Month: December 2023
Sri Lanka embarks on a paradigm shift: President prioritizes peacekeeping in new Foreign Policy
• The President urges global adaptability amidst shifting geopolitical realities
President Ranil Wickremesinghe declared a monumental shift in Sri Lanka’s foreign policy during a speech at the Final Presentation Night of the Colours Re-Awarding and Commissioning Parade held at the Sri Lanka Military Academy Diyathalawa Friday (15). Departing from the conventional approach of associating peacekeeping solely with the Ministry of Defence, the President revealed that peacekeeping is now an integral element of the nation’s broader security and foreign policy framework.
The President outlined the key components of the new foreign policy, emphasizing a holistic approach that extends beyond traditional political connections. Peacekeeping, climate change, and various other global concerns are now central pillars of Sri Lanka’s international relations strategy.
Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the intricate challenges posed by the transforming global landscape, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to international relations and urged a compelling call for the international community to navigate the complexities of the evolving global order with vigilance and a proactive mind-set.
To bolster regional cooperation, the President has directed the Secretary of Defence and service commanders to facilitate increased opportunities for neighbouring countries, particularly the Maldives and extend support to African nations. Additionally, the State Minister and Chief of Defence Staff are set to visit these countries to communicate Sri Lanka’s commitment.
Acknowledging a comprehensive paper on Sri Lanka’s role in UN peacekeeping, the President commended the proposals presented, pledging to discuss and implement them with relevant authorities. The President also noted the importance of the Ministry of Finance collaborations with the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscoring its indispensable role.
Expressing his aspiration to see Sri Lanka assume a more significant role in peacekeeping, President Wickremesinghe addressed the evolving nature of peacekeeping missions. Drawing from historical context, he reflected on the dynamics of global politics during the Cold War, highlighting the ease of deploying peace forces where major powers like the US and Soviet Union concurred.
The President acknowledged the profound shifts in global dynamics since the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to the dissolution of traditional alliances and the emergence of independent players and non-state actors.
He addressed the challenges faced by the UN Security Council in reaching agreements, citing the complexities of modern geopolitics. He pointed to the increasing role of the African Union in peacekeeping efforts in West Africa as a testament to the evolving international landscape.
The President also noted the on-going conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the failure to reach a resolution and the resulting stalemate between Russia and Western nations. He highlighted the financial repercussions, including the recent decision by the US Congress to withhold further funding. Insights were shared on the impact of economic sanctions on Russia, with the observation that these measures redirected the nation’s economic influence into the Middle East, West Asia and Sri Lanka. This shift manifested in increased Russian tourism and investments.
President Wickremesinghe delved into the complex issue of Taiwan, underscoring the changing alignments and the influential role of China in the Indian Ocean. He pointed out the formation of strategic alliances, including collaboration between the US, India, Japan and Australia.
While expressing concern about the on-going conflict in Gaza, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the asymmetric nature of the war triggered by a non-state actor. He lamented the high human toll and the UN’s limited intervention capabilities. Reflecting on contemporary challenges, the President underscored the growing power of non-state actors and their access to advanced weaponry. He suggested that future UN missions might need to confront global drug operations due to their increasing influence.
The President concluded by emphasizing the imperative for the UN and its missions to adapt to changing geopolitics. Rather than opting out, he urged increased global involvement in addressing complex situations, emphasizing adaptability and foresight.
Recalling Sri Lanka’s historical involvement in peacekeeping, the President cited the establishment of a military academy in Diyathalawa in response to a request from the late General Dennis Perera. Listening to presentations by future officers, he expressed pride in the institutions and decisions made to ensure the quality of Sri Lanka’s armed forces.
President Wickremesinghe underscored the significance of maintaining well-equipped and well-trained armed forces, emphasizing the pivotal role of Sri Lanka’s education system as the foundation for military excellence. The President’s address signals a significant departure from the past, marking Sri Lanka’s commitment to a more comprehensive and globally aware foreign policy.
The ceremony was graced by the esteemed participation of the Secretary, Ministry of Defence Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd), the Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Shavendra Silva, Commander of the Army Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage, Commandant of the Academy Major General M.T.I. Mahalekam, Staff of the Academy, other officials and Cadets.
The IBN Battuta Trail was inaugurated during the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotional Event in Riyadh.
Full speech of Ambassador Amza at the Annual Award Day of the Sri Lanka International School Riyadh
Commencement of Country’s Development-Driven Economic Program Set for January 1
Commencement of Country’s Development-Driven Economic Program Set for January 1
- Proceeding with the new economic reforms is the only viable choice
- The challenging ordeals of the recent years won’t be passed down to the next generation
– President
President, Ranil Wickremesinghe, addressing the centenary celebration of the Government Valuation Department held at Solis Hotel in Pitakotte, declared the initiation of a ground-breaking economic program today (06). Set to kick off on January 1, this transformative initiative is designed to modernize various sectors and propel the nation towards progress.
The President underscored the imperative nature of adopting new economic reforms, emphasizing that the nation cannot afford to persist with out-dated systems. He highlighted that the hardships endured over the past years should not be passed down to the next generation, asserting that the only viable course of action is to embrace the proposed economic changes, urging collective participation.
Reflecting on the recent economic challenges, President Wickremesinghe acknowledged the concerted efforts that rescued the country from financial distress over the past 18 months and commended the heads of public institutions and the workforce for their dedication. He cautioned against complacency, warning that without prudent management of the current economic stability, the nation might face another crisis within the next decade. The President advocated for a shift towards a digital economy, citing the necessity of employing modern economic methodologies.
President Wickremesinghe additionally emphasized that global financial entities have acknowledged Sri Lanka’s remarkable and swift recovery from economic challenges, particularly in comparison to countries facing bankruptcy amid the global economic recession.
Expressing gratitude to the employees of the Government Valuation Department for their dedicated service, the President presented awards and issued a commemorative stamp worth Rs. 25 and a first day cover to mark the centenary celebration. He unveiled the song and flag of the department and introduced the “e Valuation” system to digitize its operations.
President Wickremesinghe, in his additional remarks, highlighted the historical evolution of the Valuation Department, tracing its origins back to the Portuguese period and noting significant developments during the British era, including the establishment of the Assessor position in 1923.
Underlining the continued evolution, the President pointed out that the role of the Valuation Department experienced further expansion with the introduction of the land policy in 1972, ushering in a new era.
The President stressed the critical importance of digitization in this context, emphasizing the necessity for a skilled workforce in assessment within the framework of the digital economy. To achieve this, he proposed an increase in university enrolment to nurture future Valuers.
Looking ahead, President Wickremesinghe advocated for a regular property valuation cycle, suggesting that assessments should be conducted every five years. He underscored the vital contribution of the assessment process to the tax collection system, expressing high regard for the initiation of digitalization within the Valuation Department starting from the current year.
Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, during which the nation confronted a significant economic crisis, it is essential to acknowledge the substantial sacrifices made by both government officials and the broader population in steering the country towards recovery. Gratitude is due to all those who played a part in this collective effort, he said.
In the upcoming weeks, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is poised to issue a statement signalling the country’s exit from bankruptcy. However, President Ranil Wickremesinghe underscored that, for sustained economic stability, a departure from out-dated economic methods is imperative. He cautioned against the implementation of conventional economic strategies, emphasizing that without adopting innovative approaches, the risk of a recurrent economic crisis looms over the nation within the next decade.
Key measures have already been implemented to reinforce fiscal prudence. The Central Bank has ceased the practice of printing money and loans from state banks earmarked for development, have been halted. President Wickremesinghe emphasized that adherence to these conditions is indispensable for fostering economic growth. The President emphasized the crucial need for financial discipline, asserting that effective management of the economy in alignment with disciplined financial practices will pave the way for providing greater relief to the citizens in the future.
The prevailing economic crisis in the country, stemming from the disparity between imports and exports coupled with a budget deficit, necessitates strategic interventions. To address these challenges, comprehensive plans have been formulated to augment export earnings, curtail government expenditure and enhance government income.
Recognizing the potential of the tourism industry to generate substantial foreign exchange, a targeted initiative has been set in motion with the aim of attracting 2.5 million tourists to Sri Lanka next year. The government is optimistic that by further doubling this figure to 5 million, a rapid alleviation of the country’s economic woes can be achieved.
As part of this year’s budget proposal, a significant allocation of 300,000 acres has been earmarked for cultivation, representing a key component of the economic revitalization strategy.
The Valuation Department is poised to play a pivotal role in realizing this agricultural objective. Acknowledging the importance of efficiency in this process, the digitization of the Valuation Department has been prioritized, foreseeing enhanced effectiveness in its operations.
In addressing the pressing needs of the energy sector, a paradigm shift towards renewable energy is imperative. The emphasis should be placed on harnessing wind and solar power resources, with the potential to generate 35GW and 200GW, respectively. Given that the national consumption requirement is less than 50GW, this surplus capacity positions the energy sector as a potential foreign exchange earner.
In addition to prioritizing renewable energy, due attention must be accorded to the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the energy sector and broader digital economy. The strategic deployment of AI has the potential to rapidly bolster the nation’s economic prowess.
The event was attended by, State Minister for Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya, State Minister for Mass Media Shanta Bandara, Chief Government Valuer Pushpa Muthukumarana, Post Master General Ruwan Satkumara and employees of the Government Valuation Department.