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President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that the Jaffna Hospital would be upgraded as a national hospital in the near future to enhance and ensure excellent healthcare standards in the Northern Province.

He further noted that the Cabinet has given its approval for the Karapitiya Hospital to be upgraded as a national hospital.

These remarks were made during President Wickremesinghe’s attendance at the inauguration of the Clinical Training and Research Block at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Jaffna, today (24).

Chairman of the University Grants Commission, Prof. Sampath Amaratunga, emphasized the need for modernizing technology across all science-based faculties in the country, including engineering, medical, science, and agriculture faculties. He highlighted that the current out dated technology hinders progress and adaptation to the modern world.

Furthermore, he noted that Sri Lankan children studying abroad excel not because of the technology they use but because of their knowledge. He emphasized that the integration of new technology could significantly propel the country forward.

In response, the President instructed the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Education to collaborate on drafting a proposal for modernizing technology in these faculties and present it for his consideration.

Furthermore, the President highlighted significant developments in the region, notably the construction of the Clinical Training and Research Department building at the Jaffna University—the first such structure to be built in 46 years. With an investment of LKR 942 million, this facility will accommodate 1200 students for undergraduate and postgraduate clinical training, fostering international research collaborations.

The building, spanning 6000 square meters, comprises multiple lecture halls, clinical skills laboratories and an auditorium. Additionally, it features essential medical facilities such as operating theatres, recovery rooms, cleaning and disposal areas, sterilization units, preparation rooms and storage facilities.

Furthermore, the building houses patient waiting rooms, consultation rooms, and specialized units dedicated to endoscopy, vascular surgery, and mammography. It also accommodates research laboratories, a forensic investigation unit, and a museum for educational purposes.

Under the management of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, supported by the Department of Surgery, and other consultants from the teaching Hospital Jaffna, the Fertility Care Unit is set to offer a wide range of services, encompassing specialist consultations, diagnostic procedures, and treatment facilities.

Meanwhile, the Clinical Trials Unit (CTU) will facilitate clinical research on locally adapted patient-oriented, and cost-effective treatment methods. Additionally, the Clinical Genetics Unit (CGU) will aid in genetic cost-effectiveness, disease management, and preventive measures.

Following the unveiling of the plaque and the inauguration of the new building, the President proceeded to embark on an inspection tour.

The President addressing the gathering further stated:

“Your request for the establishment of a national hospital in Jaffna has been duly noted. Coincidentally, I have been contemplating the same. Just last week, the Cabinet approved the upgrade of Karapitiya Hospital, and next hospital to be upgraded as a national hospital is going to be Jaffna Hospital.

It is imperative for Jaffna to have an excellent healthcare system, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services not only in Colombo and the southern regions but also in the north and central areas. However, our efforts should not stop there. We must also turn our attention to the broader developmental needs of the region.

Regarding my frequent visits to Jaffna, allow me to clarify the purpose behind my recent visit. Despite it coinciding with a long weekend, I felt compelled to address pending matters, particularly the inauguration of two hospitals as requested by both the local community and the Ambassador for the Netherlands during my previous visit.

I have made it a point to visit Jaffna regularly, both as Prime Minister and President, recognizing the pressing need to address the longstanding issues stemming from the conflict in the north and east. The time has come to shift our focus towards development. There are people here without who are looking for jobs and the potential for Jaffna for development is great, to use that term. Jaffna, which has seen limited development in recent years, holds immense potential for growth.

While I may not delve into all the issues at hand today, it is evident that progress has been made in addressing certain challenges, such as land-related issues. However, there remain unresolved matters concerning detainees and other related issues that require our attention. But we still have, to bring this to a close and that revolves around the remaining political issues.

Moving forward, we must prioritize reconciliation efforts, address concerns regarding missing persons, and devise mechanisms for compensation and truth and reconciliation. I think this is the time now we have to deal with all these issues.

These are complex issues that demand collective cooperation and engagement from all stakeholders. I have discussed this with the members of Parliament from North and the East, as to what measures we need to take.

Amidst economic challenges, we’ve been unable to allocate significant funds in recent years. However, we must earmark resources for truth and reconciliation efforts. The government is committed to establishing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), but we must address the critical issue of judicial powers.

We’re deliberating whether the TRC should wield judicial authority or if a separate court should be empowered based on TRC recommendations. This decision is paramount, and I’ve tasked relevant ministers, in consultation with parliamentarians and ambassadors, to draft legislation for parliamentary review.

Moreover, Jaffna holds immense developmental promise, particularly in renewable energy, agriculture, and industries. Harnessing solar and wind power capacities could position Jaffna as a major energy hub. This is the biggest and we have not yet tapped, I mean the potential for the north is not in terms of megawatts but in terms of gigawatts. Additionally, agricultural modernization and industrial zoning initiatives aim to elevate economic prospects in the region.

We aim to cultivate a competitive, high-value export-oriented agriculture sector nationwide, with the Northern Province playing a pivotal role. The province’s farmers possess the requisite skills for this endeavour, which promises to significantly enhance both individual and provincial incomes.

In the realm of industry, discussions are underway to establish the inaugural investment zone in Kankasanthurai, followed by industrial parks in Paranthan and Mankulam. Collaborative efforts with India are also underway to develop Trincomalee.

Furthermore, we’re exploring tourism prospects in the north, anticipating transformative changes with forthcoming land connectivity, particularly benefiting Jaffna.

These initiatives hold the potential to position the Northern Province as a key economic hub of Sri Lanka.

During our visit, we witnessed captivating dance performances by students from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jaffna, most of who are under 21 years of age, born in 2002 or 2003.

These individuals belong to Generation Z and are deeply invested in shaping their own futures. It’s incumbent upon us to facilitate their aspirations, which underscores our legislative efforts aimed at propelling rapid development within a new economic paradigm”.

Minister Douglas Devananda:

“For over a decade, since 2003, the Jaffna University Faculty of Medicine Students’ Union has tirelessly advocated for the construction of this building. Today, we stand here witnessing the fulfilment of that long-standing request. Furthermore, swift actions have been taken to address other pressing needs, including those of the Faculty of Agriculture.

During a critical period when the nation grappled with unrest, it was President Ranil Wickremesinghe who stepped forward to assume leadership, demonstrating unparalleled commitment. Today, we witness a multitude of developmental endeavours underway across the country.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, with his visionary leadership, has transformed a non-functional vehicle into a vehicle fit for travel, symbolizing his capability to navigate the challenges ahead. His unwavering dedication inspires confidence, as evidenced by his track record of tangible achievements.

Member of Parliament Mr. Dharmalingam Siddharthan:

“In a remarkably short span of two years since assuming office, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has spearheaded numerous initiatives for the advancement of the Northern Province. The inauguration of this building for the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jaffna is yet another testament to his commitment to Northern development.

His decisive actions, particularly concerning sensitive issues like the release of lands, reflect his deep concern for the welfare of the northern population. Even as the Prime Minister, he played a pivotal role in driving development efforts in both the northern and eastern provinces.

Member of Parliament Mr. M. A. Sumanthiran, PC:

“Hon. President, I extend my sincere gratitude for granting me the opportunity to address this esteemed gathering on behalf of the people of Jaffna. I also personally thank you for gracing us with your presence here today.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has exhibited an unwavering commitment to the progress of not only the North but also the East, dating back to his tenure as Prime Minister. The inauguration of the Faculty of Medicine building at the Jaffna University is a milestone event transpiring today and underscores not just an investment in the North but also a significant contribution to the nation’s advancement. I firmly believe that this institution will evolve into a hub for scientific innovation in Sri Lanka’s future.

As emphasized by previous speakers in this event, the President has accorded special consideration to the development of the Jaffna district and its residents. It is possible that challenges in the North may have impeded your journey in 2005, a fact that I believe is now regretfully acknowledged by the people of the region.

I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jaffna for realizing this monumental project. The dividends of this investment are bound to be substantial. We extend a warm welcome to the President for gracing the Jaffna district with his presence, and we commend him for his dedicated efforts in advancing the interests of the North during this visit.”

Governor of the Northern Province Mrs. P. S. M. Charles:

“It is with immense pride that I announce the completion of the Clinical Training and Research Department of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Jaffna, marking a significant milestone after 46 years.

In March of last year, I requested the President’s presence for the inauguration of this building. He assured me of his attendance in May, and true to his word, he is here with us today.

In attendance were esteemed dignitaries, including Secretary of the Ministry of Education Thilaka Jayasundara, Chairman of the University Grants Commission Senior Professor Sampath Amaratunga, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Jaffna Professor Rajendra Surendrakumaran, and former Member of Parliament Vijayakala Maheswaran.

The government plans to initiate two pilot projects, the ‘Temporary Agricultural Electric Fence’ and the ‘Village Electric Fence,’ to protect villages and farmlands experiencing significant elephant-human conflicts.

This announcement was made during a discussion held yesterday (20th), led by Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, alongside the heads of line agencies, focusing on recent measures to mitigate wild elephant-human conflicts.

In addition to the existing electric fences built and maintained to mitigate elephant-human conflicts, pilot projects have been initiated in several conflict-prone districts to protect farmlands within regional secretariats’ jurisdictions. These farmlands will be safeguarded only until the harvest season, with a focus on the construction of temporary agricultural electric fences (Agro Fences).

Furthermore, there was an in-depth discussion about the pilot project for constructing electric fences (Village Fences) around villages that experience frequent human-wild elephant conflicts, aiming to protect these communities.

Furthermore, it was decided during the discussion that the agricultural electric fence (Agro Fence) should be dismantled by the respective farmers after harvesting and that the Department of Agricultural Development would assume responsibility for its maintenance and custody. Maintenance duties will also be delegated to the respective divisional secretariats.

Additionally, attention was given to the preservation of a group of trained elephants for cultural events and parades, besides addressing the issue of private elephant ownership.

Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka further instructed the pertinent authorities to compile and present a comprehensive report outlining the challenges encountered in executing these resolutions for review by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The meeting was attended by Gunadasa Samarasinghe, the Secretary of the Ministry of Wildlife and Forest Conservation, as well as representatives from various line agencies and members of the Wild Elephant Human Control Committee, including Dr. Sumith Pilapitiya and Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando.

The leader of the Mawbima Janatha Party (MJP) Dilith Jayaweera has claimed opposition leader Sajith Premadasa would not take part in the proposed debate with National People's Power (NPP) chief Anura Kumara Disssanayake on 06 June and offered to replace him.

In that debate, Jayaweera said he was prepared to answer any question to be raised by Dissanayake. He assured him that he would not raise his clothing, business class travels or the personal life.

Jayaweera was speaking at a republican day celebration at Light House on 22 May.

The Colombo District Court has issued an interim order preventing Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe from functioning as the Chairman of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Keerthi Udawatta as Acting General Secretary of the party.

This order was issued today by Colombo District Judge Sandun Withana after considering a plaint submitted by Member of Parliament Duminda Dissanayake.

On May 16, the Colombo District Court had rejected the petition filed by Dissanayake seeking an interim injunction preventing Minister Rajapakshe from functioning as the Chairman and Udawatta as Acting General Secretary of the SLFP.

Accordingly, the Colombo District Court refused to issue an injunction restraining the party, its organizations and officials from acting on the decision taken to appoint Minister Wijayadasa Rajapakshe as the Chairman and Attorney-at-Law Keerthi Udawatte as the Acting General Secretary of the SLFP.

However, Colombo District Judge Sandun Withana had stated that the complainant has the opportunity to amend his plaint and confirm the facts for the relevant injunction.

adaderana

Published on: May 24, 2024 President Participates in Multiple Vesak Celebrations in Colombo President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in various Vesak programs held in Colombo yesterday (23) as the nation celebrated Vesak.

The ‘Buddha Rashmi’ Vesak Zone, organized by the Hunupitiya Gangarama Temple, was inaugurated under the patronage of President Wickremesinghe, yesterday.

The President arrived at the Gangarama Temple, where he offered flowers to the Buddha statue and participated in religious rituals. Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, the Viharadhikari of the Gangaramaya Maha Viharaya, conducted the religious ceremonies and bestowed blessings upon the President.

Subsequently, the President inaugurated the “Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone” by illuminating the electric lights.

Numerous guests from both domestic and international spheres, including diplomats, Foreign Ambassadors and High Commissioners, graced the occasion, engaging in cordial conversation with the President.

As part of the Buddha Rashmi National Vesak Festival, various events such as the Vesak pandals, Vesak lantern exhibitions, Bodu Bathi Gee, Vesak Dhansala, ‘Thovil and Devolmadu Shantikarma’, Flower procession, and mindfulness programs which was jointly organised by the Gangarama Temple, along with the Presidential Secretariat, Prime Minister’s Office, and the Maha Karuna Buddhist Association of Singapore. The Vesak zone will be held at Shangri-La Green, Galle Face and Presidential Secretariat Premises from May 23 to May 26. The festivities include cultural performances, folk songs and captivating lighting decorations.

To inaugurate the Vesak program, the Secretary to the President Mr. Saman Ekanayake, lit the ceremonial lamp, followed by a vibrant devotional Bathi Gee recital at the Presidential Secretariat.

Concurrently, President Ranil Wickremesinghe opened the ‘Maha Bath Dansala’ at the Shangri-La Green Grounds.

Additionally, yesterday afternoon (23), President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in the opening of the inaugural Vesak Zone organized by the Peliyagoda Municipal Council and Community Development Foundation and the local trading community.

This Vesak festival, spanning from May 23rd to 25th, will feature a variety of events including a Vesak lantern competition, devotional Bathi Gee recitals, drama and rice dansals.

President Wickremesinghe, inaugurated the Vesak Zone by lighting the lamps, interacted warmly with attendees at the event.

State Ministers Prasanna Ranaweera, Sisira Jayakodi, and several others graced the occasion with their presence.

Meanwhile, President Ranil Wickremesinghe also inaugurated the Vesak Zone and the magnificent Vesak pandal organized by the Maradana-Suduwella United Buddhist Association in celebration of the Vesak Festival, yesterday.

Following the vision of former Municipal Council Member Mr. Kitsiri Rajapaksa and under the guidance of Ven. Yatihena Saddhaloka Thera the Chief Incumbent of Sri Dharmaloka Daya Maha Viharaya, this Vesak extravaganza showcases the grand Vesak pandal depicting ‘Manikara Kulupagatissa Jathakaya’. It will be on display at Maradana Junction until May 27th.

President’s Senior Advisor on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff, Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, Chief of Defence Staff General Shavendra Silva, Army Commander Vikum Liyanage, along with a delegation of political representatives and government officials, accompanied the President during these ceremonies.

Acting Finance Minister Shehan Semasinghe announced plans to introduce two significant bills to Parliament on May 22, aimed at bolstering the country’s economy.

These bills, the “Economic Transformation Bill” and the “Public Financial Management Bill,” are designed to enhance the management of public finances, thereby safeguarding against future economic downturns.

Minister Semasinghe made this announcement during a press conference at the Presidential Media Centre today, themed ‘Collective path to a stable country’.

Acting Finance Minister Shehan Semasinghe, further stated,

‘The government has scheduled the submission of two significant bills crucial for the country’s economy on May 22. One of these bills is the “Economic Transformation Law,” aimed at preventing future economic collapses. Notably, this legislation stems from the vision of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, rather than being proposed by the International Monetary Fund. The recent stabilization of the economy following previous downturns underscores the importance of preserving this stability going forward.

Additionally, it is necessary to maintain optimal levels of public financial management to avert future economic crises. The “Public Finance Management Bill” is set to be presented to Parliament on the same day, with a focus on enhancing accountability in managing public finances. This legislative initiative aligns with recommendations from a collaborative program with the International Monetary Fund and holds significant importance for the country’s future financial management.

It’s important to underscore the critical significance of both these bills for the country’s future. These drafts contain numerous technical intricacies aimed at bolstering confidence in the economy and maintaining the trajectory of the new economic direction implemented thus far.

Further elaborating on the Economic Transformation Bill, it holds paramount importance for the country’s economic growth. Despite experiencing economic contraction in the second and third quarters of 2023, a notable growth rate of 4.5% was achieved in the fourth quarter. Consequently, the benefits of this economic upturn have started permeating to the grassroots level within the country.

Furthermore, it is imperative to enhance the economic competitiveness of the nation and adapt the economy to confront global challenges while fostering international cooperation and growth. Additionally, this bill addresses necessary changes in various sectors.

Specifically, the legislation encompasses reforms essential for international trade, trade agreements, and climate change mitigation efforts.

The establishment of a new Economic Commission in Sri Lanka, aimed at attracting investments to enhance competitiveness, fostering a conducive environment for investors, expanding international trade, establishing the National Productivity Commission, and developing export-related institutions, is also outlined in this bill.

Recently, Parliament endorsed the decisions made, particularly regarding economic transformation. In 2022, the public debt ratio stood at 128%, a figure slated to be reduced to less than 95% by 2032.

Similarly, the fiscal requirement, which was 34.6% of the gross domestic product in 2022, aims to be lowered to below 13% by 2032.

Effective debt servicing is paramount, with efforts focused on establishing Sri Lanka as a debt-sustainable nation capable of meeting its obligations. The aim is to reduce the debt payment ratio from 9.4% in 2022 to below 4.5% by 2027.

A proposed bill will outline specific national goals and actions taken to address economic challenges, providing a roadmap for sustainable economic growth, debt management, agricultural modernization, import-export regulation, and economic governance.

Additionally, considerable attention has been given to the Public Finance Management Bill, aimed at identifying weaknesses in the current legislation and proposing a robust legal framework to meet future needs.

The Department of Meteorology has issued a ‘red’ warning for strong winds and rough seas for naval and fishermen communities in the deep-sea areas in the South-eastern Arabian Sea and in the Bay of Bengal.

The ‘red’ alert states that a low-pressure area over south west Bay of Bengal has intensified into a Depression and lay centered near 15.0°N and 88.4°E at 05.30 a.m. of today (24 May).

It is likely to continue to move northeastwards and concentrate into a cyclonic storm over east-central Bay of Bengal by 05.30 a.m. of 25th may, 2024. Thereafter, it is likely to move northwards, intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm over same region by 11.30 p.m. of 25th May 2024, the advisory said.

Very strong winds 60-70 kmph, accompanied with heavy rainfalls and very rough seas are likely over the sea areas around the country and over the South-eastern Arabian Sea areas and Bay of Bengal.

Naval and fishing communities are advised not to venture into the sea areas marked by ‘RED’ color on the map below until further notice.

Those who are out at aforementioned sea regions are advised to return to coasts or moved safer areas immediately.

Naval and fishing communities are also requested to be attentive to future forecasts issued by the Department of Meteorology in this regard.

Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Presidential Staff Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, urged relevant officials to take immediate action to mitigate the risk of dengue in Colombo, particularly with the onset of the rainy season.

He also advised the preparation of a special awareness program to educate school children and parents through the Ministry of Education during the Dengue Prevention Week, which will run from May 26 to June 1.

Additionally, Mr. Ratnayaka directed authorities to work on reducing the risk of dengue around public institutions, religious places and new construction sites. He emphasized the need for relevant departments to enforce regulations against those who do not comply with these preventive measures.

Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka issued these instructions during a progress review meeting on the current status of the dengue control program, held today (20) at the Presidential Secretariat.

The meeting was chaired by State Minister for Defence Pramitha Bandara Tennakoon, Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Staff to the President, Sagala Ratnayaka, along with Chief of Defence Staff, General Shavendra Silva, to review the implementation of the decisions taken in the previous meeting and assessed their current progress.

The measures implemented in the past period to control the spread of dengue and their effectiveness were discussed at length, with a particular focus on the health medical officer divisions in the Western Province, where an increase in dengue cases has been observed.

Secretary to the Ministry of Health Dr. Palitha Mahipala, commended Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka for his leadership and guidance in controlling dengue and affirmed that the Ministry of Health will extend its fullest support to this program.

Furthermore, there was deliberation regarding the complete removal of hazardous trees within the Colombo City or the trimming of branches to mitigate risks. Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka also recommended the development of a program aimed at replanting trees to compensate for those that are removed, along with the provision of progress reports on this initiative.

Additionally, a discussion concerning the upkeep of a pristine and appealing coastline, along with the identification of the most appropriate method for wastewater disposal into the sea, was convened this morning (20) under the leadership of Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka.

The central focus was to establish a task force dedicated to executing this program, in consultation with President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Various officials from relevant line ministries, heads of security departments and other stakeholders participated in these deliberations.

The Chairman of Aura Lanka, businessman Viranjith Thambugala, has been arrested by police over allegations of financial fraud.

He has been remanded until May 27 after being produced before the Colombo Magistrate’s Court.

Thanbugala is the Chairman of Aura Lanka Group of Companies and the former owner of the ‘Dambulla Aura’ team in the Lanka Premier League (LPL).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivered a compelling speech at the 10th World Water Forum, held in Bali, Indonesia today (20), highlighting the stark contrast between global funding priorities, pointing out the willingness of the Global North to fund death and destruction in Ukraine while showing reluctance to finance measures to combat climate change.

Accordingly, President Wickremesinghe proposed a 10% levy on the annual profits of global tax evasion assets deposited in tax havens, estimated at $1.4 trillion annually. He suggested that funds raised through this levy could support Blended Finance projects focused on climate change adaptation and mitigation.

In his opening remarks, President Wickremesinghe extended his gratitude to President Joko Widodo of Indonesia for hosting the event, which centres around the theme “Water for Shared Prosperity.” He praised Indonesia for its leadership in promoting the “Sustainable Management of Lakes” resolution at UNEA-5, emphasizing the collective responsibility in managing water resources, essential for all life and ecosystems.

Following is the speech delivered by President Ranil Wickremesinghe;

At the outset let me thank the President of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Joko Widodo for hosting the 10th World Water Forum in Bali. The theme ‘Water for shared prosperity’ focuses on collective responsibility in managing water resources, the life blood of all living beings and ecosystem services. This follows the “Sustainable Management of Lakes” Resolution proposed by Indonesia at the UNEA-5.

During the UNEA -6 held this year, the European Union together with Sri Lanka brought about the resolution “6/13 Effective and inclusive solutions for strengthening water policies to achieve sustainable development in the context of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution”.

I also take this opportunity to congratulate the Government of Indonesia for taking the initiative during the G20 Presidency to launch the Global Blended Finance Alliance. Sri Lanka expresses its willingness to become a pioneering member.

Climate Change and water stress are two sides of the same coin. The cumulative effects of Climate Change are the main reason for what we see today as the water resource crisis. According to IPCC projected climate scenarios till 2090, Sri Lanka’s dry zone will get drier and the wet zone will get wetter in an unprecedented manner. Sea level rise will cause salt water intrusion in coastal areas resulting in salinization of land. I took this example from Sri Lanka while appreciating the fact that this is what is happening all over the world.

In global terms the solution to water stress revolves around climate mitigation and adaptation. Combating the triple planetary crisis with specific measures aiming at water. In the Nationally Determined Contributions water is classified under the adaptation sectors. On the other hand, mitigation is equally important as emissions are the root cause. Combating the threats to water resources posed by climate change requires colossal amounts of financial resources.

The Global North has failed miserably in adhering to the commitments to provide financial resources for Climate Change. There is a notable lack of political will after the euphoria of the Glasgow COP was over. Climate Change denial is gaining ground in the West.

The establishment of the Loss and Damage Fund, after a long drag, if effectively implemented can help to bridge the gap. This is a big IF. The Summit for a new Global Financing Pact will hopefully reach a conclusion by September this year. Nevertheless, the final outcome will depend on the results of the US Presidential Elections in November.

The OECD in 2021 projected the investment for global water related infrastructure at US $ 6.7 trillion for 2030 and US$ 22 trillion for 2058. The UNEP Report 2023 “Underfinanced – Underprepared” estimate the under financed gap to combat climate change at US$ 194 – 366 billion per year. The Global North is willing to fund death and destruction in the Ukraine. But there is an unwillingness to fund measures to avoid death and destruction caused by climate change.

Since money is not coming our way in anticipated amounts and at anticipated pace, to overcome the resource gap, Sri Lanka presented to COP 28 the Tropical Belt Initiative. A novel concept of harnessing commercial investments in the natural forests, mangroves, swamps, grassland water bodies and other natural resources in the Tropical Belt towards tackling the triple planetary crisis. The Tropical Belt from the time of its existence has been a ‘shield’ for the whole world. It is a catalytic accelerator of solutions to the ongoing triple planetary crisis. Investment in the tropical belt will bring in transformative changes to combat the triple planetary crisis.

In this context, the Initiative on Global Blended Finance will enable the Global South to mobilise the much needed financial resources. The US$ 9.4 billion available to commence this fund is a good example of leveraging concessional finance. The Tropical Belt Initiative will also benefit from this facility. In this context Sri Lanka proposes a 10% levy on the annual profits of global tax evasion assets deposited in tax havens. The annual profits are estimated at US$ 1.4 trillion per annum. The levy can be enforced by imposing sanctions, similar to those imposed on Russian Banks on the Banks and the Financial Institutes which fail to implement the levy. The monies raised by these levies to be made available to be utilised by the Blended Finance projects on Climate Change adaptation and mitigation.

The Global Blended Finance initiative is a supplement to the Loss and damage funds – not an alternative. These two measures must work in tandem. Therefore at this forum, let us express our appreciation for the hard work done by Indonesia in proposing this Initiative at the G20 culminating the establishment of the Alliance Secretariat.

Again, our thanks to President Joko Widodo for his contribution both in respect to the management of water resources and for bringing together the Global Blended Alliance.”

The World Water Summit, themed “Water for Common Prosperity,” began on May 18 in Bali, Indonesia, bringing together world leaders, experts, academics, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The conference aims to unite nations in a collaborative effort to address global water issues.

Since its inception in 1997, the World Water Summit has been held every three years, serving as a premier platform for countries worldwide to share experiences and knowledge on best practices for water management. The summit facilitates dialogues among stakeholders on water, sanitation challenges, and sustainable development goals.

This year’s event sees the participation of key United Nations organizations, including the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, the United Nations Environment Programme, the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, the United Nations International Children’s Fund, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization, and the United Nations Climate Change Organization.

Meanwhile, Indonesian President Joko Widodo hosted a dinner at the Bali Cultural Park yesterday (19) for the heads of state and representatives attending the conference. President Ranil Wickremesinghe was also in attendance.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe paid a visit to the Iranian Embassy in Colombo this morning (22) to extend his condolences on the untimely tragic passing of the late Iranian President, Ebrahim Raisi.

Upon arrival at the Embassy, President Wickremesinghe was warmly received by the Iranian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Dr. Alireza Delkhosh, and the Embassy staff.

During his visit, the President engaged in brief conversation with the Iranian Ambassador and others present, conveying his heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Sri Lankan government and himself to the Iranian government and people for the loss of the Late President Ebrahim Raisi.

Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and seven other suspects have been further remanded over the purported importation of inferior Immune Globulin vaccines.

The eight suspects were further remanded until June 03, 2024, by the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court today.

The suspects were arrested and remanded after the Criminal Investigations Department launched an investigation into allegations that a pharmaceutical company had imported 22,500 vials of substandard Immune Globulin vaccines by creating forged documents with the assistance of the two senior state officials.

Investigations revealed that financial fraud of Rs. 130 million had occurred via the imports of the said substandard medicine, under the tenure of Keheliya Rambukwella as Health Minister.

Based on the investigations, several Health Ministry officials, including Rambukwella, were arrested and remanded over the matter, while Rambukwella’s revision application seeking bail has been rejected several times by the Colombo High Court.

However, in the beginning of May, the 11th suspect named in the case, Deputy Director of the Supplies Division of the Health Ministry Dr. Thusitha Sudarshana, was granted bail.