"When you can measure what you are speaking about, and express it in numbers, you know something about it, when you cannot express it in numbers, your knowledge is of a meager and unsatisfactory kind; it may be the beginning of knowledge, but you have scarcely, in your thoughts advanced to the stage of science.”

As we step into the year 2024, we find ourselves facing both challenges and the prospect of revitalizing the beloved nation. While each of us holds myriad personal aspirations, the realization of these goals is intrinsically tied to the resurgence of the country from its current state of crisis.

Through the unwavering commitment of all the citizens and their resilience throughout the past year, we achieved a foundational success in saving the country from financial distress. However, in order to achieve economic stability, we must continue to forge ahead in this demanding path – one that is not adorned with flowers but presents formidable challenges.

The responsibility to contribute to this national resurgence rests upon every Sri Lankan. Recognizing and fulfilling this collective responsibility is crucial for the rebuilding of the nation. January, named after God Janus, the God of beginnings and transitions in Roman mythology. God Janus possessed two faces to see the past and the future, serves as a reminder for us to reflect on the shared responsibilities.

Let us, in the spirit of the New Year, commit to fulfilling these responsibilities for the greater good of the country acknowledging both the past and the future. Through responsible and dedicated efforts, let us strive to make the New Year a prosperous one.

Ranil Wickremesinghe,
President,
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

The annual Sri Pada season began yesterday after processions, carrying the Sacred Casket of Relics of the Buddha, Sacred Objects, and the statue of God Saman from the Sri Pada Raja Maha Viharaya in Galpoththaawala, Ratnapura, reached Sri Pada yesterday morning. Here, the Maha Sangha carrying the Sacred Casket of Relics to the upper precincts of Sri Pada

Beneficiaries include those given State lands under licence system :

Process to be completed in a few years:
Two million families will benefit:

Steps are being taken by the Government to grant full ownership of State lands to 10,000 people who received lands under a licence system, in January next year.

This is according to a proposal presented by President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the 2024 Budget. The Waste Lands Ordinance was passed in 1897. The British government acquired thousands of acres of rural land across the country under that Ordinance. Afterwards, in 1935, under the Land Development Ordinance, those land slots were distributed among farmers under the licence system. But although around 100 years have passed, the ownership of these lands has not been handed back to the farmers and other people who owned them.

The President in the 2024 Budget said the Government will be handing over the lands to farmers who lost the ownership of their traditional lands during the British colonial era.

The task which will start in January is to be completed within another few years and two million families will get the ownership of land and farmland. The Cabinet of Ministers approved this programme on December 11.

Ownership deeds will be issued next January for those who have already applied.

For this process, ‘Urumaya Units’ will be established in all regional secretariat offices, provincial land commissioner offices, inter-provincial land commissioner offices and inter-provincial assistant land commissioner offices in the country.

The Land Commissioner General has issued a circular to the government agencies to inform them about this process.

Christmas represents the celebration of hope. “The individuals who traversed in obscurity, burdened with tears and sighs, have witnessed a profound light.” In the pursuit of revitalizing that hope, I extend my wishes for all of us to conscientiously fulfil our responsibilities and duties, fostering a Christmas that instils fresh hopes in our nation.

Amid our celebratory mood, it is crucial to maintain focus on the authentic significance of Jesus Christ’s birth in a manger, encapsulated by the theme “Sharing a meal with the less fortunate.”
Christmas serves as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ, who, in self-sacrifice on the cross, redeemed humanity from sin. Guided by Christian teachings, we are urged to forgive those who oppose us, those who have wronged us and to relinquish all feelings of animosity and resentment.

While the external festivities of Christmas may be apparent, I posit that its true significance remains elusive unless accompanied by a profound spiritual transformation within us. This year, as we commemorate Christmas amidst a backdrop of numerous challenges burdening our society, I extend an invitation to everyone to unite in shouldering their responsibilities, recognizing the genuine adversities confronting our nation.

I wish you all a blessed and meaningful Christmas!

Ranil Wickremesinghe
President
Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

The President urges global adaptability amidst shifting geopolitical realities

President Ranil Wickremesinghe declared a monumental shift in Sri Lanka’s foreign policy during a speech at the Final Presentation Night of the Colours Re-Awarding and Commissioning Parade held at the Sri Lanka Military Academy Diyathalawa Friday (15). Departing from the conventional approach of associating peacekeeping solely with the Ministry of Defence, the President revealed that peacekeeping is now an integral element of the nation’s broader security and foreign policy framework.

The President outlined the key components of the new foreign policy, emphasizing a holistic approach that extends beyond traditional political connections. Peacekeeping, climate change, and various other global concerns are now central pillars of Sri Lanka’s international relations strategy.

Furthermore, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the intricate challenges posed by the transforming global landscape, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach to international relations and urged a compelling call for the international community to navigate the complexities of the evolving global order with vigilance and a proactive mind-set.

To bolster regional cooperation, the President has directed the Secretary of Defence and service commanders to facilitate increased opportunities for neighbouring countries, particularly the Maldives and extend support to African nations. Additionally, the State Minister and Chief of Defence Staff are set to visit these countries to communicate Sri Lanka’s commitment.

Acknowledging a comprehensive paper on Sri Lanka’s role in UN peacekeeping, the President commended the proposals presented, pledging to discuss and implement them with relevant authorities. The President also noted the importance of the Ministry of Finance collaborations with the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, underscoring its indispensable role.

Expressing his aspiration to see Sri Lanka assume a more significant role in peacekeeping, President Wickremesinghe addressed the evolving nature of peacekeeping missions. Drawing from historical context, he reflected on the dynamics of global politics during the Cold War, highlighting the ease of deploying peace forces where major powers like the US and Soviet Union concurred.

The President acknowledged the profound shifts in global dynamics since the collapse of the Soviet Union, leading to the dissolution of traditional alliances and the emergence of independent players and non-state actors.

He addressed the challenges faced by the UN Security Council in reaching agreements, citing the complexities of modern geopolitics. He pointed to the increasing role of the African Union in peacekeeping efforts in West Africa as a testament to the evolving international landscape.

The President also noted the on-going conflict in Ukraine, emphasizing the failure to reach a resolution and the resulting stalemate between Russia and Western nations. He highlighted the financial repercussions, including the recent decision by the US Congress to withhold further funding. Insights were shared on the impact of economic sanctions on Russia, with the observation that these measures redirected the nation’s economic influence into the Middle East, West Asia and Sri Lanka. This shift manifested in increased Russian tourism and investments.

President Wickremesinghe delved into the complex issue of Taiwan, underscoring the changing alignments and the influential role of China in the Indian Ocean. He pointed out the formation of strategic alliances, including collaboration between the US, India, Japan and Australia.

While expressing concern about the on-going conflict in Gaza, President Wickremesinghe highlighted the asymmetric nature of the war triggered by a non-state actor. He lamented the high human toll and the UN’s limited intervention capabilities. Reflecting on contemporary challenges, the President underscored the growing power of non-state actors and their access to advanced weaponry. He suggested that future UN missions might need to confront global drug operations due to their increasing influence.

The President concluded by emphasizing the imperative for the UN and its missions to adapt to changing geopolitics. Rather than opting out, he urged increased global involvement in addressing complex situations, emphasizing adaptability and foresight.

Recalling Sri Lanka’s historical involvement in peacekeeping, the President cited the establishment of a military academy in Diyathalawa in response to a request from the late General Dennis Perera. Listening to presentations by future officers, he expressed pride in the institutions and decisions made to ensure the quality of Sri Lanka’s armed forces.

President Wickremesinghe underscored the significance of maintaining well-equipped and well-trained armed forces, emphasizing the pivotal role of Sri Lanka’s education system as the foundation for military excellence. The President’s address signals a significant departure from the past, marking Sri Lanka’s commitment to a more comprehensive and globally aware foreign policy.

The ceremony was graced by the esteemed participation of the Secretary, Ministry of Defence Gen. Kamal Gunaratne (Rtd), the Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Shavendra Silva, Commander of the Army Lt. Gen. Vikum Liyanage, Commandant of the Academy Major General M.T.I. Mahalekam, Staff of the Academy, other officials and Cadets.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced that a programme focusing on utilizing both university education and vocational training for the country’s development will commence next year.

Emphasizing the need for a knowledgeable human resource to propel the nation forward, he assigned the responsibility to the university and vocational training sectors in Sri Lanka.

The President highlighted the extended support from the private sector for a transformative shift in vocational training education and the imminent introduction of laws to reorganize the entire education system in the country.

These remarks were made during President Wickremesinghe’s presence at the 2023 graduation ceremony of the National Institute of Business Studies (NSBM Green University). In a celebratory gesture, NSBM Green University Vice Chancellor E.A. Weerasinghe presented a collection of valuable books to President Wickremesinghe.

Addressing the gathering, President Wickremesinghe said: “We aim to revolutionize university education to ensure that every graduate secures employment. Currently, the admission of students to Government universities is restricted due to logistical challenges. However, other nations have effectively addressed this issue, aligning with the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, which asserts the right of everyone to access education. In line with this, governments and private entities worldwide have established universities. As Sri Lanka, we are now prepared to undertake this task.

“In our efforts, we plan to establish vocational training colleges by merging existing vocational training institutes. To enhance employability, we are introducing job-oriented curricula for these courses. Encouragingly, the private sector has pledged support for these initiatives, and we anticipate implementing this programme by the coming year.

Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Nihal Ranasinghe, NSBM Green University Vice Chancellor E. A. Weerasinghe, Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Chaminda Ratnayake, deans and academic staff and parents of graduate students were present.

The collection of books presented to the President included Poverty, by America by Matthew Desmond, Small Mercies by Dennis Lehane King, A Life by Jonathan Eig, Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano, All the Sinners Bleed by S.S. Cosby, Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton, What Napoleon Could Not Do by D.K. Nuro, The Wager by David Grann, and Blue Hour by Tiffany Clarke Harrison.

South Asia’s first revolving restaurant and banquet hall will open the Blue Orbit restaurant and banquet hall in Lotus Tower on Sunday, December 10. This will unveiled as a joint venture between Colombo Lotus Tower management who will have 80% stake and Citrus Leisure PLC.

The ‘Blue Orbit’, will be South Asia’s tallest restaurant and Sri Lanka’s first revolving restaurant.

Investment Promotion State Minister Dilum Amunugama said the ‘Blue Orbit’ will add more value to Sri Lanka as a tourist destination.”He aid the Lotus Tower was branded as a white elephant and this government converted it into a profitable venture. “This is a clear example of how successful a private public partnership can move on.”With seating capacity for 225 guests at any given time, the Blue Orbit restaurant will feature an extensive international buffet for lunch and dinner, operating from 11 am to 11 pm.

Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr.Bandula Gunawardhana said the exams period and time period when the results are released will be included in the new Education Policy.

He said that necessary solutions to all issues related to education have been included in it.

The Minister was speaking at the media briefing to announce the decisions of the Cabinet of Ministers at the Government Information Department.

He said that during the time when he was the Education Minister, the results of the three main examinations such as Grade five scholarship, GCE Ordinary and Advanced Level were released on time as the country was in a normal state, and the entire education system was disrupted due to the Covid pandemic.

He said that various campaigns, agitations and court orders also disrupted education in the country. He said the Education Minister has always stated in Parliament that he and the Examinations Department are working hard to prepare a methodology for issuing examination results as soon as possible, but delays have occurred due to factors beyond their control.

The Minister said taking into consideration the opinions and suggestions of a Cabinet Subcommittee consisting of 25 experts a new national policy will be implemented for education.

Signing of pact to promote ‘Fair Trade Concept’ between SL and IFTN gets Cabinet nod

A special discussion on the future development of Meegoda Ayurveda Hospital, which is more than forty years old, was held presided over by the Homagama Provincial Development Committee Chairman, Transport, Highways and Mass Media Minister Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana. During the discussion, the Minister and other officials joined in a special observation of the treatment activities and development projects currently being carried out in the hospital premises.

Minister Gunawardhana speaking at the discussion said:”Meegoda Ayurvedic Hospital, which is a leading Ayurvedic hospital in the Western Province, which is run according to the local medical system, was started by then Health Minister Gamini Jayasuriya. Later, it was transferred under the control of the Provincial Council.

In the past, there was a plan to take it back to the central government and build it as a central government hospital. But as per the request of the Provincial Governor and the Provincial Chief Secretary, it has been understood that it is appropriate to give more space to carry out these activities by the Provincial Councils when more powers will be given to the Provincial system in the future.

The reason for that is because it is more practical for the central government to act as the national policy decision-making body. Accordingly, as the Provincial Development Committee Chairman, we have decided to operate the Meegoda Ayurveda Hospital under the Provincial Council without taking it over to the central government.

Accordingly, we hope that the Provincial Council will develop this hospital as a national neurology hospital where various experiments, research and learning processes will take place.

Right now, a huge majority of the country is facing neurological disorders. It is very timely to increase the quality of this hospital, where a large number of people are receiving outpatient and inpatient treatment, especially to attract tourists. Through this, there is also the possibility of creating a new means of acquiring dollars for the country.

At present, Ayurveda and Panchakarma treatments in Kerala region of India have become extremely popular among local as well as foreign tourists. Our aim is to raise this Ayurvedic treatment centre to such a level.

For that, a specific programme should be prepared and implemented for the development of this Ayurvedic Centre as a central institution not only for the Homagama, Meegoda areas but also for the whole of Sri Lanka by preparing the surrounding beautiful environment in a suitable manner.Starting a project to manage the old buildings and assets through the participation of the private sector will also be a solution to the lack of provision for the government at this time. Through that, I believe that it will be possible to make this institution an example for the country.”

Harin Fernando sworn in as the Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs and Pavithra Wanniarachchi sworn in as the Minister of Irrigation before President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat.