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More power in November
July 30 (DN)
The national power grid would be enriched by a further 300 MW (over 12 percent of the existing capacity) in November, courtesy the Norochcholai Coal Power plant, according to Minister Keheliya Rambukwella. The first phase of the Norochcholai Power Plant is to be completed in the first week of November with the coal firing being scheduled to begin in the last week of the same month.
'Rise of Al-qaeda led to the fall of LTTE'
July 30 (HT)
The multi-pronged 9/11 attacks by Al-Qaeda on the US in 2001 turned world opinion against armed insurgencies across the world including the LTTE, leading eventually to its decimation, a top Tamil Tiger leader has said. Currently the senior-most Tiger leader in custody, TS Pathmanathan, widely known as KP, also said that he was in touch with the United Nations during the last days of the war in May, 2009 to work out an arrangement – probably either a surrender or
Reading the riot act to Bob Blake
July 30 (DM)
Robert O. Blake, better known as Bob, currently US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs and formerly the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka was on a official visit to Sri Lanka last week. He held discussions with his interlocutors in government, met a range of other people and then generally made his views known about the need for post war ethnic reconciliation (through a political solution) and
A studded gold casket to Somawathiya after a dozen centauries
July 30 (LP) 
A gold casket carrying relics of Buddha was offered by Dr. Samadhi Rajapakse, of the Cancer Institute, Maharagama to Ven. Pahamune Sri Sumangala Maha Nahimi, the Viharadipathi of Somawathi Rajamaha Viharaya at a ceremony organized recently in the temple premises, in Somawathiya. This was a historical event as this casket was the one offered to this temple nearly 1200 years ago by ancient kings for the purpose of taking it in procession.
UK says Lanka now safe
July 30 (DM)
The United Kingdom has updated its travel advisory on Sri Lanka by removing the advise against travel to the four northern provinces of Mullaitivu, Killinochchi, Mannar and Vavuniya. The British High Commission in a statement said that the advice follows a security assessment carried out by a High Commission delegation, led by Deputy High Commissioner Mark Gooding, which visited the Northern provinces in June.
'Law provides for KP to turn State witness'
July 30 (Island)
The government said yesterday that the law provided for even a criminal to turn State witness and that applied to the LTTE’s former arms procurer Kumaran Pathmanathan as well. While dodging a question whether Shanmugam Kumaran Tharmalingam alias Selvarasa Kumaran Pathmanathan would be pardoned in spite of his involvement in criminal offences against the Sri Lankan State, Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella told
The UN Secretary General’s ‘Advisory’Panel
July 29 (Island)
The US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Robert Blake, during his recent visit to Sri Lanka stated: "The US believes the UN panel can play an important advisory role with Sri Lanka’s commission. The panel is only an advisory panel and does not have an investigative role"(Daily Mirror online, July 22, 2010). According to the UN Secretary General (SG) the particular nature and
Sri Lanka invites top 10 global banks to raise dollars
July 29 (N360)
Sri Lanka has invited top 10 banks in the Bloomberg League table to submit proposals to raise US$ 1 billion by a planned sovereign bond issue , which is due after august this year. C.J.P. Siriwardena, Assistant Governor of the Central Bank told www.news360.lk the invitations were sent during last week. Among the Banks invited ranks Barclays Capital, Deutsche Bank, JP Morgan, UBS, Credit Suisse, CITI, Merrill Lynch, BNP Paribas, HSBC and RBS
Chinese team of Specialists to assist in landmine removal
July 29 (LP) 
The Chinese Government extends their support in the ongoing removal of landmines from areas in the North-Eastern provinces. A Specialist team, which included members from the Chinese Military, arrived in Sri Lanka to observe the mine removal process, and have had primary talks with the officers of the National Programme for the Removal of Anti-Personnel Mines, which is under the Ministry of Economic Development.
Sri Lanka ex-army chief faces new trial
July 29 (AFP)
Sri Lanka's former army chief and defeated presidential candidate Sarath Fonseka was brought before the Colombo High Court on Thursday to answer charges of provoking violence. Fonseka, who already faces two courts martial and two more criminal cases, was taken before a three-member "trial-at-bar" for the first time and charged, his attorney said. "The main charge is inciting people to violence,"
'NGOs can contribute to resettlement drive'
July 28 (MoD) Defence Spokesman Keheliya Rambukkwella yesterday stated that any public representative and Non Government Organization can visit the North and East and contribute to its ongoing resettlement drive and the development process. He stated that the NGOs that wish to contribute in the development process and the resettlement process could go there but not those with ulterior motives that
'Rienzie was disgusted with the way UNPers were fighting each other'
July 28 (Island) Veteran UNPer Rienzie Algama, who set himself ablaze in front of Sirikotha on Monday evening, had wanted UNPers to unite and for the various factions to stop squabbling in the interests of the party, Deputy Leader of the UNP Karu Jayasuriya said. He said that as far as he was aware, Rienzie had not wanted anyone to step down. But, he was disgusted with the manner in which UNPers were at each other’s throat to the detriment of the party.
President tells scientific community: Focus research on development
July 28 (DN) President Mahinda Rajapaksa stressed the need for integrating the enormous talents and potential of local researchers and scientists into the country’s massive development drive. He was of the opinion that their research should necessarily be made use of, for the development of country. President Rajapaksa made these observations at the Presidential awards for scientific research
Solar power ‘net metering system’ introduced
July 28 (DN) A high-tech electricity producing system driven by solar power has been introduced by the Power and Energy Ministry. The new method called ‘Net Metering System’ was officially introduced by Power and Energy Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka yesterday. According to the new method, electricity is produced with a set of solar panels which are more efficient than the conventional solar panels.
'Domestic consumers permitted to produce power for their own use'
July 28 (GDI) The Ministry of Power and Energy has taken a new step to allow the domestic consumers to produce their own power requirements. The Minister of Power and Energy Patali Champika Ranawaka said that the Ministry has decided to permit the generation of power within households with alternative sources such as wind or solar. Consumers will have the option of producing energy more than they require
'Constitutional changes to reflect people’s wishes'
July 27 (DN) President Mahinda Rajapaksa emphasized that changes to the Constitution would be drafted taking into consideration the wishes of the public of Sri Lanka and not individual interest. He said that top priority would be given to development and the country’s security in line with the people’s needs when enacting changes to the Constitution. He stressed that constitutional changes would not be done according to the whims and fancies of individuals
Eelam war IV: Tiger captives down to 7,900, rehab programme on track
July 27 (Island) Brigadier Sudantha Ranasinghe, Commissioner General of Rehabilitation says LTTE cadres are being gradually released from government centres following rehabilitation in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. Brig. Ranasinghe, who succeeded Major General Daya Ratnayake, says their work is on track thereby allowing small groups of LTTE cadres to rejoin their families every month
Mervyn, Rosy step-in to settle dispute: Three MPs in Mega Star fray
article_imageJuly 27 (Island) In a rare case of teamwork between government and Opposition members, Deputy Minister Mervyn Silva and UNP MP Rosy Senanayake intervened on Sunday to settle a simmering dispute between Rajiv Sebastian and Ajith Weerasinghe, a contestant of Swarnavahini’s Star’ over a derogatory statement attributed to Sebastian during a previous programme.
Delayed action on anti-Lanka petition: JVP slams US over double standards
July 27 (Island) JVP MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake accused US of double standards and working to an agenda targeting Sri Lanka in a post-LTTE era. He acknowledged that the US, which had ignored a petition targeting Sri Lanka in 2008 and 2009 recently declared its intention to act on it in line with its new strategy. ‘They are working to an agenda," he said, while blaming the Rajapaksa administration for paving the way for US interference in domestic issues.
Man who set fire to himself before the UNP HQ dies
July 27 (LP) The person who set fire on himself before the Sirikotha UNP Headquarters has died. The Colombo General Hospital reported that he passed away yesterday. The 60-year-old Mr. Algama, who set fire on himself yesterday evening in front of the Sirikotha Mansion was rushed soon afterwards to the South Colombo Teaching Hospital and owing to the seriousness of his condition was transferred to the Colombo General Hospital last night.
President Rajapaksa receives World Bank top official
By Janaka Alahapperuma
Visiting World Bank Vice President for South Asia Ms. Isabel Guerrero paid a courtesy call on President Mahinda Rajapaksa recently at the President’s House in Colombo.
Gold Reserves up
July 26 (DN)
The Central Bank has been able to amass record gold reserves with the Central Bank taking steps within the past 10 months to purchase 21 metric tons of Gold - an increase from the paltry two to three tons of gold in its vaults not so long ago. This is an unprecedented feat and a great victory according to Senior Deputy Governor of the Central Bank Dharma Dheerasinghe
Lanka-India talks on vital issues
July 26 (ST)
Sri Lanka and India will hold top-level consultations over a series of bilateral and international issues when a high-powered delegation visits New Delhi next month. The team headed by Basil Rajapaksa, Minister of Economic Development cum Senior Presidential Advisor, will include Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga and Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa.
'White flag' case before a three-judge High Court bench
July 26 (CT)
The Colombo Chief Magistrate, Rashmi Singappuli today ordered General Sarath Fonseka to appear before the Colombo High Court on July 29 for the hearing of the controversial 'white flag' case. The case was filed by the Attorney General against General Sarath Fonseka over his controversial interview to 'The Sunday Leader' newspaper. The newspaper carried an article some months ago, quoting
Vietnam to open Sri Lanka embassy early 2011
July 26 (LBO) 
Vietnam will open an embassy in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo in early 2011, a joint statement following a meeting of deputy foreign ministers of the two countries on the sidelines of a meeting of regional grouping. Sri Lanka's deputy foreign minister Gitanjana Gunawardena led a delegation to the Association of South East Asian Nations Regional Form
Clegg’s allegations strengthen SL’s hand against Ban
July 25 (Island) Accusing a section of the international community of targeting Sri Lanka over alleged war crimes, Sri Lanka says the UN, which recently appointed a panel to advise Secretary General Ban-ki Moon on accountability issues should now act on Deputy British PM Nick Clegg’s recent assertion that the invasion of Iraq was illegal. Clegg, while standing in for Prime Minister David Cameron
Rajapakse’s ambitions are irrelevant in constitution making
July 25 (Island) In an ideal world the will of the people determines the constitution (remember the opening words of one the most stable in the world: "We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union . . do ordain and establish this Constitution . . etc"). But to be realistic, we in Lanka seem to have only three options; the ideal fourth is not quite on the agenda. Mahinda Rajapaksa is hankering after what I call Option 1 or Option 2,
'SLA's 200,000 men could face any threat'
July 25 (MoD) The Sri Lanka Army (SLA) with over 200,000 men is adequate to defend all threats including any new terrorism threats, Army Commander Lt. General Jagath Jayasuriya said. The Army Chief told the Sunday Observer that there were no fresh moves to increase SLA's manpower as it already has over 203,000 well-trained soldiers. The SLA's manpower was increased manifold during the military operations against the LTTE
New Tamil angst: army camps changing demographics?
July 25 (LB) Bitterness over High Security Zones continues to poison post war reconciliation. Especially, since Keheliya Rambukwella, the Defence Affairs Spokesman rhetorically responded to a media question that High Security Zones were going to stay, faint hope among the displaced Tamils for the magnanimity of the victor evaporated into thin air. When the Cabinet met in Kilinochchi, early this month, 2000 odd families petitioned the President requesting that
Beggars play hide and seek with potential killers
July 25 (SO) The beggar murders seem to have stopped as suddenly as they started. Beggars are returning to their normal livelihood on the streets and have begun to breathe easy again. Almost all those we spoke to claimed to have no idea who were behind the murders or why it had happened. "We are not afraid, we stay here together until 8.00 in the night and then go home" said a group of three old beggars squatting on a pavement in Bambalapitiya.
China facilitates setting up of permanent SF bases in North
July 24 (Island) The government is engaged in an ambitious programme to establish permanent security forces bases in the Northern and Eastern Provinces as part of a strategy to thwart any possible attempt to revive LTTE terrorism. Authoritative government officials told The Island that the deployment of security forces in the Northern and Eastern Provinces as well as other parts of the country would be solely at the discretion of the military top brass.
'Karunanidhi's demand a drama'
July 24 (Hindu) The demand being made by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi to send a special emissary to Sri Lanka to oversee the resettlement of internally displaced Tamils was a drama, Puthiya Thamizhagam president K. Krishnasamy has alleged. Speaking to reporters here on Friday, Dr. Krishnasamy, who was here to pay homage to the victims of Tamirabharani tragedy, said no desirable result could be achieved even after the Tamil MPs team visited the Tamils kept in the refugee camps
SLPA flats to make way for ‘Cargo Village’
July 24 (Island) Five hundred apartments at Bloemendhal Road, occupied by employees of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), are to be demolished to make way for a modern ‘Cargo Village’ to be constructed by the SLPA. A railway line linking it with the Colombo Port also will be laid. The 'Cargo Village’ would be built in two phases on a 15-acre plot of land belonging to the SLPA at an estimated cost of Rs. 3.5 billion
Malinga to miss second Test against India
Lasith Malinga picks Gautam Gambhir cheaply for the second time in the match, 1st Test, Galle, 4th day, July 21, 2010July 24 (CI) Lasith Malinga, the Sri Lankan fast bowler, has been rested from the second Test against India beginning in Colombo on July 26. Malinga was one of the architects of Sri Lanka's ten-wicket win in Galle but will miss out at the SSC because of "stiffness in his knee". He will be replaced by Dilhara Fernando, while spinner Ajantha Mendis also returned to the squad.
'It was like Michael Jackson coming'
July 24 (CI) P Sara Oval, the venue for the third Test of this series, is the only ground in Asia where Don Bradman played. He did so on a 20-yard pitch. In Brightly Fades the Don, Jack Fingleton writes: “It is possible one of her male assistants (the round had a lady curator) measured the pitch and not she. The Australian batsmen found the going rather tough in the morning.
Parties disagree on executive PM’s powers
July 23 (DM) A divergence of opinion has emerged between the Government and the Opposition on replacing the executive presidency with an executive premiership under the proposed Constitutional reforms. An opposition delegation, led by UNP Deputy Leader Karu Jayasuriya, met External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris yesterday regarding the proposed l reforms
Editorial: Maitripala knows it better
July 23 (DM) Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said yesterday, that the local government authorities and Environment Ministry were more responsible for the dengue menace, than the Health Ministry. He said that the blame for the spread of dengue was being directed at the Health Ministry. But, that was wrong because it was the duty of the local authorities and Environment Minstry to deal with the problem on a daily basis.
Lanka to reply to US
July 23 (DM) The External Affairs Ministry, Trade and Commerce Ministry and the Labour Ministry are collectively preparing a reply to a petition handed over to the US government by a US trade union alleging labour rights violations in Sri Lanka. The State Department has reportedly initiated action against Sri Lanka following a petition by America Free Labour Council of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) after Free Trade Zone Workers Union (FTZWU) lodged a complaint with the AFL-CIO
Sri Lanka on track for record tea crop
Sri Lanka on track for record tea cropJuly 23 (AFP) Sri Lanka, one of the world's biggest black tea exporters, produced nearly 30 percent more tea in the first half of the year and is on track for a record crop, an official said Friday. Tea is Sri Lanka's biggest cash crop and is sold in overseas markets as "Pure Ceylon Tea". The industry suffered a setback last year due to a drought and fall-out from the global commodities crash of 2008
New Office complex, Library and a Health Centre for Beliatta Pradesheeya Sabhawa.
By Janaka Alahapperuma
A.H.M. Athaullah, Minister of Local Governments and Provincial Councils and Namal Rajapaksa, Hambantota District MP presented a cheque for Rs 1.3 million to Cyril Munasinghe
'Leave a party worth fighting for'
July 22 (SL)
UNP Deputy Leader Karu Jayasuriya has made an appeal to party colleagues to be cautious, maintain decorum and have a united approach in the face of one of the worst crises faced by the UNP in its glorious 60-year history. He also observes that there is a need for the UNP, like any institutional structure, to possess a succession plan. “Before we resort to squabbling over positions, let us first work to ensure there is a party left worth fighting for.
Kilinochchi: Slowly coming back to normalcy
July 22 (DM)
Several historical and strategic factors contributed in the decision to hold the first ever cabinet meeting which was held outside Colombo at the Security Forces Headquarters at Kilinochchci situated near the Iranamadu tank, a senior armed forces officer said. The holding of this first ever cabinet meeting out of Colombo in Kilinochchi was a significant achievement for the government and
SriLankan Airlines plans airport hotel
July 22 (LBO) 
SriLankan Airlines is to build a tourist hotel near the island's main international airport at Katunayake north of Colombo, the airline's chairman Nishantha Wickremasinghe said. "We are about to start building an airport hotel right in front of the departure lounge,' he said. The site is an abandoned factory at an export processing zone near the airport that has been handed over to the national airline. Wickremasinghe said the planned hotel would have at least 125 rooms
SF to face trial-at-bar for divulging military secrets
July 22 (Island)
The Chief Justice J. A. N. de Silva has appointed a High Court Trial-at-Bar to investigate the charges pertaining to former Army Commander General (retd) Sarath Fonseka divulging military secrets to the Sunday Leader newspaper. The Trial-at-Bar comprises High Court Judges, Deepali Wijesundera, W. T. M. P. B. Warawawa and M. Z. Razeem.
Bomb explodes when victim tries to pierce a King coconut using it
July 22 (LP) 
An unexpected death took place in Palliwasalthure area when 32 year old Gunawardhena Liyanarachige Chaminda Sampath a resident of Bellanthare, Palliwasalthure area tried to open a king coconut by using a bomb which has a sharp pointed edge yesterday evening (21)
Logan Rockefeller enters Lanka
July 22 (LNP)
The Logan Rockefeller Global entered Sri Lanka with the opening of Logan Rockefeller Global Lanka Asset Management Company yesterday. The company also announced their sister company LR Global Strategic Investments will invest Rs 2.5 billion in Sri Lanka. LR Global Lanka Asset Management Company Managing Director Channa de Silva said the company intends to bring significant portfolio investments to Sri Lanka.
Ranaviru Nikethanaya - Healing Home for war heroes
July 22 (MoD) 
Located in the tranquility of Aththidiya, a suburb of Colombo is a site where construction work is under way with speed for a special centre for those war heroes in need of special care and comfort. The Ranaviru Nikethanaya is best described as a Healing Home, the first of its kind that will be a home for over 200 heroes of war, carefully identified as those needing special care, in a nation so indebted to them for their invaluable sacrifices

US urges Sri Lanka to focus on reconciliation

Reuters -
COLOMBO (Reuters) - The United States urged Sri Lanka Wednesday to do more toward post-war reconciliation and democracy, including ensuring
'Loans taken by Govt. total Rs 4,246,520 m'
July 21 (Island) The total amount of loans, including the Treasury bills, as at March 31, this year stood at Rs. 4,246,520 million, Parliament was told yesterday. Of this amount, Rs. 1,770,365 million had been obtained from foreign sources and Rs. 2,476,155 million raised locally, Deputy Finance and Planning Minister Chandrasiri Gajadeera told Parliament. He was responding to a query by UNP Colombo District MP Ravi Karunanayake

US Assistant Secretary of State Meets Sri Lankan President

CRIENGLISH.com -
The two sides examined ways and means of further strengthening bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and the United States and identified several areas for

Sri Lanka unit of New York firm to invest US$20mn  

Lanka Business Online
July 21, 2010 (LBO) - New York based Logan Rockefeller Global (LR Global) is planning to invest 20 million US dollars in Sri Lanka through a newly set up
More tsunami warning towers for North
July 21 (MoD) The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) will set-up 25 tsunami early warning towers along the Northern coastal belt in addition to the existing towers. DMC Deputy Director Pradeep Kodippilly said as part of covering all coastal areas by establishing tsunami early warning towers, the DMC has taken measures to set-up another 25 early warning towers along the Northern coastal belt.
'Constitutional amendments must be made known to the country'
July 20 (LeN) The JVP pointed out, if measures are being taken to discuss with political parties on the Constitutional amendments, firstly the Govt. should present a summary of its amendment proposals before the people. It is only then discussions can be held on the basis of those proposals. On the other hand, if these proposals are just for the Govt. to while away its time inviting various views, the JVP will not waste its time participating in these discussions
Herath, Malinga put Sri Lanka on top
Rangana Herath plays the pull shot, 1st Test, Galle, 3rd day, July 20, 2010July 20 (CI) Ishant Sharma held centrestage on the morning with a captivating spell of seam bowling but Rangana Herath and Lasith Malinga - yes you read the names right - stole his thunder with entertaining, and unexpected, cameos in the afternoon to ensure Sri Lanka retained complete control on the first Test. Herath impressed with several high-quality shots and Malinga alternated between stodge

 

Kurunegala special ceremony salutes fallen North Western province war heroes
July 30 (MoD)
Over 463 War Heroes of Sri Lanka Light Infantry (SLLI) of the North Western Province who made the supreme sacrifice in the war for peace were honoured and their dedication was remembered during a provincial War Hero commemoration ceremony at Kurunegala Maliyadeva Girls' College auditorium, Sunday (25) morning. The SLLI Regiment which had always been in the forefront in times of war and peace in Sri Lanka during
Norochcholai power plant to go online in November
July 30 (SL)
As construction on the 300MW power plant nears completion, the Sri Lankan cabinet has approved the Lanka Coal Company opening a Rs. 1 billion letter of credit to purchase coal and begin operations this November. The cost of the first shipment of 65,500 MT of coal will cost USD $7 million. This coal power plant was commissioned in 2006 and is being built using a USD $455 million loan from China’s EXIM bank.
Eastern coast to get hit first, says NARA
July 30 (DM)
The east coast of Sri Lanka would witness a rise in the water level of sea by 1. 2 millimeters a year and the western coast, a marginal increase, due to the melting glaciers in the Himalayas, the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) said in a research. The increased river discharge in to the Bay of Bengal by Ganges and Bramaputra due to the melting of Himalaya’s glaciers were the main causes for the rising sea level.
'Foreign mediated efforts won’t bring reconciliation'
July 30 (Island)
The late LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran’s successor, T. S. Pathmanathan aka KP says Sri Lanka should strive to deal with domestic issues on its own without involving external elements. Former head of LTTE procurement section, the soft-spoken, KP points out that all previous attempts by foreign governments to address Sri Lanka’s problems failed. In an exclusive with The Island, in Colombo on Wednesday,
Japan urges Sri Lanka to allay human rights concerns
July 30 (PTI)
Japanese Cabinet ministers on Thursday urged visiting Sri Lankan External Affairs Minister G.L. Peiris to allay international concerns over alleged war crimes committed last year by Sri Lankan forces in the country, Japanese officials said. Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada and Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Tetsuro Fukuyama separately told the Sri Lankan minister that Colombo should be accountable about the human rights issue,
Siyatha media office comes under attack (Photos)
July 30 (SL)
The media office of the Voice of Asia Network that operates Siyatha TV, Siyatha FM, Real Radio, Vettri FM and Siyatha, came under arson attack at around 1.30 this morning, reports say. Residents of the area around the office – located on Hunupitiya Lake Road in Colombo 2 – said that they had first heard the loud noise of glass breaking, followed by dense smoke that enveloped the area. They said that the police had arrived promptly on the scene
Muralitharan slams Bedi, calls him controversy monger
July 29 (HT)
Retired spin great Muttiah Muralitharan lashed out at his long-time detractor Bishen Singh Bedi, calling the former Indian captain a controversy monger and ordinary bowler who would have been hammered by any batsman if was he playing now. Bedi has been an untiring critic of Muralitharan by repeatedly calling the Sri Lankan a "chucker" and asking the ICC to ban the Sri Lankan's "doosra" as it was illegal
Sri Lankan produced 'water gel' to replace dynamite
July 29 (MoD)
'Water gel' the innovative environmental friendly Sri Lankan production is to replace dynamite explosive chargers. The product is to soon take its place in the Sri lankan market cutting of costs prevailed over the use of dynamite for industrial purposes. The product came to light following instructions given by Secretary Defence Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa in substitute for the
'Majority of the Tamil Diaspora are with the government'
July 29 (GDI)
Sri Lanka government says that major part of the Tamil Diaspora is now pleased with the government’s activities relating to improvement of the living standards of the Tamil people in the Northern and Eastern Provinces following liberating the Tamils from the shackles of the jackboots of the Pirabaharan. Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said that Tamil Diaspora is now divided into two groups and
Exclusive: KP speaks out
July 29 (Island)
Prabhakaran’s successor, T.S. Pathmanathan or simply ‘KP’ as he is better known has thrown his weight behind Sri Lanka’s post-LTTE efforts to restore peace in the Northern and Eastern provinces. In an exclusive interview with The Island in Colombo yesterday, Pathmanathan, former confidant of the slain LTTE leader Velupillai Prabhakaran and the outfit’s main arms procurer, discussed a wide range of issues,
Commander of the Navy visits Naval Deployments on the North-western Coast
July 29 (MoD)
Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe visited the Naval Deployments in Mullikulum, Vedithalthivu and Nachchikudah and Naval Bases in Mannar and Thalaimannar on 25th and 26th July 2010. He also met the Mannar fishing community at SLNS Gajaba. During the visit, the Navy Commander examined the administrative and operational readiness of the Naval establishments and .
Colombo by night, fun and frolic at Green Path
July 29 (DM)
Colombo will be soon transformed into a city of fun and frolic with a special area set apart for night life on the weekend in a carnival-like atmosphere with food courts, live musical shows and shopping, the Colombo Municipality said yesterday. Special administrator Omar Kamil said Green Path had been selected to host this project scheduled to begin next month and would be held on Fridays and Saturdays from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Tendulkar and Raina keep India afloat
Sachin Tendulkar signals century No. 48, Sri Lanka v India, 2nd Test, SSC, 3rd day, July 28, 2010July 28 (CI) Sachin Tendulkar led India's attempt to stay alive in the series on an attritional day at the SSC. Just when it seemed the bat would dominate for the third successive day, the Sri Lankan spinners brought the Test back to life by rattling the Indian top order. But Tendulkar, with support from VVS Laxman and debutant Suresh Raina, made a determined century to restore stability to the Indian innings and took them closer to the follow-on target.
Woman army deserter alleges rape
July 28 (DM) A woman army deserter who had called over at the Buttala police to lodge a complaint regarding a dispute, alleged she was raped by three police officers including an inspector in the police station. Uva Province DIG H N G Ambanwela has appointed an investigation team under an ASP to hold a formal inquiry into the incident. The woman soldier attached to the Gajaba Regiment is a resident of Udugama in Galle.
Welikada Prison relocation to free 40 acres of prime land
July 28 (DM) The Welikada Prison complex covers some very valuable prime land, 40 acres in extent, within the City of Colombo. It is assessed at a minimum value of Rs. 15 billion. It will be up for grabs once the Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Ministry carries out its ambitious prison reform programme, which include the relocation of prisons, said Rehabilitation and Prison Reforms Minister D.E.W.Gunasekara.
JVP criticizes UPFA for not convening House regularly
article_imageJuly 28 (Island) JVP MP Anura Kumara Dissanayake said that last week the parliament had met only on Tuesday since the approval of the UPFA’s so-called budget. He emphasised that they should have met during the rest of the week, but the government had conveniently put off sittings to August 3. MP Dissanayake said since last November parliament had not been convened as part of a government move to undermine the parliamentary process
Jetwing organizes Culinary Tour of Sri Lanka
July 28 (DN) In the pearl shaped island of Sri Lanka one can encounter a diverse and splendid array of tantalizing food ranging from scrumptious seafood to the traditional rice and curry. The island may seem small in size as it is surrounded by the seas of the Indian Ocean but it is certainly not lacking in gastronomical delights which are not limited by the size of the country. Cuisine is an ideal means by which to gain knowledge about a country
Sri Lanka declare their first innings at  642-4
Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene tormented India during their 193-run stand, Sri Lanka v India, 2nd Test, SSC, 2nd day, July 27, 2010July 27 (CI) It was another day of toil for the Indian bowlers as Sri Lanka reached a seemingly invincible position in the second Test. Two players who form the backbone of their batting line-up, Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardene, achieved individual landmarks on a placid track against a spineless attack which has left its batsmen with another Test to save. Sangakkara had maintained his aggressive approach in the morning session
No politics for KP: Karuna
July 27 (DM) Former LTTE chief arms procurer Kumaran Pathmanathan (KP) who is now under custody in Sri Lanka and is reportedly assisting the government will not enter politics, Government Minister and former rebel Karuna Amman said. Amman alias Vinayagamurthi Muralitharan, in an interview with Daily Mirror online says KP does not have any political knowledge as he was purely acquiring weapons for the LTTE before its military defeat last year
Sri Lanka catching Dutch disease ?
article_imageJuly 27 (Island) Sri Lanka is catching the Dutch disease as the rupee appreciates on hot capital at the expense of the export sector and job creation. Dealers said the rupee was under severe pressure to appreciate with remittances and hot capital inflows into government securities and the stock exchange growing. With other currencies in the region undervalued against the dollar, the rupee’s gaining strength is threatening exporters and job creation
Five senior journalists to be honoured
July 27 (DN) Five senior journalists will get Lifetime. Achievement Awards at the Journalism Excellence Awards ceremony to be held on Tuesday at the Mount Lavinia Hotel. The awards for 2009 are being given by the Editors’ Guild of Sri Lanka and the Sri Lanka Press Institute. The five receiving Lifetime Achievement Awards are; Arthur U. Amarasena, M. Kaanamylnathan, Anandi Balasingham, Sirilal Kodikara, M.S.M. Munsoor.
'Sri Lanka private sector management mooted for loss-making state entities'
July 27 (LBO) Loss-making Sri Lankan state institutions could be turned around with private sector management if they cannot be privatised, the head of the Distilleries Company conglomerate has said. "In my view, the only way a decades-old mindset of mediocrity can be changed is by hiring professionals from the private sector to manage these public sector institutions,"
"The Queen visited the UN in over fifty years where she addressed the General Assembly. During her brief visit she also took time to meet the Permanent Representatives to the UN from Commonwealth countries.
“Sri Lankan Day”
The Sri Lanka Association of New York (SLANY – established 1970) in cooperation with the residents and Township of Denville is for the 35th year hosting our annual Sri Lanka Day on Saturday, Aug. 7, 2010 at Gardner Field, Denville, NJ.
Priority to renovate Jaffna Fort
July 26 (MoD)
The National Heritage and Cultural Affairs Ministry has launched a program to preserve the Sri Lankan heritage of Northern and Eastern Provinces. The Ministry has given priority to renovate the Jaffna Fort under this Program, National Heritage and Cultural Affairs Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said. The reconstruction of the Jaffna Fort will be launched with Rs 104.5 million granted by the Netherlands government
Sri Lankan batsmen grind toothless India
July 26 (CI)
The SSC has been a fortress of sorts for Sri Lanka in the recent past, and they set about continuing their dominant run at the venue with another imposing performance. As they looked good to pile on yet another massive first-innings total, the actors that put them in charge on the opening day this time were the same as in Galle. Kumar Sangakkara and Tharanga Paranavitana served the Indians a painful reminder of
Govt. urged to recall donald
July 26 (DM)
Several opposition political parties who threw a challenge at the government yesterday said the latter should recall Sri Lankan ambassador in Israel Donald Perera and make a clear clarification on the government’s position on Israel. These parties told a press conference organized by the Friends of Palestine in Colombo that the government should do this to prove that it did not follow double standards when it comes to its foreign policy.
Murali unifies political parties
July 26 (DH)  
Murali has been everywhere in Sri Lanka these last two weeks. From giant hoardings and cover stories, he has been the centre of attraction. The legendary off-spinner who retired after the first Test against India at Galle also united the opposition and ruling party. The parliament on Friday decided to pay a joint tribute to the world record holder who bid adieu to the longer version on Thursday
'Ensure a dignified exit to our leader'
July 25 (SO) UNP Kurunegala District MP Dayasiri Jayasekera says his party must ensure a dignified exit for Ranil Wickremesinghe now that the stage has been set for a new leader to take the reins, in an exclusive interview with the Sunday Observer. He says the UNP's internal strife has now been resolved and the amendments to the party constitution that will scrap all dictatorial powers of the Leadership will precede a fresh constitution
Mahinda, Ranil need each other more than ever
July 25 (LB) Technically, the UNP working committee decided last week that all top posts for the party leadership would be decided by consensus. However, there is a rider that if consensus is not available with regard to any particular post, such a post will be subject an internal party vote. Though this is so, nothing else seems to be decided. Who will be the electors?
RW’s grip on UNP weakens
July 25 (Island) Last Monday when the UNP working committee met to discuss the party reforms, there were no refreshments available. Usually, whenever there was a working committee meeting, a long table would be laid out with soft drinks and eats for the participants to help themselves. But this time that was missing. When working committee members asked the Sirikotha staff whether refreshments were not being served, they had been told that there was no money in the kitty.
Illegal structures in influential residential areas ignored?
July 25 (Island) Ten major flood prone sites at Mattakkuliya and Kirulapone have been identified and all unauthorized structures obstructing the free flow of storm water had been removed, a CMC engineer in charge of the storm water drainage network said. He said a flower nursery at Independence Square which had intruded on the space on both sides of the drain had been demolished as it was an obstruction to the use of sediment clearing equipment to clean the drain.
 Editorial: Thanks Murali
July 25 (LB) This last week most people were not sure whether they should be grateful to Muralitharan for being the great spin magician unparalleled in the history of cricket, or for being a great master of theatre in the order of a Kurosowa or perhaps even a Shakespeare. This man said he is going to retire at the end of the first Test against India, irrespective of whether he reaches 800 wickets or not — irrespective of whatever happens.
Conch shell smugglers caught by Sri Lanka Navy
By Janaka Alahapperuma
Sri Lanka Navy nabs two smugglers of conch shells in the seas north of Thalaimannar, North West of Sri Lanka recently. According to the Navy Headquarters the arrest was made by the Navy’s Fast Gun Boat (FGB) “Ranawickrama”, which was on a routine patrol in the Northern waters.
President orders probe into Ruhuna University incident
July 24 (LP) President Mahinda Rajapaksa ordered a probe into the death of the Ruhunu University student Rajapaksa Susantha Anura following a conflict over what brought about his death. IGP Mahinda Balasuriya told media that a post mortem conducted by Badulla Judicial Meical Officer (JMO) Dr. M N Rahul Haq revealed that thet cause for Anura’s death was due to an internal brain hemorrhage
Muralitharan's Test career in photos

Controversy over student’s death
July 24 (DM) A Ruhunu University third-year student Susantha Aruna Bandara died on Thursday reportedly from injuries he had suffered in an attack by the Matara police on June 18, Inter University Students Federation (IUSF) alleged yesterday. IUSF convener Udul Premaratne alleged that the att tack had taken place in the university hostel at Wellamadama some two kilometres from the university.
Two Police officers drown in swimming pool
July 24 (LP) Two police officers drowned at the Police swimming pool at Elvitigala Road Narahenpita yesterday. The deceased was a police Constable who was practicing swimming and the other was his coach. The coach drowned in the attempt to save the constable who had drowned in the pool first. The deceased police Constable is attached to the Middeniya Police while the Coach is attached to the Colombo Sports corr.
SLA personnel to be settled on uprooted civilians’ land in Ki’linochchi district
House constructed for SLA settlers in VanniJuly 24 (TN) Five thousand houses constructed in Mu’ruka’ndi area in Ki’linochchi district including Skanthapuram along A9 road are to be settled in August with Sri Lanka Army (SLA) senior and junior officials and their families permanently while the uprooted civilians brought to be resettled in Skanthapuram are left in a school building by Sri Lanka government officials, sources in Ki’linochchi said.
President Rajapaksa felicitates spin wizard Murali at Galle cricket grounds
By Janaka Alahapperuma
President Mahinda Rajapaksa made a special visit to the Galle International Cricket stadium this afternoon on July 22 and congratulated the spin wizard Muttiah Muralitharan (Murali) who made a World Record of 800 Test wickets on the final day of the first Test between Sri Lanka Vs India.
Keheliya raps Local authorities, Environment Ministry for dengue menace
July 23 (Island) Media Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said yesterday, that the local government authorities and Environment Ministry were more responsible for the dengue menace, than the Health Ministry. He said that the blame for the spread of dengue was being directed at the Health Ministry. But, that was wrong because it was the duty of the local authorities and Environment Minstry to deal with the problem on a daily basis.
Sri Lanka to make better use of idle state assets
July 23 (LBO) Sri Lanka will set up a state company to develop joint ventures and lease assets of other failed state companies with a capital of 100 million rupees, without 'privatizing' them. The State Resources Management Corporation will make better use of state assets which are uneconomical, minister Keheliya Rambukwelle said. Analysts say Sri Lanka's state has lost billions of rupees trying to do business with people's money.
University student dies in hospital after getting caught in brawl
July 23 (NF) The Inter University Students' Union claims that a student of the Ruhuna University, who was admitted to hospital after being caught in a brawl, has died. "The student who passed away was a 25-year-old 3rd year student at the university by the name Aruna Bandara. He was a resident of the Buttala area," said Udul Premaratne, Convener of the Union
Lakshapana gets BHP after 26 years
July 23 (DN) Approval has been given to proceed with the construction of Broadlands Hydropower Project (BHP) by Cabinet after the Power and Energy Minister’s direct involvement at yesterday’s Cabinet meeting. The project will be launched after 26 years, said Ministry sources. BHP is considered as the last economically feasible Hydro Power Project in the Laxapana Hydro Power complex.
Murali gets 800, Sri Lanka win by ten wickets
July 22 (CI)
At the start of his final Test, he was eight wickets short of entering territory that no other cricketer had. He began his last day in Test cricket needing two, and took one. His partner threatened to take everything else and he could do nothing but keep on bowling, and wait. The umpire denied him a palpable lbw. VVS Laxman, who kept him at bay for so many hours, ran himself out and there was only one wicket left to take.
Ex-LTTE cadres help Air Force recover hidden arms
July 22 (SL)
The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Regiment troops based at Trikonamadu found 2 caches of hidden arms in the general area of Iranapallai, Pudukuduirippu, on the 15th and 19th of this month, said SLAF spokesperson Group Captain Janaka Nanayakkara. The recovering of these arms was made possible with the help of rehabilitated former LTTE cadres
Sajith, Bandara to continue agitation
July 22 (DM)
UNP MP for the Moneragala district Ranjith Madduma Bandara said yesterday that he, along with his colleague MP Sajith Premadasa, would agitate for the voting right to the party’s local government members in the election of five key office bearers including the leader. Earlier, MP Premadasa, in his meeting with the members of the Reforms Committee, made this proposal. He opined that the party’s grassroots level members should have a say in
Two Sri Lanka beaches make top grade: Forbes
July 22 (LBO)
A beach stretch from Tangalle Bay to Weligama in Sri Lanka's south and Bentota in the southwest have been named among the top 10 in Asia by Forbes, a business magazine. The beaches were judged by a panel which included Graham Uden, a photographer based in Hong Kong and John Borthwick, a Sydney-based travel writer and photographer. "Sri Lanka has beautiful beaches on its southwest coast, from
Sri Lanka to sell billion dollar bond to settle loans: minister
July 22 (LBO)
Sri Lanka will sell a billion dollar sovereign bond this year to settle more expensive short term foreign loans, media minister and cabinet spokesman Keheliya Rambukwelle said. "The cabinet approval has been given to issue a sovereign bond of one billion dollars," Rambukwelle said. "We have taken short term loans on high interest and we want to set off those
Protests against UN : Russia also involved?
July 22 (DM)
The protestors who staged demonstrations in front of the United Nations (UN) Organization office in Sri Lanka against Ban ki-moon’s panel of advisors, it is reported have gone to the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka, and expressed their gratitude for opposing the Ban Ki -Moon’s panel. Similarly, when Minister Wimal Weerawansa of the Rajapaksa government who commenced a fast against Moon’s panel wished to end it, the protestors have sent word to the Russian embassy and
Businessman arrested for building apartments with LTTE funds
July 22 (Island)
The Chief Justice J. A. N. de Silva has appointed a High Court Trial-at-Bar to investigate the charges pertaining to former Army Commander General (retd) Sarath Fonseka divulging military secrets to the Sunday Leader newspaper. The Trial-at-Bar comprises High Court Judges, Deepali Wijesundera, W. T. M. P. B. Warawawa and M. Z. Razeem.
Senior official chastises UN chief in parting shot
July 21 (CNN) A departing senior U.N. official has released a rare rebuke of her boss's performance -- saying the United Nations is "drifting into irrelevance" under Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon's management. Swedish diplomat Inga-Britt Ahlenius has been serving as the head of the department charged with combating U.N. corruption. As her five-year term came to an end this month, Ahlenius sent a report to Ban admonishing

India reeling as Murali closes in

BBC News
Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan reached 798 wickets on his farewell as India closed day four of the first Test 63 behind at 181-5 in their follow-on.

Bayliss thrilled by Malinga show

CricInfo.com -
Trevor Bayliss, Sri Lanka's coach, has said the return of fast bowler Lasith Malinga to Test cricket after 30 months has been a big bonus to the team.
VIDEO: Will be restricted to books and pictures very soon, says Vanniyelaaththo
VIDEO: Will be restricted to books and pictures very soon, says VanniyelaaththoJuly 21 (AD) The indigenous people of Sri Lanka are fast losing their unique identity. Urbanisation is making this process faster. The Veddas as they are normally called do not want changes forcibly thrust on them, said Uruwarige Vanniyelaaththo. The indigenous people’s leader Vanniyelaaththo was presenting facts regarding his tribe to the National Revival Commission (NRC) at more..
CEB to witness turnaround
July 21 (DN) The Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) will be able to reach the break-even point and make CEB a profitable venture with the new financial plan from 2015, Power and Energy Minister Champika Ranawaka said. “We are preparing a new long-term power generation plan for the next five years. Our first priority is to transform our high cost thermal power plants into low cost thermal plants.
Govt. bonds grabbed by banks on a high
July 21 (Island) The Public Debt Department of the Central Bank accepted Rs. 2.6 billion from bids amounting to Rs. 6.075 billion yesterday at the auction of Treasury bonds with three years and eight months tenure. The Central Bank had offered Rs. 1 billion at coupon rate of 7 percent per annum, but the bidding process took the weighted average yield on this bond issue to 9.53 percent, which is three basis points higher than

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