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Non-executive government employees, who reported for duty on July 8 and 9, 2024, will be granted a special salary increment as a token of appreciation for their dedication during a challenging economic period. This increment was approved by the Cabinet following President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s proposal.

Accordingly, the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government has been directed to inform all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries and to issue the relevant circulars.

Certain trade unions in non-executive services had planned actions such as sick leave and strikes on the mentioned dates. Despite previous economic instability, the government managed to stabilize the situation through extensive economic reforms implemented over the last two years, including the provision of a monthly allowance of Rs. 10,000 to all public servants.

The Treasury Secretary highlighted the existing financial constraints, stating that further salary or allowance increases would not be feasible without imposing additional tax burdens on the public. The government remains committed to avoiding decisions that could worsen the financial strain on citizens already facing economic challenges.

Nonetheless, the government acknowledges its responsibility to recognize and assess non-executive officials who fulfilled their duties without resorting to disruptive measures during this critical period.

Accordingly, instructions will be issued in a circular to all Ministry Secretaries, Department Heads, and Provincial Chief Secretaries in the presence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, Home Affairs, Provincial Councils, and Local Government.

Over 200 trade unions in the public sector, including Grama Niladhari officers and surveyors will resort to trade union action by reporting ‘sick’ on Monday (8) and Tuesday (9), according to the Trade Unions Collective.

However, the teachers and the principals will be reporting sick only on Tuesday (09 July).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the profound connection between Buddhism and the modern scientific and technological world, highlighting that the teachings of Buddha offer insights to win future global challenges.

The President said that he is discussing the establishment of a new institution in the country where Buddhist philosophy including the Thripitaka can be studied, the history, civilization and the spread of Buddhism in the world and where knowledge of Pali, culture and other languages can be developed. He also expressed that its objective is to revive the legacy of the Anuradhapura Maha Vihara.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during his participation in the Amarapura Day celebration of The Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Nikaya, held at the Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Auditorium today (08).

The Amarapura Maha Nikaya was founded in 1802 through the dedicated efforts of Venerable Welitara Mahakarave Gnanavimalatissa Thero. Amarapura Maha Nikaya has been led by eminent figures such as Most Venerable Madihe Pannaseeha Thero, Most Venerable Agga Maha Panditha Balangoda Ananda Maithri Maha Nayaka Thero, Most Venerable Dawuldena Gnanissara Maha Nayaka Thero, Most Venerable Kotugoda Dhammawasa Thero and Most Venerable Dodampahala Chandasiri Mahanayaka Thero.

The Amarapura Day commemorated the 222-year legacy of the founders who dedicated themselves to the Sambuddha Sasana. The event was organized by the Sabaragamuwa Amarapura Samagri Sangha Sabha.

Acting Chairman of Amarapura Maha Nikaya Most Venerable Mahodhyapadha Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero presided over the ceremony. All 22 Mahanayaka Theros representing the Amarapura Maha Nikaya were in attendance, and the president paid homage to their esteemed presence.

In recognition of President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s efforts for the improvement of the country and the support of all factions within the Amarapura Nikaya, a commemorative gift was presented to him.

Furthermore, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Governor Navin Dissanayake was bestowed with the honorary title of ‘Janahithakami Sasanabandhu’ by Most Venerable Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero, the Chairman of Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Sangha Sabha.

Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

Since its inception, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya has maintained a tradition of honouring its founding leaders.

Amarapura Nikaya holds a significant place in the history of modern Sri Lanka, originating under the leadership of Venerable Welitara Mahakarave Gnanavimalatissa Thero. In the 20th century, amidst a Buddhist revival and the Sinhala movement’s strength, the Amarapura Maha Nikaya played a pivotal role in shaping Sri Lanka’s social fabric, contributing to religious, political, and societal discourse. The contributions of the Amarapura Maha Nikaya are therefore regarded as profoundly momentous, shaping the historical narrative of the nation.

In today’s world, dominated by scientific and technological advancements, we are witnessing unprecedented changes.

With a significant global focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), it is imperative for us to also concentrate on this field. Over the next 5-10 years, we need to explore the intersection between AI technology and the human mind. To initiate this exploration, I have directed the Ministry of Technology to launch a government-funded research program on the relationship between Buddhism and AI technology. We aim to engage the Maha Sangha and the general public in discussions to advance this initiative.

Today, as a society, we must progress without hesitation. The Anuradhapura era stands out as a pinnacle in our history. It was during this era that major temples like Mahavihara, Jethavanarama, and Abhayagiriya were established. These temples served as centres of learning where Lay clergy received their education from piriven. This educational system empowered our people with the knowledge to undertake monumental undertakings such as Mahasaya, Jethavanarama, and Abhayagiriya. Additionally, our impressive irrigation culture, admired even by today’s engineers and grand creations like Sigiriya owe their existence to the piriven education system.

As a country, our advancement hinges on integrating modern knowledge and these achievements. Currently, global attention is sharply focused on environmental issues and climate change. The teachings of Buddha offer essential wisdom for addressing these challenges, emphasizing environmental stewardship from the childhood.

Today, the innovative ideas circulating globally find resonance in Buddha’s teachings. We stand at a crossroads where science and dharma intersect. As a government, our priority lies in exploring the correlation between Buddha’s teachings, as documented in the Thripitaka, and contemporary scientific insights. This endeavour demands collective effort; it cannot be achieved by the government alone. It requires the participation of all citizens to propel this initiative forward.

We are currently in discussions with Durham University in the United Kingdom to undertake excavation work at the great temple. Professor Cunningham, known for his excavation work at Mahamaya Devi Temple in Lumbini, has been involved in these discussions. Our aim is to conduct thorough excavation at the great temple, a project that may span 20-25 years, ensuring our history is preserved for future generations.

Additionally, the Director-General of UNESCO is scheduled to visit Sri Lanka next week. During her visit, I plan to request UNESCO’s assistance regarding mining activities across the entire city of Anuradhapura. According to one of our Professors, this undertaking could require up to 50 years to complete. It is worth noting that Egypt, having been excavated for over a century, still has on-going excavation projects.

We also intend to establish a new institution dedicated to continuing the legacy of Anuradhapura Maha Vihara. This institution will offer opportunities to study Buddhist philosophy, including the Thripitaka, with a focus not limited to Theravada Buddhism. It will encompass the exploration of diverse dharmic traditions, including Mahayana Buddhism, and research into ancient sects such as Āḷāra, Kālāma, Uddaka Rāmaputta, prevalent during the Buddha’s time.

Emphasis will be placed on studying philosophy, history, civilization, and the global spread of Buddhism.

Furthermore, the institution will prioritize the study of languages relevant to Buddhist philosophy, including Pali, cultural languages, and Chinese. It will also foster understanding of contemporary world religions. Discussions are currently underway for the establishment of this institution within the coming year. Recognizing the profound connection between Buddhism and the modern technological world, we aim to progress by embracing and understanding this intersection.

Acting Chairman of Amarapura Maha Nikaya Most Venerable Mahodhyapadha Karagoda Uyangoda Maithri Murthy Maha Nayaka Thero;

During this occasion, we extend our respects to the former secretary of the Sri Lanka Amarapura Maha Sangha, the Most Venerable Welitara Gnanawimalatissa Na Thero, and other key leaders.

The religious contributions made by the Amarapura Sangha Sabha to our country have been immense and deserve recognition. We express our gratitude to the Trinikayika Mahanayaka Theros and other venerable theros who have graced this event.

It is crucial to address issues among laypeople, including those who undermine the integrity of the noble dharma. Legal measures should be considered to address these concerns. Initiatives must be launched to make temples central to village life and to enhance Dhamma school education.

Maha Sangha led by Galpoththawela Sri Pada Raja Maha Vihara Chief Incumbent, Sri Padasthanadhipathi Venerable Bengamuwe Sri Dhammadinna Nayaka Thero, Sabaragamuwa Amarapura Samagri District Maha Sangha Sabha Registrar Venerable Delwala Muditha Nayaka Thero, Rajakeeya Panditha, Dharshanapathi Balapitiye Siri Seewali Nayaka Thero, Venerable Diviyagala Vijithaseeha Thero, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, Former Speaker of the Parliament Karu Jayasuriya, Sabaragamuwa Provincial Council Chief Secretary Mahinda Sanath Weerasooriya, Ratnapura District Secretary Wasantha Gunarathne were also present at the event.

President’s Fund scholarship program for students from low-income families, spanning from grade 1 to grade 11 and G.C.E. (A/L), will be implemented at the district level starting from July 12, 2024. District secretaries, in collaboration with all zonal education offices and school principals, will oversee the scholarship distribution process.

Details regarding the dates, times and venues for scholarship awards in each district, as well as the list of selected scholarship recipients, will be announced. This information will be published on the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund in the coming days.

The list of students selected for the scholarships for G.C.E. (A/L) scholarship scheme in each district has already been published on the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund at the regional level. These scholarships will be awarded to 6,000 students, with 60 students selected from each educational zone. Each recipient will receive Rs. 6,000 per month for a duration of 24 months.

At the scholarship award ceremony, selected students will receive a grant of Rs. 30,000 along with any outstanding instalments. Starting from next month, Rs. 6,000 will be provided to students monthly until they appear for their G.C.E. (A/L) examinations.

Additionally, the scholarship program will be implemented covering all 10,126 schools across the island, from grade 1 to grade 11, for a duration of 12 months. Each selected student will receive Rs. 3,000 per month, totalling Rs. 36,000 over the year. The arrears for the selected students will amount to Rs. 12,000, which will also be provided at the scholarship award ceremony. Starting from the following month, the scholarship will continue to be paid Rs. 3,000 per month.

Accordingly, the President’s Fund invites the public to follow/like its official Facebook page to stay updated on the scholarship programs being awarded at the district level. This will ensure the public receive timely information about these important initiatives.

State Minister for Technology, Kanaka Herath, stated that by launching unjust strikes on the eve of an election, children have been deprived of their opportunity to receive education.

The State Minister further asserted that the opposition should clarify whether these strikes and protests are intended to disrupt the comfortable living conditions currently enjoyed by the people.

The State Minister of Technology, Kanaka Herath, mentioned this during the news conference held today (08) at the Presidential Media Centre (08) under the theme ‘Collective path to a Stable Country’.

The State Minister further commented,

“Since 2022, our ministry has initiated numerous policies and reforms. Several bills have been introduced in parliament, and additional bills are anticipated to be presented soon.

Additionally, we have launched the 2020-2030 Digital Economy Plan in collaboration with the World Bank. Our goal is to expand the current USD 03 billion digital economy to USD 30 billion by 2030.

Amendments to the Telecommunications Act are anticipated to be introduced in Parliament tomorrow (09), marking the first revision in 28 years. These amendments aim to enhance customer protection and foster fair competition among telephone companies. Previously, the act was restricted to telecommunications system licenses only. With the proposed amendments, the licensing process itself will undergo changes.

Additionally, there are plans to utilize satellite technology for internet provision in the future. Efforts are underway to regulate and license undersea cable services. The Technology Promotion Act is slated for presentation this year.

Moreover, there are expectations to establish the Technology and Innovation Commission. This commission aims to allocate resources for national development and innovation, facilitate the commercialization of research, and provide advisory services.

According to current trade union activities, a request has been made for a LKR 20,000 allowance for all government employees. This would necessitate an additional annual expenditure of LKR 280 billion. The opposition is urged to clarify how these expenses can be managed given the current economic situation.

Furthermore, unjust strikes launched on the eve of an election have deprived children of their educational opportunities. Those participating in these strikes must understand that their actions impact the welfare of ordinary citizens.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recommended providing LKR 11 billion this year for low-income earners. The opposition parties should clarify whether their protests aim to disrupt the public’s access to a comfortable standard of living.

Former Sri Lankan captain Sanath Jayasuriya has been named as the interim Head Coach of the Sri Lanka men's national Cricket team.

While Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) continues their search for Chris Silverwood's replacement, Sanath Jayasuriya will take over the job in the interim for the home series against India and the Test tour to England.

Jayasuriya also joined the team at this year's T20 World Cup as a Consultant.

Secretary to the Treasury Mr. Mahinda Siriwardana stated that granting the salary increase demanded by striking public servants would necessitate raising the current VAT from 18% to between 20% and 21%. He emphasized that the government cannot impose such a burden on the public. Mr. Siriwardana made these remarks during a discussion held today (08) at the Presidential Secretariat, chaired by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, concerning the demands of public service trade unions.

The discussion addressed the trade union actions taken by several trade unions in the public service and explored potential positive solutions to their demands. It was noted that while a salary increase is not feasible this year, there is a plan to revise public service salaries in the 2025 budget, based on recommendations from an expert committee investigating salary disparities.

The Treasury Secretary highlighted that a salary increase of Rs. 10,000 for government employees would require an additional Rs. 140 billion annually, and an increase of Rs. 20,000 would necessitate an additional Rs. 280 billion.

To generate the required income, even with optimal management of current revenues, additional tax increases will be necessary, the Treasury Secretary pointed out. Specifically, he noted that to raise salaries by Rs. 10,000, the VAT would need to be increased by 2%. Furthermore, to meet the wage demands of the trade unions, the VAT would need to be raised by more than 3%. He emphasized that this is not feasible at this time, as the VAT is already at a maximum rate of 18%.

The Treasury Secretary also explained that, due to the government’s efforts to stabilize the country’s economy, the Central Bank can no longer print money as it did before. Doing so would jeopardize the program with the International Monetary Fund.

Senior Advisor to the President on Economic Affairs, Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, remarked that while increasing public servants’ salaries again this year is challenging, the President has committed to allocating funds for this in next year’s budget. He also mentioned that a separate expert committee has been appointed to study and report on salary discrepancies.

The discussion included President’s Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake and a group of senior government officials.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized the necessity of an advanced education system combined with modern technology to move the country forward with a new economy. He noted that educational reforms are currently underway to achieve this goal.

President Rani Wickremesinghe made these remarks today (06) during a ceremony at Hall De Galle in Galle. The event marked a significant step towards educational modernization, with the provision of 200 Smart Classrooms and 2000 Tabs to 200 schools in the Southern Province.

Following a request by the Minister of Health and Industry, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, the Government of India allocated RS. 300 million to the Southern Provincial Council for this project.

Of the 200 schools selected schools, 150 are in the Galle district, while the remaining 50 schools are in the Hambantota and Matara districts.

Additionally, 2000 Tabs were distributed, with each of the 200 classrooms receiving 10 tabs.

Symbolizing this occasion President Ranil Wickremesinghe presented a commemorative gift to the Indian High Commissioner, Mr. Santosh Jha.

In his further remarks, President Wickremesinghe stated:

“Currently, the world is advancing rapidly with modern technology. Consequently, our country’s education system must also progress in tandem with these technological advancements. The Ministry of Education has already initiated necessary educational reforms to achieve this goal.

In the past, we introduced several educational policies that were appropriate for their time. However, given the current technological advancements of today, there is a pressing need for new reforms in the education sector to ensure our education system remains relevant and effective.

Thus far, we have launched the establishment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) clubs in schools. Countries such as England and America began integrating AI technology years ago. To ensure the sustainability of our newly launched AI program this year, it is essential for teachers to undergo comprehensive training. The government is actively developing training programs and infrastructure to bolster this initiative. There is also a plan to elevate existing Central Colleges and National Schools into specialized institutions focusing on artificial intelligence.

We deeply appreciate the support extended by neighbouring India in advancing modern technology. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed interest in establishing an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) campus in Sri Lanka, which is highly appreciated.

Additionally, negotiations to enhance cooperation in the energy sector with India are progressing successfully. I had discussions with Mr. Elon Musk in Malaysia, and his internet technology is anticipated to be introduced in Sri Lanka following Parliamentary approval.

This development will facilitate the provision of technical education to students in remote areas. Presently, the Southern Province has emerged as a region showcasing exceptional educational talent. Today, the first Dutch school in the Southern Province has evolved into Baddegama National School.

By leveraging modern technology to nurture future-ready generations, we aim to position our country as a global leader.

Minister of Education Dr. Susil Premajayantha:

“The Free Education Act has brought about a transformative change in Sri Lanka, significantly increasing the literacy rate from 46% to 93%. In today’s technological age, the integration of Artificial Intelligence and modern classrooms is crucial. We appreciate India’s assistance in this endeavour.

Today, 200 schools in the Southern Province have been equipped with comfortable classrooms and 2000 Tabs. Moving forward, the schools will undergo digitization, with selected 1250 schools already being connected. Over the next three years, we aim to digitize 10,026 schools and provide necessary teacher training. Graduates with technical expertise from our universities enjoy a 93% employment opportunities in the job market. We must seize the opportunity to lead globally through modern technology”.

Minister of Health and Industry Dr. Ramesh Pathirana:

We deeply appreciate the Government of India for their support in this endeavour. We are currently experiencing one of the greatest periods of this century. The Free Education Act introduced by a former Minister of Education Mr. C. W. W. Kannangara, a native of Galle, significantly increased school enrolment from 52% to 99%.

The numbers of schools expanded from 3000 to 10,000, and instead of a single government university, 13 universities were established. Annual university admissions surged from 250 to 45,000 students. This transformation has propelled Sri Lanka from lagging behind in the global industrial revolutions to progressing alongside the world.

In the next century, leveraging Artificial Intelligence, computer knowledge and modern technology presents an opportunity to advance in parallel with the global community. A Smart educational framework must be established to achieve this goal. President Ranil Wickremesinghe is currently spearheading educational reforms with a visionary approach.

Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Mr. Santosh Jha:

As India’s neighbour, we consistently extends support to Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka holds a crucial position in our foreign policy. India remains steadfast in its commitment to providing essential infrastructure and technical knowledge support to Sri Lanka.

The event was attended by Deputy Speaker Ajith Rajapaksa, State Minister Mohan Priyadarshana, Member of Parliament Sampath Athukorala, along with a delegation of education officials, principals, and students from the Southern Province.

Local businessman Surendra Wasantha Perera also known as Club Wasantha was killed in a shooting that took place in Athurugiriya on Monday (8) morning.

Five other individuals, among them the popular local singer K. Sujeewa, sustained injuries in the shooting in the Athurugiriya town.

According to the Police Spokesperson's Office, all of them were hospitalized.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe recently emphasized that as the country builds a new economy, it is crucial to establish a new political system. This system must foster individuals who can take responsibility and speak the truth fearlessly.

He made these remarks during the bankers’ forum organized by the National Bankers Association at Galle Face Hotel, Colombo, yesterday (05).

The President stated that he has openly communicated the economic challenges facing the country to the people and has outlined a clear program to lead the nation out of the crisis.

The President emphasized that there is no alternative program for the country and that it is everyone’s responsibility to identify and support the necessary program for the country’s economy, rather than living in dream worlds.

He pointed out that while some have cited Argentina’s Martin Guzman as an example, he considers Guzman a failure.

Additionally, although some have suggested that he ask for money from world leaders, the President stressed that the Sinhalese nation is not a beggar nation but one that rises through self-reliance.

The President stated that his goal is to steer the country towards rapid development through an export-based economy. He mentioned that the necessary legal framework for creating an export economy has been presented to Parliament and highlighted the banking system’s significant responsibility in advancing this program.

The National Bankers Association also presented a special commemorative gift to the President at the occasion.

Subsequently, a discussion was held featuring President Ranil Wickremesinghe, former Minister of Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake, and Senior Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga.

The President further elaborated;

“Today, we have made significant economic progress. I need not remind you of what happened from the Jetwing Hotel to the Galle Face Hotel in those days. During that journey, my house was also burned down. Despite these challenges, we have moved forward, but there is still a long way to go. I made it clear back then that if we do not protect our banking system, we cannot safeguard our economy. A collapse in the banking system would lead to an economic collapse.

At that time, I had to take charge of the country. Together, we initiated efforts to uplift the country’s economy, and today, we are seeing the results. Progress does not happen overnight.

Efforts have been made to reduce the loan repayment by USD 8 billion over a period of four years. The economy is once again developing. Now, we have reached a crucial turning point as a country. With the USD 8 billion in debt relief, we are now free to pursue a new economy. We have submitted the necessary legal framework to Parliament to create an export-oriented economy.

We need to progress from this point forward, and the banking system plays a crucial role here. How do we secure funding? Foreign investment is essential for the banks to thrive. We have not yet achieved this objective.

While we have repaired the fractured economic system and made strides, the broken political system remains unresolved.

Former leaders fled in fear during that time. What does this say about political leadership in our country? Can such leaders propel the nation forward without solutions? They fled in fear that day because they lacked answers.

Following the former president’s resignation, the country’s peace and stability began to deteriorate. Some urged me to resign as Prime Minister. Can a country progress under such a political system?

When we introduced the Economic Transformation Bill, Mr.Sunil Handunnetti filed a case advocating for an import-based economy. Today, our economic challenges stem from operating within an import-oriented economy.

Regarding Argentina’s Martin Guzman, some consider him a failure, while others suggest traveling the world to seek financial aid from leaders. I’ve stated firmly that neither I nor the Sinhalese nation is beggars. Despite this, some still advocate for change. Does this imply advocating for an import-based economy?

Once, I questioned former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa about his decision to lower taxes against the advice of the International Monetary Fund during an economic crisis. He explained that businessmen had urged for tax reductions, which is true. I am aware of this. People also questioned why I hadn’t reduced taxes. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa acted, but today, few support his decision. Today Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa has isolated.

We must choose wisely and advance with the program that our country truly needs, avoiding the lure of unrealistic ideals.

It’s crucial to grasp the truth and take decisive action. The decisions we make today will shape our future. As we rebuild the nation’s economy, we must also reform our political system. This entails cultivating individuals who can shoulder responsibility and progress, and who bravely speak the truth without fear. Without this foundation, our country lacks a viable future.

Honesty has always been our policy. In politics, there should be no fear of speaking the truth, irrespective of one’s stance towards the government. I united people from various political factions to lead this government forward. While party discipline was lacking, governmental discipline prevailed. Despite challenges, we garnered support, including from young MPs of Podujana Peramuna, who joined us without regard for their political futures. Our political system has yet to match the economic groundwork we’ve laid today. This must be our focus moving forward.

Senior Adviser to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka;

When Mr. Asela Fernando convened the association meeting on April 22, 2022, our country was amidst a severe crisis, nearing its peak. At that time, Mr. Ranil Wickramasinghe was a Member of Parliament, the sole representative of our party. Everyone urged him to attend and address the bankers gathered there. I vividly recall the questions posed to him on that day and the guidance he imparted.

During the meeting, he stressed the importance of engaging directly with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He had already raised this issue in Parliament and with government leaders. Upon assuming the presidency shortly afterward, he swiftly began addressing each of these challenges step by step, implementing the advice he had advocated.

Initially, we prioritized law and order, implementing numerous reforms to shape the current state of our country. This included efforts to manage tax policies and public expenditures effectively. Sri Lanka achieved a significant milestone as the first country in the region to receive a Governance Assessment Report from the International Monetary Fund. Based on this report, we initiated measures to address 15 key issues, including combating fraud and corruption.

As a result, we have attained a degree of stability today. Our on-going debt restructuring program is progressing successfully. We seek the support of the banking sector to bolster the country’s economy. With your collaboration, we can accelerate the country’s development significantly.

The event was attended by Advisor to the President on Parliamentary Affairs Ashu Marasinghe, Director-General of Presidential Trade Unions Saman Rathnapriya, Colombo Port City Economic Commission’s Chief Operating Officer, Revan Wickramasuriya, Chairmen of both public and private banks, Secretary of the National Bankers’ Association Asela Fernando, bank officers, executives, and various individuals from the banking sector.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe paid tribute to the late Mr. R. Sampanthan, acknowledging him as a leader who championed the rights not only of the Tamil people but also of all Sri Lankans. He emphasized that both Mr. Sampanthan and himself were committed to the cause of an undivided Sri Lanka. The President urged everyone to unite in successfully concluding the discussions initiated with Mr. Sampanthan.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks while attending Mr. R. Sampanthan’s funeral at his residence in Trincomalee this afternoon (07). The funeral ceremony, honouring the former Leader of the Opposition and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), as well as the late Trincomalee District Member of Parliament, was attended by numerous political leaders, both from the Government and the opposition.

Expressing his sorrow over the death of Mr. R. Sampanthan, President Ranil Wickremesinghe mentioned that his passing is the loss of a long-time friend. The President affirmed his commitment to addressing the issues faced by the Tamil people, which Mr. Sampanthan consistently advocated for. He announced that the draft of the National Land Commission Bill is ready to be submitted to Parliament. This commission will have the authority to resolve issues faced by the Sinhalese, Tamil, and Muslim communities in coordination with the Department of Forest.

The President appreciated Mr. Sampanthan’s role as Leader of the Opposition, highlighting that an opposition leader is essentially an alternative prime minister. He praised Mr. Sampanthan for displaying the qualities of a true opposition leader by addressing the concerns of all Sri Lankans, not just the Tamil community.

Additionally, the President commented on the upcoming elections, stating that regardless of any court challenges, the presidential election will be held this year. He also indicated that arrangements will be made to hold parliamentary and provincial council elections following the presidential election.

Addressing the funeral gathering the President further mentioned:

“I have lost a long-time friend with the demise of Mr. R. Sampanthan. I met him 50 years ago when he was a lawyer and I was a new lawyer. In 1977, Mr. Sampanthan and I came to Parliament as new MPs. In that parliamentary election, I supported Mr. Navaratnam Raja, the working committee member of our party from Trincomalee. But Mr. Sampanthan won the seat.

The Parliament was divided into two parties, especially according to the proposal that a separate state should be formed. Mr. Sampanthan had a special relationship with the members of the Government. He always said that this country cannot be divided and we should advocate for a federal system or for granting more powers than the district council system that we created.

There was a problem between us. When I was taken over a piece of land in Trincomalee to the Youth Service Council, there were debates between us in Parliament. His efforts to control this and our efforts were not successful. He left Sri Lanka in 1983. After he returned to Parliament, we reconnected. After the end of terrorism in 2009, I had the opportunity to work with him again on the problems of the Tamil people.

He never demanded a separate state. He always said that everyone should be together. He emphasized that the Tamil people are suffering and their problems should be solved immediately.

We have worked together in elections and supported common candidates. We all worked together especially for President Maithripala Sirisena’s victory. Before that, he worked for Mr. Sarath Fonseka’s election. I always talked to him about past events and politics. He was the only living person as a MP who saw the opportunity of the country gaining independence in 1948. We often discussed politics and our shared experiences.

After that, he worked as the leader of the opposition. He showed his character well in his tenure. He not only talked about the problems of the Tamil people and worked on them, but he also presented the problems of all Sri Lankans as the leader of the opposition. At that time, he acted as a true opposition leader, who becomes an alternative prime minister.

He demonstrated great leadership as the leader of the opposition when I lost the prime ministership during the political crisis in 2018. For various reasons, our negotiations did not succeed, especially after the Easter Sunday bombings, when we lacked the background to present political solutions.

After I assumed the presidency, I discussed these issues with him and with Tamil parties and MPs. Some very important ideas were gathered during these discussions.

Both of us agreed to find solutions to these issues in an undivided Sri Lanka. While these negotiations were on-going, I had to prioritize leading the country out of bankruptcy. As a result, our negotiations had to be postponed for the last few months.

I looked into whether these discussions could be resumed this parliamentary week. But before that opportunity came, Mr. Sampanthan left us. Nevertheless, we must continue these discussions and conclude them. The draft of the National Land Commission Bill is now prepared to be submitted to Parliament. There are issues among Sinhala, Tamil and Muslim communities with the Forest Department regarding the acquisition of their villages. I hope to empower this commission to resolve those issues by law.

It is declared necessary to hold provincial council elections. However, we have discussed and decided to hold the presidential election first. Regardless of any legal challenges, the presidential election will be held this year. Following that, parliamentary elections will be conducted, and then provincial council elections will be held.

Due to the complexities in the new system, requests were made to hold the provincial council elections according to the old system. There was an agreement among us for that. It was decided to ensure women and youth representation and to allow parliamentarians to compete for these elections while retaining their membership.

By implementing the 13th amendment, we are negotiating with the Chief Ministers who are now represent the Parliament to transfer a number of other powers from the central government, excluding police powers. Other powers can be discussed later.

As a new proposal, the government has suggested decentralizing maximum power within the framework of the 13th amendment in the distribution of power. Additionally, the report of the Nawaz Commission needs to be discussed. The Foreign Minister has informed me that the drafted bill of the Truth, Unity and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) is prepared to be submitted to Parliament. Moreover, we have discussed and reached an agreement on the Jana Sabha system. We intend to take these discussions forward and bring them to a conclusion.

Mr. Sampanthan was a leader who worked tirelessly for the rights of the Tamil people and advocated for the rights of all Sri Lankans. Both of us were dedicated to an undivided Sri Lanka. We initiated these discussions with mutual agreement and request everyone’s support to complete this important work.”

Governor of the Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman, Members of Parliament Lakshman Kiriella, Rauf Hakeem, Rishad Bathiudeen, M.A. Sumanthiran, Mano Ganesan, Shanakiyan Rasamanickam, Dharmalingam Siddharthan, Mavai Senathirajah, former Member of Parliament Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, and other political party leaders and representatives, along with the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai, several Indian leaders, and a large number of local people attended the funeral.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe informed the Maha Nayaka of the Ramagna Maha Nikaya Most Ven. Makulewe Wimala Thera that he had informed the Election Commissioner of the need to hold the Presidential election on the scheduled date.

The President visited the Sri Lanka Ramagna Maha Nikaya headquarters this afternoon (05) in Alvitigala Mawatha, Narahenpita. There, he had a brief discussion with the Chief Prelate of the Ramagna Maha Nikaya, Most Ven. Makulewe Wimala Nayaka Thera.

During the visit, Most Venerable Makulewe Wimala Thera chanted Seth Pirith, bestowed his blessings upon President Ranil Wickremesinghe and presented him with a commemorative gift.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, speaking on the occasion, further elaborated,

“We have successfully concluded discussions with private creditors and commercial lenders regarding the debt restructuring process. I am pleased to announce that we have achieved a reduction of USD 8 billion in our debt burden.

“Additionally, we have secured a grace period of 4 years for loan repayment, extending the repayment timeline until 2043. We intend to leverage this opportunity to bolster Sri Lanka’s export economy. With strategic planning and actions over the next two years, we can position the country to avoid the need for further loans.

Thailand, a Buddhist country, has developed a robust economy today through its open economy policy. In 1950, Thailand was twice as indebted as Sri Lanka. However, it has since built a thriving economy driven by exports. In 1991, the Vietnamese Minister of Industry sought advice from me on attracting industries and investments to Sri Lanka. Today, the roles are reversed, and I find myself seeking similar advice from Vietnam.

I have officially notified the Election Commissioner that the election should proceed as scheduled. Back in 2015, I proposed reducing the President’s term from 6 years to 5 years. Today, our nation faces economic challenges, prompting the government to initiate relief programs such as Aswesuma aimed at easing the burden on our citizens.

The Maha Sangha led by Ven. Walegoda Gunasiri Thera, Anunayaka thera of Sri Lanka Ramagna Maha Nikaya, Venerable Attangane Sasanarathana thera, Venerable Wetara Mahinda Thera, Venerable Makulewe Dhammarathana Thera, Ven. Akarelle Gunawansa Thera, Secretary of the Security Council of Sri Lanka Ramagna Maha Nikaya State Minister Lasantha Alagiyawanna, former Minister Daya Gamage, Dhammika Samarawickrama of the Security Council of the Sect were present on this occasion.