following the distribution of certificates and cash prizes, the students gathered for a group photograph.
Additionally, the Presidential Secretariat organized a complimentary visit for the students to the Lotus Tower and the Colombo Port City.
The event was facilitated by Mr. Randula Abeyweera, Presidential Director of Youth Affairs and Sustainable Development and attended by prominent officials, including Presidential Senior Adviser on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, Presidential Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake, Secretary of the Ministry of Education Mr. Nihal Ranasinghe, Secretary of the Presidential Fund Mr. W.A. Sarath Kumar, Commissioner General of Examinations Mr. Amit Jayasundara and several other officials.
Sri Lanka’s long-awaited National Evaluation Policy finally commences after seven years
- The government initiates a comprehensive analysis of the spending in the 10 highest spending Ministries.
- Reports will be submitted to Parliament in all three languages to ensure transparency and accountability.
- The President acknowledged a significant void in Sri Lanka’s governance system—the absence of a national policy.
In a significant development for Sri Lanka’s governance and policy landscape, the long-pending National Policy on Evaluation has finally been set in motion, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s mission for efficient governance. The policy, which was initiated in 2016 or 2017, was officially declared in 2018 during discussions in Parliament and now, in 2023, it is being hailed as a crucial step towards bringing discipline and consistency to government projects and policies.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, during his speech at the unveiling of the National Evaluation Policy Implementation Framework held at Temple Trees this morning (on the 8th), underscored the crucial involvement of the Ministry of Finance and the Project Management Department in the policy’s execution. This initiative aims to instil discipline within the government system. Currently, the assessment of expenditures in the top ten highest-spending Ministries is in progress, with the forthcoming reports slated for presentation in Parliament in all three official languages, ensuring transparency.
The President revealed plans to develop a foreign policy paper by the Minister of Foreign Affairs by the end of the year and a long-term defence policy for Sri Lanka by the Ministry of Defence. These initiatives aim to ensure a more consistent and enduring approach to policy-making followed by other ministries in producing a national policy framework.
He also stressed the importance of addressing policy adaptation issues at the ministry level, ensuring that national policies are effectively implemented.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighting the importance of this landmark policy and its implications for the country’s governance stressed the need for a National Evaluation Policy, given the seven-year journey from its inception, which vividly illustrates the need for a comprehensive framework to assess the government’s actions. He lauded the dedication of those involved in crafting the policy, recognizing their remarkable work in making it a reality.
In his address, the President highlighted that the parliamentary session delved into critical matters, shedding light on one pressing issue: the haphazard nature of certain government projects. An illustrative instance brought up was the construction of a canal bridge, necessitating the demolition of three or four-story building. This example vividly exemplifies the challenges encountered in the planning and execution of projects.
President Wickremesinghe highlighted a significant void in Sri Lanka’s governance system—the absence of a consistent national policy. He emphasized the need for continuity in policies, suggesting that parliament-appointed committees should play a central role in creating a national policy framework.
This landmark step towards a more consistent and predictable policy environment in Sri Lanka is seen as essential for the country’s economic growth and overall development. The government officials expressed their commitment to the robust implementation of the National Evaluation Policy, emphasizing the importance of evaluating government actions effectively.
The implementation of the National Evaluation Policy will be overseen by the Ministry of Finance and the Project Management Department, with the objective of instilling discipline and order within the government system. The policy aims to ensure that policies remain consistent, even as governments change, in order to maintain a stable and predictable environment for economic and social development.
Furthermore, the parliamentary session highlighted the need for a broader discussion on national policies, where the role of both the Cabinet and Parliament in policy formulation and implementation will be redefined. The goal is to establish a comprehensive national policy framework that can accommodate changes in policies from government to government, not minister to minister.
As Sri Lanka moves forward with this policy, it aspires to bring about greater consensus on national policies, which will ultimately lead to a well-defined and comprehensive national policy framework.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe also expressed his satisfaction with the progress made during discussions on debt restructuring, noting a noteworthy degree of consensus on the trajectory of national policy. Despite robust debates in the Public Finance Committee, the President acknowledged that substantial agreement had been reached, although amid the intricacies of multi-party considerations inherent to Sri Lanka’s political landscape.
President Wickremesinghe likened the negotiations to the “fog of war,” emphasizing the complexities and intricacies that often characterize Sri Lankan political discussions. He underscored the necessity of moving forward, showing confidence in the growing influence of non-political sectors within society.
In an effort to further shape the national policy landscape, the government will undertake a comprehensive examination of the education system, the transport infrastructure and the irrigation network. These examinations aim to facilitate informed discussions and the formulation of policy papers outlining the fundamental principles of national policy, ultimately contributing to the development of a comprehensive national policy framework.
In conclusion, President Wickremesinghe acknowledged the importance of this policy as a crucial tool to evaluate the government’s actions, especially in the post-economic crisis era. He pledged strong support for the robust implementation of the National Evaluation Policy, emphasizing its significance in shaping Sri Lanka’s future.
Meanwhile, the National Evaluation Policy Implementation Framework Document was presented to President Ranil Wickremesinghe by the Secretary, Ministry of Finance Mr. Mahinda Siriwardhena.
This event was graced by Prime Minister Mr. Dinesh Gunawardhena, State Ministers Mr. Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, Mr. Shehan Semasinghe, Mr. Lasantha Alagiyawanna, Secretaries of the line Ministries, High Commissioners, Ambassadors and other Government Officials.
Nationwide industrialization modelled after Biyagama Free Trade Zone
- President highlights the plan for modern commercial industrialization across Sri Lanka while addressing Al Mubarak Central College Centenary Celebration.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe outlined an ambitious vision for Sri Lanka’s economic future during his address at the centenary celebration of Al Mubarak Central College in Malwana. He emphasized the replication of the Biyagama Free Trade Zone’s success as a blueprint for modern commercial industrialization to be implemented nationwide. This strategy aims to propel the country towards rapid development within the next 15-20 years.
President Wickremesinghe noted the significant progress made in the Biyagama region since the establishment of the trade zone and highlighted the nation’s potential to become a thriving investment hub. He unveiled plans to open up several new investment opportunities on a global scale, paving the way for Sri Lanka to emerge as a prominent investment destination.
The President’s remarks were delivered during the centenary celebration ceremony, where he also revealed that several areas, including Bingiriya, Hambantota, Kandy, Trincomalee, and the Northern Province, have been earmarked for the establishment of industrial estates. These areas are set to undergo rapid development, transforming into vibrant commercial cities.
Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe stressed the commitment of local representatives to attract investment opportunities for the advancement of their respective districts. He cited the example of the Biyagama investment zone, which has evolved into the premier trade zone in South Asia. President Wickremesinghe asserted that replicating the success of industrialization seen in Biyagama and Katunayake across all provinces is crucial for alleviating economic pressures.
President Wickremesinghe also highlighted the government’s dedication to strengthening the country’s economy while simultaneously creating employment opportunities for the nation’s youth.
During his visit to Al Mubarak Central College, President Wickremesinghe was warmly welcomed by students. He inaugurated a new three-story building at the college and issued a commemorative stamp to mark the centenary celebration. This historic visit marked the first time a sitting President had visited Al Mubarak Central College. The President also left a commemorative note in the special guest book and inaugurated the college’s centenary memorial. Additionally, he recognized students who exhibited exceptional skills with awards and certificates.
Minister of State for Education Aravinda Kumar also addressed the ceremony, while State Ministers Prasanna Ranaweera and Kader Mastan, along with Principal of Al Mubarak Central College Malwana Mr. S.H.M. Naim, staff, students past and present and other officials were present to mark this significant occasion.
Head Coach of Saudi Cricket Federation meets Head of Chancery
As the follow up of the recent meeting between HE the Ambassador and HRH Prince Saud Bin Mishal Al-Saud Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, Minister/Head of Chancery, Mr Mohammed Anas hosted Head Coach of the Saudi Cricket Federation, Mr Kabir Khan today at the embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh. Many things were discussed in order to collaborate with the embassy of Sri Lanka in Riyadh in reaching out the talented Sri Lankan youth from the Sri Lankan schools and cricket clubs in the kingdom. Mr Anas on his side also promised to facilitate Mr Khan to bring out the Sri Lankan talent youths to the National Level of Kingdom’s Cricket.