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Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture and Plantation, Janaka Dharmakeerthi, announced that necessary measures are in place to achieve President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s goal of doubling the rice harvest within the next six harvest seasons. He highlighted the introduction of a technical package aimed at this objective and emphasized that the Ministry of Agriculture is effectively handling the increasing demand for food, surpassing traditional agricultural practices.

The Agriculture and Plantation Ministry Secretary shared these updates during a press briefing titled “Two Years of Progress and Advancement” held at the Presidential Media Center (PMC) today (01). He also noted that the agriculture industry is already reaping the benefits of new technology implementations.

He further elaborated:

The Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for going beyond traditional farming methods to meet the increasing demand for food, a task that is currently being managed successfully. We have implemented the necessary measures to meet President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s goal of doubling the rice harvest within the next six growing seasons. To achieve this, we have introduced a technical package as part of the agricultural modernization program. Additionally, we have arranged for the utilization of all paddy fields, including fallow fields, for rice cultivation, while using the remaining cultivated land for other crops.

It is worth noting that we have already achieved successful results in paddy cultivation, with an anticipated harvest of 800,000 metric tons of rice needed for the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture cannot directly intervene in paddy prices. However, the government aims for fair price maintenance within an open economy. While occasional price hikes may occur without government intervention, persistent increases may prompt action. Currently, only two types of rice are kept in stock, but future plans include maintaining safe stocks of all rice types for market release. In the dry zone, fallow fields are being allocated to other crops based on recommendations from the Department of Agriculture, which is a positive step for food production.

To support agricultural modernization and address food needs beyond traditional cultivation, Rs.2500 million has been allocated in the budget. Interest-free loans are being provided for various agricultural activities in 26 Divisional Secretariat Divisions, and the Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurship Project is being implemented. This initiative has increased youth entrepreneurship opportunities in agriculture, plantation industries, and animal and fishery industries. The introduction of new technology has successfully attracted young people to these sectors.

Currently, special programs are being implemented to target international markets in the agricultural industry, extending beyond local boundaries. There is a growing trend in exporting fruit crops such as strawberries, mangoes, and pineapples. Additionally, a cold storage facility is being established in Dambulla to address yield fluctuations and crop losses. Although farmers are informed about suitable crops, they often produce according to the domestic needs of the country. The management of economic centers under our ministry has successfully reduced crop damage by about 50%. With the support of farmers, we are working on a systematic method to release crops to the market. We are also in discussions with the Ministry of Transport to use the railway service to reduce post-harvest damage, particularly during transportation. Efforts are being made to deploy trains from Beliatta to other provinces to facilitate this process.

Dr. Kamani Ranatunga, Director General of the Department of Agriculture:

A technology package has been introduced to farmers under the Agriculture Modernization Program to boost the production of fruits and vegetables needed for consumption in Sri Lanka. Pilot projects are being launched on 60,000 hectares of selected land to increase paddy yield in the upcoming Maha season. The parachute method will also be introduced for paddy cultivation, aiming to achieve a yield of 7 metric tons per hectare. Efforts are underway to introduce proper fertilizers and agrochemical practices to increase the production of maize, which has been declining. In vegetable cultivation, plans are being made

to create storage facilities to manage excess production and prevent seasonal shortages. This includes providing cold storage facilities. The government’s goal is to transform farmers into entrepreneurs through these agricultural programs.

Dr. Hemali Kothalawala, Director General of the Department of Animal Production and Health:

Through 337 veterinary offices and 16 veterinary research institutes, significant strides have been made in advancing the livestock sector in this country. Under the Agricultural Modernization Program, the development of chicken and dairy farms has been a primary focus. A livestock pilot project is currently being conducted on 150 farms across six selected provinces to achieve self-sufficiency in milk production. Additionally, we have taken steps to develop grasslands and train workers. Trained workers have received NVQ 3-4 vocational training to enhance production efficiency, enabling them to pursue job opportunities abroad if needed. Our goal is to increase the current milk production, which covers 40% of Sri Lanka’s consumption, to 60% by 2028. By turning animal farm owners into entrepreneurs, we aim to make a direct contribution to the country’s economy.

Sumith Chandana, Commissioner (Services) of the Department of Agrarian Development:

After resolving the fertilizer crisis two years ago, the Department of Agrarian Development has ensured the availability of necessary fertilizers to meet the country’s needs. Arrangements have been made to supply farmers with sufficient chemical fertilizers, including urea, and fertilizers are available in the market for purchase from private dealers if needed. Over the past two years, the provision of financial subsidies and free fertilizers has led to significant crop growth. Farmers received Rs.11 billion in subsidies for the last season and Rs.5.6 billion for the current season. Modern technology has been leveraged to support farmers, with the “GeoGoviya” application collecting comprehensive data on farmers to address their needs and provide prompt services. So far, the Department of Agrarian Development has constructed 19 greenhouses. The government has allocated Rs.1499 million for 1120 projects, including tank renovations and storage facilities, to enhance agricultural infrastructure over the past year. Additionally, the “Sustainable Garden” program aims to create 1 million gardens, with land already identified for this initiative. Each garden will focus on growing a single crop, providing opportunities for commercial income.

Shiromani Edirimanne, Additional Secretary (Agri Technology) to the Ministry of Agriculture:

We have submitted our drafted agriculture policy for approval to the Ministry of Finance. This policy aims to align agricultural production programs over the next decade under 10 key elements. Additionally, efforts are underway to merge data systems of various line agencies

into a unified system, slated for completion by the end of this year. This integration is expected to enhance efficiency and facilitate better decision-making processes. Furthermore, updates are in progress for several laws, including the Seed Act, Animal Act, and Plant Protection Act. A group of officials from the Ministry of Agriculture participated in the event.

Bus fares will be reduced by 5% from 01 July 2024, the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association (LPBOA) has announced.

President of the Association, Gemunu Wijeratne said that this will result in a Rs. 2 reduction in the minimum bus fare.

Addressing the media, he said, accordingly, the minimum bus fare will be reduced from Rs. 30 to Rs. 28.

The decision was taken during a meeting between the Lanka Private Bus Owners’ Association and Transport Ministry officials today.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe declared a Rs.25 million allocation for the restoration of tanks in the Divisional Secretariat Division, which issues the highest number of deeds under the “Urumaya” freehold land deeds program. He highlighted that these efforts are geared towards supporting farmers and advancing the country’s development.

The President made these remarks while addressing the symbolic ceremony for the distribution of freehold land deeds to the beneficiaries in 11 divisional secretariat divisions of Monaragala district under the “Urumaya” national program, which provides 02 million freehold land deeds. The ceremony took place at the Mahinda Rajapaksa Conference Hall in Wellawaya today, where approximately 600 out of 41,960 beneficiaries received their deeds.

Continuing, the President noted that Wellassa, once a supplier of rice to the Kingdom of Kandy, was devastated after the 1818 battle. He highlighted that despite various governments’ efforts to develop the area, land rights remained elusive for its people.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also outlined plans for the extensive agricultural development of Udawalawa, Monaragala, Ampara, and the Mahaweli C Zone in the dry zone.

During his visit to grant land deeds in Monaragala district, the President interacted with the residents, engaging them in friendly conversations while gathering information from them.

The President further elaborated;

“According to the speakers preceding me, the Wellassa area supplied the rice required by the Kingdom of Kandy. However, after the 1818 battle, Wellassa was completely devastated, causing its inhabitants to relocate to other areas. Subsequently, the Monaragala district was established in 1960. When I first visited this area after the 1977 elections, it was severely underdeveloped.

Since 1977, various governments have initiated development projects in the Monaragala district. People from surrounding provinces settled here, new houses were constructed, and the area gradually urbanized. Through the hard work of its people, Monaragala evolved into an agricultural hub. This area stands as a testament to the efforts of your ancestors, yet the residents lacked proper land rights. The contributions of Monaragala farmers to the country were historically overlooked. To express gratitude, we have now ensured that these farmers receive free land rights. We are delighted to make this contribution.

To foster the development of the Monaragala district, we advocated for the provision of free land rights, despite opposition and legal challenges. Today, we have successfully granted these rights to the people.

However, securing land rights alone is insufficient. It is crucial for everyone to participate in the government’s agricultural modernization program. By rapidly advancing agriculture in these areas, we aim to transition towards an export-oriented economy. Essential infrastructure, including ports and airports, is already in place in these areas.

Our vision is to transform Udawalawa, Monaragala, Ampara, and the Mahaweli C Zone into a major agricultural hub within the dry zone. Through the “Urumaya” program, we not only provide land rights to farmers but also equip them with tools to increase their incomes. Looking ahead, the global demand for food is expected to grow significantly in the next 30 to 40 years. It is imperative that we prepare to meet this challenge by establishing a comprehensive agricultural framework in these provinces.

Additionally, we have strategized to establish large investment zones in Hambantota and Monaragala districts. Efforts are also underway to enhance the tourism and fishing industries, spanning from Galle to Ampara. These initiatives are slated for implementation over the next 20-30 years, ensuring a legacy for future generations. The development program has significantly boosted Wellawaya, serving as a pivotal access point to the upcountry. This progress extends through Passara via Ella and Bibila.

To streamline the issuance of “Urumaya” freehold land deeds, measures have been taken to recruit necessary personnel. However, it is imperative to accelerate this program. The list of eligible recipients is available at each Divisional Secretariat Division. I urge all Divisional Secretariats to promptly summon beneficiaries to address any issues and expedite the distribution of these deeds.

The Chairman of the Regional Development Committee is encouraged to collaborate with the Divisional Secretary in overseeing these tasks, ensuring their completion by the end of this month. I am actively pursuing funding of Rs.25 million for the restoration of tanks within the divisional secretariat that issues the highest number of freehold land deeds. It is crucial to note that the recipients of these land deeds will benefit significantly from both of these programs. We invite everyone to embark on a new journey with these land rights, fostering a fresh start in life.

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva;

Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna MPs have made various complaints regarding the Uma Oya project. However, our government has prioritized providing water to farmers in Uva Wellassa.

It is worth noting that we are privileged to contribute to strengthening Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe’s programs. He is a visionary leader who has made tough decisions for the benefit of the country and its people. His innovative initiatives have been instrumental in this regard. After a lapse of four years, decentralized funds are now operational, catalyzing village development. It is important to highlight that his visionary and innovative leadership will bolster the economy.

State Minister of Foreign Employment Promotion Jagath Pushpakumara;

As political representatives, we have distributed land deeds on numerous occasions. However, the significance of this particular deed lies in its nature as a freehold land deed. The absence of such rights has subjected people to various hardships in the past.

Today’s issuance of these deeds represents a legacy handed down to your children. It was under the President’s directive that we extended free land deeds to a large number of individuals.

During those challenging times, we faced shortages of gas and fuel, and agricultural operations stalled due to a lack of fertilizer. Despite the crisis, there were no contenders stepping forward to take charge of the country’s future. We hold the President in high regard for assuming this responsibility for the country’s future.

State Minister of Irrigation Shasheendra Rajapaksa;

Today marks a profoundly significant day for you. By toiling with the fertile soil and nurturing every inch, you contribute greatly to the bountiful harvest of our country. Your dedication is honoured, especially for sustaining those who depend on rice for all their meals.

It’s noteworthy that the highest number of beneficiaries under the President’s initiative to provide 02 million “Urumaya” freehold land deeds is in the Monaragala district. Today, you have secured the rights that your ancestors awaited for generations.

This district plays a pivotal role, with 60% of its produce distributed to other districts—a substantial contribution. Despite plans to establish an economic hub to support this productivity, the endeavour has yet to materialize. As we look forward, we anticipate your leadership and urge the allocation of necessary resources in the upcoming budget to fulfil this vision.

State Minister Vijitha Berugoda, Member of Parliament Gayashan Navananda, and Co-Chairman of the Monaragala District Coordinating Committee Kumarasiri Ratnayake also addressed the gathering.

Maha Sanghaa of the province, Uva Provincial Governor A.J.M. Muzammil, Wellawaya United National Party Organizer Chaminda Sarath, along with other political representatives from the province, Monaragala District Secretary Pasan Rathnayake, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Chandra Herath, and various government officials were also in attendance at this event.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe presided over the launch of the book “The Army Commander’s Promise to the Nation – I will not leave this war to the next Army Commander,” authored by Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka, former Army Commander, Member of Parliament, renowned for his exceptional leadership in ending the thirty-year war. The event took place today (28) at Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Colombo.

Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka presented the first copy of his book to the President. Additionally, a commemorative gift was given on behalf of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

Acknowledging Sarath Fonseka’s service as a former Army Commander, the President highlighted his capability to continue contributing significantly to the country’s future, despite overcoming the challenges of war and politics.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his additional remarks, highlighted:

“Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka holds a unique position as the only Field Marshal in the Sri Lankan Army. Beyond triumphing in military challenges, he has also navigated political challenges beyond the battlefield.

I first became familiar with him through General Cecil Vaidyaratne during the previous conflict. I developed a close friendship with General Cecil Vaidyaratne, who recommended that Sarath Fonseka had a promising future and should be given opportunities. As the conflict commenced and even before, during my tenure in government, I closely observed the participation of various officers. Among them, Sarath Fonseka stood out significantly for his exceptional leadership qualities.

Especially following the failure of the Jaffna Jaya Sikuru operation, the army lost all its gains. During that period, I served as Prime Minister and faced the critical decision of who should oversee Jaffna’s transfer. By then, casualties had significantly depleted our forces. Some suggested that Jaffna required a division. At that juncture, I directed the army commander to entrust Jaffna to Sarath Fonseka. He took charge and persevered until stability was restored.

Starting from a setback, he led the war effort to eventual victory, making tough decisions along the way. War is not a game; it entails loss of human lives and destruction of property. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the army through those challenging times.

We confronted one of the most challenging wars globally, on-going in other nations. Afghanistan had initiated its conflict before ours. Mr. Sarath Fonseka fulfilled his responsibilities diligently.

He also encountered numerous challenges in civilian life. His character grew stronger during solitary moments and even imprisonment. Subsequently, during the Good Governance administration, we deliberated with President Maithripala Sirisena and decided to confer upon him the prestigious title of Field Marshal, which he deemed worthy and accepted.

As a government, we had the privilege to harness Mr. Sarath Fonseka’s expertise and capabilities. He embodies resilience, whether on the battlefield or in politics, never backing down from a challenge. His dedication to serving the country remains steadfast. As the saying goes, ‘Old soldiers never die, they simply fade away. In this instance he won’t fade away either, so he is still there. Therefore, I anticipate that the country will have the opportunity to benefit from his services in the future.

Mr. Sarath Fonseka once remarked in Jaffna, “Now that the war is over, peace must be established in the country.” I am committed to advancing these efforts and urge everyone to unite in nation-building. Our army is seasoned and skilled, and with the collective support of all, we can rebuild our nation and foster lasting peace.

Field Marshal Sarath Fonseka,

“The victory in the war was made possible by the immense dedication of our war heroes, many of whom sacrificed their lives for our country. Countless others were left disabled. I extend my utmost respect to all the families of these war heroes, who made such sacrifices for the future of our children and for peace in our nation.

During my tenure as Army Commander, there was widespread belief that a political solution was necessary to end the war. Initially, security personnel were disheartened, but we ultimately achieved victory in the thirty-year conflict. This victory could not have been attained without the blood, sweat, and unwavering dedication of our soldiers. After the war, I have doubts whether the former rulers truly appreciated the sacrifices made by our war heroes and the people of this country.

The event was attended by various religious leaders led by the Maha Sangha, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, Member of Parliament Vajira Abeywardena, former Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, a group of ministers, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, government officials, Ambassadors, High Commissioners, former Army Chiefs, Mrs. Anoma Fonseka and family members, and invited guests.

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has announced the revision of fuel prices with effect from midnight today (30).

Accordingly, the price of Petrol 92 Octane has been reduced by Rs. 11 to Rs. 344 per liter while Petrol 95 Octane has been reduced by Rs. 41 to Rs. 379 per liter.

The price of Super Diesel has also been slashed by Rs. 22 with the new price at Rs. 355 per liter.

However, the prices of Auto Diesel and Kerosene remains unchanged, the Ceypetco said.

Sanjaya Mahawatte, the secretary of ‘Magen Ratata’ organization, was arrested by the TID last night (27).

His arrest is said to be over allegedly having levelled false accusations against senior police officers.

It was Mahawatte who lodged a complaint to the CID recently in which he requested an investigation into the wealth acquired by model Piumi Hansamali.

Senior Additional Solicitor General Parinda Ranasinghe (Junior) said that he will be sworn in as Acting Attorney General on Monday(01).

Parinda Ranasinghe is the son of former Chief Justice Parinda Ranasinghe.

Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella has been further remanded over the purported importation of inferior Immune Globulin vaccines.

Keheliya Rambukwella was further remanded until 12 July 2024 by the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court today, along with a few other suspects implicated in the case.

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 Keheliya Rambukwella, were arrested and remanded.

Sri Lanka benefits from a debt repayment sustainability plan, gaining an advantage of USD 17 billion- Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Sabry Minister of Foreign Affairs and President’s Counsel Ali Sabri, stated that the successful debt sustainability process with bilateral creditors will provide Sri Lanka with an advantage of approximately US $ 17 billion.

The minister also stated that this situation will facilitate successful negotiations regarding international sovereign debts.

He was speaking to the media yesterday (28) at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC) under the theme “Collective Path to a Stable Country.”

The Minister further commented,

“On April 12, 2022, Sri Lanka decided to temporarily suspend the payment of a portion of its foreign debt. At that time, some parties predicted that the value of the rupee would surge to 600, 700, or even 1000 against the dollar. However, we managed to control the situation.

Following an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), we were instructed to restructure the debt. Lazard was appointed as our financial advisor, and Clifford Chance as our legal advisor for this process.

Initially, we focused on restructuring domestic debt while continuing to meet our obligations to multilateral organizations.

We have now successfully completed debt restructuring with bilateral creditor countries. India, Japan, and France formed an Official Creditor Committee (OCC) for managing bilateral debt and we also held talks with China. As a result of these efforts, Sri Lanka has achieved a sustainable debt repayment situation, gaining an advantage of approximately US $ 17 billion and numerous other benefits.

Furthermore, this achievement is expected to facilitate successful negotiations with international sovereign bond holders. Discussions on this matter are currently on-going.

Additionally, it’s important to note that the comprehensive debt restructuring must adhere to a specific timeline set by the International Monetary Fund. The total debt burden should be reduced to 95% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and the current interest payments on foreign loans should be limited to 4.5% of the GDP.

Former MP Hirunika Premachandra was sentenced to three years of rigorous imprisonment on Friday (28).

Colombo High Court Judge Amal Ranaraja issued the order over a case filed against Hirunika Premachandra, who was found guilty of 18 charges including aiding and abetting the kidnapping of a young man who was working in a store in Dematagoda in 2015.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe highlighted Kenya’s current struggle with a severe economic crisis and incidents of violence, emphasizing the crucial need for economic preparedness in all nations. Speaking at the Presidential Environment Awards ceremony at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) in Colombo today (28), he underscored that Sri Lanka’s economic stability has effectively prevented comparable challenges within the country.

Addressing the gathering, President Wickremesinghe elaborated on Sri Lanka’s foreign policy stance to advocate globally for the complete cancellation of debts owed by African countries lacking economic resilience to confront climate change. He emphasized that while Sri Lanka does not anticipate such debt relief for itself, the country is capable of managing its debts effectively and progressing forward.

Additionally, the President expressed Sri Lanka’s readiness to assume regional leadership in addressing climate change and highlighted the nation’s significant role within the international community.

The Presidential Environment Awards, organized annually by the Central Environment Authority, honours industries, business institutions, and individuals for their outstanding contributions to environmental conservation. This year, 124 recipients received gold, silver, bronze medals and special awards across various sectors including industries, businesses, project organizations, media organizations, and society.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in presenting the gold awards, accompanied by the Chairman of Central Environment Authority (CEA) Venura Fernando and Director General Hemantha Jayasinghe, who presented a special souvenir to the President. Following the award ceremony, President Wickremesinghe also posed for a group photo with the awardees.

The President further elaborated,

I commend the Central Environment Authority for organizing another successful ceremony for Presidential Environment Awards this year. Today, we celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to environmental conservation over the past year.

Established in 1981 under the leadership of Mr. Wijedasa, then Secretary to Prime Minister Ranasinghe Premadasa, the Central Environment Authority originally focused solely on environmental concerns. Prior to its establishment, environmental issues had been largely neglected in the previous decade. It was Prime Minister Premadasa’s initiative that garnered cabinet support for the creation of this authority, which initially concentrated on addressing environmental threats.

Today, the environmental discourse has evolved beyond traditional concerns to encompass climate change, which has now become a pressing global issue with significant economic implications. This broader scope means that environmental and climate issues now impact every facet of society.

Given these developments, it is imperative to revisit the 1981 environmental law. I have instructed the secretary to propose amendments to align with global standards, as environmental authorities worldwide have updated their laws accordingly. Sri Lanka is also advancing towards enacting a dedicated climate change law, alongside the establishment of a Climate Change Centre and the appointment of a consultant to spearhead these efforts.

Additionally, we have undertaken significant international efforts to combat climate change. This includes initiating the International University on Climate Change and preparing related legislation. Our activities are not confined to these actions; we have advanced further. Achieving net zero carbon emissions has been integrated into the national economic policy.

We are dedicated to fostering a digital and green economy. In line with this, we have launched an agricultural modernization program, aiming to reach our objectives by 2048. While the global community has generally set 2050 as the target year for these goals, we are determined to achieve them earlier.

To support this initiative, green financing and green bonds have been incorporated into our economic program. We are committed to meeting these objectives, and our efforts are focused on addressing the global climate challenges.

Addressing climate changes requires a collaborative effort from all countries; no single nation can tackle it alone. However, despite initiating this program, some Western countries have distanced themselves from it. For example, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Mr. Boris Johnson, announced the Glasgow Declaration, but now the British government is attempting to withdraw from it. The United States’ stance on this issue will become clearer after the November elections.

Our focus should be on advancing towards this goal, which demands substantial funding. Many countries in Africa and Asia are heavily indebted and have requested debt relief. While I did not support the call for debt relief in Asia, emphasizing that Sri Lanka’s debt issues can be managed independently, there has been a call for the complete abolition of debt relief for low-income countries in Africa.

Sri Lanka has taken the first step toward debt restructuring, moving us out of bankruptcy. Our next step is to implement the Economic Transformation Law to continue this progress. However, this process is challenging for countries like those in Africa, which require relief. At the Climate Change Conference, Sri Lanka proposed the complete cancellation of debts for African countries.

Adequate funding is crucial to address climate change, but necessary funds have yet to be secured. Meanwhile, Western countries have spent approximately USD100 billion on the wars in Ukraine and Gaza, with additional unknown expenditures from Russia. If this money had been allocated to African and other countries, it could have significantly transformed their situations.

War is futile. We call for an end to the conflict in Ukraine and the fighting in Gaza. Establish a Palestinian state within five years and ensure Israel’s security.

Sri Lanka’s foreign policy emphasizes advocating for the Global South. We urge an end to this war and assistance for African countries. Recent riots in Kenya, where around 20 people have been shot dead, highlight the consequences of economic instability. If we do not establish economic stability in Sri Lanka, we could face similar unrest.

Therefore, funds should be allocated to these countries, and Sri Lanka fully supports this initiative. However, Sri Lanka does not seek such aid for itself; we are managing our debt independently, utilizing our energy and knowledge. We must continue this path, transforming into a competitive, digital, and green economy. Let us advance on this journey with our own strength.

Minister of State for Provincial Councils, Local Government, and Environment Janaka Wakkumbura,

This award ceremony is organized annually to recognize the contributions of government institutions and citizens in protecting the environment of our country. Your efforts to reduce the environmental impact of industries are being acknowledged here, serving as an inspiration to others.

As the Minister of Environment, President Ranil Wickremesinghe is committed to creating a healthy ecosystem for future generations. With a goal to increase forest density by 2032, we launched a program to plant one million trees in conjunction with the last Environment Day.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe has made significant efforts to revive industries that were on the brink of collapse, even amidst numerous challenges. His leadership has restored our country’s reputation on the global stage. It is now our collective responsibility to ensure that industrial development minimizes environmental damage.

Therefore, we anticipate that the number of applications for the Presidential Environment Awards in 2025 will surpass this year’s entries. This will allow us to recognize your efforts not only in building industries that strengthen our economy but also in protecting the environment.

State Minister for Trade and Environment Sathasivam Viyalendiran, Secretary to the Ministry of Environment B.K. Prabhath Chandrakeerthi, along with ambassadors, environmental scholars, government officials, and journalists, were present at the event.

The ambassadors of China, Japan and the United States have congratulated Sri Lanka for having reached final agreement with main official bilateral creditors, making the end of debt restructuring negotiations.

Chinese ambassador Qi Zhenhong, who signed the government concessional loan agreement for Exim Bank, said on X that it is a great contribution to Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring and congratulated the Sri Lankan people.

In a tweet, US ambassador Julie J. Chung said, "We welcome the news of a final agreement on debt restructuring between Sri Lanka and creditor nations, reached today on the sidelines of the Paris Forum 2024. This is a positive step forward in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and resilience, helping build more confidence. in Sri Lanka’s fiscal environment."

"The U.S. encourages Sri Lanka to continue the reform process, adopting transparent and sustainable changes that foster long-term prosperity and growth," Chung added. Japanese ambassador Katsuki Kotaro described this as a good opportunity for Sri Lanka to progress economically.

The agreements reached are valued at a combined USD 10 billion.

Each creditor, including the OCC and China Exim Bank, agreed to extend maturity periods, initiate capital grace periods, and reduce interest rates significantly.