Tuesday, September 25, 2007
IFC commits US$ 100m to Dialog Telekom
Speaking at the financing to Dialog Telekom to expand its telecom network and build a new telecommunication infrastructure network with a US$100 million package he said the current penetration is around 32 per cent. "This will reach the 40 per cent mark by the end of the year.
He also said that the active participation of the four-telecom operators has also helped to achieve this growth.
He said that by the end of 2008 there would be 100 percent population coverage. "This currently is around 90 per cent," he said.
He said that Dialog introduced SMS roaming to the region. "One reason for Sri Lanka to be ahead of technology in the region is that regulators have granted permission faster that other countries. It has taken over four years for some countries in the region to grant approval for SMS roaming," he said.
Wijayasuriya said that they were delighted that IFC has reinforced its commitment to Dialog's growth story. Building on the relationship seeded in 2004 through a long term financing arrangement. We are strongly encouraged that IFC has increased its participation in Dialog in the form of equity and expanded debt financing.
We are also appreciative of the high degree of market sensitivity displayed by IFC in structuring a tailor made financing package to meet the company's needs and opportunities".
The 100 million package for five years includes a US$ 70 million term loan facility and a US$ 30 million equity commitment via the acquisition of a 1.6 per cent holding in Dialog from Telekom Malaysia (TM).
He also said that the active participation of the four-telecom operators has also helped to achieve this growth.
He said that by the end of 2008 there would be 100 percent population coverage. "This currently is around 90 per cent," he said.
He said that Dialog introduced SMS roaming to the region. "One reason for Sri Lanka to be ahead of technology in the region is that regulators have granted permission faster that other countries. It has taken over four years for some countries in the region to grant approval for SMS roaming," he said.
Wijayasuriya said that they were delighted that IFC has reinforced its commitment to Dialog's growth story. Building on the relationship seeded in 2004 through a long term financing arrangement. We are strongly encouraged that IFC has increased its participation in Dialog in the form of equity and expanded debt financing.
We are also appreciative of the high degree of market sensitivity displayed by IFC in structuring a tailor made financing package to meet the company's needs and opportunities".
The 100 million package for five years includes a US$ 70 million term loan facility and a US$ 30 million equity commitment via the acquisition of a 1.6 per cent holding in Dialog from Telekom Malaysia (TM).
Highest level of cooperation between Lanka-India
Sri Lanka and India are seeing the highest level of cooperation and friendship, Indian External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee assured President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Sunday.
Mukherjee is leading the Indian delegation to the UN General Assembly Sessions. This was President Rajpaksa's first in a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders and heads of UN organisations.
Developments in Sri Lanka in the context of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) deliberations was one of the highlights of the closed-door discussion at the Ritz-Carlton, Foreign Minster Rohitha Bogollagama told the Daily News.
"Mukherjee was keen to know about the efforts towards a political solution and President Rajapaksa stressed that the APRC proposals would be forthcoming before year end," Bogollagama said, noting that this response was highly appreciated by the Indian delegation.
Mukherjee also said India was keenly following the development moves in the newly liberated East.
The President briefed him extensively on the Government's Eastern Resurgence Programme and the establishment of civilian administration.
It was also stressed that Eastern youth would be given an opportunity to join the Police, as more stations are being established in the East. Indian assistance for a power plant in the East was also discussed.
President Rajapaksa and Minister Mukherjee also focused their attention on the proposed resumption of the ferry service between the two countries.
Mukherjee said India was eager to see the recommencement of the ferry service which would greatly benefit travellers in both countries who are unable to afford air travel.
The transformation of the current Indo-Lanka Free Trade Agreement into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement was another topic. "We are confident of inking this agreement next year," the Minister added.
India also sought Sri Lanka's assistance in securing the Commonwealth Secretary General's post and a seat in the UN Security council in 2010.
The Indian Minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Shiv Shankar Menon and Permanent Representative to the UN Nirupan Sen, both of whom had served in Sri Lanka as High Commissioners in Sri Lanka.
Minister Bogollagama, Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, Lanka's Ambassador to the UN Bernard Goonetilleke and Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Prasad Kariyawasam participated in the talks.
Mukherjee is leading the Indian delegation to the UN General Assembly Sessions. This was President Rajpaksa's first in a series of bilateral meetings with world leaders and heads of UN organisations.
Developments in Sri Lanka in the context of the All Party Representative Committee (APRC) deliberations was one of the highlights of the closed-door discussion at the Ritz-Carlton, Foreign Minster Rohitha Bogollagama told the Daily News.
"Mukherjee was keen to know about the efforts towards a political solution and President Rajapaksa stressed that the APRC proposals would be forthcoming before year end," Bogollagama said, noting that this response was highly appreciated by the Indian delegation.
Mukherjee also said India was keenly following the development moves in the newly liberated East.
The President briefed him extensively on the Government's Eastern Resurgence Programme and the establishment of civilian administration.
It was also stressed that Eastern youth would be given an opportunity to join the Police, as more stations are being established in the East. Indian assistance for a power plant in the East was also discussed.
President Rajapaksa and Minister Mukherjee also focused their attention on the proposed resumption of the ferry service between the two countries.
Mukherjee said India was eager to see the recommencement of the ferry service which would greatly benefit travellers in both countries who are unable to afford air travel.
The transformation of the current Indo-Lanka Free Trade Agreement into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement was another topic. "We are confident of inking this agreement next year," the Minister added.
India also sought Sri Lanka's assistance in securing the Commonwealth Secretary General's post and a seat in the UN Security council in 2010.
The Indian Minister was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Shiv Shankar Menon and Permanent Representative to the UN Nirupan Sen, both of whom had served in Sri Lanka as High Commissioners in Sri Lanka.
Minister Bogollagama, Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, Lanka's Ambassador to the UN Bernard Goonetilleke and Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Prasad Kariyawasam participated in the talks.
UN sessions to focus on wide variety of global issues
The UN General Assembly's high-level debate, commencing today in New York, will see seasoned campaigners and new faces who will grapple with issues old and new, from Darfur to climate change.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has received the prime afternoon slot for his speech, (3 p.m. New York time) which is expected to outline the Government's commitment to peace and development for all regions, including the newly liberated East. Sri Lanka will also take a strong stand against terrorism.
Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom are the other SAARC Heads of State attending the world's biggest parley. Both India and Pakistan are represented at ministerial level.
The list of 'new' faces begins at the top this year, with soft-spoken Secretary General Ban Ki Moon steering the UN ship for the first time.
His opening address will be followed by the address of President George W. Bush. "This is the most intense period of international diplomacy ever at the UN," said Secretary General Ki-moon, adding that the 192-Member world body is "once again the global forum" where solutions are proposed and discussed.
Nicolas Sarkozy, the French President will be another high-profile new entrant. His speech is eagerly anticipated, as he is seen as giving France a leadership role in the European region. Sarkozy has already shocked many with his willingness to accommodate the US. He will also chair a ministerial meeting on Africa's future on the sidelines of the UN.
German Chancellor 'Angela Merkel will also make her mark at the UN for the first time. Her speeches at the climate summit as well as the General Assembly are eagerly awaited by those seeking to know Germany's stance oncurrent issues.'
Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and Iranian President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will also receive wide media coverage. Zimbabwe's controversial President Robert Mugabe is also likely to be in the spotlight.
Apart from issues such as climate change, development financing, counter-terrorism and Millennium Development Goals, many world leaders are likely to focus the world's attention on the crisis in Darfur, Iran's nuclear programme, Middle East peace, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Iraq and Kosovo.
But this is just the tip of the iceberg, as individual leaders will cite more issues to gain the world's attention.
The bloodletting in Darfur, currently the world's worst humanitarian crisis, will figure high on the agenda. A high-level meeting will be held to lay the groundwork for peace talks in Libya next month. More >>
President Mahinda Rajapaksa has received the prime afternoon slot for his speech, (3 p.m. New York time) which is expected to outline the Government's commitment to peace and development for all regions, including the newly liberated East. Sri Lanka will also take a strong stand against terrorism.
Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom are the other SAARC Heads of State attending the world's biggest parley. Both India and Pakistan are represented at ministerial level.
The list of 'new' faces begins at the top this year, with soft-spoken Secretary General Ban Ki Moon steering the UN ship for the first time.
His opening address will be followed by the address of President George W. Bush. "This is the most intense period of international diplomacy ever at the UN," said Secretary General Ki-moon, adding that the 192-Member world body is "once again the global forum" where solutions are proposed and discussed.
Nicolas Sarkozy, the French President will be another high-profile new entrant. His speech is eagerly anticipated, as he is seen as giving France a leadership role in the European region. Sarkozy has already shocked many with his willingness to accommodate the US. He will also chair a ministerial meeting on Africa's future on the sidelines of the UN.
German Chancellor 'Angela Merkel will also make her mark at the UN for the first time. Her speeches at the climate summit as well as the General Assembly are eagerly awaited by those seeking to know Germany's stance oncurrent issues.'
Iraq's Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki and Iranian President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will also receive wide media coverage. Zimbabwe's controversial President Robert Mugabe is also likely to be in the spotlight.
Apart from issues such as climate change, development financing, counter-terrorism and Millennium Development Goals, many world leaders are likely to focus the world's attention on the crisis in Darfur, Iran's nuclear programme, Middle East peace, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Iraq and Kosovo.
But this is just the tip of the iceberg, as individual leaders will cite more issues to gain the world's attention.
The bloodletting in Darfur, currently the world's worst humanitarian crisis, will figure high on the agenda. A high-level meeting will be held to lay the groundwork for peace talks in Libya next month. More >>
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Kotelawala Defense Academy of Sri Lanka to be elevated as a university
Sri Lanka government has decided to elevate the Kotelawala Defense Academy (KDA) to university level under the University Grants Commission (UGC). Sri Lanka parliament yesterday passed a bill pertaining to the name change.
KDA has been legally established under the Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy Act No. 68 of 1981 and is governed by a Board of Management consisting of the Secretary of the Defence as the Chairman, Commanders of the tri-services, representatives of the University Grant Commission and the General Treasury, and the Commandant of the academy as members.
KDA was initiated in 1980 to train cadets for the Army. From 1980 to 1986, the cadets enlisted to the KDA followed the degree course at the Universities of Colombo and Moratuwa, and they were awarded the degree by the same universities. Later, KDA was elevated to the university status subsequent to a proposal made to the then government headed by President J.R. Jayewardene. Today, the KDA is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, United Kingdom.
KDA has been legally established under the Sir John Kotelawala Defence Academy Act No. 68 of 1981 and is governed by a Board of Management consisting of the Secretary of the Defence as the Chairman, Commanders of the tri-services, representatives of the University Grant Commission and the General Treasury, and the Commandant of the academy as members.
KDA was initiated in 1980 to train cadets for the Army. From 1980 to 1986, the cadets enlisted to the KDA followed the degree course at the Universities of Colombo and Moratuwa, and they were awarded the degree by the same universities. Later, KDA was elevated to the university status subsequent to a proposal made to the then government headed by President J.R. Jayewardene. Today, the KDA is a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, United Kingdom.
Britain warns of bogus recruitment agencies defrauding Sri Lankans
Sept 19, Colombo: The British High Commission today warned about bogus recruitment agencies that are defrauding Sri Lankans seeking to work in the UK.
A High Commission spokesperson said “We have received an increased number of complaints about so called UK recruitment agents offering jobs that do not exist. Some claim to be acting on behalf of well known international companies, while others are offering au pair or hospitality jobs.”
In several recent cases people have given large sums of money to recruitment agents but have never heard back from them.
“We advise people who are approached by recruitment agents claiming to be able to get them jobs in the UK to check that the agents are registered with the ‘Recruitment and Employment Confederation’. This can be done on their website www.rec.uk.com, or by telephone 0044 20 7009 2100. All reputable UK recruitment agents are members and signed up to an ethical code,” a statement from the High Commission said.
“Under UK law, recruitment agents are not allowed to charge jobseekers for finding work (except in relation to theatrical performers and models and in certain cases au pairs). They are not allowed to make their services conditional upon jobseekers using other chargeable services e.g. CV writing or training courses.” “Recruitment agents are NOT able to obtain visas for the UK on behalf of jobseekers. We advise people not to send any money or their passports for this reason. Information on how to apply for a UK visa in Sri Lanka can be obtained by calling 331 from a Dialog phone or by visiting the VFS website at www.vfs-uk-lk.com.”
A High Commission spokesperson said “We have received an increased number of complaints about so called UK recruitment agents offering jobs that do not exist. Some claim to be acting on behalf of well known international companies, while others are offering au pair or hospitality jobs.”
In several recent cases people have given large sums of money to recruitment agents but have never heard back from them.
“We advise people who are approached by recruitment agents claiming to be able to get them jobs in the UK to check that the agents are registered with the ‘Recruitment and Employment Confederation’. This can be done on their website www.rec.uk.com, or by telephone 0044 20 7009 2100. All reputable UK recruitment agents are members and signed up to an ethical code,” a statement from the High Commission said.
“Under UK law, recruitment agents are not allowed to charge jobseekers for finding work (except in relation to theatrical performers and models and in certain cases au pairs). They are not allowed to make their services conditional upon jobseekers using other chargeable services e.g. CV writing or training courses.” “Recruitment agents are NOT able to obtain visas for the UK on behalf of jobseekers. We advise people not to send any money or their passports for this reason. Information on how to apply for a UK visa in Sri Lanka can be obtained by calling 331 from a Dialog phone or by visiting the VFS website at www.vfs-uk-lk.com.”
Judge orders 'habitual drug user' Britney to be tested twice a week
Britney Spears is an 'habitual and frequent user' of controlled substances and alcohol, and has been ordered to undergo random drug testing and hire a parenting coach in order to keep her children, a judge in the singer's custody case ruled.
Superior Court Commissioner Scott Gordon ruled: "Based on the evidence presented, the court finds that there is habitual, frequent and continuous use of controlled substances and alcohol by the petitioner".
Northern Rock slumps 20% after two biggest shareholders cut their losses
Fevered stock market trading saw shares in crisis-torn Northern Rock drop as much as 20% today to an alltime low of 2461/4p. That is less than a fifth of their value six months ago.
At one point today, the share price had surged to 335p - a gain of almost 9% - as investors decided the former building society is not going bust. But the mood turned rapidly, sending them down 16p to 290p.
Northern Rock revealed that its two largest shareholders have cut their losses and sold large slugs of shares at the same time that rumours swept the market that a massively cut-price bid is on the way.
Last Friday morning Northern Rock was valued at £2.7 billion. Today its worth had fallen to £1.1 billion, and traders were talking of a rescue bid worth less than £1 billion.
Lloyds TSB was rumoured to be preparing an offer at just 200p a share, but that was denied by sources close to the bank. The even more fantastical suggestion that Halifax owner HBOS would bid just 100p a share for Northern was equally strongly denied, with sources pointing out that HBOS has never been involved in takeover talks and did not intend to start.
Analysts are convinced the bank cannot survive independently, but are also sure that every extra day it takes to find a buyer reduces its value. Northern Rock will almost certainly have to start drawing down the Bank of England's emergency credit facility within the next two days.
That will not only be another blow to its credibility but also to its finances, since the Bank of England is charging it a punitive interest rate of just above 7%.
At one point today, the share price had surged to 335p - a gain of almost 9% - as investors decided the former building society is not going bust. But the mood turned rapidly, sending them down 16p to 290p.
Northern Rock revealed that its two largest shareholders have cut their losses and sold large slugs of shares at the same time that rumours swept the market that a massively cut-price bid is on the way.
Last Friday morning Northern Rock was valued at £2.7 billion. Today its worth had fallen to £1.1 billion, and traders were talking of a rescue bid worth less than £1 billion.
Lloyds TSB was rumoured to be preparing an offer at just 200p a share, but that was denied by sources close to the bank. The even more fantastical suggestion that Halifax owner HBOS would bid just 100p a share for Northern was equally strongly denied, with sources pointing out that HBOS has never been involved in takeover talks and did not intend to start.
Analysts are convinced the bank cannot survive independently, but are also sure that every extra day it takes to find a buyer reduces its value. Northern Rock will almost certainly have to start drawing down the Bank of England's emergency credit facility within the next two days.
That will not only be another blow to its credibility but also to its finances, since the Bank of England is charging it a punitive interest rate of just above 7%.
Friday, September 14, 2007
U.S. Air Force Medical teams work alongside their Sri Lankan colleagues to help people in the East
A nine-person team of United States Air Force (USAF) medics, working alongside colleagues in the Sri Lankan armed forces, recently completed a medical/dental humanitarian assistance mission that benefited civilians living in the recently-liberated eastern region of Sri Lanka. The bilateral engagement took place from 3-10 September 2007. The USAF team, comprised of a four-person dental team and five-person medical team, worked side-by-side with medics representing the Sri Lanka Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as local civilian medical personnel. Over four days in Kappalthurai, Echilanpattu and Vakarai, the team treated more than 1,900 patients, addressing the health needs of a population recovering from the December 2004 tsunami and separatist conflict. The dental team completed over 200 extractions of non-viable teeth.
"The bilateral humanitarian assistance project was a significant collaboration that benefited many needy civilians in the East," said U.S. Ambassador Robert O. Blake.
"The bilateral humanitarian assistance project was a significant collaboration that benefited many needy civilians in the East," said U.S. Ambassador Robert O. Blake.
Economy grows in second quarter
The country has recorded a 6.4% economic growth in the second quarter of this year which is a 0.3% increase compared to the first quarter of the year, according to the Department of Census and Statistics.
It was 6.1 per cent at the first quarter of the year. The main sectors namely agriculture, industry and services have contributed to GDP by 11.9%, 27.7% and 60.4% respectively.
Director General of the Department of Census and Statistics D.B.P.S Vidyaratna told a conference held at the Information Centre yesterday the services sector has recorded a growth of 6.5% with the contribution of trade ,transport and communication.
The industrial sector has shown a growth of 7.1% compared to last quater. It is a 79.6% growth. The garments sector recorded 66% out of this growth.
Transport and communication sectors have grown by 8.3% compared to 11.9% in the second quarter of 2006 with the contribution of Communication, Postal , Port and Aviation. Postal and communication sector recorded a growth of 21.0%. The number of permanent telephone connections increased by 44.7% and mobile phones by 72.2% during this period.
The Colombo harbour and the South Asia Gateway Terminal has increased its operations by 3.2% counting 807,824 operations.
During the period registration of motor vehicles has recorded both drops and growth and SriLankan Airlines recorded an increase of income by 13.8%.
Navy, Air Force attack Tiger boats
The Navy, assisted by warplanes and helicopters, launched a massive attack against a flotilla of nearly 20 boats belonging to the Tigers yesterday, the military said. The boats were spotted off the coast of Mullaithivu and the navy, with air support, engaged them.
The Tiger base from which the boats were launched was also attacked causing a fire, he said, adding that details of casualties were not available.
The Tiger base from which the boats were launched was also attacked causing a fire, he said, adding that details of casualties were not available.
Govt to revive buffer zone proposal
Media Minister Anura Priyadarshana Yapa said yesterday that the Government may have to consider the proposal for introducing the 100 metre buffer zone which cropped up in the aftermath of the 2004 Tsunami disaster.
Responding to queries of journalists at the Cabinet press briefing Yapa said that the matter has to be looked into as a safety measure.
He said that as a responsible Government they have consistently pursued the '100 metre buffer zone' policy.
He charged that the UNP vehemently opposed this policy and even incited people to take to the streets in protest. "However, in the present uncertain situation of another unpredictable and devastating tsunami, and also as a measure to minimise and mitigate panic, they may have to revive this proposal once again."
In the backdrop of frequent earthquakes off the Indonesian coast resulting in tsunami fears, Yapa affirmed that with the concerted efforts of all the relevant organisations and agencies, the Government was well prepared and equipped to face and minimise the loss of life and damage to property.
He said there had been close coordination and cooperation among the relevant organisations including the media which did an excellent job to inform and update the public on the situation.
Until such time the risk of a tsunami was ruled out, the Government had taken all necessary precautions and measures at its disposal to inform the relevant Relief Services, the Police, Government Agents, the Transport services such as the CGR and SLTB, to liaise closely with the Meteorology Department and other services and take appropriate action when required.
He also expressed concern at the total or partial blackout or loss of communication over land and mobile phones throughout the country during such a crisis, and said steps will be taken to avert such a condition in the future.
Responding to queries of journalists at the Cabinet press briefing Yapa said that the matter has to be looked into as a safety measure.
He said that as a responsible Government they have consistently pursued the '100 metre buffer zone' policy.
He charged that the UNP vehemently opposed this policy and even incited people to take to the streets in protest. "However, in the present uncertain situation of another unpredictable and devastating tsunami, and also as a measure to minimise and mitigate panic, they may have to revive this proposal once again."
In the backdrop of frequent earthquakes off the Indonesian coast resulting in tsunami fears, Yapa affirmed that with the concerted efforts of all the relevant organisations and agencies, the Government was well prepared and equipped to face and minimise the loss of life and damage to property.
He said there had been close coordination and cooperation among the relevant organisations including the media which did an excellent job to inform and update the public on the situation.
Until such time the risk of a tsunami was ruled out, the Government had taken all necessary precautions and measures at its disposal to inform the relevant Relief Services, the Police, Government Agents, the Transport services such as the CGR and SLTB, to liaise closely with the Meteorology Department and other services and take appropriate action when required.
He also expressed concern at the total or partial blackout or loss of communication over land and mobile phones throughout the country during such a crisis, and said steps will be taken to avert such a condition in the future.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Navy sends three LTTE arms ships to Davy Jones
Silent warriors of the Sri Lanka Navy sent three arms carrying ships of the LTTE to what sailors call the "Davy Jones' locker" or the bottom of the sea, in three successive attacks carried out by them from last morning to this morning (September 11).Navy sources said the attacks took place in the Indian Ocean, 600 Nautical Miles (1200 Km) South East of the Sri Lanka's southern tip of Dondra Head. Navy gun ships, acting on information provided by the Naval Intelligence Department were patrolling in the region when the Argus-eyed sailors onboard made the first detection last morning.
The first LTTE ship was detected around 8 on Monday morning. The Navy gun-ships had rounded up the suspicious ship which had no ensign or name on it and ordered to identify itself, using the international challenging procedures. Instead of providing the information to the Navy, the suspicious ship had opened fire towards the navy ships compelling the sailors to fire in retaliation, causing the ship to be destroyed around 10.30 a.m.
Later the same day, the Navy detected two more suspicious vessels in the same waters sailing in the same direction as the first ship keeping about a 50 Km gap between each other.
By evening, Navy gun ships came close to the second ship which bore similar characteristics to the first vessel. Navy sources said that the second ship too had opened fire at the approaching navy ships and therefore was sunk around 5.30 in the evening.
The third suspicious vessel was first detected around 10 p.m. After five hours of pursuit, the Navy could get sufficiently close to it. This vessel had fired 120 mm heavy mortars at the approaching Navy vessels before it was sunk by naval fire around 3 this morning.
Navy Commander Vice Admiral Wasantha Karannagoda said the Navy Intelligence Department had received information on the LTTE ships about two weeks earlier, and proactive action were taken by Navy Headquarters to intercept them. Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo this morning, the Navy Commander revealed that with the latest triumph of the Navy, nine out of ten ships believed to be owned by the LTTE terrorists have been destroyed.
LTTE's international terror chief "KP" arrested in Bangkok
Reliable sources from Thailand reveal that LTTE's chief for cross border terrorist activities, Kumaran Padmanadan, alias "KP" has been arrested in Bangkok yesterday ( September 10) .
Kumaran Padmanadan is one of the most wanted terrorists by the International Police (Interpol) who has been running the global procurement network of the LTTE terrorists.
The world renowned Defence magazine, Jane's Defence Intelligence Review recently revealed that the LTTE has two international wings namely, "KP" Department and Aiyanna Group, which are engaged in global terrorist activities. According to the magazine the terrorist outfit which is fighting for a mono ethnic homeland for Tamils living in Sri Lanka earns USD 200- 300 million per year through their fund raising activities and numerous illegal businesses.
The local defence intelligence sources said that KP department is the oldest international wing of the LTTE, which has been led by Kumaran Padmanadan. Since the outfit's activities expanded beyond the capacity of the KP Department, Aiyanna group was formed under the leadership of Aiyanna, who is also a senior LTTE cadre. At present KP department is acting as the procurement arm while the Aiyanna group is looking after fundraising and intelligence operations for the outfit, the sources further said.
Intelligence sources also said these LTTE wings are operating in a mutually supportive manner with other terror organizations such as Al Queda, to achieve their objectives. The heads of these departments are operating under the direct guidance of the LTTE chief, V. Prabhakaran and its intelligence head Pottu Amman, both on the wanted list of Interpol, the sources added.
Sri Lankan Rebel Arrested May Be Linked to Gandhi Assassination
Sept. 12 (Bloomberg) -- India asked Thailand to extradite a leader of Sri Lanka's Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, saying he may provide information on the 1991 assassination of former Indian prime minister Rajiv Gandhi.
India made the request to Thai authorities yesterday after learning of the arrest of Kumaran Padmanadan, the alleged head of the LTTE's global funding network, India's state-run broadcaster Doordarshan reported. The suspect may have organized the financing of the attack on Gandhi, it cited unidentified Indian security officials as saying.
Padmanadan was arrested in Bangkok on Sept. 10, Sri Lanka's Defense Ministry said yesterday. The LTTE's procurement units are estimated to raise between $200 million and $300 million a year through illegal activities and funds from Tamils living in countries such as the U.K. and Canada, it said on its Web site.
The Tamil Tigers, who are fighting for a separate homeland in the South Asian island nation, lost control of the eastern region to the army in July after 14 years of fighting. Sri Lanka is also targeting the LTTE's naval unit, destroying three vessels yesterday bringing weapons to the country, the military said.
India asked 23 countries, including Thailand, for information on Padmanadan, who is alleged to have lived in Thailand and Cambodia while organizing arms smuggling operations, Doordarshan reported on its Web site.
India made the request to Thai authorities yesterday after learning of the arrest of Kumaran Padmanadan, the alleged head of the LTTE's global funding network, India's state-run broadcaster Doordarshan reported. The suspect may have organized the financing of the attack on Gandhi, it cited unidentified Indian security officials as saying.
Padmanadan was arrested in Bangkok on Sept. 10, Sri Lanka's Defense Ministry said yesterday. The LTTE's procurement units are estimated to raise between $200 million and $300 million a year through illegal activities and funds from Tamils living in countries such as the U.K. and Canada, it said on its Web site.
The Tamil Tigers, who are fighting for a separate homeland in the South Asian island nation, lost control of the eastern region to the army in July after 14 years of fighting. Sri Lanka is also targeting the LTTE's naval unit, destroying three vessels yesterday bringing weapons to the country, the military said.
India asked 23 countries, including Thailand, for information on Padmanadan, who is alleged to have lived in Thailand and Cambodia while organizing arms smuggling operations, Doordarshan reported on its Web site.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Negotiations for developing IT park
Ernst and Young International a multinational audit and consultancy firm from India is currently in the island for negotiations with the Board of Investments officials to develop an IT park within the Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) Malabe campus premises.
Managing Director/ CEO of SLIIT, Prof. Lalith Gamage told Daily News Business The BoI has approved the project. Discussions are currently underway between the two parties for development plans of the proposed IT Park to take effect. Representatives from Ernst and Young are presently in Sri Lanka, to partner up with a Sri Lankan counterpart to design, build and expand the area.
"SLIIT students will have employment opportunities in BPO companies that would come up within the Techno Park. "The said IT Park would help Sri Lanka to adopt a similar concept in the country's economy. We can make a significant change in the Sri Lankan IT industry through education" he said.
SLIIT is committed in all operations of the project, which are to be initiated within a period of three-four months. The Indian BPO industry is worth of US $ 30 billion. The revenue is generated from a workforce of 2 billion. Therefore, it is apparent that the revenue from the Indian BPO industry alone exceeds the Sri Lankan GDP, which is US $ 20 billion, he said.
Managing Director/ CEO of SLIIT, Prof. Lalith Gamage told Daily News Business The BoI has approved the project. Discussions are currently underway between the two parties for development plans of the proposed IT Park to take effect. Representatives from Ernst and Young are presently in Sri Lanka, to partner up with a Sri Lankan counterpart to design, build and expand the area.
"SLIIT students will have employment opportunities in BPO companies that would come up within the Techno Park. "The said IT Park would help Sri Lanka to adopt a similar concept in the country's economy. We can make a significant change in the Sri Lankan IT industry through education" he said.
SLIIT is committed in all operations of the project, which are to be initiated within a period of three-four months. The Indian BPO industry is worth of US $ 30 billion. The revenue is generated from a workforce of 2 billion. Therefore, it is apparent that the revenue from the Indian BPO industry alone exceeds the Sri Lankan GDP, which is US $ 20 billion, he said.
Weapons haul recovered
COLOMBO: Troops engaged in search and clearing operations in Taravikulam in Batticaloa recovered a large haul of arms and ammunition including 55 T56 weapons, a spokesman for the Media Centre for National Security told the Daily News.
This also included two T81 Light Machine Guns, two T56 Light Machine Guns, three Sniper guns, four 60 mm Mortar Guns, one MPMG, four RPG Guns, one 12.7 mm gun, C4 explosives packed in 10 cans, 15 kg TNT explosives, 711 82 mm mortar bombs.
Meanwhile, one LTTE boat heading towards Mandathivu islands was also fired upon by the Security Forces at around 4.30 a.m. yesterday.
Intercepted radio transmissions later confirmed that three Tiger cadres were seriously injured due to Naval fire.
This also included two T81 Light Machine Guns, two T56 Light Machine Guns, three Sniper guns, four 60 mm Mortar Guns, one MPMG, four RPG Guns, one 12.7 mm gun, C4 explosives packed in 10 cans, 15 kg TNT explosives, 711 82 mm mortar bombs.
Meanwhile, one LTTE boat heading towards Mandathivu islands was also fired upon by the Security Forces at around 4.30 a.m. yesterday.
Intercepted radio transmissions later confirmed that three Tiger cadres were seriously injured due to Naval fire.
Top Tiger arrested in Thailand
THAILAND: The LTTE's procurement and finance chief Kumaran Pathmanadan (KP) is reported to have been arrested in Thailand last night.
The suspect, who has obtained Thai citizenship, runs the global network of LTTE offices and its weapons procurement, logistics and money laundering operations.
He has been on Interpol's Most Wanted list for a number of years. He has also been implicated in several assassinations of political leaders
The suspect, who has obtained Thai citizenship, runs the global network of LTTE offices and its weapons procurement, logistics and money laundering operations.
He has been on Interpol's Most Wanted list for a number of years. He has also been implicated in several assassinations of political leaders
LIOC to export lube oil from Trincomalee
Lanka IOC (LIOC) will venture into exporting of lube oil with the setting up a modern lube blending plant in Trincomalee.
The plant will commence commercial operations next month, Managing Director R Ramakrishnan told the Daily News Business.
He said that in line with the initiative of the Government to develop the Eastern Province, as a special Economic Zone, LIOC invested Rs. 1.3 billion to construct this modern Lube Blending Plant with a sophisticated laboratory facility inside the Trincomalee Oil Farm. The plant has a capacity of 6,000 tonnes.
The company has plans to export their lube oil initially to Mauritius, Dubai, Bangladesh and Maldives, which are potential markets for them, LIOC Managing Director said.
The new plant will have the capability to manufacture all types of automotive, industrial and marine lubricants and is expected to go on stream next month to cater the local market under the Servo brand.
The plant will commence commercial operations next month, Managing Director R Ramakrishnan told the Daily News Business.
He said that in line with the initiative of the Government to develop the Eastern Province, as a special Economic Zone, LIOC invested Rs. 1.3 billion to construct this modern Lube Blending Plant with a sophisticated laboratory facility inside the Trincomalee Oil Farm. The plant has a capacity of 6,000 tonnes.
The company has plans to export their lube oil initially to Mauritius, Dubai, Bangladesh and Maldives, which are potential markets for them, LIOC Managing Director said.
The new plant will have the capability to manufacture all types of automotive, industrial and marine lubricants and is expected to go on stream next month to cater the local market under the Servo brand.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Teenagers, it’s time for a break!
“Wake up, eat, go to school, come home, eat, go for classes, come home, watch T.V./play computer games/ check mail/ chat online/ hang on the phone, do homework, eat and go to bed…” If that sounds familiar, like the average day of a teenager today, maybe it’s time for a break, to return to an old routine…at least momentarily.
“This is not a commercial venture. It’s always been my dream – my passion to start up the Kapuwella Adventure Resort (KAR), a fun-packed learning day out for children between 15 and 20,” said ex-serviceman Sunil Peiris. “For some time since I left the Army, I have pursued with a passion, the thought of changing the value system of the ‘younger generations’,” he added. “When I mentioned this idea to some of my colleagues, I was confronted with the question, what’s wrong with the values of the current younger generation?”
“I think there is a consensus among many of the older generation that life for our children is just not what we used to have or would have liked them to have. I look back with great nostalgia at the simple pleasures of life that entertained us, moulded us and developed an adventurous spirit within us. The initiative, the confidence, the trust, the resourcefulness and the camaraderie amongst friends, where has it all gone?
Life for most kids revolves round the television, the computer, other electronic gadgetry, bowling, go-cart racing, pool and for the older kids drag racing, gambling, drugs etc., he said.“I may be slightly over the top but, let’s be fair by the kids and question what they have to choose from in terms of an alternative lifestyle or attractions. What has society got to offer?
With this in mind Mr. Peiris has created an adventure-based challenge initially to be a day programme to titillate the interest of both the parent and the child. There are challenging contraptions which require the use of body and mind, team events that require cooperation and individual events that require courage, skill and initiative.
The programme starts off at Independence Square where the kids are picked up at 6 a.m. They are then brought by coach to Kapuwella, welcomed to KAR, briefed on the objectives, safety precautions and challenges to be met during the course of the day. Thereafter, there are a few ice breakers so the kids can get over their inhibitions and interact with each other, Mr. Peiris explains. There are three ex-commandos who are working with various local adventure outfits who have been hired to conduct this programme.
“This is not a commercial venture. It’s always been my dream – my passion to start up the Kapuwella Adventure Resort (KAR), a fun-packed learning day out for children between 15 and 20,” said ex-serviceman Sunil Peiris. “For some time since I left the Army, I have pursued with a passion, the thought of changing the value system of the ‘younger generations’,” he added. “When I mentioned this idea to some of my colleagues, I was confronted with the question, what’s wrong with the values of the current younger generation?”
“I think there is a consensus among many of the older generation that life for our children is just not what we used to have or would have liked them to have. I look back with great nostalgia at the simple pleasures of life that entertained us, moulded us and developed an adventurous spirit within us. The initiative, the confidence, the trust, the resourcefulness and the camaraderie amongst friends, where has it all gone?
Life for most kids revolves round the television, the computer, other electronic gadgetry, bowling, go-cart racing, pool and for the older kids drag racing, gambling, drugs etc., he said.“I may be slightly over the top but, let’s be fair by the kids and question what they have to choose from in terms of an alternative lifestyle or attractions. What has society got to offer?
With this in mind Mr. Peiris has created an adventure-based challenge initially to be a day programme to titillate the interest of both the parent and the child. There are challenging contraptions which require the use of body and mind, team events that require cooperation and individual events that require courage, skill and initiative.
The programme starts off at Independence Square where the kids are picked up at 6 a.m. They are then brought by coach to Kapuwella, welcomed to KAR, briefed on the objectives, safety precautions and challenges to be met during the course of the day. Thereafter, there are a few ice breakers so the kids can get over their inhibitions and interact with each other, Mr. Peiris explains. There are three ex-commandos who are working with various local adventure outfits who have been hired to conduct this programme.
Building a new empire
Ashok Pathirage, who burst into Sri Lanka’s corporate scene by pioneering Softlogic, and took over Asha Central Hospital this week, has come a long way since the 1990’s by taking on the likes of business tycoon Harry Jayawardena and successfully beating him at his own game.
“I believe that we have the capacity to do what we have set out to do and I am here to make some noise,” the 43-year-old business tycoon declared in a telephone interview with The Sunday Times FT, fresh after sealing his latest deal.
The Chairman and Managing Director of Softlogic who loves Sri Lankan rice and curry, has added 15 companies in the past 16 years and consolidated them under Softlogic Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. He has employed over 700 people within its offices in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Pakistan and Australia. Pathirage, an old Anandian, is now eying acquisitions in either telecommunications, banking or in the financial services industry.
In 1991 he quit his first job at John Keells Holdings (JKH) after nine years and with a capital of Rs. 1 million and eight employees started Softlogic aimed at catering to local software requirements. “Now the Softlogic Group is a Rs.7 billion turnover entity without taking the Asiri Hospitals into account,” he said.
Pathirage, a cricketer during his school days has now switched to the rich man’s sport - golf, saying his passion for software started with his job at JKH where he joined as a trainee at the company's Management Information Systems (MIS) department way back in 1983. “At the time I saw a lot of potential for software development and there was a need for a company such as ours in the country, especially when software was catching up. We approached the markets in a focused manner. In the first year we had about Rs.6 million turnover,” he said, adding that Softlogic really took off when it got the DELL computer distributing agency 12 years ago.
In 1993 Pathirage, originally from Galle, passed another milestone when he tied the knot and settled down in Battaramulla. The couple have a 13 year old son.
“I believe that we have the capacity to do what we have set out to do and I am here to make some noise,” the 43-year-old business tycoon declared in a telephone interview with The Sunday Times FT, fresh after sealing his latest deal.
The Chairman and Managing Director of Softlogic who loves Sri Lankan rice and curry, has added 15 companies in the past 16 years and consolidated them under Softlogic Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. He has employed over 700 people within its offices in Sri Lanka, Singapore, Pakistan and Australia. Pathirage, an old Anandian, is now eying acquisitions in either telecommunications, banking or in the financial services industry.
In 1991 he quit his first job at John Keells Holdings (JKH) after nine years and with a capital of Rs. 1 million and eight employees started Softlogic aimed at catering to local software requirements. “Now the Softlogic Group is a Rs.7 billion turnover entity without taking the Asiri Hospitals into account,” he said.
Pathirage, a cricketer during his school days has now switched to the rich man’s sport - golf, saying his passion for software started with his job at JKH where he joined as a trainee at the company's Management Information Systems (MIS) department way back in 1983. “At the time I saw a lot of potential for software development and there was a need for a company such as ours in the country, especially when software was catching up. We approached the markets in a focused manner. In the first year we had about Rs.6 million turnover,” he said, adding that Softlogic really took off when it got the DELL computer distributing agency 12 years ago.
In 1993 Pathirage, originally from Galle, passed another milestone when he tied the knot and settled down in Battaramulla. The couple have a 13 year old son.
Tuesday, September 04, 2007
Two terrorists killed in army retaliatory attack- Sittandikudi
SL Army soldiers consolidating their defences in recently liberated Silavattura, in the South of Mannar yesterday (September 3), captured a large haul of military hardware, including suicide boat.
According to the defence sources in Mannar, the LTTE terrorists who had been occupying the Southern part of Mannar have taken to their heels when army soldiers arrived in the area. A large amount of terrorists' weapons have been captured by the army, the sources further revealed.
One suicide boat, three claymore mines, two T-56 riffles, and 40 Kg of TNT high explosives, 482 Anti personnel mines have been captured along with a large amount of ammunitions by troops clearing the coast of Silavattura. Further , 25 dinghy boats, 25 outboard motors ( 25 HP), and one 40 HP outboard motor were among the other things that have been found.
Earlier on Sunday (September 2), troops gained the full control over Silavattura by capturing the strategically important Sea Tiger base located in the area.
According to the defence sources in Mannar, the LTTE terrorists who had been occupying the Southern part of Mannar have taken to their heels when army soldiers arrived in the area. A large amount of terrorists' weapons have been captured by the army, the sources further revealed.
One suicide boat, three claymore mines, two T-56 riffles, and 40 Kg of TNT high explosives, 482 Anti personnel mines have been captured along with a large amount of ammunitions by troops clearing the coast of Silavattura. Further , 25 dinghy boats, 25 outboard motors ( 25 HP), and one 40 HP outboard motor were among the other things that have been found.
Earlier on Sunday (September 2), troops gained the full control over Silavattura by capturing the strategically important Sea Tiger base located in the area.
Two terrorists killed in army retaliatory attack- Sittandikudi
Two terrorists were killed in an army retaliatory attack today (04) at Korelankerni in Sittandikudi, at 9.15a.m. Troops were conducting a search operation in the area on a civilian tip-off, where information was received of the presence of a suspicious terrorist movement.
Terrorist elements hiding at a distance opened fire at troops engaged in the search operation drawing heavy a retaliatory attack killing two terrorists instantly. Army sources said, bodies of the slain LTTE cadres were later recovered along with 02 T-56 assault riffles, 04 T-56 magazines, a pistol and two hand grenades.
Meanwhile, sources also said that extensive search patrols were underway to immobilise other terrorist elements in the area.
Terrorist elements hiding at a distance opened fire at troops engaged in the search operation drawing heavy a retaliatory attack killing two terrorists instantly. Army sources said, bodies of the slain LTTE cadres were later recovered along with 02 T-56 assault riffles, 04 T-56 magazines, a pistol and two hand grenades.
Meanwhile, sources also said that extensive search patrols were underway to immobilise other terrorist elements in the area.
Sunday, September 02, 2007
Lanka welcomes Malabar naval exercise
Sri Lanka has welcomed the upcoming joint naval exercises by India, the US, Japan, Australia and Singapore in the Bay of Bengal, hoping such activities would ensure safety for trade and commerce in maritime zones.
‘’Participants in these exercises are all countries which have major trading interests that require safety of navigation and high seas for commerce and trade,’’ said Sri Lankan High Commissioner C R Jayasinghe.
“Sri Lanka, too, as an island nation is very dependent on trade with the world outside. So, whatever activity is taking place, if that would strengthen international trade and commerce through the high seas, it is something intrinsically welcome to us,” he said.
The Malabar wargames would be held from September 4-9 and would feature frigates, submarines and warships of the participating countries, including INS Viraat and nuclear-powered USS Nimitz and USS Kitty Hawk. PTI
‘’Participants in these exercises are all countries which have major trading interests that require safety of navigation and high seas for commerce and trade,’’ said Sri Lankan High Commissioner C R Jayasinghe.
“Sri Lanka, too, as an island nation is very dependent on trade with the world outside. So, whatever activity is taking place, if that would strengthen international trade and commerce through the high seas, it is something intrinsically welcome to us,” he said.
The Malabar wargames would be held from September 4-9 and would feature frigates, submarines and warships of the participating countries, including INS Viraat and nuclear-powered USS Nimitz and USS Kitty Hawk. PTI
Humanitarian Mission continues; Army approaches Silavattura - South of Mannar
Military sources said that Army soldiers who are presently engaged in a humanitarian mission in the South of Mannar region have come within reach of the Silavattura area this evening (September 1).
Military spokesperson Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe told defence.lk that troops have achieved a tremendous success in the operation that they have undertook this morning.
"Troops have taken full control over the Arippu area early in the day and now they have almost reached Silavattura, he said.
He further told that troops have found one body of a slain LTTE cadre along with many weapons.
When inquired on the safety of the civilians, Brigadier Samarasingha said that a large number of civilians have been given refuge at Arippu.
With regard to the present progress of the operation, he said that troops have almost reached Silavattura, but the operation is continuing.
Military spokesperson Brigadier Prasad Samarasinghe told defence.lk that troops have achieved a tremendous success in the operation that they have undertook this morning.
"Troops have taken full control over the Arippu area early in the day and now they have almost reached Silavattura, he said.
He further told that troops have found one body of a slain LTTE cadre along with many weapons.
When inquired on the safety of the civilians, Brigadier Samarasingha said that a large number of civilians have been given refuge at Arippu.
With regard to the present progress of the operation, he said that troops have almost reached Silavattura, but the operation is continuing.
Over 600 LTTE activists rounded up globally
more than six-hundred LTTE activists have been netted around the globe for their involvement in various types of covert activities in recent years, informed sources said.
The majority of the LTTE activists were apprehended by several countries since the organisation withdrew from the peace process a year ago.
According to sources the United Kingdom, United States of America and Australia have arrested the key LTTE figures who had been operating in these countries for more than ten years totally dedicating themselves in looking after the interests of the organisation globally.
Shanthan and Kanthaswamy from the United Kingdom were heavily involved in fund-raising in Britain and they maintained a big network coordinating themselves with other European and Scandinavian countries, the sources said.
The LTTE's Shanthan in Britain intimidated several Tamil expatriates and forced them to make huge financial contributions for the outfit. They also arranged various cultural activities, sports events and religious programmes bringing down artistes from India to raise funds, the sources said. The sources also added that the LTTE's international network was divided into two categories.
The majority of the LTTE activists were apprehended by several countries since the organisation withdrew from the peace process a year ago.
According to sources the United Kingdom, United States of America and Australia have arrested the key LTTE figures who had been operating in these countries for more than ten years totally dedicating themselves in looking after the interests of the organisation globally.
Shanthan and Kanthaswamy from the United Kingdom were heavily involved in fund-raising in Britain and they maintained a big network coordinating themselves with other European and Scandinavian countries, the sources said.
The LTTE's Shanthan in Britain intimidated several Tamil expatriates and forced them to make huge financial contributions for the outfit. They also arranged various cultural activities, sports events and religious programmes bringing down artistes from India to raise funds, the sources said. The sources also added that the LTTE's international network was divided into two categories.
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