COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has made it clear that his country will not be a part of any big power rivalry, especially in the Indian Ocean region."The total competition in the world has gone from US and Russia to US and China," said the President adding that whatever happens in Russia is a sideshow."Whether the US is in the Indian ocean we have no objections.

We have no objections to the Japanese or the Chinese being there, as long as there is no rivalry. We are the literal states, and we have to look after our interests.

The largest of them is India, and being the largest literal state India would like very much to ensure that there is no threat to them.

But, we all accept that there should not be any threat to literal states. It should not lead to a competition or threat that would a rivalry to all of us," said Wickremesinghe.He was speaking at the General Convocation of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University on Friday (11) as the Chief Guest."Some will ask why are you focusing so much on the armed forces, why are we looking at defence 2030.

Read more on newsfirst.lk

All news from newsfirst.lk

The website covid-19.rehab is an aggregator of news from open sources. The source is indicated at the beginning and at the end of the announcement. You can send a complaint on the news if you find it unreliable.

Modi to inaugurate new ICMR centres to boost health research

National Institute for One Health in Nagpur will focus on increasing preparedness and laboratory capabilities for identification of novel and unknown zoonotic agents NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will lay the foundation stone for National Institute for One Health and inaugurate the Centre for Research, Management and Control of Haemoglobinopathies, in Nagpur, on Sunday. These institutes will help expedite the country’s efforts to boost health research. “With increased interaction between humans and animals, domestic and wild, and influenced by climate change, human health can no longer be seen in isolation.

Narendra Modi city New Delhi India region Vidarbha infection isolate Health

Sandya Ekneligoda among 25 women activists named to prestigious ‘BBC 100 Women 2022’

Colombo (News 1st) – Sri Lanka’s human rights campaigner Sandya Ekneligoda is among just 25 women activists worldwide who have been named to the prestigious ‘BBC 100 Women 2022’.Mrs. Ekneligoda has relentlessly campaigned for human rights in Sri Lanka since her husband, journalist Pradeep Ekneligoda who was himself an activist, disappeared in 2010.

Mahinda Rajapaksa China Iran Usa Indonesia Sri Lanka Britain Israel Palestine Bangladesh Brazil Afghanistan Mexico Egypt Ecuador Ukraine Niger president death Government

Celine Dion, 54 'focusing on her health and children' amid her battle with 'Stiff Person Syndrome'

'Resilient' Celine Dion is 'focusing on her health and children' after being diagnosed with rare neurological condition Stiff Person Syndrome, which causes her muscles to tense uncontrollably.The 54-year-old singer moved fans to tears as she revealed she had the incurable neurological condition in an Instagram post on Thursday - which has forced her to postpone her European tour.A source told People on Friday: 'Celine is overwhelmed and moved by the outpouring of love and support from her fans,'It's been a very difficult time and she has a hard road ahead of her, but she is doing everything she can to get back on stage and see her fans.' Heartbreaking: 'Resilient' Celine Dion is 'focusing on her health and children' after being diagnosed with rare neurological condition Stiff Person Syndrome, which causes her muscles to tense uncontrollably. The 54-year-old singer moved fan 'They have always been there for her.

René Angélil death Health Progressive

News Releases from Department of Health | Updated COVID-19 vaccines for children as young as 6 months coming soon

HONOLULU – The Hawai‘i Department of Health has placed orders to supply participating healthcare providers with updated COVID-19 bivalent vaccines for children as young as six months of age.The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued emergency use authorization for keiki-sized vaccines Thursday, December 8.

Elizabeth Char city Honolulu state Health covid-19 vaccine

Gary Friedkin dead at 70: Happy Days star - who was Ewok in Star Wars - passes after COVID-19 battle

Gary Friedkin who starred in Happy Days and Star Wars has died at 70 after a lengthy battle with COVID-19.The veteran actor passed away with family at his side at Hospice House in Youngstown, Ohio due to complications from the novel coronavirus.He had previously endured a challenging three-and-a-half weeks battling COVID-19 in the medical intensive care unit (ICU) at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, according to his obituary in the Tribute Chronicle published earlier this week.

Rita Wilson Star Wars Philippines state Ohio Mongolia city Wilson county Henry county Winkler hospital covid-19 stars

Danniella Westbrook was 'hours away from cardiac arrest' as she gives health update

Danniella Westbrook has given fans a health update after she was rushed to hospital - and says she was just 'hours away from a cardiac arrest'.

hospital symptoms Health

Partnered LGBQ+ Adults Faced Greater Stress During the Pandemic

This is a summary of the findings from the manuscript “COVID-19 Stress and Sexual Identities,” written by Drs. Wendy Manning and Claire Kamp Dush.

pandemic Health reports

Lanarkshire health board announces major expansion of primary care occupational therapy service

NHS Lanarkshire is set to become one of the first health boards in Scotland to provide a primary care occupational therapy (OT) service to all local GP practices.

Mark Russell Scotland NHS Health Provident

Bam Margera Hospitalized With Serious Pneumonia & COVID-19 -- And Put On A Ventilator!

Oh, no! Bam Margera has been hospitalized due to a very serious case of pneumonia and COVID-19!

Britney Spears Scott Disick city Las Vegas city Atlanta county San Diego hospital covid-19 pneumonia

Danniella Westbrook reveals terrifying Strep A health diagnosis after shock ambulance pic

DANNIELLA Westbrook has been told she has Strep A after she was rushed to hospital last night and "nearly died" from the flu. The ex EastEnders star is still being treated in a London hospital and has been updating fans on her condition on Instagram.

Nick Carter Amber Gill city London city Belfast hospital death stars

Harsh new tax law passed by Parliament 79-36

Diana Gamage challenges party membership of Sajith Premadasa, Ranjith Madduma Bandara

COLOMBO (News 1st) – State Minister Diana Gamage had filed a petition claiming that Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa and Ranjith Madduma Bandara holding membership and positions of the Samagi Jana Balavegaya is against the constitution of the party.Accordingly, both Sajith Premadasa and Ranjith Madduma Bandara were ordered by a Colombo District Court to appear in court on the 25th of January 2023.State Minister Diana Gamage had filed the petition via President's Counsel Uditha Igalahewa with the Colombo District Court and noted that Sajith Premadasa and Ranjith Madduma Bandara continue to remain as members of the United National Party.As evidence, Diana Gamage had produced an affidavit from the General Secretary of the United National Party, and a judicial process that Ranjith Madduma Bandara had taken to challenge disciplinary action by the UNP, as evidence material in her petition.She says that article 3 (3) of chapter 3 of the SJB constitution notes that if a party member holds membership of another party, he or she will lose the membership of the Samagi Jana Balavegaya.She requests the court to deliver a ruling that both Sajith Premadasa, and Ranjith Madduma Bandara holding membership of the SJB, and holding the posts of Leader and General Secretary of the SJB, are illegal.Diana Gamage has also requested an order suspending those from holding the said positions under the examination of the petition is complete.

Sajith Premadasa Diana Gamage president Action Party

Lanarkshire school is praised by education inspectors - but attainment drops as a result of Covid

A Lanarkshire primary school has earned passing grades from education chiefs after a recent inspection.

Britain pandemic Coronavirus reports

UN joins Thuru Kepakaru to preserve & protect fauna and flora

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Thuru Kepakaru, is a project initiated by S-Lon Lanka (Pvt) Ltd., and News 1st solely to preserve and protect the flora and fauna which make up the environment of Sri Lanka.Another leg of this program took place on Thursday (8) at the Dudley Senanayake College in Colombo.The main aim of Thuru Kepakaru is to ensure that all the planted saplings are assigned to a foster who would protect, nurture, and continuously interact with them.Thursday's (8) event took place with the participation of Juan Fernandez-Jardon, the Senior Human Rights Advisor (OHCHR) in the Office of the Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka.In addition, the Executive Group Director of the Capital Maharaja Group S. C.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Navy celebrates 72 years; promotions given to officers and other ranks

Sri Lanka Navy which is held in high esteem as the First Line of Defence of the Nation is marking the organization’s 72nd Anniversary today (09th December 2022). At the directives of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, a wide range of programmes are being conducted in each Naval Command, giving prominence to time-honoured naval customs and religious practices. In addition, capital ships of the Sri Lanka Navy will rest at anchor off the Galle Face Green today (09th December), giving the public an opportunity to have a glance at some of the major ships of the Sri Lanka Navy.Coinciding with its anniversary, 222 officers as well as 3548 senior and junior sailors were promoted and advanced to their next higher ranks and rates on 09th December, at the recommendation of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne.

Nishantha Ulugetenne Sri Lanka recommendations Volunteers donates

UN ramps up urgent humanitarian appeal for Sri Lankans

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The United Nations (UN) team in Sri Lanka and non-governmental organisations revised and extended their joint Humanitarian Needs and Priorities (HNP) Plan, which aims to provide life-saving assistance to 3.4 million people amid Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis since independence.Since June, the HNP has been responding to the Government's request for UN-backed multi-sector support for Sri Lanka's debt and food and medicine shortages."Governments and donor agencies have helped the humanitarian community reach over 1 million of the country's most vulnerable people with cash, food, school meals, medicine, protection, and livelihood support," said the UN in a statement.The HNP—aligned with appeals from other UN agencies—has raised US $79 million for Sri Lanka thanks to landmark support from the U.S and USAID, Australia, Japan including JICA, the UN Central Emergency Relief Fund (CERF), as well as Canada, Denmark, Norway, New Zealand, Italy, EU, Switzerland, France, and with additional support from the UK, Germany, Thailand, Sweden, Georgia, Latter Day Saint Charities and private individuals and organizations."We are immensely appreciative of the solidarity the international community has shown with the people of Sri Lanka, including through their generous contributions to the HNP.

Sri Lankans Thailand Japan Usa Sri Lanka Switzerland Italy Germany Britain France Australia Canada Eu county Day New Zealand Denmark Norway Sweden state Georgia medicines SOLIDARITY Provident

Advisory for Cyclonic storm “Mandous”

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Department of Meteorology says that the Severe Cyclonic storm “Mandous” lay centred over Southwest Bay of Bengal (250km northeast of Trincomalee) near latitude 10.4N and longitude 82.6E at 08.30 p.m yesterday (8). It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross North Tamil-Nadu, Puducherry and South Andhra Pradesh coast around mid-night of 09th December.Maximum wind speeds will be (70-90) kmph and can increase up to 100 kmph in sea areas between (06N – 15N, and 80E – 88E).Heavy showers or thundershowers and very rough to high seas can be expected in the aforementioned sea areas.There is a possibility that near-shore sea areas off the coast extending from Kankasanturai to Trincomalee via Mullaitivu may experience surges due to swell waves of (about 2.5 m – 3.5 m) height (This is not for the land area).Southern sea areas bounded by (02N – 06N, 80E – 88E) will be very rough at times and wind speeds will be (40-50) kmph and can increase up to 70 kmph in the Southern sea areas. The cyclonic storm “Mandous” over Southwest Bay of Bengal (300km northeast of Trincomalee) is located near latitude 9.5N and longitude 83.8E at 08.30 a.m. today (9). It is very likely to move west-northwestwards and cross North Tamil-Nadu, Puducherry and South Andhra Pradesh coast over the Southwest Bay of Bengal around midnight of 09th December.Cloudy skies will prevail over most parts of the Island.

Department Waves BAY

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe said that the country has had to face adverse repercussions due to the short sighted popular decisions taken in the past and unpopular decisions have had to be taken for the prospects of the country.The President made this observation on Thursday (08) taking part in the third reading debate of the budget proposal for the financial year 2023.He said further that a Parliamentary Select Committee will be established on a resolution by the Parliament to look into those who led the economy to bankruptcy with their incorrect fiscal policies.The statement made by President Ranil Wickremesinghe is as follows:Some members discussed the Mahaweli lands. The lands of the state were under the Land Commissioner until 1977. Due to the rapid development, some of the urban and rural lands were brought under the Urban Development Authority, Mahaweli Authority, and several other corporations.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president economy Government

Health body provides Strep A update which should reassure worried parents in Lanarkshire

Parents in Lanarkshire who may be concerned that their child has been infected by Strep A should seek the advice of a health professional.

Scotland state Indiana infection Health reports

Former Grey’s Anatomy Writer Who Based Episodes On Her Health Issues ADMITS She Faked Cancer!!

The former Grey’s Anatomy writer is finally coming clean about the lies surrounding her medical history!

Shonda Rhimes city Pittsburgh doctor Health reports

Health unions say Forth Valley Royal report vindicate staff concerns over hospital

A pair of health unions representing NHS staff say the recent report into the state of the hospital have backed up long-held concerns raised by members for some time.

Scotland NHS patient Health

Lanarkshire health board launches new website to help with job search

Lanarkshire's health board has launched a new website to help them fill job vacancies in the region.

Scotland county Kay NHS Health Career

Celine Dion forced to pull out of shows as she's diagnosed with incurable health issue

Meghan and Harry's award leaves Piers Morgan baffled 'Bulls**t'"While we’re still learning about this rare condition, we now know this is what’s been causing all the spasms I’ve been having," she added."Unfortunately, these spasms affect every aspect of my daily life sometimes causing difficulties when I walk and not allowing me to use my vocal chords to sing the way im used to."She went on to say she has a "great team of doctors working alongside her" and is being supported by her "precious children"."I miss you so much I miss seeing all of you being on the stage performing for you I always give 100 percent when I do my show but my condition is now allowing me to give you that right now," she continued.The singer added that in order for her to return to the stage, she had "no choice" but to focus on her health.She went on to reassure fans she was "doing everything" she could to "recuperate".Celine continued: "I want to thank you so much for your wishes and love and support on my social media.This means a lot to me."Take care of yourselves. Be well.

Piers Morgan Twitter Instagram Health

Strictly’s Nadiya Bychkova reveals Christmas special dance partner had secret health battle that left him unable to walk

STRICTLY siren Nadiya Bychkova is no stranger to a man with two left feet – having taught celeb hopefuls including David James and Matt Goss to dance. But for the BBC show’s Christmas edition she is taking on a whole new challenge after being paired with Larry Lamb — its oldest ever male contestant at 75. And getting the former EastEnders and Gavin & Stacey actor up on his feet has not been easy, as pro dancer Nadiya told how he fought back from a secret health problem to make his dancefloor debut.

Dwayne Johnson Nicola Roberts Matt Goss county Williams BBC stars Health

Nominations for LG polls will be called for during the final week of December

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The National Election Commission on Thursday (8) said that nominations for the Local Government Elections will be called for during the final week of December.The NEC in a statement said that the nominations will be called for as per the provisions of the Local Authorities Elections (Amendment) Act.

Government

Indonesia ready to support Sri Lanka’s economic growth

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, held bilateral talks with Sri Lankan Foreign State Minister Tharaka Balasuriya on Monday (5) to discuss cooperation in maritime security and safety and blue economy investment."Indonesia and Sri Lanka need to better increase economic cooperation," Pandjaitan said at the meeting, which was held on the sidelines of the Archipelagic and Island State Forum (AID) in the Indonesian resort island of Bali.The two countries need to make optimal use of bilateral cooperation to open up opportunities to promote the development of their economy, including maritime resource-based economy, he added."We warmly welcome and are ready to participate in boosting the two countries' economic growth.

Tharaka Balasuriya Indonesia Sri Lanka county Island county Summit economy Cooper

Sena caterpillar invades maize cultivations

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Farmers point out that the Sena caterpillar is now damaging maize crops in the Polonnaruwa district.It is reported that more than 2,500 acres have been destroyed by Sena caterpillars in the Palugaswewa Regional Secretariat division alone. Although it has been 3 to 4 months since the maize cultivation in the Palugaswewa area began, the growth of the crop has slowed down due to the Sena caterpillar invasion.Farmers point out that the Sena caterpillar eats from the soil of the maize plant and destroys the plant itself. Palugaswewa farmers cultivate maize only for one season every year.

reports

Tea cultivators in crisis due to fertilizer shortage

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The shortage of fertilizer has severely affected tea-small holders in Sri Lanka.The tea-small holders in Akuressa, Matara said that the authorities have not shown any interest to address the issue, as the lives of many workers depend on this industry.They further say that they have to buy fertilizers at high prices and sell the leaves at low prices, leaving them at a loss.

Sri Lanka crisis

UK to support SL’s “Climate Prosperity Plan”

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Great Britain has expressed its willingness to provide the necessary technical and practical support to Sri Lanka to implement the “Climate Prosperity Plan”.The Deputy High Commissioner of Great Britain to Sri Lanka, Lisa Whanstall said that Great Britain appreciates the efforts taken by Sri Lanka to address climate change and will work to provide the necessary technical and theoretical support in the future, said the President's Media Division.These remarks were made during a discussion held on Wednesday (7) between the President’s Senior Adviser on Climate Change Ruwan Wijewardene, and the British Deputy High Commissioner, at the Presidential Secretariat.Whanstall also said that she will provide the necessary support for the International University on Climate Change, which is planned to be built on the instructions of President Ranil Wickremesinghe.Furthermore, the Deputy British High Commissioner praised Sri Lanka’s program for renewable energy and pointed out that it is a well-planned step for the future of the country.Ruwan Wijewardene presented the information about President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s upcoming programs regarding climate change and stated that the Act on Climate Change will be submitted to Parliament shortly.In addition, Wijewardene said that a climate change office will be established in Sri Lanka to investigate climate change in the region and that the necessary solutions to address climate change that may occur will be developed.He further said that the government has already focused on green hydrogen energy on the advice of President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the government has planned to further develop the potential for renewable energy in Sri Lanka.They also discussed the

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Britain president Government Provident

Colombo air quality drops to unhealthy level

COLOMBO (News 1st) – The Colombo air quality index (AQI) has increased further towards an unhealthy level.The National Building Research Organization said that the AQI across many cities in Sri Lanka range between 150 – 200, which is an unhealthy level.-What is the AQI?The AQI reports on how clean or polluted the air in your area is, and what effects breathing the outdoor air may have on your health.The AQI takes into account five of the major air pollutants. These pollutants are ground-level ozone, particle pollution, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. How to protect yourself from unhealthy or hazardous air pollution: If the air quality in your area is compromised, there are several things you can do to protect yourself.

Sri Lanka Health reports Citi

Govt owns 420 institutions including 29 Ministries, 99 Departments

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A document presented to the Sri Lankan parliament for the very first time has revealed that there are 1,283 institutions that come under the government.This includes 29 ministries and 99 departments.State Finance Minister Ranjith Siyambalapitiya produced a document listing all the government institutions to the Sri Lanka Parliament on Thursday (17).This is the first time in Sri Lankan history that such a document was disclosed to the house.According to the Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies, this document was presented as per a promise made by President Ranil Wickremesinghe during his recent budget speech.The government also operates 25 District Secretariats, 9 provincial councils, 341 Divisional Secretariats and 341 local government bodies.According to the document a total of 420 institutions are owned by the government.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Ranjith Siyambalapitiya Sri Lanka president Government Department

South African President celebrates birthday in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st) – South African President CyrilRamaphosa visited Sri Lanka on Wednesday (16) night for a short stay.He arrived in Sri Lanka during his return to South Africa after attending the G20 Summit in Indonesia.The South African President met his Sri Lankan counterpart Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Katunayake Air Force base for discussions on bilateral issues.Reports said that Sri Lanka hosted a birthday celebration for the South African President.Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa:Cyril Ramaphosa was born in Soweto on 17 November 1952.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Indonesia Sri Lanka South Africa county Summit president

Reforms NOT limited to IMF – President

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday (14) told Parliament that the economic reforms introduced are not limited to those agreed upon with the International Monetary Fund. "These proposed reforms by the International Monetary Fund are limited only to economic stabilization," he said.The President also said that "Our envisaged reforms and reorganizations are what the country has needed for a long time to build a new economy. This is a role that many governments have opted to ignore with popularity in mind.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Government Health Provident

Budget 2023 | Sri Lanka to allow marijuana for exports? Tax on Beedi sticks to be hiked

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lanka is proposing to explore the possibility of exporting marijuana.President Ranil Wickremesinghe delivering the 2023 Budget speech said that a committee of experts will be appointed to explore the possibility of cultivating marijuana in Sri Lanka ONLY for export purposes.In addition, to regularize the Beedi industry and deter people from Beedi consumption, the President proposed to impose a tax of Rs.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka experts president

The 2023 budget aimed at long-term, stable economic growth to be presented to Parliament tomorrow

PMD – President Ranil Wickremesinghe in his capacity as the Minister of Finance will present the 2023 budget to Parliament tomorrow (14) aimed at creating long-term, stable economic growth.The 2023 budget has given special attention to the sectors of capital market, export market, labour market and digital economy and it is expected to achieve the budget targets through the social market economy.

Ranil Wickremesinghe president economy Digital

SLPP, SJB & Nidahas Janatha Sabhawa to moot budget proposals

COLOMBO (News 1st) – A special meeting of the ruling party is scheduled to be held on Monday (14) in connection with the upcoming appropriation bill.The meeting, which is scheduled to be held at 05:00 PM at the Temple Trees, will be presided over by the President and the Prime Minister.The General Secretary of the SLPP, Attorney-at-law Sagara Kariyawasam said that the ruling party MPs will be specially briefed about the upcoming budget proposals.Officials of the Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank as well as several economic experts are also scheduled to be involved.Kariyawasam also said that the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna will extend its full support to President Ranil Wickremesinghe's decision to restore the country's economy.However, Karivayasam stated that his party will take a decision on extending support for this year's budget after further consideration of the budget proposals presented tomorrow.Meanwhile, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya says that it has called a meeting of its parliamentary group on Monday (14) afternoon to discuss the budget proposals.Its General Secretary, MP Ranjith Madduma Bandara said that the meeting will be held at the Parliament Complex under the Chairmanship of the Opposition Leader.Moreover, MP Dallas Alahapperuma stated that a meeting of the reformist group of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna representing the Nidahas Janatha Sabhawa will be held at 5:00 PM on Monday (14) to discuss the budget proposals.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Temple Trees Sagara Kariyawasam Sri Lanka county Dallas experts president Party

President welcomes eight new diplomats

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Seven newly appointed Ambassadors and a High Commissioner to Sri Lanka presented their credentials to President Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Presidential Secretariat on Friday (11).Accordingly, His Excellency Mr. Federico Salas Lotfe, the Mexican Ambassador to Sri Lanka, His Excellency Mr.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Oman France Russia Bhutan Ghana Mexico Luxembourg Paraguay president

World Bank Chief assures support for Sri Lanka’s growth

COLOMBO (News 1st) – World Bank Group President David Malpass has affirmed the World Bank Group’s support to Sri Lanka in rebuilding their economy & creating a foundation for sustainable private sector-led growth, said the President's Media Division.President Ranil Wickremesinghe met World Bank Group President David Malpass at COP27 where discussions focused on the challenging macro-economic and social situation in Sri Lanka.Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe returned to the country on Thursday (10) concluding his visit to Egypt where he attended the COP-27 summit.President Ranil Wickremesinghe held discussions on debt management with the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva, Finance Minister of Ghana Ken Ofori-Atta and Speaker of the People’s Majlis of the Maldives Mohamed Nasheed on the sidelines of COP27.President Ranil Wickremesinghe addressing the COP 27 Climate Change Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt said that unbridled industrialization of the developed countries is the root cause of climate change, leaving the poor to suffer the consequences.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Kristalina Georgieva David Malpass Sri Lanka Maldives Ghana Egypt president economy Assurant

Sri Lanka Launches ‘Climate Prosperity Plan’ at COP27

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Tuesday (7) launched his country’s ‘Climate Prosperity Plan’ at the UN Climate Change Conference in Sharm el Sheikh (COP27), together with Bangladesh, Ghana, and Maldives who are also preparing such plans aimed at emboldening growth despite an increasingly climate insecure world.The Sri Lankan Climate Prosperity Plan (CPP) is a roadmap to attract foreign investment in Sri Lanka’s economy to boost economic growth and employment, while also accelerating climate adaptation and bringing down the country’s greenhouse gas emissions as it transitions towards net negative emissions.President Wickremesinghe spoke alongside Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo, and Maldivian Vice President Faisel Naseem.Compared to a Business As Usual scenario, Sri Lanka’s Climate Prosperity Plan is expected to deliver an economic growth rate that is 1% per year higher, resulting in GDP that is 34% higher by 2050.The Sri Lankan plan sets a target of increasing Sri Lanka’s renewable energy generation from 35% to 70% by 2030. The transport, forestry, water and tourism sectors have similarly ambitious aims.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Nana Akufo-Addo Sri Lanka Maldives Bangladesh Ghana president economy Strategy

Sri Lanka & World Bank discuss support programs

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Senior Advisor to the President on National Security and Chief of Staff of the President Sagala Ratnayake met with Faris Hadad-Zervos, the World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka on Tuesday (8).He recalled that Faris Hadad-Zervos, the World Bank Country Director for Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka was amazed by the action policy and the vision of President Ranil Wickremesinghe which was revealed during their meeting recently.The WB Country Director also expressed his willingness to support the President’s vision. “The president’s vision for the country includes some measures that go beyond what the IMF or WB has stipulated.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sagala Ratnayake Sri Lanka Nepal Maldives president Government Provident

COP27: Sri Lanka proposes for world’s first International Climate Change University

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe proposed to establish an International Climate Change University in Sri Lanka with an ancillary institute in the Maldives to counter obstacles in implementing climate action plans.He was speaking at the COP-27 Conference in Egypt on Tuesday (8), and noted that the institution would be the first of its kind in the world."This seat of learning can be a global centre for green and blue studies, for scientists, environmentalists, researchers, policymakers, development practitioners, and students the world over to inter-change knowledge, transcending national and disciplinary boundaries," said the President.He went on to note that the envisaged climate change university will offer both short-term courses, and post-graduate academic awards to build capabilities on mitigating and adapting to climate change and stressed on the collaboration of multilateral institutions and organizations such as the Commonwealth, World Bank and the Asian Development Bank amongst others needs to be sought for the establishment of the institute of higher learning making it a multi-stakeholder partnership transcending national boundaries. "It is my hope that Sri Lanka's proposal will receive extensive support and endorsement from the international community.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Maldives Egypt Government Fighting Action

President meets SK delegation at COP-27

COLOMBO (News 1st) – President Ranil Wickremesinghe met Na Kyung- Won, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate and Environment and Head of the Korean delegation, on the sideline of COP 27 in Egypt on Monday (07).While appreciating the efforts taken by Sri Lanka to address the challenges of Climate change, Na Kyung- Won also commended Sri Lanka for the measures taken to reduce carbon emissions despite the country already having a low carbon emission rate.President Wickremesinghe stressed that capacity building is vital for climate action to be successful. From this perspective, he desires to establish an International Climate Change University in Sri Lanka, higher learning, multi-stakeholder institution which strengthens people’s capacities. The President said that he has already held a discussion with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the ADB in this regard and he looks forward to receiving the support and endorsement of the international community.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka North Korea Egypt president Action

Kandakadu Brawl: Over 200 detainees remanded

COLOMBO (News 1st) – 217 detainees who were arrested for their involvement in the recent brawl at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center were remanded.Police Spokesperson & Attorney SSP Nihal Thalduwa told News 1st that the detainees were produced to the Polonnaruwa and Hingurakgoda Magistrate Courts and were thus remanded.Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Major General Darshana Hettiarachchi told News 1st that an investigation is underway over the brawl, adding that a five-member committee comprising of senior ranks will investigate the brawl at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center.The report prepared by this investigation body will be handed over to the Justice Minister upon completion.Sri Lankan authorities said that scores of detainees held at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center fled the premises following Sunday (6) night's brawl.According to reports, the cause of the brawl was a dispute over the use of a bucket used for bathing at the premises.547 detainees were at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center at the time of the brawl.The Commissioner General of Rehabilitation said that steps will be taken to start assessing the damage caused to the facility following the brawl, and it will be carried out by government officers.On the 29th of June 2022, a brawl broke out at the same facility resulting in the death of one detainee, while 400 others escaped.Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for a full report on the Kandakadu Rehab Center incident.The President's Media Division said that the necessary steps needed to be taken to avert a recurrence of such incidents have also been called for, following discussions with Justice Minister Wijeyadasa

Ranil Wickremesinghe Nihal Thalduwa Sri Lanka president Government reports

President proposes meeting of Agriculture Ministers to evaluate food requirements

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe urged the Secretary-General of the UN and Egypt, as the head of the COP27, to summon a meeting of all Ministers of Agriculture of all the countries to assess the food requirements of 2023 and 2024 and submit a report on the food situation. The President also emphasized the need to work closely with multilateral, and sources of funding and formulate a sustainable debt relief plan immediately to ensure global food security.The President further said that it is essential to finalize this plan by February 2023 and should be implemented by the end of the 1st quarter of 2023, if not the damage caused to the political and social structures of countries will be irreparable.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Egypt president reports Compilation

Kandakadu Brawl: Over 200 detainees arrested by police

COLOMBO (News 1st) – 201 detainees at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center were arrested for unruly behaviour, said Police Spokesperson & Attorney SSP Nihal Thalduwa on Monday (7).The detainees who occupied a building at the facility surrendered to Sri Lanka Police on Monday evening.Military Spokesperson Brigadier Ravi Herath told News 1st that 514 detainees were under the control of the security forces by 4 PM on Monday.In addition, a manhunt is underway to locate 33 other detainees who escaped from the facility.Sri Lankan authorities said on Monday (7) that scores of detainees held at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center had fled the premises following Sunday (6) night's brawl.According to reports the cause of the brawl was a dispute over the use of a bucket used for bathing at the premises.547 detainees were at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center at the time of the brawl.A dispute had arisen between a detainee from Galle, and a detainee from Colombo over the bucket at the bathing area.Thereafter, detainees banded together as the Galle Group and Colombo Group.One of the groups thereafter attempted to approach the armoury at the premises, and that escalated the brawl. Sri Lanka Army personnel attached to the 9th Field Regiment Sri Lanka Artillery who were assigned to the security detail of the armoury had foiled the attempt, and shots were fired into the air to control the situation.One group of detainees, around 200 of them, occupied one of the buildings at the facility and defied orders to surrender.At the same time, around 300 other detainees surrendered to the security forces, while another group fled the premises.Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for a full

Ranil Wickremesinghe Nihal Thalduwa Sri Lanka president reports

President to address COP-27 in Egypt on Monday (7)

COLOMBO (News 1st) – President Ranil Wickremesinghe will address the COP-27 Conference on Climate Change on Monday (7).Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe left the island on Sunday (6) for Egypt to participate in the COP-27 Conference on Climate Change which is scheduled to be held from November 6 to 18 in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.President Wickremesinghe is scheduled to address the conference on Climate Change issues in Sri Lanka and around the world, on November 7th and 8th.Concurrently, President Wickremesinghe will attend the Global Food Security Forum and the World Leaders’ Forum.President Ranil Wickremesinghe met the United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, upon his arrival in Egypt, Cairo on Sunday (6).The President briefed the Secretary-General on the Government’s plans on the National Environmental Policy.

Antonio Guterres Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka Egypt president

President calls for report on Kandakadu brawl

COLOMBO (News 1st) – Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for a full report on the Kandakadu Rehab Center incident on Sunday (6).The President's Media Division said that the necessary steps needed to be taken to avert a recurrence of such incidents have also been called for, following discussions with Justice Minister Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe.Sri Lankan authorities said on Monday (7) that around 75 – 100 detainees held at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center had fled the premises following Sunday (6) night's brawl.Military Spokesperson Brigadier Ravi Herath told News 1st that around 25 of the escapees had surrendered themselves to the Sri Lanka Army Checkpoint positions on the Somawathiya – Kandakadu Road.A brawl took place between two groups of detainees at the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center on Sunday (6) night.One injured detainee and one Sri Lanka Army soldier were admitted to the Polonnaruwa General Hospital.Military Spokesperson Brigadier Ravi Herath told News 1st that several detainees had attempted to approach the armoury at the premises, and that escalated the brawl.Sri Lanka Army personnel attached to the 9th Field Regiment Sri Lanka Artillery who were assigned to the security detail of the armoury had foiled the attempt, and the armoury of the Kandakadu Treatment and Rehabilitation Center was secured by the Sri Lanka Army, said Military Spokesperson Brigadier Ravi Herath.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka president reports

United States	Cases: 46 252 513 Deaths: 750 423 Recovered: 0
India	Cases: 34 321 025 Deaths: 459 652 Recovered: 0
Brazil	Cases: 21 835 785 Deaths: 608 235 Recovered: 0
United Kingdom	Cases: 9 215 683 Deaths: 141 607 Recovered: 0
Russia	Cases: 8 494 589 Deaths: 237 619 Recovered: 0

Sri Lanka will NOT be party to ‘Big Power Rivalry’ & will prepare legislation to protect undersea cables

Related News