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President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized his commitment to building a robust economic framework that ensures long-term stability for future generations, steering away from short-term solutions that could risk economic collapse. He made these remarks today (13) during the inauguration of the state-of-the-art swimming pool at the Anuradhapura Central College.

Reflecting on past economic and political crises, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the necessity of a national-level political apparatus capable of strategic governance beyond the five year electoral cycles. He underscored the need for governance focused not merely on short-term power dynamics but on sustainable national development.

During the ceremony, President Wickremesinghe inaugurated the state-of-the-art swimming pool and engaged with students participating in various activities. He also formally handed over the swimming pool premises to the Anuradhapura Central College and congratulated students who excelled in the 2023 GCE Advanced Level Examination, personally acknowledging their achievements.

Principal Mr. Percy Mahanama presented a donation of Rs. 10,000 to the President’s Fund, contributed by the students of the Anuradhapura Central College, as a token of appreciation.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe further commented;

The Government, along with support from the Alumni Association, has contributed to the construction of this swimming pool, providing your school with a valuable addition. This school, where the educational reforms initiated by Mr. C. W. W. Kannangara began in the North Central Province, holds the distinction of being its first Madhya Maha Vidyalaya.

Since then, the school has made significant strides. The principal has requested a three-storied building, and I will personally notify the Ministry of Education to facilitate its construction.

As we approach the 77th anniversary of the college and celebrate the completion of the swimming pool, I am pleased to announce that the President’s office is actively working towards establishing a fully-equipped fitness center for the college.

During a student’s speech on behalf of the school, the aspiration for a better future was prominently expressed. This aspiration is both reasonable and timely, especially considering recent years. It is imperative that we strategize on how to build this envisioned future.

By averting bankruptcy, we have achieved our first milestone. However, continuing with the current economic trajectory risks accumulating unsustainable levels of debt, jeopardizing the future these students aspire to. In the next 15 years, we could potentially face a severe economic crisis unless we chart a sustainable course forward.

As a nation, we must decide whether to advance or risk economic collapse once more. Considering that you will reside here for at least another 50 years, our focus as a government should extend beyond 2050 and aim towards securing prosperity by 2075.

Therefore, we are planning to transition our country’s economy from one reliant on imports to one driven by exports. This necessitates a fundamental overhaul of our existing economic structures, for which we have introduced the Economic Transformation Act.

Central to this transformation is the agricultural modernization program, crucial for revitalizing our economy. Thanks to the dedication of our farmers, who received essential fertilizer support, we achieved successful harvests in 2022, 2023, and 2024. In recognition of their contributions, we launched the inheritance tax exemption program, benefiting farmers across the North Central Province.

Looking ahead, the global population is projected to increase by an additional 2 billion by 2050, necessitating a focus on utilizing modern technology to maximize agricultural output and ensure food security worldwide. From these arid regions, we aim to achieve self-sufficiency in rice production, which will drive economic prosperity in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, and Vavuniya.

Furthermore, these provinces possess significant potential for solar energy projects and tourism development. Embracing innovation, we are embarking on ambitious initiatives such as the Trincomalee port development project in collaboration with India, which will also benefit Anuradhapura.

In line with our forward-thinking approach, plans are underway to establish three new technological universities, supported by foreign institutions offering technical expertise. Embracing advancements in artificial intelligence, we are poised to chart a new course towards a prosperous future.
As we navigate this transformative journey, it is imperative to continuously reassess and innovate for sustained growth and development.

Some politicians focus solely on gaining power for a five-year term or on ousting their rivals from office. This narrow approach to politics has historically led to economic and political crises in our country.

Through collaboration across political divides, I successfully revitalized the national economy. This effort marked the establishment of a national-level thinking group for the first time in our history. Such a system is crucial for our future, transcending partisan interests to prioritize the nation’s well-being.

Regardless of political affiliation, it is essential that every representative prioritizes the nation’s interests. Our collective success as a nation hinges on the decisions we make in the coming years. Therefore, I urge everyone to focus on the future and work towards our shared prosperity.

State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe;

Today marks a significant milestone as the swimming pool of this school, which holds a special place in Anuradhapura, is handed over to the students. The completion of this project faced challenges amidst recent turbulent conditions in the country. However, following successful economic stabilization efforts led by President Ranil Wickremesinghe, funding was secured to finalize its construction. Under the President’s strategic initiatives, comprehensive measures were implemented to advance the nation’s economic recovery while restoring stability.

Through effective decision-making and a partnership with the International Monetary Fund, the government swiftly restored both the economy and livelihoods. President Wickremesinghe continues to spearhead reforms aimed at safeguarding the economy from future collapses, with new legislation and programs already underway. Concurrently, transformative initiatives are enhancing infrastructure across education, healthcare, and the broader economy, fostering a brighter outlook for the nation’s future.

The ceremony was attended by North Central Province Governor Mahipala Herath, Members of Parliament S.M. Chandrasena, Duminda Dissanayake, Rohana Bandara, former Minister P. Harrison, former Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith, Anuradhapura Central College Principal Mr. Percy Mahanama, members of the staff, parents, alumni, and students.

Mr. K. Parinda Ranasinghe P.C. was sworn in as the Attorney General of Sri Lanka this morning (12). The ceremony took place at the Presidential Secretariat, where he took the oath before President Ranil Wickremesinghe.

This appointment, made by President Wickremesinghe in accordance with the powers vested in him under Article 61E (b) of the Constitution, marks a significant step in the nation’s judicial landscape.

Mr. Ranasinghe is the 49th Attorney General of Sri Lanka.

President’s Secretary Mr. Saman Ekanayake was also present at the swearing-in ceremony.

Sri Lanka still ranks high in suicides although the situation is much better from the 1996-97 period, said health minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana.

He said his ministry is taking all action possible in collaboration with other stakeholders to improve on this.

The minister was speaking at a ceremony on 11 July to mark the 50th anniversary or Sumithrayo.

Dr. Pathirana commended the volunteer service institution for its half a century of contributions to prevent suicides.

To mark its anniversary, Sumithrayo is holding a four-day international conference to be attended by more than 150 delegates from 15 countries.

The institution was formed in 1974 by British national Joan de Mel as an affiliate of Befrienders Organization.

Present on the occasion were Befrienders chairman Neil Hawkins and chairperson of Sumithrayo Suranjani Wickramaratne.

The Sri Lanka Cricket in a statement announced that National Men’s T20I Captain Wanindu Hasaranga has decided to resign from the captaincy.

According to Sri Lanka Cricket, Wanindu Hasaranga said it is in the best interest of Sri Lanka Cricket that he decided to relinquish the captaincy duties and remain in the side as a player.

Wanindu Hasaranga in his resignation letter said that Sri Lanka will always have his utmost best efforts as a player, and vouched to continue his support and stand by his team and leadership as always.

Sri Lanka Cricket, while accepting his resignation, said that Hasaranga will remain an important player for the team in their international cricketing plans.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced plans to implement a program aimed at transforming Anuradhapura, once a major trade and economic center, into a globally renowned city. He emphasized the need to highlight Anuradhapura’s cultural, educational, commercial, and economic values and to initiate archaeological research to bring its significance to the world stage. While cities like Tanjore, Madras, and Sanchipuram receive global attention, Anuradhapura has yet to be developed to the same extent.

The President mentioned that he would discuss these plans with the Director General of UNESCO, who is visiting Sri Lanka this week. Several universities worldwide have already expressed interest in supporting these initiatives.

President Wickremesinghe made these remarks during the ceremony to inaugurate the 150-kilowatt solar power system installed by the LTL Group at the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya premises in Anuradhapura this morning (13). He also stated that the government would support powering the Atamasthana and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi premises.

During his visit to the Anuradhapura shrine, the President met with the Chief Incumbent of the Atamasthana in Anuradhapura and Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera and engaged in a brief discussion. After paying obeisance to the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and receiving blessings, he participated in the solar power system’s inauguration.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe interacted with the public gathered at the Anuradhapura sacred grounds, engaging in friendly conversations and gathering their input.

In a significant move towards the government’s national policy of reducing carbon emissions and achieving a zero-emission target, LTL Holdings has dedicated a 150-kilowatt solar power system to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This marks the first phase of its net zero carbon emission plan.
This solar power system meets the entire power requirement of the Sri Maha Bodhiya precinct, making the premises of Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi a net zero carbon emission zone for the first time in history.

Expressing his views at this ceremony, President Ranil Wickremesinghe said;

“We extend our gratitude to LTL Holdings for their commitment to introducing renewable energy, including solar power, to Sri Lanka. Despite achieving global recognition today, LTL has remained rooted in its Sri Lankan origins.

The government continues to support initiatives at the premises housing the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya and at the Atamasthana, ensuring ongoing and future support. Anuradhapura boasts a rich history spanning over a millennium, once renowned as a hub of trade and economics. Preserving and exploring this ancient city’s archaeological treasures remains a significant endeavour.

During President J.R. Jayawardene’s tenure, the Cultural Triangle initiative, developed in collaboration with UNESCO’s Director General, and brought international acclaim to cities like Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, and Anuradhapura. Following the completion of this landmark project, new archaeological efforts in the Anuradhapura district are now imperative.

Meanwhile, UNESCO has undertaken extensive archaeological projects in Angkor Thom, Cambodia, supported by France and other nations over the past few decades. Similar efforts have enhanced Luang Prabang in Laos, facilitated by UNESCO in collaboration with France. Additionally, the Chinese government has initiated archaeological ventures across various sites, utilizing its financial resources effectively.

However, we have not taken the necessary steps to implement these activities in Anuradhapura city. Therefore, I have advised both the Department of Archaeology and the Cultural Triangle to undertake these initiatives. Additionally, an agreement has been reached with Durham University to conduct excavation work at the Maha Viharaya. I have consulted with leaders and instructed them to expedite these efforts, with Dr. Prashantha Gunawardena coordinating these activities.

The Maha Viharaya represents just a portion of Anuradhapura’s rich history. Hence, I have invited the Director General of UNESCO to visit Sri Lanka and discuss initiatives for long-term archaeological endeavours in the Anuradhapura city. Several universities overseas have shown interest in supporting us for these activities, and we are moving forward with their collaboration.

These efforts are part of a comprehensive program aimed at establishing Anuradhapura as a globally renowned city.

While Sigiriya has gained international fame, we have not adequately highlighted Anuradhapura’s historical significance as a major trade and economic center in the past. Cities like Tanjore (Thanjavur), Madurai, and Sanchipuram are often discussed, yet Anuradhapura, the fourth city, has been overlooked. Therefore, it is crucial to develop Anuradhapura city.

As part of these initiatives, preparations are underway to establish new hotels in Anuradhapura, which will contribute significantly to its development.”

Chief Sanghanayake Thera of Nuwara Kalaviya Most Ven. Dr. Pallegama Hemarathana Nayake Thera,

“It should be noted that the President, who attended the event, received blessings from the Maha Vihara faction. His participation in charitable activities brings continuous blessings. Two years ago, there was a power crisis which the current president successfully resolved. Issues with electricity bills in religious places were resolved through the government’s program to provide renewable energy, which has proven effective. Today, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi precinct is illuminated by solar energy, a significant spiritual merit according to dharma. As the Maha Sangha, we wish for all your aspirations to be fulfilled.”

State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe,

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic reform initiatives, aimed at steering the country away from economic crises, have shown significant progress today. These efforts have necessitated several economic reform programs. The government has actively promoted renewable energy expansion, enhancing opportunities in this sector. The introduction of the net metering system ensures fair billing based on actual electricity consumption. As part of accelerating the provision of electricity to religious shrines through renewable energy, solar panels are being installed and provided to Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya. It is noteworthy that the government is also implementing various programs to safeguard religious sites.”

Presidential Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor to the President on National Security Sagala Ratnayaka,

“Twenty-two years ago, LTL initiated electric lighting at the Ruwanweli Seya premises, with Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe participating as Prime Minister at the time. LTL has significantly impacted Sri Lanka’s electricity sector, establishing itself locally and gaining international prominence through dedication and innovation. In 2002, during Mr. Ranil Wickremesinghe’s tenure as Prime Minister, Sri Lanka faced severe power cuts of up to 18 hours daily.

Upon assuming office as President in 2022, power cuts persisted for nearly 13 hours daily. However, within six months, President Ranil Wickremesinghe effectively managed these challenges, significantly improving the country’s energy landscape. Sri Lanka has introduced the net metering system, enabling consumers to pay for actual electricity consumption only.

India has awarded a $10 million prize to support renewable energy expansion in Sri Lanka, alongside a $100 million loan for further initiatives in this sector.”

Chief Executive Officer of LTL Nuhuman Marikkar,

“The installation of solar panels at religious shrines commences today. In addition to illuminating these sacred sites, there are plans underway to establish a 150 MW renewable power plant in the Siambalanduwa area. LTL Company remains steadfast in its commitment to meeting public energy needs through the promotion of renewable energy.”

Notable attendees at the event included the Maha Sangha of the province, Members of Parliament S.M. Chandrasena and Duminda Dissanayake, former Minister P. Harrison, former Chief Minister S.M. Ranjith, Ceylon Electricity Board Chairman Nalinda Ilangakoon, and other dignitaries.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe inaugurated the second phase of the flyover project today (11). This phase, constructed by the Ministry of Transport and Highways at a cost of LKR 5,278 million, spans between Kompannavidiya and Justice Akbar Mawatha over the railway line.

The Road Development Authority, in collaboration with Maga Engineering, undertook this project to alleviate the delays and traffic congestion caused by the frequent closing of railway gates for 109 daily train journeys.

In the bustling commercial area of Kompannavidiya, which hosts various institutions including government offices, hospitals, religious places, restaurants and cinema halls, it has been observed that nearly three hours of the day is wasted due to the closing of railway gates.

With the completion of the flyover, travel from Kompannavidiya towards Galle Face and the Presidential Secretariat will be smooth and free of traffic jams, thereby contributing significantly to the national economy by reducing the time people spend on the road.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Minister of Transport, Highways and Mass Media Dr. Bandula Gunawardena, Senior Advisor to the President on National security and Presidential Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayaka, and Secretary of the Ministry of Transport and Highways Ranjith Rubasinghe.

Heavy showers more than 100 mm arlikely at some places in Western and Sabaragamuwa provinces and in Kandy and Nuwara-Eliya districts.

General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

The Presidential Scholarship award for A-Level students and students from Grade 01 to 11 from low-income families will commence at the district level from tomorrow (12).

The distribution of scholarships for the Colombo district took place on June 19th under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Temple Trees and beginning tomorrow, the scholarship distribution will extend to the remaining 24 districts across the country.

Selected students in the Hambantota district will receive their scholarships tomorrow (12). Scholarships will be given in the Badulla, Matale, and Jaffna districts on July 13. Kilinochchi district will follow on July 14. Gampaha district will have its distribution on July 16 and 17, while Galle and Anuradhapura districts will receive their scholorships on July 15.

Further distributions will take place in Vavuniya, Batticaloa, Ratnapura, Kegalle, and Nuwara Eliya districts on July 16. On July 17, the scholarships will be awarded in Kalutara, Mannar, Ampara, Kurunegala, and Kandy districts. The process continues on July 18 in Mullaitivu, Trincomalee, and Polonnaruwa districts. Monaragala and Matara districts will be awarded on July 19, and finally, the Puttalam district will receive their scholarships on July 22.

Under the patronage of District Secretaries and in coordination with all zonal education offices and principals, the scholarship awards will be distributed. In the first phase, only a portion of the scholarship recipients will be invited to the award ceremony.

The list of scholarship winners selected in the first phase from each school at the education zone level across all districts will be published on the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund.

Scholarships are being awarded to A-Level students at Rs. 6000 per month for 24 months. A total of 6000 scholarship winners have already been selected, with 60 students chosen from each of the 100 zonal offices. These students will receive their scholarships at the award ceremony. Additionally, arrangements will be made to provide scholarships of Rs. 6000 per month to students until they appear for the G.E.C. A-Level examination.

However, it has been noted that some schools have not yet submitted applications for the scholarship program, which provides Rs. 3000 per month for 12 months to selected students from first grade to 11th grade.

Principals of schools that have not yet submitted applications have been instructed to do so promptly. A list of schools that have not applied for scholarships has been distributed to all zonal education directors.

Therefore, if a school has not yet applied for scholarships, the President’s Fund urges parents and students to address this issue promptly by submitting the necessary applications.

President Ranil Wickremasinghe’s principle is that no one should be excluded during this challenging period. To enhance educational opportunities for children and prevent school dropout due to financial constraints, the President has instructed schools that did not apply for scholarships to apply promptly and seize this opportunity provided by the fund.

Please visit the official Facebook page of the President’s Fund at facebook.com/president.fund for updated information on the scholarship award ceremonies conducted at the district level.

Further details regarding these scholarships can be obtained from the respective District Secretariats. In case of any queries or issues, officers from the President’s Fund can be reached at 0112354354 (extension 4835) or through WhatsApp messages at 0740854527.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe stated that a robust economy can be established by enhancing the export economy, manufacturing, tourism, technology sectors, and modern agriculture. He highlighted that the government has already laid the foundation for this vision.

The President made these remarks today (12), during the inauguration ceremony of the second and third phases of the Export Processing Zone in Bingiriya, which is the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka. Addressing the ceremony, the President emphasized that efforts are underway to create new investment zones to further bolster the export economy of the country.

Upon completion of the Bingiriya Investment Zone, it is estimated that an export income of USD 2,600 million will be generated, and 75,000 job opportunities will be created.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe inaugurated the newly constructed Dongxia Industrial & Commerce Co. Ltd in the Bingiriya Export Processing Zone. During his visit, the President toured the premises and engaged in cordial conversations with the employees.

Following the tour, President Ranil Wickremesinghe held a discussion with officials from the Board of Investment, the Urban Development Authority, investors, and entrepreneurs. During the discussion, the President instructed officials to take steps to develop the areas of Bingiriya, Dummalasuriya, and Madampe to metropolitan standards, alongside the development of infrastructure in the export processing zone.

Plans to develop Bingiriya into a major economic region of the country were also discussed at these discussions. These plans include the development of agriculture, the manufacturing industry, information technology, tourism, and the fishing industry.

Addressing the gathering President Ranil Wickremesinghe further elaborated;

“Dongxia started its business in Sri Lanka in 2018. Even when the country faced bankruptcy, they trusted us and stayed to open this new factory. So far, the company has provided job opportunities to around 400 people, creating a promising future for the youth of the country. We should establish more such investment zones. The Bingiriya area should be developed as an investment zone to boost the overall economy. In 2018, we initiated the Bingiriya Investment Zone, and today, another thousand acres have been added to this zone.

We all went through a very difficult time. When the country’s economy collapsed, no one stepped forward to take over. A party with only one seat in Parliament had to assume the presidency, an unprecedented event in the world. Today, Sri Lanka is free from bankruptcy. Through the debt restructuring process, we have received relief of USD 08 billion from our total debt. Additionally, the entire loan repayment period has been extended to 2043, giving the government some breathing room to stabilize the economy.

If this program is not carried forward, the country’s economy may collapse again. Even today, our import costs exceed our export earnings. If this continues, the country may face bankruptcy again in 15 years. Therefore, proper economic management should be maintained by controlling the acquisition of foreign loans. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia have progressed to an export-driven economy, but Sri Lanka has not yet reached that level.

Therefore, we must uphold the agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and advance the country’s economy. Steps should be taken to strengthen the export economy. The factory opening today is a good example of fostering an export economy. A strong economy can be built by developing the export economy, manufacturing sector, tourism sector, technology sector, and modern agriculture. The government has already laid the basic foundation for this.

If this program is preserved, there is a bright future ahead.

With the aim of developing the export sector in Sri Lanka, the Bingiriya Export Zone was established here in 2018. This initiative aims to develop Kuliyapitiya, Dummalasuriya, Madampe, Bingiriya, and Chilaw areas too. Through the development of this entire investment zone, 75,000 job opportunities can be created. Additionally, Iranavila, Bingiriya, and Chilaw are to be developed as tourist areas, with plans to build a golf course in the Iranavila area. There is also a focus on creating an IT zone and utilizing the estate of the Chilaw Plantation Company for an agricultural modernization program.

With the development of this investment zone, new housing and a new city will emerge, creating numerous business opportunities for its residents. We aim to develop Bingiriya as a major economic zone in the country through the advancement of agriculture, industry, manufacturing, information technology, tourism, and the fishing industry. This will also significantly improve the Pannala and Kuliyapitiya areas, and we believe that the restoration of Madampe will be achieved through these efforts.

All these programs have been implemented for the development of the country. We are currently in a period of gradual recovery after a difficult time. There are still unresolved issues affecting the people. To address these, we must adhere to a unified economic system. For success, we need to enact economic transformation in the country, with Bingiriya playing a pivotal role. Let’s build a new economy centred on Bingiriya and Iranavila areas. It should be stated that you all are part of this transformation.”

State Minister of Investment Promotion, Dilum Amunugama;

President Ranil Wickremesinghe initiated the establishment of the Bingiriya Export Trade Zone in 2018, when he was the Prime Minister. Today marks the inauguration of the first factory in this zone, with an additional 1000 acres allocated for the second and third phases. The President has directed us to develop new investment zones, and we are exploring opportunities in Iranavila, Mankulam, and Kankasanthuari areas.

Under the robust economic leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sri Lanka has entered into 35 investment agreements this year. The Ministry of Investment Promotion has successfully achieved its target of attracting investments totalling Rs.01 billion, as set by the Ministry of Finance. These achievements herald a promising future for Sri Lanka’s economy.

Governor of the North Western Province Ahamed Nazeer Zainulabdeen, State Ministers Shantha Bandara, Ashoka Priyantha, and D.B. Herath, Members of Parliament Anura Priyadharshana Yapa and Sumith Udukumbura, Former Minister Akila Viraj Kariyawasam, Secretary to the Ministry of Investment Promotion Meera Muhiadeen Nayeemudeen, Director General of the Board of Investment Renuka M. Weerakone, and Managing Director of Dongxia Industrial & Commerce Co. Ltd. Sho Wing were also present at the event.

State Minister of Transport, Lasantha Alagiyawanna, stated that the on-going strikes are motivated by political interests rather than genuine professional rights.

He also announced that a gazette with the necessary regulations on speed limits, aimed at reducing road accidents, will be issued within the next two weeks.

State Minister for Transport Lasantha Alagiyawanna, made this statement during a news conference held today (11) at the Presidential Media Centre (PMC), under the theme ‘Collective Path to a Stable Country’.

In his comments, the State Minister further said,

“We have initiated several programs to enhance efficiency in the transport sector. Notably, the Kadawatha bus terminal is scheduled to be opened in August under the patronage of President Ranil Wickremesinghe. These bus terminals incorporate modern transport management methods and advanced technology.

In 2023, there were 2,214 reported road accidents resulting in 2,321 deaths. As of the 30th of June, 1,103 road accidents have been reported this year, with 1,154 fatalities. To address this issue, our Ministry has implemented various programs aimed at reducing the number of road accidents.

The National Council for Road Safety has allocated LKR 50 million to the Sri Lanka Police for the purchase of necessary speed control equipment. Additionally, the Ministry of Transport will issue a gazette with new road speed limit regulations within the next two weeks.

Furthermore, arrangements have been made to provide teachers with manuals for establishing Road Safety Clubs at the school level. These clubs will be included in the school system as an extracurricular activity, and a medal awarding program has also been introduced.

Additionally, we are actively engaged in addressing issues related to the rail strike. The Public Service Commission has already granted approval for the promotion of station masters every five years. The necessary Cabinet paper seeking approval from the Cabinet for this promotion has been prepared.

However, it is evident to the public that the current strikes are motivated purely by political agendas. It should be noted that these strikes do not stem from genuine professional grievances”.

Former Health Minister Keheliya Rambukwella and six others, arrested over the alleged importation of substandard human immunoglobulin vials, have been further remanded until July 25.

The order was issued after the defendants were produced before the Maligakanda Magistrate’s Court on Friday (12).

President Ranil Wickremesinghe emphasized that the country’s progress would be undone without the implementation of a proper economic system. He stated that some individuals are spreading various statements aimed at undermining the economy and emphasized that falling prey to such false propaganda could lead to a permanent economic collapse.

The President made these remarks while attending the opening of the main office of the Department of Cinnamon Development in Karandeniya, Galle today (10).

A new department dedicated to the cultivation of cinnamon, called the Department of Cinnamon Development, was established and inaugurated following a proposal by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the 2023 budget.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe also launched the official website of the Department of Cinnamon Development.

During the event, he was presented with a ten-year road map for the promotion of the cinnamon industry and the “Cinnamon Handbook,” a technical publication on cinnamon cultivation.

Additionally, President Wickremesinghe awarded GAP and GI certificates to selected cinnamon entrepreneurs.

Addressing the gathering, President Wickremesinghe further elaborated,

After 200 years, we are re-establishing this department to revive the development of cinnamon cultivation in the country. The primary responsibility of this department is to enhance cinnamon production, starting with increasing output. Each acre of land should yield maximum productivity, and we should focus on cultivating high-quality cinnamon varieties instead of inferior ones.

Additionally, the area under cinnamon cultivation needs to expand. The government proposes providing new land and encouraging the cultivation of cinnamon alongside other crops. This initiative could potentially increase cinnamon production three to four times.

Moreover, sales must be boosted as increased production is futile without corresponding sales growth. To achieve this, we can seek both local and international expertise to enhance sales. If companies take on this responsibility, the government is prepared to support them.

Therefore, we should move forward by seizing new market opportunities. We aim to establish this institute as a Cinnamon Development Centre in the Karandeniya area, operating not under the old system but using modern methods.

In this way, we are reaching into the past to secure our future.

The main reason for our country’s bankruptcy was reliance on an import economy, taking on huge loans for imports. With the right economic policies, we have managed to free ourselves from bankruptcy. We have also reduced our debt by about USD 8 billion and extended the repayment period until 2043. If we do not transition to an export economy, our country’s economy will collapse again in 15 years. Therefore, we must swiftly adopt a new economic system and earn foreign exchange through exports.

Historically, we supplied the world with cinnamon. Now, we must return to that legacy. In the past, cinnamon was cultivated from Puttalam to Hambantota. We need to restart these activities with a strategic plan. Additionally, we are working to attract new investments in various industries, including information technology.

The situation that prevailed in the country two years ago should not be repeated. Some claimed that the country was beyond recovery and that my assumption of power was illegitimate. Yet, we have managed to steer the country towards recovery. However, if we fail to proceed in the right direction, this achievement could slip through our fingers. We have now set a course for advancing the nation. Amidst diverse opinions and promises, our focus should be on safeguarding our hard-won progress and advancing further. Therefore, by staying on this correct path for another decade, we can seize the opportunity for uninterrupted development.

Minister of Industries and Health, Dr. Ramesh Pathirana,

I would like to express gratitude to President Ranil Wickremesinghe for founding the Department of Cinnamon Development in a region renowned for cinnamon cultivation. Sri Lankan cinnamon holds a distinctive position in the international market. There is significant demand for Sri Lankan cinnamon in Mexico and other Latin American countries, where much of it is re-exported to the United States. Many are unaware that cassia, often substituted for cinnamon globally, can be carcinogenic. Hence, with effective marketing, Sri Lankan cinnamon can achieve higher value recognition.

Minister of Agriculture and Plantation Industries, Mahinda Amaraweera,

The establishment of the Department of Cinnamon Development marks a historic milestone as the first department under the Ministry of Industry in the Southern Province. This department aims to impart modern technological knowledge essential for cinnamon cultivation and intends to expand cinnamon cultivation by introducing new lands.
Farmers in the Hambantota district are keen to cultivate cinnamon, which can mitigate the risks posed by wild elephants. Efforts should be directed towards promoting Sri Lankan cinnamon globally, highlighting the issues of cassia’s monopoly and its carcinogenic properties. This initiative holds significant potential to boost foreign exchange earnings.

Two years ago, farmers abandoned their fields due to lack of fertilizer and took to the streets. Since assuming the presidency, Ranil Wickremesinghe has facilitated fertilizer procurement through diplomatic relations. Today, Sri Lanka produces enough rice to meet domestic consumption, thanks to this program. Overall, President Ranil Wickremesinghe has steered Sri Lanka’s economy onto a more promising trajectory.

The event was attended by State Ministers Mohan Priyadarshana de Silva, D.B. Herath, MPs Vajira Abeywardena, Sampath Athukorale along with other public representatives of the province, Senior Adviser to the President on Economic Affairs Dr. R.H.S. Samaratunga, Chairman of the Department of Cinnamon Development Janaka Lindara and various other dignitaries.