Britain's housing market began to show signs of slowing down in May, the latest Nationwide house price index shows.
Monthly growth totalled 0.5 per cent in May, falling from the 0.9 per cent seen in April, the building society said. Annual growth fell from 10.3 per cent to 10.2 per cent thanks to strong activity 12 months ago.
The May fall has been partly caused by recent interest rate hikes by the Bank of England, Nationwide said, saying that the likelihood of a further raise meant a "measured cooling" can be expected in the coming months.
Fionnuala Earley, Nationwide's chief economist, said the monetary policy committee's "hawkish" attitude had implications for budding property owners.
"Higher interest rates, with the threat of more on the horizon, should signal caution to those thinking about stretching themselves to get a foot on the ladder," she said.
"This is not only because of the level of debt in the short term, but also because, in a low inflation world, the real value of the debt is not eroded as quickly. As a result the burden of servicing that debt remains heavier for much longer."
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Sri Lankan stones in Tehran
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister has announced that a collection of precious stones from his country will be put on display in Tehran.
Rohitha Bogollagama made the remarks during the opening ceremony of Sri Lanka-Iran Business Council in the Iranian capital.
The exhibition will showcase Sri Lanka's precious stones and also provide the visitors with information about Sri Lanka's tourism potentials, he added.
"I always thought Iran has got unique historical monuments and great history but during my trip to Iran I realized that besides the great ancient history, Iran has beautiful nature," he noted.
Rohitha Bogollagama made the remarks during the opening ceremony of Sri Lanka-Iran Business Council in the Iranian capital.
The exhibition will showcase Sri Lanka's precious stones and also provide the visitors with information about Sri Lanka's tourism potentials, he added.
"I always thought Iran has got unique historical monuments and great history but during my trip to Iran I realized that besides the great ancient history, Iran has beautiful nature," he noted.
Residents flee in fear as Tamil rebels fire mortars at the village in Northeast Sri Lanka
May 31, Colombo: The residents of Athawetunawewa village in the Vauniya district, Welioya Defense Colony in Sri Lanka are reportedly fleeing the area due to mortar attacks by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE), sources from the area said.
One Army soldier was killed in the mortar attacks and seven persons including an Army officer, a home guard and two women were hospitalized with injuries, defense sources said.
The first mortar was fired around 10 a.m. and the next fell as the officials reached the sight.
Athawetunawewa is situated in the controversial Welioya defense colony established in late 1980s in the northern most edge of the Sinhalese settlements and the area is continuously aimed for the fatal attacks by the Tamil Tigers.
One Army soldier was killed in the mortar attacks and seven persons including an Army officer, a home guard and two women were hospitalized with injuries, defense sources said.
The first mortar was fired around 10 a.m. and the next fell as the officials reached the sight.
Athawetunawewa is situated in the controversial Welioya defense colony established in late 1980s in the northern most edge of the Sinhalese settlements and the area is continuously aimed for the fatal attacks by the Tamil Tigers.
Sri Lanka says may scrap tattered truce with rebels
COLOMBO, May 31 (Reuters) - Sri Lanka's government may scrap what is left of a "flawed" 2002 ceasefire pact with the Tamil Tigers within weeks, the island's defence spokesman said on Thursday, a move analysts fear could escalate renewed civil war.
Defence spokesman and government minister Keheliya Rambukwella said the Norwegian-brokered truce, which now holds only on paper after breaking down on the ground last year, no longer reflected reality, citing Tamil Tiger ambushes and attacks on security forces.
The military and rebels have been locked in near daily skirmishes, land and sea battles for months. An estimated 4,000 people have been killed since last year alone.
"The government may abrogate it... due to the fact that the ground reality does not go in parallel with the CFA (Ceasefire Agreement)," Rambukwella told Reuters. "It is flawed."
Defence spokesman and government minister Keheliya Rambukwella said the Norwegian-brokered truce, which now holds only on paper after breaking down on the ground last year, no longer reflected reality, citing Tamil Tiger ambushes and attacks on security forces.
The military and rebels have been locked in near daily skirmishes, land and sea battles for months. An estimated 4,000 people have been killed since last year alone.
"The government may abrogate it... due to the fact that the ground reality does not go in parallel with the CFA (Ceasefire Agreement)," Rambukwella told Reuters. "It is flawed."
New equipment for Vakarai schools
The Education Ministry yesterday dispatched furniture, books and school uniforms and other equipment to twelve schools in Vakarai that are to be reopened following the full restoration of civilian life in the region.
The schools were facing much hindrances due to lack of furniture and study material when Vakarai was in the grip of LTTE terror. Education Ministry sources said with the dispatch of the furniture and other goods the schools would will be able to reopen soon.
Under this programme, 2,000 school desks, 2,000 chairs, 1,700 small chairs, 850 small desks, teachers' chairs and tables all costing Rs. 13 million were sent for use by the 12 schools.
Education Minister Susil Premajayantha handed over the list of the consignment to Nation Building Minister Susantha Punchinilame and Local Government Minister Bashir Segudawood.
The schools were facing much hindrances due to lack of furniture and study material when Vakarai was in the grip of LTTE terror. Education Ministry sources said with the dispatch of the furniture and other goods the schools would will be able to reopen soon.
Under this programme, 2,000 school desks, 2,000 chairs, 1,700 small chairs, 850 small desks, teachers' chairs and tables all costing Rs. 13 million were sent for use by the 12 schools.
Education Minister Susil Premajayantha handed over the list of the consignment to Nation Building Minister Susantha Punchinilame and Local Government Minister Bashir Segudawood.
Foreign Ministry clarifies arrests of Miss Parmeshwari and Mr. Basnayke
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in two press releases today (31) clarified the circumstances surrounding the arrest of two employees of Standard Newspapers Limited; Miss Munisamy Parameshwari and Mr Dushyantha Basnayake.
The Ministry said the clarifications have to be made as the two arrests were largely misinterpreted in both international and local forums as government's attempts to curtail media freedom.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Miss Parameshwari, who was a journalist attached to former local newspaper "Mavubima" the Ministry said that the arrest was made Based on intelligence received by the Special Task Force of the Sri Lanka Police.
"Miss Parameshwari was arrested on 23rd November 2006, in respect of her alleged involvement in abetting a LTTE female suicide cadre named Thambirasa Susanthi, by providing her with accommodation in Colombo. Her arrest and subsequent detention was in accordance with provisions of the Emergency Regulations", the press release said.
Commenting on Miss Parameshwari's acquittal, the press release elucidated:
"Following the completion of the investigation, the Attorney General reviewed the available material for the purpose of instituting criminal proceedings. Though there existed a volume of incriminatory material against Parameshwari, the availability of material admissible against the suspect in a court of law, was insufficient and hence the Attorney General advised the police to discharge the suspect. Accordingly, the suspect was discharged by the Magistrate on 22nd March 2007"
The Ministry said the clarifications have to be made as the two arrests were largely misinterpreted in both international and local forums as government's attempts to curtail media freedom.
Explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Miss Parameshwari, who was a journalist attached to former local newspaper "Mavubima" the Ministry said that the arrest was made Based on intelligence received by the Special Task Force of the Sri Lanka Police.
"Miss Parameshwari was arrested on 23rd November 2006, in respect of her alleged involvement in abetting a LTTE female suicide cadre named Thambirasa Susanthi, by providing her with accommodation in Colombo. Her arrest and subsequent detention was in accordance with provisions of the Emergency Regulations", the press release said.
Commenting on Miss Parameshwari's acquittal, the press release elucidated:
"Following the completion of the investigation, the Attorney General reviewed the available material for the purpose of instituting criminal proceedings. Though there existed a volume of incriminatory material against Parameshwari, the availability of material admissible against the suspect in a court of law, was insufficient and hence the Attorney General advised the police to discharge the suspect. Accordingly, the suspect was discharged by the Magistrate on 22nd March 2007"
One killed, five injured in LTTE mortar attack at Athawatun Wewa village
One army soldier killed and five others including two civilian suffered injuries as the LTTE terrorists fired mortar shells at Athawatunu Wewa Sinhalese village this morning (31).
According to the defence sources, the terrorists have started firing heavy mortars around 10.30a.m targeting the villagers. Two villagers, both females suffered injuries and were rushed to the government hospital at Padawiya. Later, the two have been airlifted to Anuradhapura General Hospital.
Meanwhile six army soldiers who had been deployed for the protection of villagers also suffered injuries in the attack. One of the injured succumbed to injuries at the admission to the hospital.
The LTTE is a ruthless terror group who fights for a mono-ethnic separate homeland for the Tamils living in Sri Lanka since 1983. It has been the outfit's strategy since its inception to flush out Singhalese and Muslim people from North and East by bloody ethnic cleansing raids. Thousands of civilians, mostly women and children were perished in the most ruthless massacres during its 20 years of terror campaign.
According to the defence sources, the terrorists have started firing heavy mortars around 10.30a.m targeting the villagers. Two villagers, both females suffered injuries and were rushed to the government hospital at Padawiya. Later, the two have been airlifted to Anuradhapura General Hospital.
Meanwhile six army soldiers who had been deployed for the protection of villagers also suffered injuries in the attack. One of the injured succumbed to injuries at the admission to the hospital.
The LTTE is a ruthless terror group who fights for a mono-ethnic separate homeland for the Tamils living in Sri Lanka since 1983. It has been the outfit's strategy since its inception to flush out Singhalese and Muslim people from North and East by bloody ethnic cleansing raids. Thousands of civilians, mostly women and children were perished in the most ruthless massacres during its 20 years of terror campaign.
Army guns down an LTTE intelligence wing cadre- Batticaloa
Army troops conducting a search operation in the Kinniyadi area, in Batticaloa gunned down an LTTE cadre around 9:45 this morning (31).
Defence sources said that the soldiers on the search patrol came under fire at Mancholai village in Kinniyadi . The soldiers repulsed the attack successfully and found a body of a slain LTTE cadre along with a T-56 assault riffle.
It is now suspected that the dead LTTE cadre might be a member of the LTTE intelligence wing. Defence officials said that the suspicion was based on a document found with the LTTE cadre. However, they refused to make further comments on the finding.
Defence sources said that the soldiers on the search patrol came under fire at Mancholai village in Kinniyadi . The soldiers repulsed the attack successfully and found a body of a slain LTTE cadre along with a T-56 assault riffle.
It is now suspected that the dead LTTE cadre might be a member of the LTTE intelligence wing. Defence officials said that the suspicion was based on a document found with the LTTE cadre. However, they refused to make further comments on the finding.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Google corners nearly two-thirds of US search market
The latest search market share numbers are in from Hitwise: in the four weeks ended March 31st, Google (GOOG) racked up fully 64.13% of all US searches. That’s up more than 10% since March 2006, and, if trends hold, Google’s share will pass the two thirds mark by August. In the same period, Yahoo (YHOO), Microsoft (MSFT), and Ask (IACI) all lost share. As the old Wall Street hands like to say: “Liquidity begets liquidity.”
Clearly, this is not good news for the search also rans, particularly as it covers a period when all of them made major and costly improvements to their search engines. Ask.com for example, rolled out an impressive local search service in 2006 and also greatly improved its image searching, and yet its share declined nearly a half a point, to a fragile 3.48%, in the course of the year.
Conventional wisdom has long held that Google is vulnerable to vertical attacks, i.e. search engines that carve out category niches. The new Hitwise data suggests, however, that Google is actually gaining influence in valuable verticals. Search engines overall grew in influence over the year, accounting for more of the total traffic sent to sites in the categories of travel, health, shopping, business, and entertainment, among others. However, in all of those categories, the growth of Google’s share of this “upstream traffic” flow outpaced that of its rivals. In shopping, for example, Google’s share grew 14% while, taken together, all search engines increased their share in that arena by only 6%.
Of course, web market share numbers are notoriously fallible, and these will require further vetting. Meantime, those desperate for any sign of Google weakness, may take some consolation in this recent PC Magazine critique of Gmail. Delighted GOOG investors wishing to further fuel their warm and fuzzy feelings, on the other hand, should proceed directly to Alex Iskold’s two-by-two matrix-laden proof that Google is, in fact, the “ultimate money making machine.”
Clearly, this is not good news for the search also rans, particularly as it covers a period when all of them made major and costly improvements to their search engines. Ask.com for example, rolled out an impressive local search service in 2006 and also greatly improved its image searching, and yet its share declined nearly a half a point, to a fragile 3.48%, in the course of the year.
Conventional wisdom has long held that Google is vulnerable to vertical attacks, i.e. search engines that carve out category niches. The new Hitwise data suggests, however, that Google is actually gaining influence in valuable verticals. Search engines overall grew in influence over the year, accounting for more of the total traffic sent to sites in the categories of travel, health, shopping, business, and entertainment, among others. However, in all of those categories, the growth of Google’s share of this “upstream traffic” flow outpaced that of its rivals. In shopping, for example, Google’s share grew 14% while, taken together, all search engines increased their share in that arena by only 6%.
Of course, web market share numbers are notoriously fallible, and these will require further vetting. Meantime, those desperate for any sign of Google weakness, may take some consolation in this recent PC Magazine critique of Gmail. Delighted GOOG investors wishing to further fuel their warm and fuzzy feelings, on the other hand, should proceed directly to Alex Iskold’s two-by-two matrix-laden proof that Google is, in fact, the “ultimate money making machine.”
Expose LTTE genocide worldwide: TULF
The Tamil United Liberation Front Leader V. Anandasangaree suggests a team of British administrators and a few pro - LTTE Tamil Nadu politicians be brought down to see some of the LTTE's atrocious activities.
In a statement issued yesterday the TULF leader "strongly condemns the LTTE for its ruthless manner in which they took the lives of 8 innocent civilians and caused injuries to 36 others of whom how many would have lost their limbs and eyesight are not known".
I wish a team of British Parliamentarians and a few pro LTTE Tamil Naadu Politicians be brought down to see some of the LTTE's atrocious activities and to go back and tell the world that more than 50% of Tamils are living amongst the Sinhalese peacefully and that it is the LTTE that is engaged in genocide and not the Sinhala people.
It is surprising that there are people who still glorify the LTTE for their heinous crimes of this nature too, both locally and abroad because they are in safe haven happily with their families. Donating a day's pay for the LTTE's activities is nothing for them. They must put themselves in this position and feel for the death of the innocent ones for which they are partly responsible.
The international community should with one voice warn the LTTE to stop these types of heinous crimes and accept a solution as recommended by them and our Government too should come down to a reciprocal arrangement. I express my deepest sympathies to the families of the victims of this cruel incident and at the same time plead with the Sinhalese to keep calm, without giving vent to their anger and look after the minorities who live amongst them with honour because they are with them due to the LTTE's atrocious activities.
In a statement issued yesterday the TULF leader "strongly condemns the LTTE for its ruthless manner in which they took the lives of 8 innocent civilians and caused injuries to 36 others of whom how many would have lost their limbs and eyesight are not known".
I wish a team of British Parliamentarians and a few pro LTTE Tamil Naadu Politicians be brought down to see some of the LTTE's atrocious activities and to go back and tell the world that more than 50% of Tamils are living amongst the Sinhalese peacefully and that it is the LTTE that is engaged in genocide and not the Sinhala people.
It is surprising that there are people who still glorify the LTTE for their heinous crimes of this nature too, both locally and abroad because they are in safe haven happily with their families. Donating a day's pay for the LTTE's activities is nothing for them. They must put themselves in this position and feel for the death of the innocent ones for which they are partly responsible.
The international community should with one voice warn the LTTE to stop these types of heinous crimes and accept a solution as recommended by them and our Government too should come down to a reciprocal arrangement. I express my deepest sympathies to the families of the victims of this cruel incident and at the same time plead with the Sinhalese to keep calm, without giving vent to their anger and look after the minorities who live amongst them with honour because they are with them due to the LTTE's atrocious activities.
Tiger air, sea power worries India
India is "concerned" by the air and sea capabilities of the LTTE, a top Indian official said yesterday.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, National Security Advisor M.K. Narayanan called the Tigers a terrorist organisation, saying: "We are always concerned about their air and sea capabilities."
He said the Sea Tigers "are a threat; otherwise why should we increase (Indian) patrolling" in the sea dividing India and Sri Lanka.
Narayanan said the Centre would take all necessary steps including enhancing security to protect Tamil Nadu fishermen from attacks on the high seas.
"We will have to start coordinated patrolling," Narayanan told reporters.
Narayanan, who was with the chief minister for about 20 minutes, added that coordinated Naval patrolling between India and Sri Lanka in the sea that divides them was yet to start, Indo-Asian News Service reported.
Asked if Karunanidhi had any objection to such patrolling, Narayanan replied: "I don't find any problems for that."
About coordinated patrolling, he said the opinion of the Lanka was also required in this regard and "I do not think there is any problem from our side".
To a question whether new Delhi planned to step up assistance to the Sri Lankan defence forces to tackle LTTE, he said, "Ask the political leadership".
Karunanidhi, who later spoke briefly to journalists, however, denied discussing the issue of "coordinated patrolling" with Narayanan.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, National Security Advisor M.K. Narayanan called the Tigers a terrorist organisation, saying: "We are always concerned about their air and sea capabilities."
He said the Sea Tigers "are a threat; otherwise why should we increase (Indian) patrolling" in the sea dividing India and Sri Lanka.
Narayanan said the Centre would take all necessary steps including enhancing security to protect Tamil Nadu fishermen from attacks on the high seas.
"We will have to start coordinated patrolling," Narayanan told reporters.
Narayanan, who was with the chief minister for about 20 minutes, added that coordinated Naval patrolling between India and Sri Lanka in the sea that divides them was yet to start, Indo-Asian News Service reported.
Asked if Karunanidhi had any objection to such patrolling, Narayanan replied: "I don't find any problems for that."
About coordinated patrolling, he said the opinion of the Lanka was also required in this regard and "I do not think there is any problem from our side".
To a question whether new Delhi planned to step up assistance to the Sri Lankan defence forces to tackle LTTE, he said, "Ask the political leadership".
Karunanidhi, who later spoke briefly to journalists, however, denied discussing the issue of "coordinated patrolling" with Narayanan.
School children from Vakarai visit Colombo
overnment, along with the support of the Security Forces personnel and the 'Seva Lanka' Foundation, has organized an educational trip for the students of Vakarai area to visit the Southern part of the island.
Yesterday was the last day of this four day tour which includes sixty two students of that area. Twenty two students from Vigneshwaran School of Vakarai and forty students from Palachchenai are participating in the educational tour.
The Army and the 'Seva Lanka' Foundation are providing food and accommodation to the students.
First three days were spent at Colombo and the students had the opportunity of visiting several important places. They visited the famous shrine of St. Anthony's in Kochchikade on Saturday (26) while on Sunday they visited the National Zoological Gardens. They visited the Ramanadan Hindu College yesterday and went on a sightseeing tour in Colombo. A musical show was conducted for the students in the evening.
They left for Kandy yesterday (29) to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and will end their educational tour after visiting the 'Dalada Maligawa' (Temple of the sacred tooth relic) and the ancient Hindu Kovil in Kandy. Seva Lanka Organisation, Security Forces Headquarters (East) and the Ettambagoda Vihara Chief Incumbent Ven. Deshakeerthi Kalyanatissa Thera jointly organised the tour.
The tour was arranged as a confidence building measure with the people in south as well as to forge understanding among both parties.
This is the second tour for the students of Vakarai area, since the area was liberated by the Security Forces.
Yesterday was the last day of this four day tour which includes sixty two students of that area. Twenty two students from Vigneshwaran School of Vakarai and forty students from Palachchenai are participating in the educational tour.
The Army and the 'Seva Lanka' Foundation are providing food and accommodation to the students.
First three days were spent at Colombo and the students had the opportunity of visiting several important places. They visited the famous shrine of St. Anthony's in Kochchikade on Saturday (26) while on Sunday they visited the National Zoological Gardens. They visited the Ramanadan Hindu College yesterday and went on a sightseeing tour in Colombo. A musical show was conducted for the students in the evening.
They left for Kandy yesterday (29) to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and will end their educational tour after visiting the 'Dalada Maligawa' (Temple of the sacred tooth relic) and the ancient Hindu Kovil in Kandy. Seva Lanka Organisation, Security Forces Headquarters (East) and the Ettambagoda Vihara Chief Incumbent Ven. Deshakeerthi Kalyanatissa Thera jointly organised the tour.
The tour was arranged as a confidence building measure with the people in south as well as to forge understanding among both parties.
This is the second tour for the students of Vakarai area, since the area was liberated by the Security Forces.
Red Cross returns to Sri Lanka's northern crossing points after safety assurances
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka: Two crossing points between government and rebel-held territories in northern Sri Lanka will be reopened Wednesday after the Red Cross was given security assurances from both sides, an official said.
International Committee of the Red Cross staff plan to return to the Omanthai and Uyilankulam check points three days a week — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — after the rebels and government guaranteed their safety, ICRC spokesman, Davide Vignati, said.
The ICRC said last week it was withdrawing its staff from the two checkpoints due to escalating violence amid a deepening conflict between separatist Tamil Tiger rebels and the security forces.
"The ICRC had been present on a daily basis since 2002. Although its presence at the crossing points will now be reduced to only three days a week, it remains ready to ensure the safe passage of ambulances transporting the sick and wounded whenever necessary," the group said in a statement.
The Tamil Tigers have been fighting for over two decades for an independent state for the country's 3.1 million Tamil minority, citing decades of discrimination by the Sinhalese-majority state.
International Committee of the Red Cross staff plan to return to the Omanthai and Uyilankulam check points three days a week — Monday, Wednesday and Friday — after the rebels and government guaranteed their safety, ICRC spokesman, Davide Vignati, said.
The ICRC said last week it was withdrawing its staff from the two checkpoints due to escalating violence amid a deepening conflict between separatist Tamil Tiger rebels and the security forces.
"The ICRC had been present on a daily basis since 2002. Although its presence at the crossing points will now be reduced to only three days a week, it remains ready to ensure the safe passage of ambulances transporting the sick and wounded whenever necessary," the group said in a statement.
The Tamil Tigers have been fighting for over two decades for an independent state for the country's 3.1 million Tamil minority, citing decades of discrimination by the Sinhalese-majority state.
Sri Lanka's general public asked to be vigilant
May 29, Colombo: The Sri Lankan security forces yesterday urged the general public to be vigilant amidst intensified LTTE terror attacks against civilians and military personnel.
“Security forces note that the LTTE is increasingly resorting to terror attacks in heavily populated areas in Colombo and suburbs,” the Media Center for National Security said.
Following yesterday’s bomb blast at Ratmalana, the Media Center said, “These attacks are deliberately carried out by the LTTE to create racial disharmony and civil unrest in the south. Their ultimate aim is to divert the attention of the security forces from operational areas.”
It also said, “The general public is requested to maintain constant vigil over their surroundings and on suspicious persons in order to help the security forces prevent terror attacks in the country. The general public is requested to immediately notify relevant security authorities if they observe any disruptive elements, suspicious person or activity.”
“Security forces note that the LTTE is increasingly resorting to terror attacks in heavily populated areas in Colombo and suburbs,” the Media Center for National Security said.
Following yesterday’s bomb blast at Ratmalana, the Media Center said, “These attacks are deliberately carried out by the LTTE to create racial disharmony and civil unrest in the south. Their ultimate aim is to divert the attention of the security forces from operational areas.”
It also said, “The general public is requested to maintain constant vigil over their surroundings and on suspicious persons in order to help the security forces prevent terror attacks in the country. The general public is requested to immediately notify relevant security authorities if they observe any disruptive elements, suspicious person or activity.”
Estate Tamils seek 16 seats
The Upcountry People’s Front (UPF) has asked for 16 parliamentary seats for Tamils of Indian origin under the proposed electoral reforms along with ten constituencies re-demarcated to strengthen the community’s representation.
The UPF, a party of the governing coalition, discussed its proposals with other political parties representing the upcountry Tamils at the Indian community council meeting held on Monday. Currently, there are 11 members representing Tamils of Indian origin in Parliament.
UPF central committee member S. Vijesandiran told the Daily Mirror yesterday they basically demanded 16 seats in parliament and ten of them should be elected from the proposed constituencies in the districts largely inhabited by upcountry Tamils.
“We will support a combination of the first-past-the post system and the present proportional representation system only on these conditions,” he said.
In addition, the UPF has also proposed 18 and 12 constituencies for Sri Lankan Tamils and Muslims respectively out of the total 40 minority constituencies.
The proposed constituencies for estate Tamils in the Nuwara-Eliya district are Maskeliya, Hatton, Talawakele and Nuwara-Eliya and in the Badulla district, Passara and Dambatenne-Poonagala.
The party has also proposed the demarcation of Kotahena and Wellawatte as separate constituencies for Tamils of Indian origin in the Colombo district.
The Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC) agreed in principle with the UPF demand of 16 seats in Parliament for estate Tamils.
CWC spokesman R. Yogarajan said the party decided at the meeting to join hands in fighting for its electoral rights in the future.
The UPF, a party of the governing coalition, discussed its proposals with other political parties representing the upcountry Tamils at the Indian community council meeting held on Monday. Currently, there are 11 members representing Tamils of Indian origin in Parliament.
UPF central committee member S. Vijesandiran told the Daily Mirror yesterday they basically demanded 16 seats in parliament and ten of them should be elected from the proposed constituencies in the districts largely inhabited by upcountry Tamils.
“We will support a combination of the first-past-the post system and the present proportional representation system only on these conditions,” he said.
In addition, the UPF has also proposed 18 and 12 constituencies for Sri Lankan Tamils and Muslims respectively out of the total 40 minority constituencies.
The proposed constituencies for estate Tamils in the Nuwara-Eliya district are Maskeliya, Hatton, Talawakele and Nuwara-Eliya and in the Badulla district, Passara and Dambatenne-Poonagala.
The party has also proposed the demarcation of Kotahena and Wellawatte as separate constituencies for Tamils of Indian origin in the Colombo district.
The Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC) agreed in principle with the UPF demand of 16 seats in Parliament for estate Tamils.
CWC spokesman R. Yogarajan said the party decided at the meeting to join hands in fighting for its electoral rights in the future.
Cuba-Sri Lanka Boost Cultural Relations
Havana, May 29.- Sri Lanka's Minister of Cultural Affairs and National Heritage, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena, and Cuban Vice Minister of Culture Vivian Velunza held a meeting on Monday aimed at strengthening cultural relations between the two nations.
Abeywardena said that a cooperation agreement to be inked on Wednesday aims to expand cultural exchange between Cuba and Sri Lanka. He added that culture is the most efficient way to integrate all sectors of society.
The minister also expressed his interest in the area of cinematography and talked about the possibility of exhibiting films from his country at Havana's International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, held every year in December.
Abeywardena said that a cooperation agreement to be inked on Wednesday aims to expand cultural exchange between Cuba and Sri Lanka. He added that culture is the most efficient way to integrate all sectors of society.
The minister also expressed his interest in the area of cinematography and talked about the possibility of exhibiting films from his country at Havana's International Festival of New Latin American Cinema, held every year in December.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
ICRC to have crucial talks with Tamil Tigers to reopen the checkpoints in Sri Lanka
May 28, Colombo: International Committee of Red Cross (ICRC) is to have a crucial discussion with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) today to take a decision on the opening of checkpoints leading the way to the Tamil rebel held Wanni in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka.
Omanthai and Puliyankulam checkpoints remained closed since 23rd stranding thousands of civilians crossing the key entry-exit point between the rebel territory and government controlled area.
Meanwhile, sources from Wanni said that a scarcity of food is beginning to prevail in the region. A number of patients seeking further treatment from the Vavuniya hospital lagged in Kilinochchi hospital behind the borders while hospital sources said that 63 discharged patients are in Vavuniya hospital as they could not go back to uncleared areas.
The ICRC had discussions with the Tamil Tigers and the government past few days to reopen the checkpoints. They seek assurance of safety for their officials to reopen the checkpoints. Continued LTTE mortar and artillery fire caused the withdrawal of ICRC personnel manning the checkpoints.
Omanthai and Puliyankulam checkpoints remained closed since 23rd stranding thousands of civilians crossing the key entry-exit point between the rebel territory and government controlled area.
Meanwhile, sources from Wanni said that a scarcity of food is beginning to prevail in the region. A number of patients seeking further treatment from the Vavuniya hospital lagged in Kilinochchi hospital behind the borders while hospital sources said that 63 discharged patients are in Vavuniya hospital as they could not go back to uncleared areas.
The ICRC had discussions with the Tamil Tigers and the government past few days to reopen the checkpoints. They seek assurance of safety for their officials to reopen the checkpoints. Continued LTTE mortar and artillery fire caused the withdrawal of ICRC personnel manning the checkpoints.
Tamil Tiger Rebels Recruit Fighters in Indian Refugee Camps
May 28 (Bloomberg) -- The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam rebel group is recruiting fighters, including children, from among refugees living in camps in India's Tamil Nadu state, Sri Lanka's Defense Ministry said.
``It is believed that the LTTE terrorist outfit has infiltrated the Tamil Nadu refugee camps in the guise of displaced and asylum seekers,'' the ministry said on its Web site. LTTE operatives are trying to persuade families to ``get the youngsters to return'' and boost recruitment.
The LTTE hasn't commented on the Defense Ministry statement. It has said it is taking steps to return any minors in its ranks to their families.
More than 16,000 people have fled across the Palk Strait to Tamil Nadu to escape the fighting in Sri Lanka since January 2006, the United Nations said last November. An estimated 60,000 Sri Lankans are in camps in the state that lies about a two-hour boat ride from the South Asian island nation.
The LTTE and a breakaway faction known as the Karuna group are continuing to forcibly recruit people, including children, Unicef, the UN Children's Fund, said in March. By the end of January, 6,006 children had been recorded as abducted by the Tamil Tigers during the conflict with 1,710 of them still being held. Registered abductions of children by the Karuna group were 235 with 169 still being held, it said.
The splinter group takes its name from Colonel Karuna, a former LTTE commander in the island's east, who in March 2004 broke away from the main faction in the north. The Tamil Tigers say the government is supporting Karuna, an allegation the military denies.
``It is believed that the LTTE terrorist outfit has infiltrated the Tamil Nadu refugee camps in the guise of displaced and asylum seekers,'' the ministry said on its Web site. LTTE operatives are trying to persuade families to ``get the youngsters to return'' and boost recruitment.
The LTTE hasn't commented on the Defense Ministry statement. It has said it is taking steps to return any minors in its ranks to their families.
More than 16,000 people have fled across the Palk Strait to Tamil Nadu to escape the fighting in Sri Lanka since January 2006, the United Nations said last November. An estimated 60,000 Sri Lankans are in camps in the state that lies about a two-hour boat ride from the South Asian island nation.
The LTTE and a breakaway faction known as the Karuna group are continuing to forcibly recruit people, including children, Unicef, the UN Children's Fund, said in March. By the end of January, 6,006 children had been recorded as abducted by the Tamil Tigers during the conflict with 1,710 of them still being held. Registered abductions of children by the Karuna group were 235 with 169 still being held, it said.
The splinter group takes its name from Colonel Karuna, a former LTTE commander in the island's east, who in March 2004 broke away from the main faction in the north. The Tamil Tigers say the government is supporting Karuna, an allegation the military denies.
Death Toll rises to 8 in the Terror bomb blast - Rathmalana
Death toll of the Rathmalana bomb blast has risen to eight as one of the Special Task Force (STF) Personnel succumbed to his injuries at the National Hospital Colombo last night (28).
Earlier, seven civilians, four males and three females died immediately after the indiscriminate bomb attack carried out by the LTTE terrorists at Rathmalana, in the Colombo suburb last evening. 36 people including five STF personnel sustained injuries in the incident.
The bomb, which had been planted under the roof of a wayside shop, was exploded around 5:40 p.m. targeting the civilians using Colombo-Gall main road. A police truck carrying STF personnel was too caught in the explosion. STF officials said that there were nine police commandos in truck at the time of the explosion. Six civilian vehicles were also badly damaged in the incident. Bags, shoes and slippers of the victims were seen strewn on the road.
The Police truck had been moving from the STF Training School in Katukurunda to its camp in Gonahena, Kadawatha when the explosion occurred.
Military officials said the terrorists have clearly targeted the civilians in guise of attacking a military target as the bomb was timed with the office crowd returning home after work. Military Spokesman Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said that the bomb might be a claymore mine triggered using a remote control device. The shop where the bomb was placed had been closed for more than 1 1/2 years and some repairs had been effected to it a few days ago.
Brigadier Samarasinghe requested all citizens to be vigilant on their surroundings at all times and to inform any suspicious activity to the security forces immediately as possible. He said that the support of civilians is vital for preventing such unfortunate incidents.
Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa condemning the attack said that the LTTE was trying to achieve its narrow objectives through such cowardly attacks at innocent civilians. In a statement, the President expressed his condolence to the families of those who died in the attack and wished speedy recovery for the injured.
President Rajapaksa further pointed out that the LTTE is floundering to prop up communalism in the south to disrupt the humanitarian operations undertaken by the security forces in the North and East. He added that the aim of the operations carried out by the security forces is to liberate the people living under terror clutches and to safeguard their democratic rights.
The LTTE has been fighting against SL government since 1983 for a separate mono ethnic homeland for the Tamils living in the Island. The main strategy of the outfit in pursuing its objectives has been killing innocent civilians in indiscriminate attacks without claiming responsibility for any of its deeds. During last two decades, the LTTE has killed tens of thousands civilians in its bomb attacks and ethnic cleansing raids at Sinhalese and Muslim villages. However, the outfit's propaganda machinery has been effective enough to mislead the international community and to find sufficient funds to further its terror campaign.
Earlier, seven civilians, four males and three females died immediately after the indiscriminate bomb attack carried out by the LTTE terrorists at Rathmalana, in the Colombo suburb last evening. 36 people including five STF personnel sustained injuries in the incident.
The bomb, which had been planted under the roof of a wayside shop, was exploded around 5:40 p.m. targeting the civilians using Colombo-Gall main road. A police truck carrying STF personnel was too caught in the explosion. STF officials said that there were nine police commandos in truck at the time of the explosion. Six civilian vehicles were also badly damaged in the incident. Bags, shoes and slippers of the victims were seen strewn on the road.
The Police truck had been moving from the STF Training School in Katukurunda to its camp in Gonahena, Kadawatha when the explosion occurred.
Military officials said the terrorists have clearly targeted the civilians in guise of attacking a military target as the bomb was timed with the office crowd returning home after work. Military Spokesman Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said that the bomb might be a claymore mine triggered using a remote control device. The shop where the bomb was placed had been closed for more than 1 1/2 years and some repairs had been effected to it a few days ago.
Brigadier Samarasinghe requested all citizens to be vigilant on their surroundings at all times and to inform any suspicious activity to the security forces immediately as possible. He said that the support of civilians is vital for preventing such unfortunate incidents.
Meanwhile, President Mahinda Rajapaksa condemning the attack said that the LTTE was trying to achieve its narrow objectives through such cowardly attacks at innocent civilians. In a statement, the President expressed his condolence to the families of those who died in the attack and wished speedy recovery for the injured.
President Rajapaksa further pointed out that the LTTE is floundering to prop up communalism in the south to disrupt the humanitarian operations undertaken by the security forces in the North and East. He added that the aim of the operations carried out by the security forces is to liberate the people living under terror clutches and to safeguard their democratic rights.
The LTTE has been fighting against SL government since 1983 for a separate mono ethnic homeland for the Tamils living in the Island. The main strategy of the outfit in pursuing its objectives has been killing innocent civilians in indiscriminate attacks without claiming responsibility for any of its deeds. During last two decades, the LTTE has killed tens of thousands civilians in its bomb attacks and ethnic cleansing raids at Sinhalese and Muslim villages. However, the outfit's propaganda machinery has been effective enough to mislead the international community and to find sufficient funds to further its terror campaign.
Two LTTE cadres Killed; two claymore mines uncovered- Weli Oya and Jaffna
SL army troops skirmished with a group of LTTE terrorists in the Athawatunuweva area in Weli-Oya this afternoon (28). The troops were fired up on by the LTTE terrorists, while conducting a foot patrol. The terrorists have withdrawn in the face of the army retaliation.
Subsequently, radio communication among the LTTE cadres has revealed that two LTTE cadres were killed and two others were injured in the attack. One army soldiers also suffered minor injuries.
Separately, at Kodikamam in Jaffna, army troops found two claymore mines each weighing 10 Kgs on a civilian tip off this morning (28). One of the mines was found hidden in a thicket while the other was found inside an abandon building.
Subsequently, radio communication among the LTTE cadres has revealed that two LTTE cadres were killed and two others were injured in the attack. One army soldiers also suffered minor injuries.
Separately, at Kodikamam in Jaffna, army troops found two claymore mines each weighing 10 Kgs on a civilian tip off this morning (28). One of the mines was found hidden in a thicket while the other was found inside an abandon building.
Situation conducive for resettlement in B'caloa -INGOs
A consortium, of international humanitarian and relief agencies, recently acknowledged that the area where internally displaced persons (IDPs) are being currently resettled in the Batticaloa district is favourable for resettlement.
The consortium - Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Country Team said that an inter-agency mission, that included the UN, UNICEF and UNHCR, toured Wellavelli on May 18 to assess the situation. Subsequent to the visit, IASC declared that the majority of the displaced wished to return home and that the area was conducive to return.
The military appreciated the IASC's assertion, particularly as it comes against the backdrop of efforts to undermine the resettlement programme. A section of the media and other interested parties have accused the government of forcing the displaced to return to their villages, the military. "We aren't doing this at gun point," a senior police official said, adding, "This is a tremendous boost and a welcome sign as some expatriate workers have been generally critical of the resettlement effort."
UN Resident Co-ordinator headed the IASC which included over a dozen agencies and organizations, including UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF, WHO, WFP, World Bank, Oxfam, Care, World Vision and Save the Children.
A senior official yesterday said that about 28,000 people had returned to Wellavelli (Porativu-pattu) in the Batticaloa (west) during the first stage of the resettlement programme which began on May 14. Although the military concluded the first stage of the resettlement programme by May 24, the displaced would be allowed to return, he said.
The government intends to carry out the resettlement programme at Pattipalai (Manmunai Southwest) and Vavunativu (Manmunai West) next month. The elite Special Task Force (STF) is in charge of security in areas earmarked for resettlement of the displaced.
The consortium - Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Country Team said that an inter-agency mission, that included the UN, UNICEF and UNHCR, toured Wellavelli on May 18 to assess the situation. Subsequent to the visit, IASC declared that the majority of the displaced wished to return home and that the area was conducive to return.
The military appreciated the IASC's assertion, particularly as it comes against the backdrop of efforts to undermine the resettlement programme. A section of the media and other interested parties have accused the government of forcing the displaced to return to their villages, the military. "We aren't doing this at gun point," a senior police official said, adding, "This is a tremendous boost and a welcome sign as some expatriate workers have been generally critical of the resettlement effort."
UN Resident Co-ordinator headed the IASC which included over a dozen agencies and organizations, including UNDP, UNHCR, UNICEF, WHO, WFP, World Bank, Oxfam, Care, World Vision and Save the Children.
A senior official yesterday said that about 28,000 people had returned to Wellavelli (Porativu-pattu) in the Batticaloa (west) during the first stage of the resettlement programme which began on May 14. Although the military concluded the first stage of the resettlement programme by May 24, the displaced would be allowed to return, he said.
The government intends to carry out the resettlement programme at Pattipalai (Manmunai Southwest) and Vavunativu (Manmunai West) next month. The elite Special Task Force (STF) is in charge of security in areas earmarked for resettlement of the displaced.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Jordanian business delegation to visit Lanka on investment mission Follow-up to President Rajapaksa's visit:
Delegation: Subsequent to the visit of President Mahinda Rajapaksa to Jordan recently, a 20-member Jordanian business delegation will visit Sri Lanka by the end of the year to pursue investment opportunities.
A 20-member local business delegation too was included for this tour and most of them found partners to start up business in Jordan. President Federation of Chamber of Commerce, Nawaz Rajabdeen who led the business delegation said that there are also many opportunities for Sri Lankans to start business in Jordan.
Already a Sri Lankan has set up an apparel factory and employs 1,500 Sri Lankans. "The biggest advantage in starting apparel industries in Jordan is that the finished products can go to the US duty free."
He said that the meetings the President had with senior Ministers and business leaders had opened new avenues for business especially for the fruit and vegetable sectors.
"Already there is an increased demand for Sri Lankan tea, spices and there is an emerging market for the gem and jewellery sector," he said. Sri Lankans too should pursue the opportunities in the industry and leisure sectors, as the incentives provided for foreign investors are very encouraging.
Increasing tourism is helping the Jordanian economy, with 2.5 million visitors a year. Jordan has never been self sufficient in food, but now the gap is increasing, as internal demand rises quicker than production. Jordan is importing products after the same criteria that apply to underdeveloped countries: export of some products, and import of basic food stuffs.
A 20-member local business delegation too was included for this tour and most of them found partners to start up business in Jordan. President Federation of Chamber of Commerce, Nawaz Rajabdeen who led the business delegation said that there are also many opportunities for Sri Lankans to start business in Jordan.
Already a Sri Lankan has set up an apparel factory and employs 1,500 Sri Lankans. "The biggest advantage in starting apparel industries in Jordan is that the finished products can go to the US duty free."
He said that the meetings the President had with senior Ministers and business leaders had opened new avenues for business especially for the fruit and vegetable sectors.
"Already there is an increased demand for Sri Lankan tea, spices and there is an emerging market for the gem and jewellery sector," he said. Sri Lankans too should pursue the opportunities in the industry and leisure sectors, as the incentives provided for foreign investors are very encouraging.
Increasing tourism is helping the Jordanian economy, with 2.5 million visitors a year. Jordan has never been self sufficient in food, but now the gap is increasing, as internal demand rises quicker than production. Jordan is importing products after the same criteria that apply to underdeveloped countries: export of some products, and import of basic food stuffs.
Six LTTE child soldiers surrender - Batticaloa
| |
| The surrendered six child soldiers who had fled the LTTE terrorist outfit in Thoppigala. |
Despite restless LTTE propaganda to white wash its stunning setbacks experienced in the hands of the SL security forces in the eastern frontier, groups of terrorist combatants are surrendering themselves to SL Army camps located in Batticaloa.
Adding to the numbers, six more LTTE child soldiers surrendered themselves at the Army camp at Siththandi, Batticaloa District. According to the defence sources, the surrenders were between 14 to 17 years of age, and had been forcibly abducted by the LTTE terrorists .
It was quoted according to the statements given by the surrendered child combatants, that they were been abducted by the outfit while they were visiting their relatives and on the way to a Hindu Temple. An underage girl was also abducted by the LTTE while on her way to school.
All the surrendered child soldiers are female, and they had fled the LTTE defences at Thoppigala, the last terrorist hideout in east the defence sources further added. The six child combatants had braved crossing the lagoon and arrived at the Siththandi Army camp.
Many Foreign news agencies have reported that the LTTE terrorists were maintaining a tight lip on the recent revelations made by the fleeing child soldiers.
"The children in their leaning ages are been engaged to fight a war that they do not understand why they are fighting for. Hatred in the only theme thought which is discharged under the oath of Ten Commandments of a tyranny of Pirabakaran, he who has personally resorted to secure the lives of his children with luxuries under the guise of asylum in foreign states", a Tamil intellect who refused to disclose his identity one told defence.lk website.
The LTTE is being banned as a terrorist organisation in U.K, U.S.A, India and many other countries including the 25 nations European Union.
The LTTE is a ruthless terror group who fights for a mono-ethnic separate homeland for the Tamil living in Sri Lanka since 1983. It has been the outfit's strategy since its inception to flush out Singhalese and Muslim people from North and East by bloody ethnic cleansing raids. Thousands of civilians, mostly women and children were perished in the most ruthless massacres during its 20 years of terror campaign.
Govt. initiates to grant 'citizenship' to Indian origin Tamil refugees
The Government of Sri Lanka will look in to the possibility of amending the Grant of Citizenship to Persons of Indian Origin Act, 2003, to enable an estimated 28,500 'Tamils of Indian origin refugees,' living in various camps across Tamil Nadu, to obtain Sri Lankan citizenship.
Accordingly, the Government has informed the above subject to be referred to a selected committee to rectify loopholes, if any, in the existing Act.
"We believe [that] the Granting of Citizenship for citizens of Indian Origin Act No. 35 is sufficient. However, if some categories of people experienced difficulties in obtaining citizenship we are ready to amend the Act." said Minister Dharmadasa Banda
Indian origined Tamil refugees fled the country due to disturbed conditions initiated with the LTTE terror movement in the Northern and Eastern Part of Sri Lanka. Since 1990, they have been living in Tamil Nadu camps under poor health and sanitary conditions.
Forced child recruitment in refugee camps:
It is believed that the LTTE terrorist outfit has infiltrated the Tamil Nadu refugee camps in guise of displaced and asylum seekers.
Recently it was reported that the LTTE has given instructions to its operatives in Tamil Nadu to go around and meet the families migrated there to get the youngsters to return to Vanni and boost its recruitment drive.
Banned by the International community:
The LTTE is being banned as a ruthless terrorist organisation in U.K, U.S.A, India and many other countries including the 25 nations European Union. The LTTE is a ruthless terror group who fights for a mono-ethnic separate homeland for the Tamil living in Sri Lanka since 1983.
Accordingly, the Government has informed the above subject to be referred to a selected committee to rectify loopholes, if any, in the existing Act.
"We believe [that] the Granting of Citizenship for citizens of Indian Origin Act No. 35 is sufficient. However, if some categories of people experienced difficulties in obtaining citizenship we are ready to amend the Act." said Minister Dharmadasa Banda
Indian origined Tamil refugees fled the country due to disturbed conditions initiated with the LTTE terror movement in the Northern and Eastern Part of Sri Lanka. Since 1990, they have been living in Tamil Nadu camps under poor health and sanitary conditions.
Forced child recruitment in refugee camps:
It is believed that the LTTE terrorist outfit has infiltrated the Tamil Nadu refugee camps in guise of displaced and asylum seekers.
Recently it was reported that the LTTE has given instructions to its operatives in Tamil Nadu to go around and meet the families migrated there to get the youngsters to return to Vanni and boost its recruitment drive.
Banned by the International community:
The LTTE is being banned as a ruthless terrorist organisation in U.K, U.S.A, India and many other countries including the 25 nations European Union. The LTTE is a ruthless terror group who fights for a mono-ethnic separate homeland for the Tamil living in Sri Lanka since 1983.
Three civilians killed in LTTE claymore mine explosion- Ampara
Three civilians including two Muslims were killed in the latest LTTE claimed atrocity targeting innocent civilians at the Nerukulama village area, 15 kilometres south of Thirikkovil in the Ampara District, today(27) at 06.30p.m.
LTTE terrorists detonated a claymore mine targeting a 'Canter vehicle' plying along the Akkaraepattuwa- Pothuvil main road sending the vehicle off road, claiming three innocent lives.
Two of the dead were identified as Adamlebbai Abdhul Lathif(49) and Adambavah Mohommad Hamid(29), both residents in the Akkaraepattuwa General area. According to the Thirikkovil Police sources, the explosion was triggered off between the 215 and 216 mile posts along the Akkaraepattuwa-Pothuvil main Road.
Meanwhile, the Police sources said that another civilian body transferred to the Thirikkovil General Hospital morgue was yet to be identified.
The Tirikkovil Police officials are conducting further investigations.
Earlier, on Thursday(24) LTTE terrorists triggered a claymore mine in Colombo killing two Army personnel and injuring two others.
Friday, May 25, 2007
UK gives Sterling Pound 1m to conflict victims
COLOMBO: The UK will give Sterling Pound one million to help over 300,000 Sri Lankans made homeless by the surge in violence since last year, International Development Minister Gareth Thomas announced today.
Some of the funds will also be used to help improve security conditions for hundreds of aid workers, particularly those working in the North and East of Sri Lanka.
Thomas said: “The daily cycle of violence is having a catastrophe effect on the lives of hundreds of thousands of people across the island. All sides must put an end to the violence and breathe life back into the 2002 Peace Agreement before more lives are lost.
Some of the funds will also be used to help improve security conditions for hundreds of aid workers, particularly those working in the North and East of Sri Lanka.
Thomas said: “The daily cycle of violence is having a catastrophe effect on the lives of hundreds of thousands of people across the island. All sides must put an end to the violence and breathe life back into the 2002 Peace Agreement before more lives are lost.
Leisure industry persisting in selling Sri Lanka
Shirajiv Sirimane
TOURISM: The global travel agents and companies have not abandoned selling Sri Lanka and they still have confidence in the destination, said the President of the Sri Lanka Inbound Tour Operators (SLITO) Dirk Girkson.
Speaking at an event organised by the Sri Lanka Tourist Board (SLTB) yesterday he said this is very encouraging and they are also happy with the meaningful steps taken by the SLTB and the Government to
Inbound tourists:Continuing confidence
President Sri Lanka Travel Agents Association (TAASL) Hiran Cooray said they are thankful to the Government for bringing tourism in line with other industries and granting them concessions on electricity tariff. This would help us to save around 35 percent from our costs,” he said.
However, the industry is now faced with another problem, as they have to now increase wages in accordance with a circular send by the Ministry of Labour to be effective from next month.
“This would once again increase our operational costs by almost 30 percent,” he said. He said they are now looking at the government to assist them to provide soft loans to pay up loans taken during the tsunami.
Chairman SLTB, Renton de Alwis, said that one of the main aims of their tourism recovery plan is to have a regular smooth cash flow to the hotels so that they can be sustainable.
“For this we are promoting domestic tourism and are requesting young working couples to send their parents to hotels during week days,” he said.
TOURISM: The global travel agents and companies have not abandoned selling Sri Lanka and they still have confidence in the destination, said the President of the Sri Lanka Inbound Tour Operators (SLITO) Dirk Girkson.
Speaking at an event organised by the Sri Lanka Tourist Board (SLTB) yesterday he said this is very encouraging and they are also happy with the meaningful steps taken by the SLTB and the Government to
Inbound tourists:Continuing confidence
President Sri Lanka Travel Agents Association (TAASL) Hiran Cooray said they are thankful to the Government for bringing tourism in line with other industries and granting them concessions on electricity tariff. This would help us to save around 35 percent from our costs,” he said.
However, the industry is now faced with another problem, as they have to now increase wages in accordance with a circular send by the Ministry of Labour to be effective from next month.
“This would once again increase our operational costs by almost 30 percent,” he said. He said they are now looking at the government to assist them to provide soft loans to pay up loans taken during the tsunami.
Chairman SLTB, Renton de Alwis, said that one of the main aims of their tourism recovery plan is to have a regular smooth cash flow to the hotels so that they can be sustainable.
“For this we are promoting domestic tourism and are requesting young working couples to send their parents to hotels during week days,” he said.
Navy, Air Force repulse attack on Delft island
Rafik Jalaldeen
JAFFNA: The Navy foiled a Sea Tiger attack on the Delft islands killing 18 LTTE cadres including four leaders yesterday morning.
The Navy also destroyed four LTTE suicide boats and severely damaged two others with the assistance of the Air Force. The Navy successfully repulsed the attack.
Four sailors were killed and four others injured.
“The Navy observed two LTTE boats trying to infiltrate the Delft islands. They went into action and attacked the LTTE boats which were spying on the Navy coast guard.
“Following this, 16 sea Tiger boats including six suicide boats attacked the Navy,” Military spokesman Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said.
“The sea battle lasted for four hours from 1.30 a.m to 4.30 a.m. The sailors foiled the attack successfully causing heavy damage to the sea Tiger cadres,” Brigadier Samarasinghe said.
He said according to the LTTE communication intercepts more than 18 sea Tiger cadres have been killed. This included four leaders. The Navy also destroyed four LTTE suicide boats out of the 18 and severely damaged another two.
“We believe that the LTTE suffered heavy damage. The sailors retaliated the attack with the assistance of the Air Force,” he added.
He said Tiger boats fleeing towards the Nachikuda and Wedithalthivu were attacked by the Air Force. It destroyed two Tiger suicide boats.
The LTTE flotilla had come to the Delft island (42 square kilometres) from Mannar and Pooneryn and attacked the Navy guard from the ground.
JAFFNA: The Navy foiled a Sea Tiger attack on the Delft islands killing 18 LTTE cadres including four leaders yesterday morning.
The Navy also destroyed four LTTE suicide boats and severely damaged two others with the assistance of the Air Force. The Navy successfully repulsed the attack.
Four sailors were killed and four others injured.
“The Navy observed two LTTE boats trying to infiltrate the Delft islands. They went into action and attacked the LTTE boats which were spying on the Navy coast guard.
“Following this, 16 sea Tiger boats including six suicide boats attacked the Navy,” Military spokesman Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe said.
“The sea battle lasted for four hours from 1.30 a.m to 4.30 a.m. The sailors foiled the attack successfully causing heavy damage to the sea Tiger cadres,” Brigadier Samarasinghe said.
He said according to the LTTE communication intercepts more than 18 sea Tiger cadres have been killed. This included four leaders. The Navy also destroyed four LTTE suicide boats out of the 18 and severely damaged another two.
“We believe that the LTTE suffered heavy damage. The sailors retaliated the attack with the assistance of the Air Force,” he added.
He said Tiger boats fleeing towards the Nachikuda and Wedithalthivu were attacked by the Air Force. It destroyed two Tiger suicide boats.
The LTTE flotilla had come to the Delft island (42 square kilometres) from Mannar and Pooneryn and attacked the Navy guard from the ground.
Sri Lanka’s Sarala wins world’s ‘Best Performing Child Actor’ award for her role in the controversial film 'Water'
Los Angeles, 24 May, (Asiantribune.com): Hollywood’s Young Artist Foundation has presented the Best Child Actor of the World in an international feature film Award to Sri Lankan child artist Sarala Kariyawasam , who performed a highly acclaimed role of a child widow in the award winning controversial film , “Water.”
“Sarala performed an absolutely outstanding role in a brilliant film that should have been given more recognition by Hollywood,” said Maureen Dragone, President of the Foundation, which is holding its 28th consecutive year of awards recognizing and honoring talented young child artists all over the world.
“The young actress will be definitely being better known in the future,” Dragone further said.
The jury of the foundation said, Sarala has been named, the “Leading Young Actor or Actress for the Best Performance in an International Feature Film”, for the current year.
This is the highest award any Sri Lankan child has ever won in any performing arts in the history of Sri Lanka.
Sarala’s parents will accompany their prodigiously talented daughter (11) to Hollywood to accept the award from President Dragone of the foundation in a trip sponsored by Sri Lankan Air’s Colombo and Los Angeles offices at a ceremony presided over by the Sri Lankan ambassador in Washington DC, Bernard Goonetilleke.
“Sarala performed an absolutely outstanding role in a brilliant film that should have been given more recognition by Hollywood,” said Maureen Dragone, President of the Foundation, which is holding its 28th consecutive year of awards recognizing and honoring talented young child artists all over the world.
“The young actress will be definitely being better known in the future,” Dragone further said.
The jury of the foundation said, Sarala has been named, the “Leading Young Actor or Actress for the Best Performance in an International Feature Film”, for the current year.
This is the highest award any Sri Lankan child has ever won in any performing arts in the history of Sri Lanka.
Sarala’s parents will accompany their prodigiously talented daughter (11) to Hollywood to accept the award from President Dragone of the foundation in a trip sponsored by Sri Lankan Air’s Colombo and Los Angeles offices at a ceremony presided over by the Sri Lankan ambassador in Washington DC, Bernard Goonetilleke.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Tiger suicide boat with claymores recovered
Vakarai : The LTTE’s abandoned suicide boat that was detected by Army Monday from Panichchankerny lagoon in Vakarai was found fitted with four claymore mines that could be self-activated and one 120 mm mortar plus an additional explosive tube, the Army confirmed.
The suicide boat remained submerged in water to avoid visibility has, according to the Army re-emerged as the water levels receded in the lagoon area, now under the control of the Security forces.
The 120 mm mortar and the explosive tube were also found fixed on to this suicide boat which could have also been used perhaps as an under water device causing an immense destruction and carnage.
The boat, it is believed has been abandoned by fleeing Tiger terrorists when the Security Forces were rolling on to capture that area several months back.
Had they not been beaten, the suicide boat with improvised claymore mines could have been used by terrorists against the Security Forces in a sophisticated manner.
Jamaican Health Ministry Secretary here today
COLOMBO: Jamaican Health Ministry Permanent Secretary and Commonwealth Pharmaceutical Association President in UK Dr. Grace Allen Yong will visit Sri Lanka today. Dr. Yong will be the chief guest at the annual session of the Pharmaceutical Society of Sri Lanka to be held on May 27.
She will be accompanied by CPA Secretary John Bell, Carolyn Bell and Betty Falconbridge to participate in a workshop on Pharmacists’ Role in the Prevention and Management of HIV/AIDS and TB sponsored by the Commonwealth Foundation UK and the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka.
She has served the Ministry of Health in Jamaica as Health Policy Manager, Drug Regulator, Director of Standards and Regulations and Director of Pharmaceutical Services since 1991.
She has been responsible for implementing new regulatory standards for nursing homes, upgrading of pharmacy education to Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree and the implementation of the Jamaica Drug for the Elderly Programme.
She was a member of the Pharmacy Council of Jamaica where she introduced Drug and Therapeutic Committees.
She will be sharing her expertise and experience with the Sri Lankan counterparts and expects to meet the Health Ministry Secretary and the Health Services Director General during her stay in Sri Lanka.
She will be accompanied by CPA Secretary John Bell, Carolyn Bell and Betty Falconbridge to participate in a workshop on Pharmacists’ Role in the Prevention and Management of HIV/AIDS and TB sponsored by the Commonwealth Foundation UK and the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka.
She has served the Ministry of Health in Jamaica as Health Policy Manager, Drug Regulator, Director of Standards and Regulations and Director of Pharmaceutical Services since 1991.
She has been responsible for implementing new regulatory standards for nursing homes, upgrading of pharmacy education to Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree and the implementation of the Jamaica Drug for the Elderly Programme.
She was a member of the Pharmacy Council of Jamaica where she introduced Drug and Therapeutic Committees.
She will be sharing her expertise and experience with the Sri Lankan counterparts and expects to meet the Health Ministry Secretary and the Health Services Director General during her stay in Sri Lanka.
Air Force destroys Tiger training camp
MULLAITIVU: Air Force Kfir jets and MiGs pounded identified LTTE targets and destroyed an LTTE training camp causing heavy casualties to the Tigers south of Mankulam yesterday morning.
The Air Force jets carried out an air strike targeting an LTTE training camp in Mankulam yesterday around 6.45 a.m, Air Force Group Captain Ajantha Silva said.
“The target was precisely identified from ground intelligent sources,” he added.
It was completely destroyed as the area was surrounded with a cloud of debris following the bombardment. The LTTE suffered heavy damage, Group Captain Silva said.
According to defence sources, the training camp was believed to be a regular visiting site for the LTTE’s self-styled ‘Police Chief’ Nadeshan. “It is not yet confirmed whether Nadeshan was present at the time of the air strike,” sources added.
The Air Force jets carried out an air strike targeting an LTTE training camp in Mankulam yesterday around 6.45 a.m, Air Force Group Captain Ajantha Silva said.
“The target was precisely identified from ground intelligent sources,” he added.
It was completely destroyed as the area was surrounded with a cloud of debris following the bombardment. The LTTE suffered heavy damage, Group Captain Silva said.
According to defence sources, the training camp was believed to be a regular visiting site for the LTTE’s self-styled ‘Police Chief’ Nadeshan. “It is not yet confirmed whether Nadeshan was present at the time of the air strike,” sources added.
We must overcome development challenges - PM
COLOMBO:Prime Minister Ratnasiri Wickramanayake yesterday said when he was elected to Parliament from the Horana polling division for the first time,he gave oaths not as a Sri Lankan Parliamentarian but swore allegiance to the British Queen who was 7000 to 8000 miles away and to the colonial Government. Prime Minister Wickramanayake addressing the Janaraja Sakmana foot path opening ceremony at the Independence Square said the Parliamentarians were compelled to be loyal to British Queen and the Colonial administration during those days.
The Janaraja Sakmana foot path was erected by the Urban Development and Sacred Area Development Ministry to mark the 35th Republic Day and as a part of the Independence Square Development Project.
The Prime Minister said in 1972 in such a day during Former Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike’s Government we submitted a Bill to the Parliament unanimously and put an end to the interference of British Queen and the Colonial Government. “Now we give oath to Sri Lankan people and Sri Lanka Government that we would serve only for Sri Lankan nation”.
Our being a sovereign republic is insufficient unless we overcome the development challenges, he said.
The Janaraja Sakmana foot path was erected by the Urban Development and Sacred Area Development Ministry to mark the 35th Republic Day and as a part of the Independence Square Development Project.
The Prime Minister said in 1972 in such a day during Former Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike’s Government we submitted a Bill to the Parliament unanimously and put an end to the interference of British Queen and the Colonial Government. “Now we give oath to Sri Lankan people and Sri Lanka Government that we would serve only for Sri Lankan nation”.
Our being a sovereign republic is insufficient unless we overcome the development challenges, he said.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Prime London property prices at 30-year highs
LONDON (Reuters) - Prime central London property prices are growing at their fastest in almost 30 years -- and at three times the rate of the wider British market, figures show.
The value of the best properties in central London has risen by more than 33 percent in the 12 months to end-April, according to estate agent Knight Frank's prime property index.
That is the fastest rate of growth since mid-1979 and means prices in central London are rising at three times the UK average.
A property worth just 100,000 pounds in 1976 would now be worth more than 4.1 million pounds, the index shows.
Knight Frank said demand had been supported by growing numbers of overseas buyers and money spent on property by City bankers.
Over the past year, Belgravia and Knightsbridge have seen the strongest market, with prices surging by more than 40 percent.
Head of residential research Liam Bailey said: "London's traditional spring market rush starts earlier and earlier every year. For the past two years, the season has opened in December rather than March, and has run on well into May.
"The early part of 2007 saw an incredibly active market, with price growth totalling nearly 11.9 percent in the first quarter."
He said, even after 18 months of strong price appreciation, the pace of growth was yet to slow and, if anything, had quickened.
In the six months to end-April, monthly price growth averaged 2.8 percent, against 1.7 percent in the same period last year.
"The strong performance of the top end of the market can be attributed, at least in part, to the continuing health of the City economy and the bonus season," said Bailey.
"However, it is our experience that, whilst there have been growing numbers of deals completed by City workers, it is the influx of overseas buyers -- European, Russian, Indian and increasingly Middle Eastern -- which is the key to the substantial price growth seen in many areas of central London."
Knight Frank data shows that the supply of available property fell by more than 50 percent in the first quarter of 2007, compared to a 17 percent rise last year.
The value of the best properties in central London has risen by more than 33 percent in the 12 months to end-April, according to estate agent Knight Frank's prime property index.
That is the fastest rate of growth since mid-1979 and means prices in central London are rising at three times the UK average.
A property worth just 100,000 pounds in 1976 would now be worth more than 4.1 million pounds, the index shows.
Knight Frank said demand had been supported by growing numbers of overseas buyers and money spent on property by City bankers.
Over the past year, Belgravia and Knightsbridge have seen the strongest market, with prices surging by more than 40 percent.
Head of residential research Liam Bailey said: "London's traditional spring market rush starts earlier and earlier every year. For the past two years, the season has opened in December rather than March, and has run on well into May.
"The early part of 2007 saw an incredibly active market, with price growth totalling nearly 11.9 percent in the first quarter."
He said, even after 18 months of strong price appreciation, the pace of growth was yet to slow and, if anything, had quickened.
In the six months to end-April, monthly price growth averaged 2.8 percent, against 1.7 percent in the same period last year.
"The strong performance of the top end of the market can be attributed, at least in part, to the continuing health of the City economy and the bonus season," said Bailey.
"However, it is our experience that, whilst there have been growing numbers of deals completed by City workers, it is the influx of overseas buyers -- European, Russian, Indian and increasingly Middle Eastern -- which is the key to the substantial price growth seen in many areas of central London."
Knight Frank data shows that the supply of available property fell by more than 50 percent in the first quarter of 2007, compared to a 17 percent rise last year.
Sri Lanka air force targets camp
Sri Lanka's air force has hit a Tamil Tiger training camp in the north of the country, the military says.
A spokesman said there was no word yet on any casualties at the camp, near the town of Mankulam. The rebels say the bombs missed the target.
On Monday, the military said more than 500 rebels had been killed in the north over the last four months. The Tigers disputed the figures.
Despite a truce on paper, Sri Lanka has been sliding back towards civil war.
More than 4,000 people have been killed in the violence in the past 15 months.
A spokesman said there was no word yet on any casualties at the camp, near the town of Mankulam. The rebels say the bombs missed the target.
On Monday, the military said more than 500 rebels had been killed in the north over the last four months. The Tigers disputed the figures.
Despite a truce on paper, Sri Lanka has been sliding back towards civil war.
More than 4,000 people have been killed in the violence in the past 15 months.
Kuwait help for oil exploration
KUWAIT: Kuwait will send a team of oil experts to Sri Lanka to help its on-going oil exploration efforts and its actions under way to modernise existing oil refineries.
The Oil Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Ali Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah has promised to send the team of oil experts during bilateral talks held between him and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Kuwait , yesterday.
President Rajapaksa arrived in Kuwait in the early hours of yesterday and was received with state honours by Emir Shaba Al-Ahamad.
Diplomatic sources said that the Oil Minister of Kuwait had also consented to supply crude oil and refined petroleum to Sri Lanka at reduced rates during the talks.
President Rajapaksa had met Kuwait's Labour and Public Relations Minister Sabahal Khaledal Hamadal at Bayan Palace.
The Kuwait Labour Minister had announced the consent of the Kuwait Government to offer jobs in their country for more Sri Lankan workers in 30 large-scale institutions.
These jobs will be for trained workers in various skilled -based fields, the sources said.
Around 135,000 Sri Lankans are working in Kuwait. Of them 2,000 were reported to have faced with difficulties.
The Government of Kuwait had agreed to send them to Sri Lanka without fining them.
The Oil Minister of Kuwait, Sheikh Ali Al-Jarrah Al-Sabah has promised to send the team of oil experts during bilateral talks held between him and Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa in Kuwait , yesterday.
President Rajapaksa arrived in Kuwait in the early hours of yesterday and was received with state honours by Emir Shaba Al-Ahamad.
Diplomatic sources said that the Oil Minister of Kuwait had also consented to supply crude oil and refined petroleum to Sri Lanka at reduced rates during the talks.
President Rajapaksa had met Kuwait's Labour and Public Relations Minister Sabahal Khaledal Hamadal at Bayan Palace.
The Kuwait Labour Minister had announced the consent of the Kuwait Government to offer jobs in their country for more Sri Lankan workers in 30 large-scale institutions.
These jobs will be for trained workers in various skilled -based fields, the sources said.
Around 135,000 Sri Lankans are working in Kuwait. Of them 2,000 were reported to have faced with difficulties.
The Government of Kuwait had agreed to send them to Sri Lanka without fining them.
LTTE training complex destroyed; Blackout in Wanni
SLAF MiG and K'Fir fighter jets pounded with precision air strikes at a pre-identified LTTE training complex south of Mankulama, 25 miles north west of Vavuniya, on Tuesday the 22nd of May.
The air sorties were carried out in the early hours at about 07 a.m. According to aerial reconnaissance images the LTTE training complex was destroyed into rubbles following the air bombardment. The SLAF fighter jets made successive sorties dropping heavy payloads into the terrorist training complex, which was later surrounded with clouds of debris, the intelligence officials confirmed.
Meanwhile, defence sources said that the training complex was believed to be a regular visiting site of the LTTE's self-styled Police Chief Nadeshan. It is not yet confirmed whether Nadeshan was present at the site, though some high profile terrorists were said to sustain severe injuries, the sources further added.
The total terrorist casualty figures were not yet available the military sources said.
The air sorties were carried out in the early hours at about 07 a.m. According to aerial reconnaissance images the LTTE training complex was destroyed into rubbles following the air bombardment. The SLAF fighter jets made successive sorties dropping heavy payloads into the terrorist training complex, which was later surrounded with clouds of debris, the intelligence officials confirmed.
Meanwhile, defence sources said that the training complex was believed to be a regular visiting site of the LTTE's self-styled Police Chief Nadeshan. It is not yet confirmed whether Nadeshan was present at the site, though some high profile terrorists were said to sustain severe injuries, the sources further added.
The total terrorist casualty figures were not yet available the military sources said.
LTTE suicide boat recovered - Batticaloa
SL defence forces recovered a boat laden with high explosives possibly to be used for LTTE suicide missions in the beaches of Pannichchankerni- Batticaloa, on Monday the 21st of May, at 08.00a.m.
Further observations had revealed that the high explosives were laden along with four claymore mines. The SL troops had made the recovery on civilian information from the area.
Further observations had revealed that the high explosives were laden along with four claymore mines. The SL troops had made the recovery on civilian information from the area.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
World's most expensive property
LONDON -- London is home to the most expensive property in the world, followed by Monaco, New York and Hong Kong, a new report shows.
Prime property in the British capital costs 2,300 pounds (US$4,585) per square foot, just above Monaco, playground of the rich and famous, at 2,190 pounds, according to estate agent Knight Frank and Citi Private Bank's "Wealth Report 2007." No Canadian city made this year's list.
The report points to the growing influence of high net worth individuals - defined as those with more than 5 million pounds in investable assets - on the property market across the globe.
Its index charting the value of similar property at the top end of the market in more than 70 locations ranks New York in third place, with prime property fetching an average price of 1,600 pounds per square foot, and Hong Kong in fourth, commanding 1,230 pounds.
Tokyo, Cannes, St Tropez, Sydney, Paris and Rome make up the top 10.
Elsewhere in Great Britain and Ireland, Dublin, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester are identified as prime locations.
They ranked 17, 19, 21 and 22 respectively, with values ranging from 320 pounds to 470 pounds per square foot.
Knight Frank said central London prime property prices had outperformed the mainstream regional and national markets in recent years - a pattern repeated in the rest of the world.
Prices for the most expensive properties rose on average by more than 14% in 2006 compared to a 9% rise in the mainstream market.
But although London has seen prime market growth of more than 30% in the past year alone, this has been dwarfed by growth seen in the main Russian, Chinese and Indian city markets -- where prices have soared by 40% or 50%.
Rapid economic development, together with the creation of new wealthy sections of society, had led to intense competition for the best apartments and villas in secure prime neighbourhoods - and boosted prices, according to the report.
Looking ahead, Liam Bailey, head of residential research at Knight Frank, said prime property would continue to outperform mainstream markets.
"Over the next five years, we believe the trend of growing wealth and greater wealth concentration will continue," he said.
"There will be a significant demand and supply imbalance in the best prime market locations.
"Price growth this year will be lower than in 2006, although we predict prime markets will outperform mainstream markets by quite a margin."
He said up-and-coming key prime property locations included St Petersburg and Moscow in Russia, Delhi and Mumbai in India, as well as Guangzhou in China.
Prime property in the British capital costs 2,300 pounds (US$4,585) per square foot, just above Monaco, playground of the rich and famous, at 2,190 pounds, according to estate agent Knight Frank and Citi Private Bank's "Wealth Report 2007." No Canadian city made this year's list.
The report points to the growing influence of high net worth individuals - defined as those with more than 5 million pounds in investable assets - on the property market across the globe.
Its index charting the value of similar property at the top end of the market in more than 70 locations ranks New York in third place, with prime property fetching an average price of 1,600 pounds per square foot, and Hong Kong in fourth, commanding 1,230 pounds.
Tokyo, Cannes, St Tropez, Sydney, Paris and Rome make up the top 10.
Elsewhere in Great Britain and Ireland, Dublin, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Manchester are identified as prime locations.
They ranked 17, 19, 21 and 22 respectively, with values ranging from 320 pounds to 470 pounds per square foot.
Knight Frank said central London prime property prices had outperformed the mainstream regional and national markets in recent years - a pattern repeated in the rest of the world.
Prices for the most expensive properties rose on average by more than 14% in 2006 compared to a 9% rise in the mainstream market.
But although London has seen prime market growth of more than 30% in the past year alone, this has been dwarfed by growth seen in the main Russian, Chinese and Indian city markets -- where prices have soared by 40% or 50%.
Rapid economic development, together with the creation of new wealthy sections of society, had led to intense competition for the best apartments and villas in secure prime neighbourhoods - and boosted prices, according to the report.
Looking ahead, Liam Bailey, head of residential research at Knight Frank, said prime property would continue to outperform mainstream markets.
"Over the next five years, we believe the trend of growing wealth and greater wealth concentration will continue," he said.
"There will be a significant demand and supply imbalance in the best prime market locations.
"Price growth this year will be lower than in 2006, although we predict prime markets will outperform mainstream markets by quite a margin."
He said up-and-coming key prime property locations included St Petersburg and Moscow in Russia, Delhi and Mumbai in India, as well as Guangzhou in China.
Sri Lanka President leaves for Jordan to attend G-11 summit
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Sri Lanka::
* Sri Lanka President leaves for Jordan to attend G-11 summit
Thursday, May 17, 2007, 14:27 GMT, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
May 17, Colombo: Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa left for Jordan today on an official tour to attend the second G-11 Summit as well as the World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East.
A delegation of 125 businessmen and Ministers including Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama also joined the President today in a special Mihin Air flight to Jordan.
The President will participate in the World Economic Forum on the Middle East World Economic Forum to be held in the King Hussein Conference Centre tomorrow. King Abdullah of Jordan will host the event from May 18-20 at the Dead Sea.
The President will also address the conference of the G-11 countries. President Rajapaksa will have bilateral talks with Jordan King Abdulla and other Arab leaders. Several agreements on bilateral economic corporation, especially related to the migrant labor market are also to be signed.
President also participated in the inaugural one-day G-11 summit hosted by King Abdullah in New York last year which brought together 11 countries to officially launch a forum for cooperation and knowledge-sharing among Lower-Middle Income Countries.
The Second Summit of G-11 countries will focus on intensifying cooperation to advance the interests in the global economic, investment and trade spheres as well as to pursue a clear, targeted and result-oriented partnership with the developed or G-8 countries.
In addition to Sri Lanka the G-11 group includes Pakistan, Jordan, Indonesia, Morocco, Georgia, Croatia, El-Salvador, Ecuador, Honduras and Paraguay.
Following the meetings Sri Lanka President will leave for Kuwait on an official tour on 20th. He is to return to the country on 22nd.
Sri Lanka::
* Sri Lanka President leaves for Jordan to attend G-11 summit
Thursday, May 17, 2007, 14:27 GMT, ColomboPage News Desk, Sri Lanka.
May 17, Colombo: Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa left for Jordan today on an official tour to attend the second G-11 Summit as well as the World Economic Forum (WEF) on the Middle East.
A delegation of 125 businessmen and Ministers including Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama also joined the President today in a special Mihin Air flight to Jordan.
The President will participate in the World Economic Forum on the Middle East World Economic Forum to be held in the King Hussein Conference Centre tomorrow. King Abdullah of Jordan will host the event from May 18-20 at the Dead Sea.
The President will also address the conference of the G-11 countries. President Rajapaksa will have bilateral talks with Jordan King Abdulla and other Arab leaders. Several agreements on bilateral economic corporation, especially related to the migrant labor market are also to be signed.
President also participated in the inaugural one-day G-11 summit hosted by King Abdullah in New York last year which brought together 11 countries to officially launch a forum for cooperation and knowledge-sharing among Lower-Middle Income Countries.
The Second Summit of G-11 countries will focus on intensifying cooperation to advance the interests in the global economic, investment and trade spheres as well as to pursue a clear, targeted and result-oriented partnership with the developed or G-8 countries.
In addition to Sri Lanka the G-11 group includes Pakistan, Jordan, Indonesia, Morocco, Georgia, Croatia, El-Salvador, Ecuador, Honduras and Paraguay.
Following the meetings Sri Lanka President will leave for Kuwait on an official tour on 20th. He is to return to the country on 22nd.
US invites world to take a look at Sri Lanka’s black gold
May 17, 2007 (LBO) – The United States supports Sri Lanka in its effort to develop off shore oil exploration, a senior US official said.
“I invited all the countries to explore Sri Lanka’s off shore oil opportunities in the recent Offshore Technology Conference in Houston,” said the US ambassador for Sri Lanka Robert Blake.
Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) was held in Houston, Texas USA during 30 April - 3 May.
“I told all the countries present at that conference that the Unites States supports Sri Lanka in this venture,” he said.
The ambassador's comments were made at the unveiling of the new corporate identity of Caltex Lubricants Lanka Ltd. earlier this week.
Caltex Lubricants Lanka is owned by the US oil giant Chevron-Texaco which has also expressed interest in bidding for offshore oil exploration blocks in Sri Lankan waters.
Caltex changed its corporate identity to Chevron Lubricants Lanka Ltd., after its parent company which is the majority share holder of the local firm.
Caltex Lubricants Lanka says it changed its name to better reflect its identity as a solid part of the global energy company Chevron.
“Change in the company name reflects that we are a part of a fully integrated global energy company,” says Kishu Gomes, Managing Director of Chevron Lubricants Lanka.
Chevron operates in over 180 countries at almost every stage of energy production from oil exploration to power generation.
The renaming is expected to give the company a unified approach in the global market place, making its brands stronger.
“The way we do business today will remain unchanged,” says Gomes. “However, the new identity will help us to reposition the brands we market.”
The firm manages the marketing of its products for both Bangladesh and the Maldives through the Sri Lankan office.
“I invited all the countries to explore Sri Lanka’s off shore oil opportunities in the recent Offshore Technology Conference in Houston,” said the US ambassador for Sri Lanka Robert Blake.
Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) was held in Houston, Texas USA during 30 April - 3 May.
“I told all the countries present at that conference that the Unites States supports Sri Lanka in this venture,” he said.
The ambassador's comments were made at the unveiling of the new corporate identity of Caltex Lubricants Lanka Ltd. earlier this week.
Caltex Lubricants Lanka is owned by the US oil giant Chevron-Texaco which has also expressed interest in bidding for offshore oil exploration blocks in Sri Lankan waters.
Caltex changed its corporate identity to Chevron Lubricants Lanka Ltd., after its parent company which is the majority share holder of the local firm.
Caltex Lubricants Lanka says it changed its name to better reflect its identity as a solid part of the global energy company Chevron.
“Change in the company name reflects that we are a part of a fully integrated global energy company,” says Kishu Gomes, Managing Director of Chevron Lubricants Lanka.
Chevron operates in over 180 countries at almost every stage of energy production from oil exploration to power generation.
The renaming is expected to give the company a unified approach in the global market place, making its brands stronger.
“The way we do business today will remain unchanged,” says Gomes. “However, the new identity will help us to reposition the brands we market.”
The firm manages the marketing of its products for both Bangladesh and the Maldives through the Sri Lankan office.
Maldives Coast Guard drowns a suspected Tamil Tiger vessel
May 17, Colombo: Maldives Coast Guard today fired upon and drowned an unidentified vessel named Sri Krishna believed to be carrying arms for the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Ealam (LTTE) fighting for a separate state in Sri Lanka, Maldives Foreign Minister Ahmed Sayeed announced today.
The vessel which was traced last afternoon did not carry a flag of any country and did not respond to the communication of the Maldives Coast Guard. The vessel was shot and sunk after a 10-hour standoff in the dawn today.
Five persons suspected to be linked to the LTTE on board were rescued and taken into custody. One of them were reported an Indian. The vessel is believed to be transporting mortars for Tamil Tigers.
However, the Tigers have denied involvement.
A Sri Lankan military official said that they have asked permission to question the detained suspects as the vessel was heading towards Sri Lanka.
The vessel which was traced last afternoon did not carry a flag of any country and did not respond to the communication of the Maldives Coast Guard. The vessel was shot and sunk after a 10-hour standoff in the dawn today.
Five persons suspected to be linked to the LTTE on board were rescued and taken into custody. One of them were reported an Indian. The vessel is believed to be transporting mortars for Tamil Tigers.
However, the Tigers have denied involvement.
A Sri Lankan military official said that they have asked permission to question the detained suspects as the vessel was heading towards Sri Lanka.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Sri Lankan troops kill Tamil rebel near northern defense line
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka: Army troops killed a Tamil Tiger rebel near the northern defense line in Sri Lanka's volatile Jaffna peninsula Tuesday, the military said.
Soldiers attacked a group of insurgents who were observing the movement of troops near Muhamalai, a border post that divides government and rebel-held areas, in Jaffna peninsula, said Lt. Col. Upali Rajapakse, a senior military officer.
He said troops killed one insurgent while other rebels fled the area.
Also Tuesday, suspected rebels stopped a state-owned bus in Jaffna town, ordered the passengers to disembark, then set it on fire, said Rajapakse.
Jaffna, northern Sri Lanka's main town, is under government control, but Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam guerrillas operate in the area.
No immediate comment was available from the rebels, who are fighting for an independent homeland for ethnic minority Tamils, in a civil war that is worsening despite international pressure for calm.
Troops and rebels exchange sporadic artillery and mortar fire across the defense line in Jaffna peninsula, the heartland of the island nation's 3.1 million Tamils who have faced decades of discrimination by the predominantly Buddhist Sinhalese majority.
The Sinhalese account for more than 70 percent of the country's 20 million people and dominate its government and military.
A 2002 cease-fire brought a measure of relief, but has collapsed in the last 19 months, existing now only on paper, leaving an estimated 5,000 more people dead.
Nearly 70,000 people have been killed since Sri Lanka's war began in 1983.
Soldiers attacked a group of insurgents who were observing the movement of troops near Muhamalai, a border post that divides government and rebel-held areas, in Jaffna peninsula, said Lt. Col. Upali Rajapakse, a senior military officer.
He said troops killed one insurgent while other rebels fled the area.
Also Tuesday, suspected rebels stopped a state-owned bus in Jaffna town, ordered the passengers to disembark, then set it on fire, said Rajapakse.
Jaffna, northern Sri Lanka's main town, is under government control, but Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam guerrillas operate in the area.
No immediate comment was available from the rebels, who are fighting for an independent homeland for ethnic minority Tamils, in a civil war that is worsening despite international pressure for calm.
Troops and rebels exchange sporadic artillery and mortar fire across the defense line in Jaffna peninsula, the heartland of the island nation's 3.1 million Tamils who have faced decades of discrimination by the predominantly Buddhist Sinhalese majority.
The Sinhalese account for more than 70 percent of the country's 20 million people and dominate its government and military.
A 2002 cease-fire brought a measure of relief, but has collapsed in the last 19 months, existing now only on paper, leaving an estimated 5,000 more people dead.
Nearly 70,000 people have been killed since Sri Lanka's war began in 1983.
Govt committed to protect all faiths - President
President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday reiterated the Government's commitment to ensuring the rights of all religions in the country.
"When we are trying to use religion and all other good means in our efforts to lead the youth on the correct path, the LTTE is trying to instill a culture of violence by arming these youngsters to bring death and destruction to their own community," the President said.
The President was speaking at a ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat, which was organised by the Public Trustee's Department with the twin objective of ordaining young monks for temples in the conflict affected areas and donating funds to uplift temples in the same areas in the North, East and North Central provinces. The programme is titled 'Aranthalawen Mihinthalawata'.
Referring to the murder of Ven. Handungamuwe Nanadrathane Thera, the President said terrorists have taken the life of another monk who was a beacon of hope for all communities and faiths in the area.
"This is yet another instance of the terrorists' brutality. The terrorists who murder Ven. Theras who deliver sermons in Tamil and who ordain Tamil children, also murder persons like MP Nadaraja Raviraj who spoke in Sinhalese and lived with the Sinhalese," he commented.
To mark the occasion, 31 youngsters who are to be ordained shortly received tokens in remembrance of the massacre of 31 Bhikkus in Aranthalawa by the LTTE 20 years ago. Twenty five chosen temples received donations to develop the temples. This programme is to be carried forward on a larger scale in the future.
The President urged Buddhist priests to carry their work forward in bringing harmony to all communities despite obstacles. As the guardians of the nation this was the time they should come forward.
The President stressed that the Government was committed to destroy terrorism in all its forms.
"When we are trying to use religion and all other good means in our efforts to lead the youth on the correct path, the LTTE is trying to instill a culture of violence by arming these youngsters to bring death and destruction to their own community," the President said.
The President was speaking at a ceremony at the Presidential Secretariat, which was organised by the Public Trustee's Department with the twin objective of ordaining young monks for temples in the conflict affected areas and donating funds to uplift temples in the same areas in the North, East and North Central provinces. The programme is titled 'Aranthalawen Mihinthalawata'.
Referring to the murder of Ven. Handungamuwe Nanadrathane Thera, the President said terrorists have taken the life of another monk who was a beacon of hope for all communities and faiths in the area.
"This is yet another instance of the terrorists' brutality. The terrorists who murder Ven. Theras who deliver sermons in Tamil and who ordain Tamil children, also murder persons like MP Nadaraja Raviraj who spoke in Sinhalese and lived with the Sinhalese," he commented.
To mark the occasion, 31 youngsters who are to be ordained shortly received tokens in remembrance of the massacre of 31 Bhikkus in Aranthalawa by the LTTE 20 years ago. Twenty five chosen temples received donations to develop the temples. This programme is to be carried forward on a larger scale in the future.
The President urged Buddhist priests to carry their work forward in bringing harmony to all communities despite obstacles. As the guardians of the nation this was the time they should come forward.
The President stressed that the Government was committed to destroy terrorism in all its forms.
LTTE sets fire on to a public bus- Jaffna
A group of LTTE supporters have set on fire to a public bus belonged to Kondavil depot this morning. According to the defence sources in Jaffna, a group of armed LTTE gang has attacked the bus around 7.20a.m whilst it was playing form Maradanamadam to Urimpirai on the Jaffna-Palali main road.
A civilian speaking to the defence.lk said that the passengers of the bus were threatened by a group of "boys" showing hand grenades and forced them to get out before they set fire on to the bus.
"They were just a group of teenage bicycle riders, possible school children. They threatened our lives saying that we should not go out during the protest initiated by the LTTE in the Jaffna peninsula", he said.
According to the civilian sources the LTTE has changed its strategy with regard to child soldiering in the Jaffna peninsula.
"Now they (LTTE) recruit school children in an informal manner and compel them to engage in terrorist activities" a civilian speaking in anonymity told our special correspondent.
According to the same sources, a pro-terror student cult backed by a political figure in the LTTE payroll is implementing this new LTTE strategy in the Jaffna peninsula.
"They (LTTE) sometimes put claymore mines, hand grenades and etc. in to the schoolbags and force the schoolchildren move the weapons from place to place", the sources further added.
Meanwhile, the defence sources said that the protest campaign initiated by the LTTE has been completely ignored by the Jaffna civilians.
A civilian speaking to the defence.lk said that the passengers of the bus were threatened by a group of "boys" showing hand grenades and forced them to get out before they set fire on to the bus.
"They were just a group of teenage bicycle riders, possible school children. They threatened our lives saying that we should not go out during the protest initiated by the LTTE in the Jaffna peninsula", he said.
According to the civilian sources the LTTE has changed its strategy with regard to child soldiering in the Jaffna peninsula.
"Now they (LTTE) recruit school children in an informal manner and compel them to engage in terrorist activities" a civilian speaking in anonymity told our special correspondent.
According to the same sources, a pro-terror student cult backed by a political figure in the LTTE payroll is implementing this new LTTE strategy in the Jaffna peninsula.
"They (LTTE) sometimes put claymore mines, hand grenades and etc. in to the schoolbags and force the schoolchildren move the weapons from place to place", the sources further added.
Meanwhile, the defence sources said that the protest campaign initiated by the LTTE has been completely ignored by the Jaffna civilians.
Monday, May 14, 2007
9 Combatants Killed in Sri Lanka
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka -- Tamil Tiger rebels attacked a group of Sri Lankan soldiers who had crossed into insurgent territory in the north, sparking a battle that left seven guerrillas and a soldier dead, the military said Monday.
The fighting took place Sunday and was the latest in a series of clashes that have killed dozens in Mannar, a northwestern district that has in recent weeks become a flash point in Sri Lanka's deepening conflict.
The fighting took place Sunday and was the latest in a series of clashes that have killed dozens in Mannar, a northwestern district that has in recent weeks become a flash point in Sri Lanka's deepening conflict.
Lanka ruling party proposes unitary constitution
The Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) which is the dominant partner in the Sri Lankan coalition government, and is the party of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, on Monday formally proposed that Sri Lanka be a "unitary state".
The party Executive Committee on Monday modified some of the key provisions in the proposal first made public at the end of April. It then formally adopted the revised version which will be submitted to the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) on devolution.
A spokesman of the Presidential Secretariat told Hindustan Times that in the earlier proposal, it was not clear if the SLFP was for a unitary system and whether it had rejected the federal model.
The party had come under flak from the ultra Sinhala nationalists like the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) for not upholding the Mahinda Chinthanaya, Rajapaksa's election manifesto in 2005. This flaw had been set right by Monday's amendment.
The party Executive Committee on Monday modified some of the key provisions in the proposal first made public at the end of April. It then formally adopted the revised version which will be submitted to the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) on devolution.
A spokesman of the Presidential Secretariat told Hindustan Times that in the earlier proposal, it was not clear if the SLFP was for a unitary system and whether it had rejected the federal model.
The party had come under flak from the ultra Sinhala nationalists like the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) for not upholding the Mahinda Chinthanaya, Rajapaksa's election manifesto in 2005. This flaw had been set right by Monday's amendment.
SL Foreign Secretary's warnings of a possible LTTE threat justified
Highest circles of the India government have taken serious note of the warning sounded by Sri Lanka's Foreign Secretary Dr. Palitha Kohona that the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)'s planes posed a potential threat to Nuclear Reactors and Harbours in India. Dr. Kohona was referring to LTTE's capability to launch air attacks covering a distance of between 200 and 300 miles.
A high level meeting of Indian government officials was held on Wednesday(10) to discuss the prospect of a possible LTTE air attack and how they could pre-empt such a move. It was attended by Indian Defence Minister A.K.Advani, External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee and National Defence Advisor, M.K.Narayanan. The presence of all three Service Commanders at this meeting is considered significant, given the severity of the threat post by the LTTE.
The meeting which is understood to have discussed the situation extensively, decided to put a stop to LTTE's fund raising activities and to enhance security at the Airports and other facilities in the Southern region of India.
At the same time, the "Chennai Sangamam" Arts Festival was organized by Father Jagath Kasvar where a symphony compact disk prepared by popular Tamil musician Ilaiya Raja was released to raise funds for the LTTE. The Tamil media reported that the Indian authorities were concerned that such funds would help sustain and intensify the violent activities of the LTTE.
A high level meeting of Indian government officials was held on Wednesday(10) to discuss the prospect of a possible LTTE air attack and how they could pre-empt such a move. It was attended by Indian Defence Minister A.K.Advani, External Affairs Minister, Pranab Mukherjee and National Defence Advisor, M.K.Narayanan. The presence of all three Service Commanders at this meeting is considered significant, given the severity of the threat post by the LTTE.
The meeting which is understood to have discussed the situation extensively, decided to put a stop to LTTE's fund raising activities and to enhance security at the Airports and other facilities in the Southern region of India.
At the same time, the "Chennai Sangamam" Arts Festival was organized by Father Jagath Kasvar where a symphony compact disk prepared by popular Tamil musician Ilaiya Raja was released to raise funds for the LTTE. The Tamil media reported that the Indian authorities were concerned that such funds would help sustain and intensify the violent activities of the LTTE.
Love your country and its people
ANANDASANGAREE TELLS TAMILS:
Tamil United Liberation Front Leader V. Anandasangaree, who toured South Africa recently, reveals his fresh insights on achieving peace and reconciliation, in an exclusive interview with the Daily News. "If you want to be a patriot, love your country and its people," says Anandasangaree, an outstanding critic of the LTTE and a vociferous advocate of extensive devolution.
Anandasangaree remarks that "we have a lot to learn from South Africa" where previously bitter enemies now work together for the betterment of their country. He also talks about the Tripartite Alliance of Tamil parties and expresses doubts over whether the LTTE will ever be keen on a negotiated settlement.
Manjula Fernando and Siva Subramaniam
Q: You have just returned from an extensive tour of South Africa. What was your mission there?
A: To assess the ground situation there. There were a lot of misconceptions about the Sri Lankan situation. We wanted the whole world to know the truth. The people, especially the Tamils of Indian origin were highly biased against the Government and were pro- LTTE. A TNA MP had travelled to South Africa before us and had created as much damage as possible.
One girl put a question to me if it was true that 70,000 Tamil women have been raped. I said please don't disgrace me also. We are not a country of rapists. If you can mention 25 names I will quit politics.
This is the type of campaign they have carried out against the country. One Tamil was asking about the treatment given to the Muslims and claiming the LTTE was their saviour. He was very vociferous.
I explained about the IDP camps in Jaffna. The Muslims chased away from Jaffna by the LTTE are still languishing in IDP camps. They deprived the Muslims of all their possessions. We managed to clear all misconceptions.
Tamil United Liberation Front Leader V. Anandasangaree, who toured South Africa recently, reveals his fresh insights on achieving peace and reconciliation, in an exclusive interview with the Daily News. "If you want to be a patriot, love your country and its people," says Anandasangaree, an outstanding critic of the LTTE and a vociferous advocate of extensive devolution.
Anandasangaree remarks that "we have a lot to learn from South Africa" where previously bitter enemies now work together for the betterment of their country. He also talks about the Tripartite Alliance of Tamil parties and expresses doubts over whether the LTTE will ever be keen on a negotiated settlement.
Manjula Fernando and Siva Subramaniam
Q: You have just returned from an extensive tour of South Africa. What was your mission there?
A: To assess the ground situation there. There were a lot of misconceptions about the Sri Lankan situation. We wanted the whole world to know the truth. The people, especially the Tamils of Indian origin were highly biased against the Government and were pro- LTTE. A TNA MP had travelled to South Africa before us and had created as much damage as possible.
One girl put a question to me if it was true that 70,000 Tamil women have been raped. I said please don't disgrace me also. We are not a country of rapists. If you can mention 25 names I will quit politics.
This is the type of campaign they have carried out against the country. One Tamil was asking about the treatment given to the Muslims and claiming the LTTE was their saviour. He was very vociferous.
I explained about the IDP camps in Jaffna. The Muslims chased away from Jaffna by the LTTE are still languishing in IDP camps. They deprived the Muslims of all their possessions. We managed to clear all misconceptions.
UN Security Council puts LTTE and Karuna on notice: HRW
The New York based Human Rights Watch (HRW) says the UN Security Council has effectively put both the LTTE and the Karuna faction -- which has now split in two -- on notice to immediately stop child recruitment and release all young recruits or face the consequences.
The chairman of the UN Security Council’s working group on children and armed conflict, on Friday, issued two statements regarding the recruitment and use of child soldiers by the LTTE and the Karuna group in Sri Lanka. The statements strongly condemn the continued abduction, recruitment and use of child soldiers, and urge both armed groups to immediately release all children from their forces.
“Human Rights Watch welcomes the UN Security Council’s strong condemnation of the recruitment and use of child soldiers by both the Tamil Tigers and the Karuna group,” said Jo Becker, child rights’ advocate for Human Rights Watch. “Both groups have now been put on notice to immediately implement the Security Council’s call to stop all child recruitment, and release the children in their forces. The Security Council will want to see results,” HRW said.
The statements were issued by French permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Jean-Marc de la Sablière on behalf of the working group, based on a December report from the UN Secretary General regarding grave abuses against children in Sri Lanka’s armed conflict.
The chairman of the UN Security Council’s working group on children and armed conflict, on Friday, issued two statements regarding the recruitment and use of child soldiers by the LTTE and the Karuna group in Sri Lanka. The statements strongly condemn the continued abduction, recruitment and use of child soldiers, and urge both armed groups to immediately release all children from their forces.
“Human Rights Watch welcomes the UN Security Council’s strong condemnation of the recruitment and use of child soldiers by both the Tamil Tigers and the Karuna group,” said Jo Becker, child rights’ advocate for Human Rights Watch. “Both groups have now been put on notice to immediately implement the Security Council’s call to stop all child recruitment, and release the children in their forces. The Security Council will want to see results,” HRW said.
The statements were issued by French permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Jean-Marc de la Sablière on behalf of the working group, based on a December report from the UN Secretary General regarding grave abuses against children in Sri Lanka’s armed conflict.
Asia foundation to study America’s role in Sri Lanka’s peace process
May 14, Colombo: The Asia Foundation has launched a study that analyzes the United States’ involvement in Sri Lanka peace process during the period of 2002-2006, a press release issued by the Asia Foundation said.
The study titled “The United States’ Role in Sri Lanka’s Peace Process” followed another landmark study, “Sri Lanka Strategic Conflict Assessment -- Aid, Conflict and Peacebuilding in Sri Lanka (2002-2005)” that was released in January 2006.
A report on the study written by Jeffrey Lunstead, the former U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka from August 2003 to July 2006, provides an inside account on how the United States applied diplomatic, economic, and other resources to support Sri Lanka’s increasingly precarious peace.
In his study Ambassador Lunstead wrote that the U.S. involvement in 2003 was resulted from the expectation that a political process with the backing of the international community could resolve a tough terrorism problem.
“Today, the U.S. sustains a natural interest in helping the democratically-elected Government of Sri Lanka defeat a terrorist threat and the U.S. and other outside actors can help the Sri Lankan parties move towards peace if those parties genuinely want to do so and are willing to make compromises. But, if the Government of Sri Lanka does not prevent human rights abuses by government forces, U.S. ability to help will be constrained,” Lunstead has written in his report.
. The Asia Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that supports programs in Asia to help improve governance, economic reform and development and empower women.
The study titled “The United States’ Role in Sri Lanka’s Peace Process” followed another landmark study, “Sri Lanka Strategic Conflict Assessment -- Aid, Conflict and Peacebuilding in Sri Lanka (2002-2005)” that was released in January 2006.
A report on the study written by Jeffrey Lunstead, the former U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka from August 2003 to July 2006, provides an inside account on how the United States applied diplomatic, economic, and other resources to support Sri Lanka’s increasingly precarious peace.
In his study Ambassador Lunstead wrote that the U.S. involvement in 2003 was resulted from the expectation that a political process with the backing of the international community could resolve a tough terrorism problem.
“Today, the U.S. sustains a natural interest in helping the democratically-elected Government of Sri Lanka defeat a terrorist threat and the U.S. and other outside actors can help the Sri Lankan parties move towards peace if those parties genuinely want to do so and are willing to make compromises. But, if the Government of Sri Lanka does not prevent human rights abuses by government forces, U.S. ability to help will be constrained,” Lunstead has written in his report.
. The Asia Foundation is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that supports programs in Asia to help improve governance, economic reform and development and empower women.
Govt. will ensure development of every region
ATTANAGALLA: Mahinda Chinthana would not deprive any part of the country of development, and progress Attanagalla Pradeshiya Sabha Member Priyantha Pushpakumara (UPFA) said.
He was responding to a query by PS Opposition leader M.I. Nisthar Ahamed (UNP) whether the broadening of Thihariya-Varana road has come to a standstill. Priyantha Pushpakumara said, there are shortcomings in Attanagalla area. These shortcomings should be looked into.
As the President’s co-ordinator for Attanagalla, I assure you, that all development activities in this area would continue without bias and prejudice. Funds have already been allocated to uplift 26 village areas in Attanagalla. Measures have been expedited to renovate rural roads under the Jathika Saviya programme.
Mahinda Sirimevan (UPFA): Present Government has a definite plan. It is being implemented sans politics. The Government’s aim is to get people’s participation in development.
Hemal Mendis (JVP): Urged the Sabha to remove all unauthorised constructions within the Sabha area without any discrimination.
He was responding to a query by PS Opposition leader M.I. Nisthar Ahamed (UNP) whether the broadening of Thihariya-Varana road has come to a standstill. Priyantha Pushpakumara said, there are shortcomings in Attanagalla area. These shortcomings should be looked into.
As the President’s co-ordinator for Attanagalla, I assure you, that all development activities in this area would continue without bias and prejudice. Funds have already been allocated to uplift 26 village areas in Attanagalla. Measures have been expedited to renovate rural roads under the Jathika Saviya programme.
Mahinda Sirimevan (UPFA): Present Government has a definite plan. It is being implemented sans politics. The Government’s aim is to get people’s participation in development.
Hemal Mendis (JVP): Urged the Sabha to remove all unauthorised constructions within the Sabha area without any discrimination.
'Flying Tiger' Raids Pose Hard Questions
COLOMBO, May 14 (IPS) - By successfully carrying out air raids on military and economic targets in and around the capital, separatist rebels have demonstrated a new capacity to wage ‘all-out' war in their fight to carve out a separate state for the Tamil ethnic minority in Sri Lanka.
But questions are being asked as to how the fledgling Tamileelam Air Force (TAF), the air wing of the militant Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), has been able to acquire planes and train pilots despite the relatively small size of the land mass available in the the Tamil-dominated north and east of the strife-torn island.
By all estimates the TAF is puny and may consist of no more than five propeller-driven Zlin Z-142, Czech-made planes that seem to have been smuggled in as completely knocked down (CKD) kits and assembled locally. But given the anti-terrorist atmosphere of the post 9/11 world, putting the TAF together and actually carrying out bombing raids is a feat that has startled intelligence specialists.
But questions are being asked as to how the fledgling Tamileelam Air Force (TAF), the air wing of the militant Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), has been able to acquire planes and train pilots despite the relatively small size of the land mass available in the the Tamil-dominated north and east of the strife-torn island.
By all estimates the TAF is puny and may consist of no more than five propeller-driven Zlin Z-142, Czech-made planes that seem to have been smuggled in as completely knocked down (CKD) kits and assembled locally. But given the anti-terrorist atmosphere of the post 9/11 world, putting the TAF together and actually carrying out bombing raids is a feat that has startled intelligence specialists.
Gas prices to soar in Sri Lanka
May 13, Colombo: Sri Lanka's major gas distributor, Shell Gas, has submitted an application to the Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) to increase the price of a 13.5 kg gas cylinder by Rs. 161, while the other player, Laugfs, has sought a price increase of Rs. 100 per cylinder.
The Sri Lanka government has already nodded to a price hike for Shell and Laugfs starting on May 26. Accordingly, the price of a 13.5 kg Shell gas cylinder will be increased by Rs. 38 to Rs. 998. A similar cylinder of Laugfs will go up by Rs. 20 to Rs. 959.
A Shell gas cylinder will go up from Rs. 960 to Rs. 1121 and a Laugfs gas cylinder from Rs. 939 to 1039 if the CAA approves the requested price increase.
Sri Lankan gas consumers are facing difficulties these days due to the scarcity of gas in the local market. The Shell Gas management said the scarcity was caused by a delay in distribution and the problem will be solved soon.
The Sri Lanka government has already nodded to a price hike for Shell and Laugfs starting on May 26. Accordingly, the price of a 13.5 kg Shell gas cylinder will be increased by Rs. 38 to Rs. 998. A similar cylinder of Laugfs will go up by Rs. 20 to Rs. 959.
A Shell gas cylinder will go up from Rs. 960 to Rs. 1121 and a Laugfs gas cylinder from Rs. 939 to 1039 if the CAA approves the requested price increase.
Sri Lankan gas consumers are facing difficulties these days due to the scarcity of gas in the local market. The Shell Gas management said the scarcity was caused by a delay in distribution and the problem will be solved soon.
7 Tamil Tigers, 1 soldier killed in fighting in Sri Lanka's northwest, says military
COLOMBO, Sri Lanka: Seven Tamil rebels and one government soldier were killed in clashes between army troops and separatists in Sri Lanka's volatile northwest, the military said Monday.
Clashes broke out when insurgents attacked soldiers patrolling ahead of a defense line in northwestern Mannar district on Sunday, said Lt. Col. Upali Rajapakse, a senior military official.
He said soldiers killed seven rebels in the confrontation and one soldier also died.
Sri Lanka's northwest region has become a flashpoint in escalating violence.
Clashes broke out when insurgents attacked soldiers patrolling ahead of a defense line in northwestern Mannar district on Sunday, said Lt. Col. Upali Rajapakse, a senior military official.
He said soldiers killed seven rebels in the confrontation and one soldier also died.
Sri Lanka's northwest region has become a flashpoint in escalating violence.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Govt. targets 8 per cent growth rate - Minister Amunugama
JAPAN: The Government aims to put the country on an eight per cent annual growth path over the next 10 years and raise the per Capita income to US$ 3,000 by reducing poverty, said Enterprise Development and Investment Promotion Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama.
The Minister was addressing the 40th annual meeting of Asian Development Bank in Kyoto, Japan.
The Minister said the Japanese Government has been a leading bilateral donor for Sri Lanka by providing assistance amounting to US$ 330 million annually. “It is a 30% of the total foreign aid to Sri Lanka.
“Despite high oil prices, multiple natural disasters, the growth of the world economy in general and of Asia in particular, has been robust.
The Asian Development Bank has played an important role in the economic development of the Asia and the Pacific region through the ADB’s second medium-term strategy for regional cooperation and integration.
The ADB has been a strong and continuous supporter of Sri Lanka’s development efforts for more than three and a half decades.
The Minister was addressing the 40th annual meeting of Asian Development Bank in Kyoto, Japan.
The Minister said the Japanese Government has been a leading bilateral donor for Sri Lanka by providing assistance amounting to US$ 330 million annually. “It is a 30% of the total foreign aid to Sri Lanka.
“Despite high oil prices, multiple natural disasters, the growth of the world economy in general and of Asia in particular, has been robust.
The Asian Development Bank has played an important role in the economic development of the Asia and the Pacific region through the ADB’s second medium-term strategy for regional cooperation and integration.
The ADB has been a strong and continuous supporter of Sri Lanka’s development efforts for more than three and a half decades.
Sri Lanka in 60 mln dlr train deal with China
Sri Lanka plans to buy 60 million US dollars worth of locomotives and passenger coaches from China to modernise its Victorian-era network.
The state-owned railway says it'll buy 100 carriages and 15 diesel-powered locomotives.
China's Exxim Bank will fund the purchases with a lending agreement due to be signed between Colombo and Beijing.A railway official says the nation's rolling stock is in desperate need of modernisation.
Delivery of the locomotives and coaches is expected to start in August.
The state-owned railway says it'll buy 100 carriages and 15 diesel-powered locomotives.
China's Exxim Bank will fund the purchases with a lending agreement due to be signed between Colombo and Beijing.A railway official says the nation's rolling stock is in desperate need of modernisation.
Delivery of the locomotives and coaches is expected to start in August.
Tiger airbase located in Wilpattu?
COLOMBO: Military intelligence has gathered information that there is a secret location within the Wilpattu National Park where an LTTE light aircraft could land and take off. The location adjoining the Milewilla, Periyawillu and Periyakatti irrigation tanks, facing Mannar, has been used to hide the aircraft. According to information received, the Tiger aircraft, after landing, is ferried across a specially built canal to this secret location. The place where the aircraft are reported to be hidden and the adjoining areas have been well secured by the LTTE.
On May 27 last year, seven local tourists were killed when their jeep was blasted by a landmine within the Wilpattu National Park. Later, eight servicemen including Col. Jayantha Sumeda Suraweera of the Anuradhapura Gajaba Regiment, were also killed in a similar blast around the same location
These blasts occurred at a location in close proximity to the three irrigation tanks where the LTTE aircraft are said to be hidden. This further confirms the information received by the military intelligence that the LTTE could have set off the blasts to thwart anyone getting closer to the secret location where the aircraft have been hidden.
On May 27 last year, seven local tourists were killed when their jeep was blasted by a landmine within the Wilpattu National Park. Later, eight servicemen including Col. Jayantha Sumeda Suraweera of the Anuradhapura Gajaba Regiment, were also killed in a similar blast around the same location
These blasts occurred at a location in close proximity to the three irrigation tanks where the LTTE aircraft are said to be hidden. This further confirms the information received by the military intelligence that the LTTE could have set off the blasts to thwart anyone getting closer to the secret location where the aircraft have been hidden.
Greece foils LTTE fundraising strategies
LTTE's attempts to raise funds by forcibly collecting from Sri Lankan expatriates in Greece, has been foiled by the Greece Police. It is reported that the LTTE activists have made several unsuccessful attempts to collect funds from Sri Lankan expatriates in Greece.
Greece is a member of the European Union, has already listed the LTTE as a terrorist organisation, there have been several attempts by Tiger agents to collect funds from the Tamil community living here.
However, according to the reports from Greece, it is said that it is hard for the LTTE to collect funds in Greece - Unlike in other European countries such as Britain, France, Norway and Switzerland, the LTTE can not do their fundraising in Greece.
According to the Sri Lankan expatriates in Greece there are only few instances which have been reported of the LTTE fundraising activities.
These restricted LTTE fundraising activities are based on two main reasons.
The first reason is that there are only a few Tamil origins living in Greece, compared to the large number of Sri Lankan expatriates. Unlike in other European cities, both the Sinhalese and the Tamils in Athens are united.
Second reason is that the Greek Police has particularly been vigilant and the Asian expatriates and their activities are closely monitored. They keep a close eye on illegal immigrants. Even those who have resident visas, carry their papers along with them. Hence, there is less room for LTTE activities in Greece. However, these minimum amenities have lead to failure of the Tiger agents in their fundraising activities impressing the Tamil Diaspora in Greece.
Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs Dora Bakoyannis met her Sri Lankan counterpart Rohitha Bogollagama in Athens last month.
Due to its expanded shipping and relatively low population, human smugglers have been using Greece as a transit point in job seekers to cities like Rome, Paris and Zurich. Hence, the LTTE has been eyeing to gain support from the Lankan expatriates without any success.
However, with the recent banning of Tamil satellite television telecasts from the US and Europe, the LTTE is making use of a few other Television feeds telecast from Rome and Athens.
The Speaker expels TNA Parliamentarian for anti-state remarks
S.Gajendran, Tamil National Alliance (TNA) Parliamentarian was evicted from the Parliament session yesterday, Thursday the 10th of May, for his anti-state remarks made during the emergency debate on the 09th of May.
Speaker W J M Lokubandara had to remove Mr. Gajendran from the House yesterday, as he did not heed a request made to make an apology over his statement.
Several parliamentarians expressed views on Mr. Gajendran's statement. Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle called on the Speaker to consult the Attorney General and also his lawyers and discuss the Acts related to the constitution and parliamentary powers and give a decision as to what action that can be initiated.
Leader of the House Nimal Siripala De Silva said all Members of Parliament had taken oaths under the 6th amendment to the constitution to protect the unitary status of the country and to act against terrorism. As such, Mr. Gajendran's statement had breached this pledge. This is the first occasion that such an incident had happened in parliament. The Minister said some interpretation had to be obtained on the breach of the pledge. He called on the Speaker to direct this matter to the Attorney General on what action should be initiated.
Minister Mano Wijeratne called on the Speaker to remove Mr. Gajendran from the House, if he is not prepared to withdraw his statement or make an apology.
Member Wimal Weerawansa said all Members of Parliament had given a pledge not to support separatism nor to act or appear on its behalf, under the 6th amendment to the constitution. He also queried to the regard placed by the people in parliament. Mr. Weerawansa noted that no one had the right of making such an open threat, simply because of being an MP.
Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera said they are against terrorism. He emphasised that they fully object to finding a solution to this problem by making threats to the people, the government or the MPs.
Speaker W J M Lokubandara had to remove Mr. Gajendran from the House yesterday, as he did not heed a request made to make an apology over his statement.
Several parliamentarians expressed views on Mr. Gajendran's statement. Chief Government Whip Jeyaraj Fernandopulle called on the Speaker to consult the Attorney General and also his lawyers and discuss the Acts related to the constitution and parliamentary powers and give a decision as to what action that can be initiated.
Leader of the House Nimal Siripala De Silva said all Members of Parliament had taken oaths under the 6th amendment to the constitution to protect the unitary status of the country and to act against terrorism. As such, Mr. Gajendran's statement had breached this pledge. This is the first occasion that such an incident had happened in parliament. The Minister said some interpretation had to be obtained on the breach of the pledge. He called on the Speaker to direct this matter to the Attorney General on what action should be initiated.
Minister Mano Wijeratne called on the Speaker to remove Mr. Gajendran from the House, if he is not prepared to withdraw his statement or make an apology.
Member Wimal Weerawansa said all Members of Parliament had given a pledge not to support separatism nor to act or appear on its behalf, under the 6th amendment to the constitution. He also queried to the regard placed by the people in parliament. Mr. Weerawansa noted that no one had the right of making such an open threat, simply because of being an MP.
Chief Opposition Whip Joseph Michael Perera said they are against terrorism. He emphasised that they fully object to finding a solution to this problem by making threats to the people, the government or the MPs.
Archbishop calls on the President
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has asserted that the government's desire is to find solutions to problems of the North and East, ensuring maximum security to the Tamil civilians and consolidating their rights.The President pointed this out to the Archbishop of Canterbury Most Rev. Dr. Rowan Williams when he called on him today, Thursday the 10th of May. The President briefed him on the national conflict and the government's programme to achieve peace. Referring to the prevailing situation in Sri Lanka, the President emphasised the government's dedication to sort out the problem through negotiations.
US Assistant Secretary of State visits MOD
Mr: Richard A Boucher, the United States assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian affairs visited Ministry of Defence this morning, Thursday the 10th of May.
An official discussion was also held with the secretary to the Ministry of Defence Mr: Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the Ministry premises.
The assistant secretary was accompanied by HE Robert O Blake, the Ambassador of United States for Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka has every right to stop LTTE air raids – U.S. envoy
"...we are standing with both the government and the people of Sri Lanka against terrorism and also pursuing ways forward to peace." - Boucher
May 11, Colombo: U .S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Richard Boucher said yesterday that U.S. is concerned about the deteriorating situation in Sri Lanka and will continue its military cooperation to fight threat of terrorism.
Addressing a media conference after wrapping up his three-day official visit to the country, Boucher said “We are helping, and we will help. We do have defense cooperation with the Sri Lankan military.”
Responding to a question on LTTE air raids Assistant Secretary Boucher said the Sri Lankan government “has every right to stop those airplanes from hurting people and killing people and damaging the interests of the island.”
Boucher also raised concerns over the worsening human right situation in the country and urged the government to rein in the paramilitary groups who are believed to be behind many of the recent abductions and killings. While welcoming the government’s recent move of reissuing the guidelines on arrest and transparency, he said it is important to implement them thoroughly.
On the issue of U.S. aid to Sri Lanka, Assistant Secretary Boucher said that U.S. supports great many programs in the country. However, he said that one program from the Millennium Challenge Corporation which is in the planning stage is not proceeding forward due to concerns about the ability to carry out the project given the security situation and the human rights situation.
Boucher said that despite improvements made by the government in the food supplies and job opportunities in the Jaffna peninsula, people live in fear due to the killings and abductions. He urged the government to do more to provide a secure environment to the people in Jaffna.
Reiterating his government’s support to fight the Tiger terrorism Assistant Secretary Boucher said the United States, with the international community will take every action possible to prevent the Tamil Tigers from being able to raise money and buy arms.
“We have been working with the government to try to help them defend the population against attacks by the Tamil Tigers. So I think we are standing with both the government and the people of Sri Lanka against terrorism and also pursuing ways forward to peace. That is what we are doing and that is what we’ll need to do,” he said.
May 11, Colombo: U .S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Richard Boucher said yesterday that U.S. is concerned about the deteriorating situation in Sri Lanka and will continue its military cooperation to fight threat of terrorism.
Addressing a media conference after wrapping up his three-day official visit to the country, Boucher said “We are helping, and we will help. We do have defense cooperation with the Sri Lankan military.”
Responding to a question on LTTE air raids Assistant Secretary Boucher said the Sri Lankan government “has every right to stop those airplanes from hurting people and killing people and damaging the interests of the island.”
Boucher also raised concerns over the worsening human right situation in the country and urged the government to rein in the paramilitary groups who are believed to be behind many of the recent abductions and killings. While welcoming the government’s recent move of reissuing the guidelines on arrest and transparency, he said it is important to implement them thoroughly.
On the issue of U.S. aid to Sri Lanka, Assistant Secretary Boucher said that U.S. supports great many programs in the country. However, he said that one program from the Millennium Challenge Corporation which is in the planning stage is not proceeding forward due to concerns about the ability to carry out the project given the security situation and the human rights situation.
Boucher said that despite improvements made by the government in the food supplies and job opportunities in the Jaffna peninsula, people live in fear due to the killings and abductions. He urged the government to do more to provide a secure environment to the people in Jaffna.
Reiterating his government’s support to fight the Tiger terrorism Assistant Secretary Boucher said the United States, with the international community will take every action possible to prevent the Tamil Tigers from being able to raise money and buy arms.
“We have been working with the government to try to help them defend the population against attacks by the Tamil Tigers. So I think we are standing with both the government and the people of Sri Lanka against terrorism and also pursuing ways forward to peace. That is what we are doing and that is what we’ll need to do,” he said.
Sri Lankan Economy Threatened by Tamil Rebel Air Wing
May 11 (Bloomberg) -- Sri Lanka's fastest economic growth in 30 years is threatened by a Tamil rebel air wing that attacked oil and gas plants near the capital, Colombo, and forced the international airport to close at night.
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, flying light aircraft 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the north of the island, evaded air defenses and bombed Royal Dutch Shell Plc and Indian Oil Corp. plants and an air force base in two raids since March.
``Sri Lanka's risk profile has gone up and potential investors now need to factor that in,'' said Rimoe Saldin, finance director at Shell Gas Lanka Ltd., the country's largest retailer of liquefied petroleum gas. ``This is a new dimension that has to be assessed.''
The two-decade-long conflict in the South Asian island has been waged in the north and east of the country, far from industries that drive the $26 billion economy. The air unit, which the military says consists of five propeller-driven aircraft, has brought Colombo within striking distance of the rebels and raised questions about defense capabilities.
``The fact that the LTTE were able to fly undetected and weren't shot down is of huge concern,'' said Ravi Abeysuriya, managing director of Amba Research Lanka Ltd., an investment research outsourcing company with offices in Colombo and also in Singapore, Costa Rica and India.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who increased spending on the Army, Navy and Air Force by 44 percent this year to a record 139 billion rupees ($1.3 billion), said in March the air unit threatens Sri Lanka and the region.
International Assistance
Rajapaksa said he sought the help of the international community in achieving peace when he met U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher in Colombo yesterday, according to the government's Web site.
``We stand with the people of Sri Lanka against terrorism,'' Boucher said at a news conference yesterday, according to the government's Media Center for National Security. ``The government has every right to stop the air raids by the LTTE. We are against them, they should stop.''
The Tamil Tigers are fighting for a separate homeland in a conflict that has killed more than 60,000 people. A 2002 cease- fire collapsed last year and two rounds of talks in Geneva failed to restart the peace process.
The rebels have an estimated 12,000 fighters, including a naval force, and revealed their new air wing in a March 26 attack on the Katunayake airbase about 30 miles from Colombo that killed three air force personnel.
The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, flying light aircraft 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the north of the island, evaded air defenses and bombed Royal Dutch Shell Plc and Indian Oil Corp. plants and an air force base in two raids since March.
``Sri Lanka's risk profile has gone up and potential investors now need to factor that in,'' said Rimoe Saldin, finance director at Shell Gas Lanka Ltd., the country's largest retailer of liquefied petroleum gas. ``This is a new dimension that has to be assessed.''
The two-decade-long conflict in the South Asian island has been waged in the north and east of the country, far from industries that drive the $26 billion economy. The air unit, which the military says consists of five propeller-driven aircraft, has brought Colombo within striking distance of the rebels and raised questions about defense capabilities.
``The fact that the LTTE were able to fly undetected and weren't shot down is of huge concern,'' said Ravi Abeysuriya, managing director of Amba Research Lanka Ltd., an investment research outsourcing company with offices in Colombo and also in Singapore, Costa Rica and India.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who increased spending on the Army, Navy and Air Force by 44 percent this year to a record 139 billion rupees ($1.3 billion), said in March the air unit threatens Sri Lanka and the region.
International Assistance
Rajapaksa said he sought the help of the international community in achieving peace when he met U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Richard Boucher in Colombo yesterday, according to the government's Web site.
``We stand with the people of Sri Lanka against terrorism,'' Boucher said at a news conference yesterday, according to the government's Media Center for National Security. ``The government has every right to stop the air raids by the LTTE. We are against them, they should stop.''
The Tamil Tigers are fighting for a separate homeland in a conflict that has killed more than 60,000 people. A 2002 cease- fire collapsed last year and two rounds of talks in Geneva failed to restart the peace process.
The rebels have an estimated 12,000 fighters, including a naval force, and revealed their new air wing in a March 26 attack on the Katunayake airbase about 30 miles from Colombo that killed three air force personnel.
US Assistant Secretary of State Boucher calls on Sri Lanka President Rajapaksa
May 10, Colombo: United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Richard Boucher visited Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa this morning at Temple Trees in Colombo.
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President's Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Robert O. Blake, Social Services and Social Welfare Minister Douglas Devananda and Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama also attended the meeting. |
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Govt. committed to Tamils’ rights
COLOMBO: The Government’s aim is to evolve a solution to the situation in the North and East to ensure that the Tamil people are protected and assured of their rights, President Mahinda Rajapaksa told the Archbishop of Canterbury Most Rev. Dr. Rowan Williams Thursday. The President who discussed the prevailing situation in Sri Lanka with the Head of the Anglican Church, said the Government was committed to a negotiated solution to the Sri Lankan crisis and always stood firmly by that position.
The Archbishop was also told that the situation regarding Human Rights abuses had improved in Sri Lanka and that in this regard the Government was keeping a close tab on the Security Forces.
The Archbishop was also told that the situation regarding Human Rights abuses had improved in Sri Lanka and that in this regard the Government was keeping a close tab on the Security Forces.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Development top priority: President
COLOMBO: President Mahinda Rajapaksa has given strict instructions to the Treasury to curtail the funds allocated for ceremonies and other propaganda purposes and to give utmost priority only for development and welfare programmes benefitting a larger number of people.
He has instructed the Treasury Secretary and other officials to minimise wastage and corruption when allocating funds and to allocate funds adhering to proper management policies in a disciplined manner and to monitor the process on a regular basis.
President Rajapaksa in his instructions to the Treasury has also stressed that they should strictly adhere to the Tender procedures when using private advertising firms for publicity campaigns of the Government and to use that process only for essential matters.
He also emphasised that the Treasury should consider the importance and the extent of benefits that can be gained from these development programmes when allocating funds for them.
President Rajapaksa has also pointed out that the Treasury has been blamed by several politicians for allocating funds for projects which are of no benefits to the country, and the Treasury officials should be careful and act with responsibility to avoid such criticisms.
He has instructed the Treasury Secretary and other officials to minimise wastage and corruption when allocating funds and to allocate funds adhering to proper management policies in a disciplined manner and to monitor the process on a regular basis.
President Rajapaksa in his instructions to the Treasury has also stressed that they should strictly adhere to the Tender procedures when using private advertising firms for publicity campaigns of the Government and to use that process only for essential matters.
He also emphasised that the Treasury should consider the importance and the extent of benefits that can be gained from these development programmes when allocating funds for them.
President Rajapaksa has also pointed out that the Treasury has been blamed by several politicians for allocating funds for projects which are of no benefits to the country, and the Treasury officials should be careful and act with responsibility to avoid such criticisms.
TULF Leader laments uproar over UK debate
COLOMBO: Antagonising friendly nations is not a healthy way to counter adverse LTTE propaganda, TULF Leader V.Anandasangaree said expressing his opinion over the uproar against the recent ‘House of Commons’ debate on Sri Lanka.
He said due to the efforts of the countries like US, India and others, the LTTE arms procurement machinery has been crippled to some extent and antagonising these nations could do damage to the country than any good.
“What would have happened if the negotiations between the LTTE and another party for the purchase of arms in the US had been successful,” Sangaree questioned cautioning that if not for timely detection there would have been a major disaster.
He added the Indian Navy and the Tamil Nadu police were making headway in draining the flow of arms, ammunition and bomb making material through Indian southern coast.
“How many tons and lorry loads of arms and ammunition have they detained. They have arrested many locals and Sri Lankan Tamils.”
“This is a disgrace,” he said referring to the uproar.
Sangaree said Sri Lanka could not fight LTTE terrorism without the support of the international community. “What will happen if the International community gave up on helping Sri Lanka.”
The TULF Leader added: “When we open our mouth let us be a little cautious.”
He said there was only one speech supporting the LTTE while all the others especially the opening statement by Kim Howells was very favourable to Sri Lanka.
He said if a Member of Parliament wants to move an adjournment no one could stop it. The same applies to the British House of Commons. “That is a prerogative of Parliament.”
He said due to the efforts of the countries like US, India and others, the LTTE arms procurement machinery has been crippled to some extent and antagonising these nations could do damage to the country than any good.
“What would have happened if the negotiations between the LTTE and another party for the purchase of arms in the US had been successful,” Sangaree questioned cautioning that if not for timely detection there would have been a major disaster.
He added the Indian Navy and the Tamil Nadu police were making headway in draining the flow of arms, ammunition and bomb making material through Indian southern coast.
“How many tons and lorry loads of arms and ammunition have they detained. They have arrested many locals and Sri Lankan Tamils.”
“This is a disgrace,” he said referring to the uproar.
Sangaree said Sri Lanka could not fight LTTE terrorism without the support of the international community. “What will happen if the International community gave up on helping Sri Lanka.”
The TULF Leader added: “When we open our mouth let us be a little cautious.”
He said there was only one speech supporting the LTTE while all the others especially the opening statement by Kim Howells was very favourable to Sri Lanka.
He said if a Member of Parliament wants to move an adjournment no one could stop it. The same applies to the British House of Commons. “That is a prerogative of Parliament.”
Growing demand for Lankan tea in UAE
UAE: Trade between UAE and Sri Lanka is on the rise and there is also a growing demand for tea, Sri Lankan’s Ambassador in United Arab Emirates A. M. Junaid said.
UAE continues to be second best market for Sri Lankan tea after Russia according to export figures last year.
UAE has increased their tea imports by 4.6 million kg last year. The tea exports from Sri Lanka to UAE grew from 33 to 41 million kg in 2005 and this trend continued. The overall value of Sri Lankan tea exports reached a highest ever Rs. 84 billion with Russia and CIS countries being the Lanka’s highest buyers.
Syria with 28 mn kg, Iran 24 mn kg, Turkey 12 mn kg, Iraq 11 mn kg and Japan 10 mn kg were the other major markets last year.
He said that Sri Lankan companies are now moving away from sending tea in bulk form. “More and more Sri Lankans are now into value addition mostly by way of tea bags,” he said.
Another reason for Sri Lankan tea to be popular is the fact that there are over 90,000 housemaids in UAE through whom Lankan tea is consumed in their homes.
Since Dubai Port is one of the largest in Asia it is the gateway to many countries like Iran, which consumes bulk of Sri Lankan tea.
However Lankan tea is facing stiff competition from both Indian and Kenyan tea, as their prices are lower than the Lankan tea.
The Ambassador said in addition there is a growing demand for Lankan apparels. The large super market and department stores too are now selling Lankan apparels. Lankan garments are specially made for the high-end market and this is encouraging.
One of the other advantages is that there is a large expatriate European community who earn more and they are also prefer buying Lankan apparels.
The unprecedented economic transformation, which has taken place in the UAE in recent times, has been largely funded by the judicious use of oil revenues. UAE possesses the third largest natural gas reserves in the region and the fourth largest in the world.
Another emerging market for Sri Lanka is in the gem and jewellery sector.
The officials from the National Gem and Jewellery Authority also displayed their products at the four-day Arabian Travel Market last week. “We had a very good response as we have understood the market in Dubai. We will now follow this up,” an official of the Authority said.
What the British MPs had to say about the LTTE ?
The debate on Sri Lanka in the British House of Commons came at a time when the LTTE was being attacked and exposed from all fronts.
Arrests in Australia and indictments in India, amidst the commitment of countries to help combat LTTE terrorism, made headlines during the past few weeks and months. So, Britain debated while the LTTE was being exposed. Now, unlike any other time in history, the LTTE stands naked - with nowhere to run or no place to hide.
The United Kingdom, like many others in the international community, is well aware of the nature of the Tamil Tiger terrorists, and this was brought to the fore on May 2, 2007. The Members of Parliament raised many poignant matters concerning the brutality of the LTTE. To put it simply, the British Parliament bludgeoned the LTTE and condemned the terrorist acts perpetrated by the Tiger rebels.
The statements of the British MPs have received little attention. The castigation of the LTTE by some of the senior Members of Parliament is ought to be highlighted.
Tiger terrorism
The Minister for the Middle East, Dr. Kim Howells, summarised the position of the LTTE with remarkable clarity when he stated at the outset of the debate that:
"The responsibility of the LTTE for violent acts over the years is well documented. It is a proscribed organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000. The EU listed the LTTE as a terrorist organisation in May 2006. We have repeatedly urged the LTTE to move away from the path of violence ... LTTE involvement in killings, torture, detention of civilians and denial of freedom of speech is a reality. The LTTE does not tolerate any expression of opposition..."
This statement covers many aspects which have been proven to be accurate.
Apart from the banning of the LTTE by the UK and the EU and many other countries such as the US and India, the LTTE's involvement in killings and torture is widely known. For instance, on the issue of torture, it was recently reported that there is compelling evidence to prove that the LTTE maintained torture chambers.
The Special Task Force uncovered torture chambers and lockups at the LTTE's Madurakavi camp. It was reported that 'these torture chambers were small and many of the LTTE child brigade', who had surrendered to the Sri Lankan Forces, 'revealed the harassment meted out to them by the LTTE if they caught trying to escape.'(The Island, 17th January 2007).
LTTE fundraising will not be tolerated
The fundraising activity of the LTTE was also another prominent topic that received the attention of the MPs. The fundraising activity of the LTTE, especially in the UK, is a popular phenomenon. It is the funds collected through force, compulsion and intimidation, from Tamil expatriates, that ensures the existence of the LTTE. Their ability to procure arms is greatly enhanced due to the extortion of money.
Also, activities such as fundraising and money laundering manifest the LTTE's lack of commitment to enter the democratic process and seek a peaceful and negotiated settlement. Fundraising only encourages war. It leaves no room to think of peace.
This was brought out clearly by Dr. Howells when he stated that "the ability of the LTTE to raise funds overseas helps sustain its ability to carry out violent acts and reduces the incentive to move away from the path of violence.
LTTE fundraising activity in the United Kingdom encourages war, not peace. It will not be tolerated." Dr. Howells also stated that he has recently met the security authorities in the UK "to discuss how we can counter the bullying, threats and acts of fraud that are used regularly to extract money from the Tamil population and others in the country."
Dr. Howells's statement comes at a time when the British police are in the process of investigating a global credit card scam, allegedly linked to the LTTE. Thousands of motorists, using credit cards to buy petrol, are said to have lost millions of pounds due to the covert operations of the LTTE.
Scotland Yard officials have begun their hunt for suspected Tiger operatives in Britain in the wake of the credit card scam. It was also reported that bank statements relating to some of the filling station owners who have been evading arrest have been gathered.
These owners are said to have donated thousands of pounds every year to the Tamil Rehabilitation Organisation (TRO), the main pro-LTTE organisation in London.
Another MP, Mr. Neil Gerrard (Walthamstow) (Lab) also stated that he has no doubt and is convinced that "money is being raised in this country which goes to the LTTE."
Arrests in Australia and indictments in India, amidst the commitment of countries to help combat LTTE terrorism, made headlines during the past few weeks and months. So, Britain debated while the LTTE was being exposed. Now, unlike any other time in history, the LTTE stands naked - with nowhere to run or no place to hide.
The United Kingdom, like many others in the international community, is well aware of the nature of the Tamil Tiger terrorists, and this was brought to the fore on May 2, 2007. The Members of Parliament raised many poignant matters concerning the brutality of the LTTE. To put it simply, the British Parliament bludgeoned the LTTE and condemned the terrorist acts perpetrated by the Tiger rebels.
The statements of the British MPs have received little attention. The castigation of the LTTE by some of the senior Members of Parliament is ought to be highlighted.
Tiger terrorism
The Minister for the Middle East, Dr. Kim Howells, summarised the position of the LTTE with remarkable clarity when he stated at the outset of the debate that:
"The responsibility of the LTTE for violent acts over the years is well documented. It is a proscribed organisation under the Terrorism Act 2000. The EU listed the LTTE as a terrorist organisation in May 2006. We have repeatedly urged the LTTE to move away from the path of violence ... LTTE involvement in killings, torture, detention of civilians and denial of freedom of speech is a reality. The LTTE does not tolerate any expression of opposition..."
This statement covers many aspects which have been proven to be accurate.
Apart from the banning of the LTTE by the UK and the EU and many other countries such as the US and India, the LTTE's involvement in killings and torture is widely known. For instance, on the issue of torture, it was recently reported that there is compelling evidence to prove that the LTTE maintained torture chambers.
The Special Task Force uncovered torture chambers and lockups at the LTTE's Madurakavi camp. It was reported that 'these torture chambers were small and many of the LTTE child brigade', who had surrendered to the Sri Lankan Forces, 'revealed the harassment meted out to them by the LTTE if they caught trying to escape.'(The Island, 17th January 2007).
LTTE fundraising will not be tolerated
The fundraising activity of the LTTE was also another prominent topic that received the attention of the MPs. The fundraising activity of the LTTE, especially in the UK, is a popular phenomenon. It is the funds collected through force, compulsion and intimidation, from Tamil expatriates, that ensures the existence of the LTTE. Their ability to procure arms is greatly enhanced due to the extortion of money.
Also, activities such as fundraising and money laundering manifest the LTTE's lack of commitment to enter the democratic process and seek a peaceful and negotiated settlement. Fundraising only encourages war. It leaves no room to think of peace.
This was brought out clearly by Dr. Howells when he stated that "the ability of the LTTE to raise funds overseas helps sustain its ability to carry out violent acts and reduces the incentive to move away from the path of violence.
LTTE fundraising activity in the United Kingdom encourages war, not peace. It will not be tolerated." Dr. Howells also stated that he has recently met the security authorities in the UK "to discuss how we can counter the bullying, threats and acts of fraud that are used regularly to extract money from the Tamil population and others in the country."
Dr. Howells's statement comes at a time when the British police are in the process of investigating a global credit card scam, allegedly linked to the LTTE. Thousands of motorists, using credit cards to buy petrol, are said to have lost millions of pounds due to the covert operations of the LTTE.
Scotland Yard officials have begun their hunt for suspected Tiger operatives in Britain in the wake of the credit card scam. It was also reported that bank statements relating to some of the filling station owners who have been evading arrest have been gathered.
These owners are said to have donated thousands of pounds every year to the Tamil Rehabilitation Organisation (TRO), the main pro-LTTE organisation in London.
Another MP, Mr. Neil Gerrard (Walthamstow) (Lab) also stated that he has no doubt and is convinced that "money is being raised in this country which goes to the LTTE."
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