Press Releases

Press Release

External Affairs Minister, Prof. G.L Peiris held bilateral discussions with his Indonesian counterpart, Dr. Marty Natalegawa today prior to chairing the first meeting of the Joint Commission on Bilateral Cooperation. The Indonesian Foreign Minister is on an official visit to Sri Lanka on the invitation of Prof. Peiris.
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Sri Lanka donates USD 50,000.00 to the national disaster risk reduction and management council of the Philippines

Having witnessed the vast destruction caused to the human lives and properties by the recent natural disaster struck in the Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities in Mindanao Province of the Philippines on 17^th December 2011, the Government of Sri Lanka decided to convey its utmost sympathy towards the affected people in the said province. H.E. Mahinda Rajapakse, President of Sri Lanka conveyed his condolences to H.E. Benigno S. Aqunio III on 21^st December, 2011.
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Press Release

Welcoming the Indian Minister of External Affairs S.M. Krishna to Sri Lanka, Minister of External Affairs G.L. Peiris emphasized the deep rooted friendship and historical ties which exist between the two countries, and elaborated that Sri Lanka and India are bound to each other geographically and in terms of their economies, which have stood the test of time.  Minister Krishna began a four day official visit to Sri Lanka on 16^th January 2012, at the invitation of Minister Peiris and called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne.
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Issue of a Personalised Stamp in Canada

Following reports in the LTTE affiliated websites and media on the alleged issue of a personalised stamp by Canada Post Corporation promoting the LTTE’s separatist  agenda which also includes a reference to “genocide”, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Canada on 3rd January 2012 sent two letters, one to Denis Lebel, MP, Minister responsible for Canada Post Corporation and the other to Mr. Deepak Chopra, President and CEO of Canada post to register Sri Lanka’s protest and expressing the deep concern of the High Commission on this matter. This issue  was also brought to the notice of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Canada.
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Media Release

Minister of External Affairs, Professor G.L. Peiris called in the Ambassador of France to Sri Lanka Christine Robichon, on Tuesday 3rd January 2012, to register Sri Lanka’s acute concern on the issue of four stamps by “La Poste” of France depicting images related to the LTTE including its insignia, while being a proscribed group in France.
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High Commissioner Dr. Chris Nonis presents the LLRC Report to British Parliamentarians

Dr. Chris Nonis articulated that the holistic approach of the LLRC is entirely consistent with restorative justice embedded with accountability. He further stated that it is a comprehensive, objective and impartial report which demonstrates the integrity of the LLRC, and it is set in the context of International Humanitarian Law incorporating the principle of distinction and principle of proportionality.
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New Malaysian High Commissioner calls on Deputy Minister External Affairs

The newly accredited Malaysian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Azmi Zainuddin paid a courtesy call on the Deputy Minister of External Affairs Neomal Perera at the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday (07^th October, 2011). The Deputy Minister welcomed the new High Commissioner to Sri Lanka.
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US State Dept. has double standards on Sri Lanka and LLRC

The US State Department was unfair in the observations made about the government's response to the report of Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) said President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing editors at Temple Trees this morning.
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Zero tolerance of terrorism essential for security of the oceans

Issues relating to maritime security formed a prominent part of the themes discussed at recent international events including the meeting of Commonwealth Heads of State and Government in Perth, Western Australia, two weeks ago and the 17th Summit of SAARC, concluded over the week-end at Addu City in the Maldives.
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H.E. The President's visit to Perth, Australia for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2011

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) takes place on a biennial basis as a forum for consultations at Summit level of the Commonwealth, on matters pertaining to the Organization and global issues of interest.
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Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa's speech on Assests Bill in Parliament

All property included in this draft bill is public property which belongs to the people and not private property. This should be stated categorically. These public properties have been vested in private industries or enterprises under various conditions at various terms in the past.
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Press Release - Thailand

Sri Lanka donated over US $ 50,000 worth of aid to Thailand today as relief to their flood affected people. The ceremony to hand over the consignment of aid was held at the Ministry of External Affairs where External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L Peiris handed over a token of the consignment to Ms, Rungnapa Srivannavit, the Chargé d' Affaires of the Royal Thai Embassy in Colombo.
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50 Years of Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka and the Philippines

At the completion of the Golden Jubilee of the Diplomatic Relations between Sri Lanka and the Philippines a series of events were organized by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Manila.
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Now is the time for action - President tells SAARC

The issues which call for our attention, particularly in the areas of social justice and climate change, require not further discussion but immediate action, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his address to the 17th SAARC Summit, held in Addu City of the Maldives.
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Sri Lanka's lies agreed upon screened in U.S. Congress

Gathering hosted by Sri Lankan Congressional Caucus and Embassy of Sri Lanka includes secretary of defense's speech, panel discussion on reconciliation.
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Expo - 2012

The Export Development Board is organizing the Sri Lanka Expo 2012 to further stimulate global business activities and re-position Sri Lanka as a lucrative business investment and tourism destination in Asia and to instill buyer confidence on Sri Lanka's quality products and services all of which will facilitate the local entrepreneur to achieve their targets which boosts the National Target of reaching $15 billion exports by year 2015.
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Sri Lanka donates flood relief items to Pakistan

On the directives of H.E. President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Ministry of External Affairs has arranged to dispatch a consignment of flood relief goods such as tea, biscuits, sleeping bags, bed sheets, exercise books and medicines to the flood affected people in Sindh province in Pakistan.
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Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA

The Department of Immigration and Emigration has made all arrangements to establish and implement  a system called "Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA"  in order to grant prior approval for visa  via online for the foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka and those who travel via Sri Lanka for Short  term requirements.
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Deepavali Message of H.E. the President

Victory of good over evil, the shedding of light over darkness and the triumph of knowledge over ignorance are the eternal quest of humankind.
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The Association of Sri Lankan Lawyers in the UK Discussion on Challenges to reconciliation, the Sri Lankan experience

When the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission was established, I thought its most important function would be with regard to the future. Through a study of what had happened in the past, it would report on how best all the people of Sri Lanka could live together amicably, and productively, instead of engaging in the rivalries that had dogged us previously.
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President's speech at the Commonwealth Business Forum - 27th October 2011

At the outset, I wish to express my gratitude to the organizers of the Commonwealth Business Forum for inviting me to share my thoughts on the topic “The Indian Ocean and the Pacific Rim: Fastest Growing Markets”.
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Australian based terrorist kingpin exposed

In a major breakthrough giving impetus into tracing and neutralizing of the LTTE's international network, defence intelligence sources claimed to have figured out vital information of Arunachalam Jegadeeswaran alias Jeganwaran, an Australian based terror activist cum sympathizer.
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Minister G.L Peiris meets French Minister of Foreign Affairs and Diplomatic Advisor to President Sarkozy in Paris

During a two day visit to Paris on the 12th and 13th of October 2011, Minister of External Affairs Minister G.L Peiris met French Minister of Foreign Affairs, Alain Juppé at the Quai D’Orsay. Minister Juppé welcomed efforts of economic revival and reconciliation projects in post war Sri Lanka, while signaling as one of France’s priority interests and concerns, “Sri Lanka’s plans for greater regional autonomy”. Minister Peiris noted the significant growth in Sri Lanka’s national economy and affirmed readiness to encourage future investments in development projects.
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Sixty eight students from the University of New Era, Quezon City visits the Embassy of Sri Lanka
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Joint Communique between the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam

At the invitation of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Truong Tan Sang, President of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and his spouse paid a State Visit to Sri Lanka from 13th to 15th October 2011.
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Note on the Diplomatic Briefing by Hon M/EA on 29th September 2011 at the Ministry of External Affairs

Hon. M/EA briefed the diplomatic corps on the developments in New York during the H.E the President's visit for the 66th session of the UNGA and the ongoing HRC session In Geneva.
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Full text of the statement by the President

As the President who has participated most in the affairs of Parliament since the Executive Presidency was established, I am in Parliament today to further demonstrate by determination that there should be closer links between Parliament and the Presidency.
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Sri Lanka enters in to a US$500 million BOT agreement with China Merchants Holdings to upgrade Colombo South Container Terminal

Sri Lanka entered in to a BOT agreement with China Merchants Holdings (International) Co., Ltd, a listed flagship company of China Merchants Group on 12th August 2011.
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Sri Lanka - Philippine Air Services Agreement Re-negotiation

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Football match - 03 July 2011 at the Rizal stadium

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Sri Lankan Football Team at the Sri Lankan Ambassador's Residence in Manila

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Malaysian Parliament rejects debate on SL war crimes

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Speaker of the Malaysian Parliament (Dewan Rakyat) Pandikar Amin Mulia today rejected an emergency motion to debate alleged civil war atrocities in Sri Lanka on the ground that it "involved the internal affairs of another country".
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1st Agriculture & Tourism Expo, World Trade Center, Manila on 30 June 2011

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1st Sri Lanka Tourism, Investment and Trade promotion Forum in Manila- July 08 - 09 2010

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European Parliament Report says "it strongly believes there is room for constructive and principled engagement between the EU and Sri Lanka"

The Report of the European Parliament's Delegation for Relations with South Asia following their visit to Sri Lanka from 22-26 February 2011 for the 6th EP/Sri Lanka Inter-Parliamentary Meeting was tabled in Brussels last week. The report presented by the Chair of the Delegation Ms. Jean Lambert (Greens/UK), details the Delegation's interactions in Sri Lanka with the Hon. Speaker, senior Ministers, members of Parliament, Senior Officials, EU country diplomats and INGOs, as well as field visits to Jaffna and Vavuniya where they also inspected EU funded projects.
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SriLankan Airlines to recommence services to Zurich

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - SriLankan Airlines will restart services to the Swiss city of Zurich on 23rd December 2011, the latest destination in the continuous expansion of its global route network.
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Kaudulla National Park: Eye of tourism

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Kaudulla National Wildlife Park, a home of many elephants in Sri Lanka, adds more attraction to tourists with its latest Circuit Bungalow, the Department of Wildlife said.
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Joint Media Release

The Minister of Agriculture of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Yapa Abeywardane, and the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development of the State of Israel Orit Noked, who is currently on a bilateral visit to Sri Lanka, explored new vistas of mutual cooperation between Sri Lanka and Israel . They agreed that the field of agriculture carries a great potential for joint cooperation in the future.
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Philippine media recount experience in Sri Lanka

Experiencing Sri Lanka's myriad tourism experience from the 4th to 11th April was a team from Travelife magazine and TV from the Philippines. A visit enriched by touring the archaeological sites in Anuradhapura followed by an overnight stay at Ulagalla Resort, viewing more ancient ruins in Polonnaruwa, a climb up Sigiriya rock to view the frescoes. A visit to the holiest of holy shrines in Sri Lanka the Temple of the Tooth Relic- the Sri Dalada Maligawa in Kandy, a high point in the tour. The group also thoroughly enjoyed the visit to the elephant orphanage in Pinnawela.
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Keheliya defines killing and uprooting terrorism

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Killing of Osama Bin Laden was a case of destroying a terrorist, but Sri Lanka demolished terrorists and the structure of terrorism, said Minister of Media Keheliya Rambukwella at the weekly Cabinet Press briefing in Colombo, today.
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Sinhala & Hindu New Year Celebrations- H.E. the Ambassador's Residence, Manila

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Manila together with the Philippine-Sri Lanka Friendship Executive Committee members organized a dinner on 15.04.2011
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63rd INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION - 04.02.2011 -MANILA

To commemorate the 63rd Independence Day of Sri Lanka the Mission organized two functions.
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Seas around Sri Lanka safe from radioactive material

(Colombo Lankapuvath) No radioactive materials were found in the seas surrounding Sri Lanka, Chairman of Marine Pollution Prevention Authority R S Ariyaperuma told Lankapuvath.
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More rehabilitated LTTE cadres to be released soon

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Another 4,150 former LTTE cadres after rehabilitation with the coordination of the state will be re-integrated into the society, Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brigadier Sudantha Ranasinghe said.
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The Government of Sri Lanka has received a copy of the report of the Secretary General's Panel of Experts on accountability in Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka donates 1 million USD to Japan Red Cross

Ambassador Admiral (Rtd.) Wasantha Karannagoda, today (07/04) handed over a donation of 1 million USD from the Government of Sri Lanka to Mr.Tadateru Konoe, President of Japan Red Cross Society at the Japan Red Cross Society Headquarters in Tokyo.
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Prof. Peiris Discusses Trade Opportunities with Lord Green, British Minister of State for Trade and Investment

Minister of External Affairs Prof. G.L. Peiris met with Lord Green, Minister of State for Trade and Investment of the UK at the Ministry of Trade and Investment in London on 4th April 2011.
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Ambassador Karannagoda visits evacuation centres in Japan

Ambassador Admiral (Rtd.) Wasantha Karannagoda with Embassy staff and Sri Lankan community members in Japan visited two evacuation centres in Fukushima prefecture in Japan on Sunday (03/04) to show solidarity with the people and Government of Japan.
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EU Heads of Missions in Colombo meet the Acting Minister of External Affairs Neomal Perera

The Heads of Missions of the European Union Member States Mr. Willy Vandenberghe, Chargé d'affaires of EU accompanied by H.E. Mrs. Leoni Cuelenaere, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, H.E. Mrs. Christine Robichon, Ambassador of France, Mr. Mark Gooding, British Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Gianluca Rubagotti, Deputy Head of Mission of Embassy of Italy met the ActingMinister of External Affairs Neomal Perera on 31st March 2011 at the Ministry. Discussions centered on strengthening of the bilateral and multilateral cooperation between EU and Sri Lanka.
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The new Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs assumes duties

The new Secretary to the Ministry of External Affairs, Mr. Karunatilaka Amunugama assumed office today (28th March 2011) at the Ministry at a simple ceremony. He was welcomed on his arrival by senior officials of the Ministry.
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Sri Lanka increase flight frequency to UK

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Seven more frequencies per week will be joined to Sri Lankan Airlines flights leaving from Sri Lanka to United Kingdom.
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'Speed Night' cracks Kandy's 20 year motor racing silence

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka's first ever 'Speed Night' is to be hosted by Kandy which takes place on Sunday (March 12) where streets of Kandy are to.
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5,900 former LTTE cadres re-integrated

(Colombo Lankapuvath) 5,902 former LTTE cadres after rehabilitation with the coordination of the state are re-integrated, Commissioner General of Rehabilitation Brigadier Sudantha Ranasinghe said.
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Battle for overseas LTTE leadership heightens

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Tamils in Sri Lanka have conveyed to the International Tamil Diaspora that a separate state is not a solution to the Tamil grievances.
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Focus on emerging markets - Dr. Mathai

Sri Lanka needs to concentrate more on exports to emerging markets such as India and China in the region in the future. Current Sri Lankan exports have been directed mainly to the USA and European markets which are no longer fast growing economies.
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60,000 Jaffana families to get drinking water

The entire country will have access to safe drinking water by 2015 when 34 mega and 3,600 community water supply projects become operational in the next five years, Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardana said yesterday.
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Sri Lanka and Brazil to increase cooperation in priority sectors

Expressing hope that Sri Lanka's new found peace and political stability would quickly translate into beneficial gains for the country and its people, Antonio Patriota, the Minister of External Relations of Brazil who concluded a two day official visit to Sri Lanka today, agreed to identify priority areas that would benefit from enhanced cooperation between the two countries. The Brazilian Minister stated that his country, which is enjoying a period of significant economic growth and prosperity, is increasingly looking at Asia in the context of its global outreach efforts.
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Mattala International Airport: End of 2012

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Services at Sri Lanka's second international airport now under construction in Mattala are scheduled to begin in the end of next year.
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Sri Lanka port moves to reduce congestion

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Colombo port has begun building a facility for containers north of the habour that will help reduce congestion and provide more space for its main transhipment business at land for the 'cargo village' at Peliyagoda.
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Visit to Sri Lanka by South Asia Delegation of EU Parliament - Commends "tremendous efforts by the Government to remove legacy of conflict"

The leader of the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament, Mrs. Jean Lambert (Greens/UK) commended the Govt. on the "tremendous efforts and progress made by the Government to remove the legacy of the conflict".
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Deputy Minister of External Affairs Neomal Perera meets UNFPA Representative in Sri Lanka Ms. Lene Christiansen

The Deputy Minister of External Affairs, Neomal Perera discussed UNFPA's programme in Sri Lanka during a meeting with Ms. Lene Christiansen, the UNFPA Representative in Sri Lanka on 8th February at the Ministry of External Affairs.
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ADB funds Rs.10b to boost water supply, sanitation in the North

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - The Asian Development Bank has agreed to provide financial assistance amounting to Rs.10 Billion for the implementation of the Jaffna and Kilinochchi Water Supply and Sanitation project. It is in line with the Government's target of providing safe drinking water for all citizens.
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SL Forces continue humanitarian missions on flood victims

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Three Forces of Sri Lanka have joined missions to assist over 1,200,000 flood victims in many parts of the country.
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Government aims at giving public maximum benefits of development

(Colombo Lankapuvath) It is the aim of the Government to enable the public to reap benefit of all development projects conducted islandwide, Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa said.
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Commit towards creating an upright future generation - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Parents should commit more time in looking into the matters of the children, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
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Botanical Gardens:Revenue Rs 30 M in 45 days

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Arrivals at the Botanical Gardens in the country have increased in large numbers despite weather conditions, Director General of Botanical Gardens, Dr Cyril Wijesundara told Lankapuvath.
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Support efforts underway to provide relief flood affected - Dr. Jayatilake

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Addressing the occasion of the 63rd anniversary of Sri Lanka's Independence, a reception organized by the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Paris, Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka, Sri Lanka's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO said while Sri Lanka is proud at having emerged victoriously from thirty years of conflict it would only be able to enjoy the liberties such victory and peace bring if we as a nation realize the reasons behind the conflict and act wisely to address such issues through dialogue and on the basis of justice, equality and democracy for all.
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Dr. Kohona reappointed as Co-Chair of the UN Ad-hoc Working Group

(Colombo, Lankapuvth) - The President of the General Assembly, Mr. Joseph Deiss, has reappointed Sri Lanka's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr. Palitha Kohona, as the Co-Chair of the UN Ad-hoc Working Group on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Martine Biological Diversity beyond Areas of National Jurisdiction.
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ADB Loan of $120 mn to improve Power Network

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Sri Lanka will receive a $120 million Asian Development Bank (ADB) loan to help expand and improve its power network to deal with rising customer demand and gaps in coverage which are hindering growth.
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Ambassador Dayan questions role of RSF

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Newly appointed Permanent Delegate of Sri Lanka to UNESCO, Ambassador Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka participating in the International Symposium on the Freedom of Expression at UNESCO in Paris questioned the right of Reporters without Borders (RSF) to stand in judgment of legitimate member states.
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Maha Bodhi: 7 held for attack

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Seven Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam cadres were arrested on Thursday (27) in connection with the attack on the Maha Bodhi Society on Kennet Lane in Egmore on Monday.
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Power generating machines in Upper Kotmal

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Power generating equipment would be installed in the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Plant which has a capacity of 150 megawatts, the Ministry of Power and Energy said.
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Unseen hand behind killings of Indian fishermen!

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Sri Lanka suspects a 'Third Party' being behind the attacks on Indian fishermen.
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Ceylon tea tops in quality and foreign exchange earnings

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Despite fluctuating trends in the tea industry faced due to adverse weather conditions it has now reached an indisputable levels in quality and taste, said Minister for Plantations Mahinda Samarasinghe who had dreams for a better tomorrow for Sri Lankan tea.
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LTTE fast losing grip in the West

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Attempts by LTTE remnants to re-group to fund the now defunct LTTE in the country, looks to be fast losing ground with Western nations clamping down on pro-LTTE bank accounts.
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The Royal Thai Government donates US $ 100,000 to the Government of Sri Lanka to rehabilitate areas devastated during the recent floods

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand Kasit Piromya handed over a cheque of US $ 100,000 to the Deputy Minister of External Affairs, Neomal Perera on 19th January 2011 on behalf of the Royal Thai Government as an initial contribution for the rehabilitation of areas devastated during the recent floods.
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Govt. expects 4 billion US dollars from garment sector by 2015

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Earning from Sri Lanka's Garment Industry for year 2015 has been projected at four billion US Dollars.
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Lankan scholars abroad invited to return and serve the country

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The time is now ripe for the Scholars who left the country to return to offer their service to the country, Minister of Higher education S B Dissanayake said.
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40,000 Swiss Tamils funded LTTE- Swiss Media

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - According to a report in '20 Minuten', a Swiss Newspaper, A Hirschberg who has interviewed a 'Sri Lankan insider', states that while the civil war in Sri Lanka was raging, around 40,000 Tamils in Switzerland gave money to the Tamil Tigers for the armed conflict. Now the Tamils have begun to speak without fear.
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Statement Alleged Incidents Involving Indian Fishermen

The Ministry of External Affairs wishes to refer to two incidents alleged to have taken place in the waters between Sri Lanka and India on or around the 12th of January and the 23rd of January respectively, resulting in the loss of life of two fishermen.
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Speeding up action on LTTE detainees begins

The special committee appointed to study the cases of detained LTTE suspects and expedite legal actions where necessary, began its work by visiting the Boossa detention camp and interviewed 182 detainees yesterday (Jan 19).
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Sri Lanka President gaining popularity in Tamil Nadu

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapakse's popularity seems to grow in an unprecedented manner in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu.
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Sri Lanka - Pakistan Army Chiefs meet

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Pakistani Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani met Sri Lankan Army Chief, Lieutenant General Jagath Jayasuriya at the Army headquarters a short while ago.
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EC extends Euro two million for flood victims

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The European Commission will provide Euros two million as emergency funding for humanitarian assistance to flood victims in Sri Lanka. The relief will be provided directly to the people through international aid agencies primarily for emergency food assistance, sanitation and emergency relief items.
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Stage set for Mini-Election

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - With nominations being accepted today, the stage is set for the mini-polls scheduled for March 2011. The poll is expected to be conducted on March 12.
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A Rs. 200 billion in Jaffna trade

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - The Jaffna International Trade Fair (JITF) will take place for the second consecutive year giving the opportunity for all industries to set up their business in a land that has not been accessible for more than three decades.
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SriLankan Cargo sets new record for transshipment through Colombo

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - SriLankan Cargo took a giant step towards becoming the air cargo hub between the East, West and the Subcontinent, by recording its highest ever transshipment of freight through Colombo in 2010.
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LTTE men move from Bonn to Toronto

(Colombo Lankapuvath) LTTE leaders who were living in Germany at the time of the war in Sri Lanka have now moved to Canada under the guise of asylum seekers, latest reports reaching Colombo from Bonn and Toronto stated.
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Rajapaksa reaches out to Tamils

FOR RECONCILIATION:Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has met the people of Jaffna peninsula over two days, urging them to unite in the process of nation-building and aid in national reconciliation. On Monday, he participated in the Thai Pongal celebrations at a Jaffna stadium and spoke in Tamil, conveying the message of united development and peace.
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UN assistance for flood relief

(Colombo Lankapuvath) As International concern expands over the flood affected situation in Sri Lanka, the United Nations (UN) will play a key role in meeting the needs of the affected people.
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LTTE exhorts money overseas

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Members of the LTTE overseas are reported to be exhorting money in the form millions of dollars to re-group against Sri Lanka, reports from Canada, Switzerland, and Germany reaching Colombo, said.
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President views a re-born North!

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - President Mahinda Rajapakse who commissioned the much-awaited Sangupiddy Bridge that connects Karaitivu with Pooneryn yesterday traversed with the people along the new bridge to take a view at the landscape in a re-born north.
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Media Release

The Government of Sri Lanka as a mark of solidarity with the people of Australia donated a consignment of black tea as relief assistance for the victims of the recent flash floods in the State of Queensland which has caused immense damage to over 200,000 people in the State of Queensland.
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World Bank praises use of Information Technology in Sri Lanka

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The World Bank has praised Sri Lanka on the use of Information Technology in the process of strengthening the lives of the civilians.
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Hon. Minister Mervin Silva donates eye cornea to Myanmar

Hon. Dr. Mervin Silva, Minister of Public Relations and Public Affairs donated two human eye corneas to the Government of Myanmar during his visit from 29th December 2010 - 1st January 2011 to mark the friendship between the two countries.
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Foreign Armies to receive Lankan Army training

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Several Training programmes are to be conducted by the Sri Lanka Army targeting Foreign Troops.
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Sri Lankan House maid raped in Kuwait

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Kuwait Criminal Court acquitted a resident accused of sexually assaulting his Sri Lankan housemaid.
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SriLankan Airlines 1st in South Asia to receive prestigious ISAGO recertification

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - SriLankan Airlines became only the sixth airline in the world and the first in South Asia to be awarded IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification two years ago, which is presented by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the industry's global governing body. ISAGO is the globally accepted industry best practices programme for airport ground handling operations.
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The deadliest natural disaster recorded so far

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) Disaster is an occurrence that causes great distress or destruction. It is either a natural or man made hazard which has come to fruition, resulting in an event of substantial extent causing significant physical damage or destruction, loss of life and mental traumas.
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On-line visa applications for foreigners visiting the country soon

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka will soon introduce on-line visa applications for foreigners visiting the country.
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The dawn of New Year a turning point in Lankan Economy- Minister Basil Rajapaksa

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The dawn of the New Year would be a turning point in the Economy of Sri Lanka said Minister of Economic Development Basil Rajapaksa.
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Lankapuvath wins Media Award for Disaster Reporting

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) Lankapuvath Journalist R.D.S Jeewani was awarded the Media Award for Excellence in Disaster reporting at National Safety Day 2010.
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Indo-Lanka joint Naval Exercise in Sri Lanka seas next year

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The visiting Indian Defence Secretary Predeep Kumar said that India expects to further strengthen the security ties between the two countries.
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Indian and Sri Lanka Defence Secretaries meet

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Indian Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday (27) on a three day official visit.
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Export of Garments to increase

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Ministry of Finance plans to increase earnings of the Garment sector up to 04 Billion Dollars by four years.
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People are advised to take hygienic measures to prevent influenza (AH1N1)

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) A major awareness campaign will be conducted on preventive measures on novel influenza (AH1N1) under the instructions of Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena.
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A brighter future with disciplined children- President

(Colombo Lankapuvath) During the past Century the Scout Movement in Sri Lanka rendered yeomen service during times of disaster and calamities, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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The attention of the Ministry of External Affairs has been drawn to the report under the caption "Sri Lanka War Panel 'pro-LTTE' " carried by the website 'BBC Sinhala/Sandeshaya' with the date line of 24th December 2010.

This report states as follows:
"Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister has accused some members of the Presidential Panel investigating the war, of being pro-Tamil Tigers, a Sinhala nationalist organization affiliated to the Government claims". The report continues, "Chairman of the Patriotic National Movement (PNM), Dr. Gunadasa Amarasekera said Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris advised him not to appear before the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC)".
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Alleged Statement regarding the presence of Pro-LTTE figures in LLRC

I have come to know of a BBC news broadcast reporting about a statement allegedly made by me that Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G.L. Peiris had told me that there are pro-LTTE figures among the members of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission. This is a fabricated news item. Prof. G.L. Peiris neither made any claims on the matter nor has had any conversation with me in the recent past.
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The attention of the Ministry of External Affairs has been drawn to the report under the caption "Sri Lanka War Panel 'pro-LTTE' " carried by the website 'BBC Sinhala/Sandeshaya' with the date line of 24th December 2010.

This report states as follows:
"Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister has accused some members of the Presidential Panel investigating the war, of being pro-Tamil Tigers, a Sinhala nationalist organization affiliated to the Government claims". The report continues, "Chairman of the Patriotic National Movement (PNM), Dr. Gunadasa Amarasekera said Foreign Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris advised him not to appear before the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC)".
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The most creative craftsmen of the year 2009 and 2010

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) The Art Festival which is organized by the National Crafts Council in collaboration with Traditional Industries and small enterprises Development Ministry was held recently at Folk Art Centre, Battaramulla.
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International quality Racing tracks for Sri Lanka

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The possibilities of constructing two racing tracks of international Standards were examined by the visiting President of the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, Jean Todt.
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Hambantota to set New Solar power station

(Colombo Lankapuvath) With the intention of overcoming the power crisis, focus is now on regeneration power sources.
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Media Award for Excellency in Reporting

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) Lankapuvath website (National News Agency, Sri Lanka) was awarded the Media Award for Excellence in reporting on National Safety Day 2010 held in Jaffna on 26th of December in recognition of the commitment and services rendered during past disaster events.
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Providing houses for the IDPs is a prime ambition of the government - Minister Wimal

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka is now ready to solve problems of displaced people in the North and East said the Minister of Construction, Engineering Services, Housing & Common Amenities Wimal Weerawansa.
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Customs Offices to commence in the North from next year

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Customs Offices in the North and East will commence operating, from January 2011.
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Meeting between the External Affairs Minister and the US Ambassador

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris invited the US Ambassador Ms. Patricia Butenis to meet with him on Tuesday, 21st December, in the context of news reports that several United States Senators and Members of Congress had addressed on the 10th of December, a letter concerning Sri Lanka to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
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Humanitarian operation continues until the painful memories of terrorism removed - President

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) Defeated terrorist elements have encamped in several foreign nations and their latest weapon is to defame our country and throw allegations at our war heroes accusing them of war crimes, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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United Nations Secretary-General's Panel of Experts on Sri Lanka

The attention of the Ministry of External Affairs has been drawn to reports in the media of a possible visit to Sri Lanka by the United Nations Secretary-General's Panel of Experts on Sri Lanka.
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IOM Chief says Ex-LTTE cadres well looked after

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - SriLankan Airlines took delivery of yet another Airbus A320 aircraft, as it continues to expand its global route network to serve the needs of the country's booming travel and tourism industries.
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IOM Chief says Ex-LTTE cadres well looked after

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Former LTTE combatants at rehabilitation centres are well looked after and there had been no complaints, International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission in Sri Lanka, Richard Danziger stated.
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Sri Lanka ready to assist India in combating LTTE

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka is to consider assisting India in combating the threat posed by LTTE elements said Minister of Media Keheliya Rambukwella.
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Growth in SL economy - 8% in the third quarter

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka's economy has expanded 8.0 percent in the third quarter of 2010 from a year earlier, compared to an 8.5 percent growth in the second quarter, according to Government statistics.
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New coin issued in view of 60th Anniversary of CB presented to President

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The crown size multi colour Silver coin worth Rs 5000 issued in view of the 60th Anniversary of the Central Bank was issued to President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees yesterday (15).
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It was a big mistake by LTTE - Karuna Amman

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) The deputy minister of resettlement Vinayagamoorthi Muralitharan, former Tamil Tiger commander, giving evidence before the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) yesterday (13) told that killing of Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi was a big mistake by the LTTE.
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Norway helps to expand investment opportunities in Sri Lanka

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) The Norwegian government is ready to expand its investment opportunities in Sri Lanka said the Norway's Ambassador Hilde Haraldstad during a meeting with Prime Minister D.M. Jayaratne which took place yesterday (07) at the Prime Minister's official residence.
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SL to train South East Asian regional health professionals

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) A Centre to train health professionals of the South East Asian Region will be set up in Sri Lanka as a result of a request made by Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena.
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Resolve to work diligently towards the noble goals - President Rajapaksa

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - South Asia commemorates the twenty-fifth anniversary of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) today (08). President Mahinda Rajapaksa extended the warm greetings and best wishes of the Government and people of Sri Lanka to the Governments and people of South Asia, on this occasion.
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Over 50 illegal migrants including LTTE suspects nabbed in Thailand

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Thailand Police arrested over 50 Sri Lanka Tamil Illegal migrants, in Bangkok early today (08).
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Steps to name Archeological sites in North and East as World Heritage sites

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The archeological excavations in the North and East parts of the country which were halted due to the terrorist activities have being recommenced and are carried out successfully.
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CB Governor optimistic about Economic Growth

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Speaking to Bank Directors, at a forum in Colombo, Central Bank Governor Ajith Nivard Cabraal said poverty had come down to 7.6% from the total population this year from 15.7% in 2006. The poverty rate in the country had been around 22.7% in 2002 and 28.8% in 1995/6.
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Message from the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka

It gives me great pleasure to extend greetings and good wishes to the people of South Asia on the occasion of the SAARC Charter Day.
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Message from the Minister of External Affairs of Sri Lanka

Twenty-five years ago, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation came into being when the leaders of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka placed their signatures to a Charter that embodies the enduring hopes and dreams of the people of South Asia. Since then, our Association has been strengthened with Afghanistan joining the SAARC family at the 14th Summit.
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Message from the President of Sri Lanka

Today, we in South Asia commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and I have the pleasure on this occasion to extend warm greetings and best wishes of the Government and people of Sri Lanka to the Governments and people of South Asia.
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Discarded vegetable to be turned in to Oil at EC Dambulla

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Matale District Secretariat's attention has been focused on producing vegetable oil by using vegetables, which are discarded from the Dambulla Special Economic Centre on a daily basis.
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Tourism boost through changing attitudes

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) A programme that can attract more tourists all over the world to our country has been launched. Economic Development Deputy Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena says areas where tourists wish to visit can be identified through this progremme.
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Only the LTTE committed war crimes in the country

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Only the LTTE committed war crimes in Sri Lanka said UNP Hambantota Parliamentarian Sajith Premadasa.
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Treatment of SL's President deeply wounds Sri Lankans

(Colombo-Lankapuvath) UNP Deputy Leader in a statement said that the events emerged during the President Mahinda Rakapaksa's visit to Britain had filled the people of this country with disappointment. It caused significant embarrassment to the Sri Lankan State and its citizenry.
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Fiji walks away with Carlton 7s title again - as Sri Lanka bounces back

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Digicel Fiji Barbarians showed their might once again during the International Carlton 7s tournament worked off in Colombo during the weekend.
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India to take advantage of commercial potential in Hambantota

(Colombo, Lankapuvath)- Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has assured that his government will encourage India's private sector to take advantage of the industrial and commercial potential in and around Hambantota.
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Sri Lanka - Pakistan sign four agreements to increase trade and investment

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Sri Lanka and Pakistan signed four agreements in the presence of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (28).
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Sri Lanka to issue multiple visas for investors

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Sri Lanka Government considers issuing of Multiple Visa for investors and businessmen.
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His Eminence Cardinal Rev.Malcolm Ranjith arrives today

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - His Eminence Rev. Dr. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith arrived in the island at 09.00 am this morning (27).
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All countries are willing to invest in Sri Lanka - Indian Minister

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - Indian Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna has said that every country desires to invest in Sri Lanka.
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Zardari arrives today

(Colombo - Lankapuvath) Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari is due to arrive in Sri Lanka today (27) for a four day state visit at the invitation of the President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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Developed Colombo will soon be a Greener City - Defence Secretary

(Colombo Lankapuvath) According to Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa, the Colombo city will be developed according to a systematic plan, where as the city beautification process will be carried out simultaneously.
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Indian Minister of External Affairs to visit Sri Lanka

Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, S. M. Krishna, will commence a three day visit to Sri Lanka on 25 November 2010.
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Sri Lanka ahead of developed countries in environment protection- President

(Colombo Lankapuvath) Sri Lanka is a head of all developed countries in environment protection stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa inaugurating the Deyata Sevena" tree planting campaign this morning (15).
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All Muslims evicted by the LTTE will be resettled - President Rajapaksa

(Colombo Lankapuvath) The Government would ensure that the Muslims who were forcibly evicted by the LTTE over 20 years ago from the Northern Province would be resettled in their original dwellings said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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Sounds and Flavours of Sri Lanka in Rome

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - The Embassy of Sri Lanka in collaboration with several Italian and Sri Lankan partners will launch a series of events in Rome reflecting Sri Lanka's Cuisine, Culture and Music at prestigious venues in Rome in the first week of December this year.
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Japan extends assistance for demining in the North

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - The Government of Japan has extended aid for a demining project in the North to meet the emergency needs of the area and to promote peace and development of Sri Lanka under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).
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WFP approves $39.8 million assistance to Sri Lanka

The Executive Board of World Food Programme (WFP) today (11-11-2010) approved the protracted relief and recovery operation (PRRO) for Sri Lanka entitled "Supporting Relief and Early Recovery in Former Conflict-Affected Areas". The total cost of the operation is US $ 39,755,501.
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Government of Sri Lanka funding US $ 40,000/- for the Projects of Ministry of Education & Higher Education of Palestinian National Authority (PNA)

As per MoU signed with the Ministry of Education & Higher Education of Palestinian National Authority, the Government of Sri Lanka has financed a sum of US$ 40,000/- to strengthen readiness of Primary Education Teachers of Palestinian National Authority.
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The Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka Launch an Affiliated Programme in Vienna, Austria in cooperation with the Department of the Study of Religions, University of Vienna

The Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka recently launched a diploma programme in Buddhist and Pali studies in Vienna in cooperation with the Department of the Study of Religions of the University of Vienna. This affiliated programme was initiated by the Venerable Dr Wijayarajapura Seelawansa Thero of Vienna Dhamma Centrum with the assistance of the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Austria. The inauguration of the programme was held under the patronage of Venerable Dr. Ittademaliye Indasara Thero, Vice Chancellor of Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka at the University of Vienna on Friday, 22 October 2010.
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"Better life for people is our aim" - Defence Secretary

The Defence Secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse said that town planners have a major role to play in making Sri Lanka the Wonder of Asia. He made these remarks at the World Town Planning Day held at the BMICH, Colombo yesterday (08).
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Minister Basil welcomes support from NGOs for the development of the North

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa said that he expects the support of the United Nations, International and Local Non- Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for the further development of the Northern Province.
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World Bank aid for the development of North and East

For the development of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, North East Local Service Improvements and Sustainable Tourism development the Government and the World Bank in cooperation signed the three project agreements amounting to US $ 125.4 Million yesterday (08).
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Steps to import oil at a fair price from Oman

The Minister of Petroleum Industries Susil Premajayantha said that the Sri Lankan Government expects to import crude oil, lubricant and gas directly from Oman.
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Government of Sri Lanka establishes an Inter-Agency Advisory Committee to facilitate the implementation of the interim recommendations of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC)

A Cabinet Paper submitted by Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G. L. Peiris establishing an Inter-Agency Advisory Committee to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations in the Interim Communication of the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), was approved by the Cabinet of Ministers on 27.10.2010.
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UK Parliamentarians hail "remarkable" post-conflict progress

A cross party delegation from the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) - UK Branch , which was in Sri Lanka on the invitation of the Parliament of Sri Lanka said that the progress made by the Government on the resettlement of the internally displaced people in the North and the East was "remarkable". This was conveyed during an interaction the delegation had with Minister of External Affairs Prof. G. L. Peiris, on 22nd October 2010.
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Minister Bandula Gunawardana highlights education as a fundamental human right at UNESCO

The Minister of Education and Representative of Sri Lanka on the Executive Board of UNESCO, the Hon. Bandula Gunawardana addressing the Plenary Debate of the 185th session of the Executive Board today (12.10.10) called for emphasis to be placed on basic education as a fundamental human right, and stressed that Sri Lanka is strongly committed to achieve the 'Education for All' (EFA) goals and Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)
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Productive talks between President and Ban Ki-Moon

In a highly productive discussion with the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon at the UN today (24) President Mahinda Rajapaksa apprised the UNSG that the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC), was fully transparent and was established on the principles of accountability in keeping with Sri Lanka’s own method of searching for the truth regarding a prolonged conflict, and identifying ways of preventing such conflicts in the future.
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SRI LANKA PORTS AUTHORITY - Request for Proposals to Commence Business Ventures at Port of Hambantota

The Cabinet Appointed Negotiating Committee (CANC), on behalf of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) is pleased to request proposals from international and local firms or consortia to design, build, finance, manage and operate business ventures at the Port of Hambantota.
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Public Hearings of the Commission on Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation

The Commission on Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation commenced its public hearings today at the Lakshman Kadirgamar Institute of International Relations and Strategic Studies. Representations were made by Mr. Bernard Goonathilleke, former diplomat, former DG/SCOPP and Secretary/Foreign Affairs, as well as Dr. V. Nallainayagam, and expatriate Sri Lankan Tamil from Canada.
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Sri Lanka dispatches flood relief to Pakistan

As soon as news was received last week of the serious floods in Pakistan , President Mahinda Rajapaksa telephoned Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani and assured Sri Lanka’s strong solidarity with the efforts of the Government and People of Pakistan to cope with the challenge of the serious natural disaster.
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1st Sri Lanka Tourism, Investment and Trade Promotion Forum Organised by the Sri Lanka Embassy in Manila in the Philippines Dusit Thani Hotel , Manila, 08-09 July, 2010

Sri Lanka Philippine Bilateral relations have been cordial and healthy for the past four decades and today more opportunities are open for further strengthening existing relations between the two countries through accelerated bilateral trade, investment and tourism.
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Statement on the appointment of the Sri Lanka - Panel of Experts by the Secretary General of the United Nations

The Government of Sri Lanka strongly opposes the appointment, by the Secretary General of the United Nations, of the Sri Lanka - Panel of Experts announced by his Spokesperson in New York on Tuesday, 22nd June 2010.
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Sri Lanka Shows How To Defeat Terrorism

A strong leadership and a disciplined military are the keys in wiping out separatist movements that have resorted to terrorism in our country, the Sri Lankan ambassador to the Philippines said at a roundtable with editors and reporters of The Manila Times on Tuesday.
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Sri Lanka opens doors to Tourists

Nawalage Bennet Cooray, Sri Lanka's ambassador to the Philippines, said that the doors of his country are now open to charm and attract travelers from all corners of the world.
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Minister of External Affairs launches the 'Foreign Policy Think Tank' website

Minister of External Affairs, Prof G L Peiris, launched the website of the 'Foreign Policy Think Tank' on 22nd June 2010 (today) at the External Affairs Ministry.
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Sri Lanka has lesson to world on defeating terror - President Rajapaksa

We are aware that some countries being battered by terrorism have taken strength from the victories won by Sri Lanka over terrorism. It is time for the countries facing attacks from terrorism to look back and see where they had gone wrong, whereas Sri Lanka has succeeded, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in his address to the Nation on the Victory Day celebrations at Galle Face, Colombo today.
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Akashi- the link between Japan

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 17) - Bonds between Japan and Sri Lanka are by no means shallow. Japan has always respected and cooperated on the sovereignty and self determination of Sri Lanka as a pearl of the orient.
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Pascoe satisfied with development in Mullaitivu

(Colombo, Lankapuvath) - UN Under Secretary-General for Political Affairs, B. Lynn Pascoe expressed satisfaction of the development taking place in Mullaitivu following his visit to the area yesterday (16).
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LTTE Cadres Among Foreign Militants Using Malaysia as Base

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 16) - Foreign militants, including remnants of the Tamil Tigers, are using Malaysia as their operational base and for recruiting new activists, a top Minister said yesterday (15).
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LTTE terrorism abhorrent to US - NSC reps -16 June 2010

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 16) - The United States of America too had been through the experience of combating terrorism and considered the terrorism of the LTTE as abhorrent said two high ranking officers of the Obama Administration, attached to the US National Security Council (NSC), who called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday (15).
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CCPI decline for the 3rd consecutive month - 16 June 2010

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 16) - Inflation, as measured by the year-on-year change in the Colombo Consumers' Price Index (base=2002) declined for the third consecutive month, reaching 5.3 per cent in May 2010.
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The Sambuddhathwa Action Committee decides to obtain international help to 2600th Themagul Festival

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 16) - The decision was made in order to celebrate the 2600th Themagul Festival internationally. The resolution was made at the committee meeting of Sambuddhathwa Action Committee, held at the Prime Minister's Office today (15) morning under the leadership of Prime Minister D. M. Jayaratne. Prime Minister pointed out that the message of Dhamma can be spread across the world by celebrating the Themagul Festival internationally. Prime Minister further stated that it is the intention of the government to revive Buddhist ideals among Sri Lankan expatriates and to build Buddhist temples all around the world.
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Honorary Consuls have a Proactive Role to Play - Minister of External Affairs

Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 16) - Honorary Consuls representing foreign Governments in Sri Lanka have a pivotal role to play in strengthening Sri Lanka's relations abroad, stated Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G. L. Peiris when he addressed Honorary Consuls in Sri Lanka, at the Ministry of External Affairs recently. The Minister noted that after over twenty years, there were opportunities for economic revival in the country and the Honorary Consuls should identify their areas of priorities in attracting investment and tourism into Sri Lanka.
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Education System Should Empower Youth to Win the World - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath June 15) The Educational system should create a younger generation who can win the world and love the Motherland at the same time stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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Indian aid to be 'Directly Disbursed' - Chidambaram

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 15-14.50pm) - Indian Home Minister Palaniappan Chidambaram said India was considering directly disbursing the financial aid it has proposed to give to the war-displaced people in Wanni for their housing project.
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Recent Sri Lanka - EU Talks a Useful Confidence Building Measure

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 15-14.35pm) - The two rounds of talks between the European Union (EU) and the Sri Lanka delegation led by the Attorney General held in Brussels in March and May 2010 had served as a useful confidence building measure, in a relationship which had been affected largely on account of the differing perceptions over the years regards the ramifications of Sri Lanka's continued struggle with the LTTE, said Sri Lanka's Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg and the EU Ravinatha Aryasinha.
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An Electrifying Game of Cricket in Aid of Charity

(Colombo Lankapuvath June 03) IIAFA celebration moves from the world of fashion to the world of cricket tomorrow (04) when the most popular team game is Asia will be a partner in "cricket for children" IIFA agenda presents.
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Sri Lanka Emerges as Third Highest Foreign Investor in Bangladesh.

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 03) - The Bangladesh High Commissioner for Sri Lanka Mr.Mahbubuzzamam met Hon. Prime Minister D. M. Jayratne at the Prime Minister's Office. They discussed matters pertaining to mutual relations between the two countries.
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Minister of External Affairs and Delegates to the 9th IISS Asia Security Summit

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 03) - Minister of External Affairs, Prof. G. L. Peiris will lead the Sri Lanka delegation to the 9th IISS Asia Security Summit: The Shangri-La Dialogue, which is scheduled to be held in Singapore from 4th to 6th June 2010.
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Cruise Liner at Hambantota Awaits 2011 Cricket

(Colombo Lankapuvath June 03) Plans are being drawn to hire a cruise liner in view of the 2011 Cricket world cup fans who will be visiting Hambantota
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A Safety Wall of Five Acts for Buddhism

(Colombo Lankapuvath May 31) New Acts will be introduced in order to safeguard Buddhism and Maga Sangha in the country said Prime Minister and Minister of Buddasasana and Religious Affairs.
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Top Designers Illuminate IIFA Fashion Show

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, May 31) - Two Indian designers and two Sri Lankan designers will showcase their creations at the IIFA Fashion show at the BMICH on June 3.
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World in Smoke, Let us Extinguish

It's not only volcano, earthquake and forest fires that send smoke up in this day and age but smoking the dangerous contribution to the physical health and mental well being.
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Proud to be Sri Lankan at IIFA Fashion Rocks

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 02) - The most dazzling, mega Indian Cinema event - the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) will blast off tomorrow at the BMICH with an elegant exclusive enviable fashion extravaganza, IIFA Fashion Rocks.
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Inflation Drops For The Third Consecutive Month 02 June 2010

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 02) - Inflation, as measured by the Colombo Consumers' Price Index (CCPI) (2002=100), computed by the Department of Census and Statistics, decreased to 5.3 per cent in May from 5.8 per cent in April 2010 on the point-to-point basis. This was the third consecutive month in which the Index registered a decline. However, the annual average inflation increased marginally to 3.6 per cent in May from 3.4 per cent in April 2010.
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'Improving Doing Business Ranking of Sri Lanka'

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, May 24)- Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa said despite the greater political and macro-economical stability in the country, Sri Lanka's doing business ranking is 105 according to the World Bank report.
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National Vesak Week Begins, State Festival at Mahiyangana

(Colombo Lankapuvath May 24) The State festival which marks the beginning of the Vesak festival is to be held at the Mahiyangana Raja Maha Vihara today (24) under the patronage of Prime Minister D M Jayarathne.
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KKS Harbour To Be Renovated

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 07)- Steps are under way to renovate the Kankesanthurai harbour which would soon operate as a modern commercial harbour at a cost of Rs.100 million, in line with the rapid development process in the country's sea transportation system.
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Japan Provides Further Humanitarian Assistance To IDPs in Sri Lanka

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 01) - The Government of Japan recently decided to extend a financial contribution of 100 million Japanese Yen (approximately 1.1 million US dollars) through the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) for humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees in Sri Lanka.
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Pearl of the East Attracts Tourists Again

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 01) - The government expects to increase its tourism revenue from $ 400 million to $ 1,000 million by 2015 as adverse travel restrictions of foreign tourists were being lifted, Deputy Minister of Economic Development Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena said yesterday (31).
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Technical and Ground Rehearsals for IIFA Begin Tomorrow

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, June 01) - Sugathadasa stadium has become a brand new venue with IIFA. Two world class giant stadium chillers imported from America and Singapore installed at the Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium where the 11th International Indian Film (IIFA) awards will take place.
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Uruma Aruna to Develop Mahamevna Uyana

(Colombo Lankapuvath June 01) President Mahinda Rajapaksa instructed officials to take measures to develop Mahamevna Uyana as a tourist attraction while preserving its historic and sacred values.
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Fa-Hiengala Caves - Probably Asia's oldest cave inhabited by modern man

(Colombo Lankapuvath June 01) A special excavation will be conducted in the nearby area of Pahiyangala (Fa-Hiengala) Caves.
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9th Conference of the Asia Pacific Roundtable for Sustainable Consumption and Production (APRSCP) - June 10 - 12, 2010, Colombo

Asia and Pacific has the fastest growing economy in the world and accommodates majority of the world population. One the one hand the ever-increasing wealth and lifestyle changes resulting from this growth is placing a heavy burden on the regions resources. On the other hand the region is forced to deal with global challenges such as pollution, poverty and economic meltdown. Within such conditions Sustainable Development is in danger of fast becoming an unapproachable goal. Therefore Sustainable Consumption and Production should be given importance as a driving force to ensure that the special development needs of the region are met in a sustainable manner.
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Sri Lanka records World's highest in tourist arrivals

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, May 11) - Sri Lanka has topped another list by recording the highest growth in tourist arrivals during the first two months of 2010.
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SriLankan Airlines expands services to Shanghai

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, May 11) - SriLankan Airlines will launch its new four-times a week service to Shanghai in July 2010, the third Chinese city in its global route network.
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Government mindful of conflict situation - President tells Diplomats

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, May 11) - Sri Lankan Government has also been mindful of the need to heal the wounds caused to national amity by the conflict situation. It is government intention to shortly appoint a Commission on Post- Conflict Study and Reconciliation, the preliminary work on which is now being concluded.
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D.M. Jayaratne to assume Premiership today

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, April 21) - D.M. Jayaratne is scheduled to take oaths as the Prime Minister before the President this evening (21). The first session of the new parliament will open tomorrow.
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IIFA set to boost Lankan tourism by 50 pc

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, April 21) - Sri Lanka will record a 50 percent increase in tourism following the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA), Weekend which will commence on June 3.
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KKS cement factory likely to re-open

(Colombo Lankapuvath April 19) The Cement Factory in Kannkasanthurai (KKS) may probably begin within next few months.
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Jewel of Muscat arrives in Galle

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, April 19) - The Jewel of Muscat, a replica of a 9th Century Arab trading vessel on an historic voyage sailing from Oman to Singapore arrived at its second stop, in Galle today after sailing through a tropical storm.
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Get ready to develop nation, ‘Act with honour and dignity’ - President

(Colombo, Lankapuvath, April 19) - In the journey of fulfilling aims of Mahinda Chintana, the single aim should be the development of the country, stated President Mahinda Rajapaksa to the newly elected UPFA Parliamentarians yesterday (18).
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President Rajapakse urges to set aside petty differences and unite to rebuild the motherland

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 26) - President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing a public rally yesterday (25) in Welimada which held in support of candidates contesting the April 8 Parliamentary polls under the United National Peoples’ Alliance (UPFA) banner urged the people to set aide their petty differences and unite to rebuild the motherland.
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President to open Tele-Cinema Village soon

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 26) - The opening of the Mahinda Rajapaksa Tele-Cinema Village, Ranmihithenne, will take place on 30 March.
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03rd SL Open International Wheelchair tennis tourney commences today

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 26) The Third Sri Lanka Open International Wheelchair Tennis Tournament is held at the Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) hard courts today (26).
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“The Battle Blues” continue with first ever T20

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 26) The first Twenty 20 Cricket encounter between Royal College and St Thomas’ College will kick off at the Oval tomorrow (27).
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Demining in 1325 Km in the North completed

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 25) The demining of an area of 1325 Km is now complete said Military Spokesman Major General Prasad Samarasingha.
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Four new industrial zones for North & East

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 25) – Four new industrial zones are to be established in the Northern and Eastern provinces within the next few months.
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“Jewel of Muscat” to call at the Port of Galle

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 25) – A 9th Century reconstructed Omani ship, the ‘Jewel of Muscat', is due to call at the Port of Galle on approximately 18th April 2010, as its arrival date would be determined by weather conditions since it will be using its sails for its voyage as it does not have an engine.


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Massive crowds at Thirukeshwaram Kovil’s feast

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 19) The historic Thirukeshwaram (Mahathithamanthottam) Hindu Kovil in Mannar that remained totally neglected and dilapidated owing to LTTE terrorism was recently handed over by Army Engineers to religious authorities in order to conduct religious ceremonies once again.
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Carlton sports Festival begins in Thissamaharama

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 19) The fifth annual Carlton Super Sports Festival organized by the Tharunyata Hetak Organization got underway with its cycle race ‘Unity Tour of Sri Lanka’ which commenced in Jaffna on the 17th.
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“Abimansala’ (Wellness Resort) for the welfare of war heroes

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 19) Sri Lanka Army has prioritized the welfare if the war heroes, specially of those who received multiple injuries in the battlefields and are confined to bed or wheelchairs, expecting lifelong care and society’s affection.
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BOI Sri Lankan industry introduces “Green Factories’

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 17) - In today’s world the consumer will increasingly decide to purchase goods, which are manufactured in an ethical manner and not the result of unethical or exploitative processes of production. Hence, many consumers will be socially aware that currently the environment faces many threats and will insist that the goods they purchase are produced in an environmentally friendly manner.
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Railway Track to Omanthai nears completion

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 17) The final construction phase of the 10-km long railway track stretch from Thandikulam to Omanthai is nearing completion.
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“Nagamu Purawaera’ first phase successful

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 17) The first phase of the programme implemented under “Nagamu Purawaera” which was initiated by President Mahinda Rajapaksa has been successfully completed.
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SL boxer Manju in finals at Commonwealth Championships in India today

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 17) Manju Wanniarchchi who represented Sri Lanka in the 5th Commonwealth Boxing Championships now being held at the Talkatora Stadium, New Delhi qualified for the finals yesterday (16).
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“Special Panel on Sri Lanka uncalled for and unwarranted” - President to Ban Ki-moon

Environment friendly canal boat service launched

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 16) A canal boat service was launched between Wellawatte and Nawala by the Sri Lanka Navy yesterday (15).
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Environment friendly canal boat service launched

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 16) A canal boat service was launched between Wellawatte and Nawala by the Sri Lanka Navy yesterday (15).
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China assures continued assistance for Development efforts

The Chinese Government through its funding arm the Exim Bank, concluded with Sri Lanka a Concessional Funding arrangement to construct the island's second airport in Mattala at a cost of US $ 190 million while also pledging Concessional financing of US $ 100 million to augment the capacity of the Sri Lankan railway.
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Tourism shares boost Sri Lankan share market

Sri Lankan shares soared early this week, mainly on account of local buying in hotel and travel shares, with an undisputed prediction of a boom in the tourism industry which is recording high occupancy in most hotels.
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Wilpattu Sri Lanka’s largest national park reopens

Online travel magazine Wanderlust “The magazine for the people with a passion for travel” in its March issue writes of Sri Lanka's largest wildlife park opening to the public, giving an account of what the park has to offer to nature lovers and leopard enthusiasts in particular.
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A new look Sri Lankan Airlines

The national carrier SriLankan Airlines began a new and exciting journey last month tagged “We are changing the way we fly’.
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32nd Asia Pacific Dental Congress in Colombo

The Sri Lanka Dental association will host the 32nd Asia Pacific Dental Congress in Colombo in May this year. This is the second occasion on which the APDC will hold its annual congress in Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lankan locations for Indian movies

N Ramji, Managing director of Travel Masters India, a renowned location provider for Indian movies visited Sri Lanka on a reconnaissance tour to explore sites of interest, to the Indian film industry.
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Tourism Development Authority Citizen

The Colombo Municipal Council recognized the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority for the Honoured Citizen Award citing the “The services rendered to the city of Colombo, such as timely payment of taxes, maintaining clean premises and environmentally friendly promotions and atmosphere.
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India signs MoU with Colombo University

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 12) The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (IICR) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Colombo for the establishment of a Visiting Chair in Social Sciences.
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Sri Lanka to manufacture motor cycles

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 12) - The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka granted investment approval to Demak Manufacturing Lanka Limited.
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Colombo Harbour Development Project in progress

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 12) - Government plans to make the Colombo Harbour the hub of the Asian region. The Government adverted attention on the Colombo Port expansion project with the main intention of expanding opportunities to meet the demand for services in the international marine industry.
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Rare ring-tailed lemurs at Dehiwala Zoo

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 12) Dehiwala Zoological gardens received another pair of rare animals (Unahapuluwa) belonging to the Monkey family from England.
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Indian support to upgrade SL railway

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 11) A Line of Credit Agreement for US$ 67.4 million was signed between Sri Lanka and Export-Import Bank of India yesterday (10 Mar) to upgrade the Colombo-Matara Railway Line.
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Eastern Province Water Supply Development Project

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 11) - A memorandum submitted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Minister of Finance and Planning to enter into a Loan Agreement with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) was granted approval by the Cabinet.
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Eastern Province Rural Road Development Project

(Colombo, Lankapuvath March 11) - Cabinet granted approval to a memorandum submitted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Minister of Finance and Planning to enter into a Loan Agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to obtain Japanese Yen 3,965 Million (approximately Rs.4,960 million) for development of rural roads in the Eastern Province.
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India’s first international Buddhist University, an Indo-Sri Lanka joint venture

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 08) India’s first international Buddhist University is coming up in Sanchi, the world heritage site, 34 km southwest of Bhopal.
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Women integral contributors in development - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 08) President Mahinda Rajapaksa states in his message to the women of Sri Lanka, that he is elated to express his goodwishes to the Women of the country on the first International Women's day since freeing the island of the menace of terrorism which was the main hindrance to the development of the country.
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International Women’s Day - How empowered are we?

Every year women around the world and organizations that back them as a cause or for recognition take up the cause of women as a trendy must.
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Changes for the better in Sri Lanka since her last visit - Nirupama Rao

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 08) India's Foreign Secretary, Nirupama Rao congratulated President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday (07) on his victory at the recently concluded Presidential Elections.
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Government rejects UN Human Rights Chief’s call for probe

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 05) - The government today (05) rejected a fresh call by UN Human Rights Chief Navi Pillay for an investigation into alleged war crimes in Sri Lanka, saying that Pillay should respect the decision made by the inter-governmental UN Human Rights Council last year.
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‘Meet Sri Lanka Campaign’ in Pune

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 05) - ‘Meet Sri Lanka’ is the campaign launched recently by Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Sri Lankan Airlines and the MICE industry of Sri Lanka to project the uniqueness of Sri Lanka for MICE visitors through its easy accessibility, state-of-art infrastructure, visa-on-arrival facility for leisure travel and value driven tourism blended with Sri Lankan hospitality.
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A programme to trace all archaeological sites in Sri Lanka

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 05) - Sri Lanka Ministry of Cultural Affairs and national heritage has launched a programme to trace the island-wide archaeological sites.
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Protecting our precious island task of Coastal Guards Force - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 05) - Addressing the gathering yesterday (04) at the launch of the Coast Guard Force at the Galle Harbour, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that the government has requested the UN to grant the right to expand Sri Lanka's maritime boundaries by 20-fold with much hope.
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The Seva Vanitha Unit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs donates humanitarian relief items for the people of the north and a consignment of books to the Jaffna Library

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama stated that a regional unit of the Consular Affairs Division of the Foreign Ministry would be opened in Jaffna, to cater to the needs of the residents of the north. He stated that the need to have a Consular unit was felt during his recent visit to Jaffna and that this unit would function in coordination with the Government Agent’s office in Jaffna.
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Sri Lanka to host SEACEN Governors’ Conference 2011

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 03) - Sri Lanka will host the 46th Conference of the South East Asian Central Banks (SEACEN) Governors and 30th Meeting of the SEACEN Board of Governors in February 2011.
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CID arrests top LTTE member

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 03) - The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) has arrested a high ranking member of the LTTE’s international financial wing, Police Media Spokesman SP Prishantha Jayakody said.
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SL Navy troops recover ammos from East

Lankapuvath March 03) Troops attached to the Sri Lanka Navy were able to recover a haul of ammunition and electric detonators from the Verugal area in the East yesterday (02).
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Development work of Thirukketheswaram temple to be complete soon

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 03) Development work of the Thirukketheswaram Temple in the Mannar will be completed by mid march.
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China donates equipment to expedite de-mining process

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 01) The People’s Republic of China has donated De-mining detectors and de-mining Protective Equipment to the Government of Sri Lanka.
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Lankan boxers at Asian Youth Boxing Championship

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 01) Three Sri Lankan boxers will take part in the 19th Asian Youth Boxing Championship which will commence on the 04th of March in Iran.
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Over 40 illegal foreign job agencies raided

(Colombo Lankapuvath March 01) - The Foreign Employment Bureau (FEB) has raided 42 illegal foreign employment agencies operating without licenses.
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Sri Lanka strongly protests British Foreign Secretary’s participation at meeting of Global Tamil Forum, an LTTE front organization

Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama summoned the British Acting High Commissioner in Colombo Mark Gooding to the Foreign Ministry today to express Sri Lanka’s strong protest with regard to the British Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs David Miliband's intent to address the London Conference of the pro-LTTE &;lsquo;Global Tamil Forum’ (GTF) today (24/2).
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Thousands of Sri Lankan farmers to benefit from UN funded anti-poverty scheme

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 24) - Nearly 58,000 farming households in Sri Lanka are expected to benefit from a United Nations-funded programme designed to improve their livelihoods, boost their incomes and enhance their participation in the marketing and selling of their products.
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President opens mega Moragahakanda-Kaluganga Multi-Purpose development project

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 24) President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday emphasized that the present Government's ‘Yes we can' approach had paid rich dividends in delivering the people's desired expectations in many spheres including the defeat of terrorism and development.
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Sri Lanka to set up community villages for ex-rebels

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 22) - The Sri Lankan government said Saturday it will set up community villages to rehabilitate former Tamil Tiger rebels.
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Lanka assures support for SAARC Summit in Bhutan

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 22) - Sri Lanka assured Bhutan wholehearted support as the country prepares to assume the Chair of SAARC for the first time since the inception of the Association.
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Lanka appeals for priceless artifacts abroad

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 22) - Urban Development and Sacred Area Development Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said that Sri Lanka would officially appeal to a number of museums in several countries as well as private collectors to return cultural and religious artifacts and statues spirited away from the country.
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Sri Lanka’s total reserves over $ 5 bn - CB Governor

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 19) - Sri Lanka central bank is unlikely to buy more gold from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) right now as the island nation has already reached its required reserve level, its governor said on Thursday (18).
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Central Function of Jaffna Teaching Hospital to be improved

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 19) Cabinet granted approval to a memorandum submitted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Minister of Finance and Planning to sign the Exchange of notes with the Government of Japan pertaining to the Project for improvement of central function of Jaffna teaching hospital and to enter into a grant agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to obtain a grant of Japanese Yen 2,298 million for the implementation of the project.
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No foreign country should interfere with SL legal process - Liam Fox

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 18) - The British Shadow Defence Secretary and the Conservative Party parliamentarian, Dr. Liam Fox said that no foreign country or foreign body should interfere in the legal process of another country and influence the enforcement of the law.
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Launching a scheme for enhancing proficiency in official languages of CB officers

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 18) - The Central Bank of Sri Lanka, having understood the importance of possessing proficiency in Tamil language of its staff, has launched a scheme for facilitating its staff to enhance the mastery of Tamil languages with the collaboration of the Department of Official Languages (DOL).
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North and East get Passport offices

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 17) - A programme to issue passports speedily to the people in the North and East has been started.
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UN Agricultural agency seeks $23 million to support resettlement in North

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 17) - The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) yesterday (16) launched an appeal for more than $23 million to assist the return of some 200,000 Sri Lankans uprooted by the recent conflict between Government forces and separatist Tamil rebels in the north of the Indian Ocean nation, states in a UN Press release.
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ADB assist in road development

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 16) The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to provide a loan amounting to US$ 170 million in June 2010.
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STATEMENT ON THE EU DECISION FOR THE TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF THE GSP+ FACILITY TO SRI LANKA

The European Union on 15th February announced the temporary suspension of the GSP+ trade concession to Sri Lanka. In its Press Release notifying of the decision, the Directorate General for Trade of the European Commission (EC) observed that “the suspension of the GSP+ benefits is temporary, as the overarching EU objective remains to use the GSP+ as an incentive to underpin improvements” and, “will only take effect in six months time”.
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SLCB establishes Rs.3 bn loan scheme to small businesses in North

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 15) - Sri Lanka’s Central Bank has established a special loan scheme to benefit the small and medium scale businesses in the Northern region to uplift the livelihoods of the people in the war-ravaged.
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Employment opportunities in Canada for SL youth

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 11) A MoU was signed at the Ministry of Labour and Man Power today (11) to provide youth employment.
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Mrs. Fonseka to visit General anytime

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 11) - Military Spokesman Major General Prasad Samarasinghe at MCNS yesterday (10) stated that Mrs. Anoma Fonseka, wife of former CDS/Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka is able to visit him anytime of the day. This permission has been granted by approval of Ministry of Defence. Accordingly Anoma Fonseka is able to visit the General with the meals.
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U.S. Ambassador visits USAID-built vocational training centers in the East

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 10) - The United States Ambassador to Colombo, Ms. Patricia Butenis recently visited the students at Sammanthurai Vocational Training Center (VTC) in Ampara District, an Embassy press release said.
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Salients of the Media Briefing

Former Army Commander / Chief of Defence Staff General Sarath Fonseka was taken into custody by the Military Police last night on the basis of alleged charges violating the 57(1) clause of the Army Act, said Hon. Keheliya Rambukwella, the Defence Spokesman, addressing a media briefing held at MCNS today(09).
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Mindful and striving, pure, restrained and righteous, man advances to fame and prosperity - President Rajapaksa

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 08) - Quoting Lord Buddha President Mahinda Rajapaksa said “Mindful and striving, pure, restrained and righteous, man advances to fame and prosperity in his address as conferee of the” Doctorate Honoris Causaâ€� of the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia.
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Sri Lanka Looks to the Future

January 26 was an historic day for Sri Lanka . It was the first presidential election for more than 25 years that was unaffected by the terrorism and intimidation of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, otherwise known as the Tamil Tigers. The overwhelming majority of Sri Lankans who exercised their democratic right last Tuesday voted for an end to division, an end to terrorism and for a new beginning of peace and prosperity. I am proud that the election was well fought, but peaceful on voting day. All who wished to participate, could.
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President Obama vows to continue long lasting relations with SL

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 05) The President of the United States of America Barack Obama said the US stands ready to continue their long-lasting bilateral partnership to help build a peaceful and prosperous Sri Lanka.
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Address by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on the 62nd Anniversary of Independence Kandy - 04 Feb, 2010

Today we celebrate the anniversary of Independence after the liberation of the entire country from terrorist threat for the first time in 30 years. I am proud to proclaim that we are in a position to raise the flag of Sri Lanka with dignity in the entire country.
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New Chairman for SLTDA and SLTPB

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 03) - With the resignation of Mr. Bernard Goonatillake from the posts of Chairperson of both the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) and the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), the Private Secretary to the Tourism Minister Eranga Basnayake has been appointed as the Chairperson for both the statutory bodies connected with Tourism in Sri Lanka.
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Trade fair in Trincomalee

Colombo Lankapuvath February 02) - The Chamber of Construction Industry Sri Lanka (CCI) will host “Excon - Trincomalee’ as Sri Lanka’s first regional construction trade fair on February 27 and 28 at the Koneshwaran Hindu College.
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56 ex-LTTE cadres handed over to parents after rehabilitation

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 02) - Another batch of ex-LTTE members, totaling 56, who had undergone rehabilitation have been handed over to their parents.
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President Rajapaksa to tour Russia

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 01) President Mahinda Rajapaksa will be leaving on an official visit to Russia within the next few days.
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All National Parks open to attract more tourists

(Colombo Lankapuvath February 01) - The Wildlife Conservation Department and the Forest Department will open all the 20 game sanctuaries in the country including Wilpattu National Park, located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone. It will be opened to public without delay.
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Drug addiction and abuse on the decrease

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 25) - National Dangerous Drugs Control Board revealed that a majority of drug offenders arrested during the last year were in the age group 30 years or above.
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A Colorful Passing Parade Overlooking the Thambalagamuwa Lagoon

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 25) - A total of 356 recruits from the 142th Regular and 100th Volunteer Course passed out a few days ago at SLAF Base China bay after completing 18 weeks of challenging training.
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War items recovered from Kumana

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 21) SL Troops conducted search operations in the Kumana National Park yesterday (20).
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Spread of Dengue on the decrease

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 21) The dengue epidemic which was spreading rapidly in the country is now under control said Deputy Director Public Health Dr. Palitha Maheepala.
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More LTTE ammo uncovered

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 20) SL troops conducting search operations in Mullatiivu were able to recover more ammo from Mullaittivu yesterday (20).
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Assistance from Japan to Construction of 5 Bridges in the Eastern Province

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 20) - The Government of Japan provided grant assistance amounting to Japanese Yen 29 million (approximately Rs. 36 million) for the purpose of preparing detailed designs for the construction of 5 bridges in the Eastern Province.
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Jacqueline receives her due at Max Stardust Awards

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 20) Sri Lankan model, Jacqueline Fernandez who debuted in ALADIN received her due at the Max Stardust Awards 2010.
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11th SAG baton lighting at Adams Peak, Sri Lanka

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 20) Sri Lanka gets the honours of lighting the baton relay for the 11th South Asian Games (SAG).
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President opens Gampaha flyover

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 18) - President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared open the flyover at Gampaha this morning.
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Jaffna Education Fair 2010

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 18) –Pico Events, have scheduled Jaffna Education Fair 2010 for September.
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Biggest passenger vessel built by CDP handed over

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 18) - The first ocean going passenger vessel of the 250 passenger built by the Colombo Dockyard PLC (CDP) for Union Territories of Lakshadweep, Government of India was handed over at the flagging off ceremony, last Friday (15).
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New post offices to Killinochchi and Mullaitivu

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 18) Steps were taken by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunication to open post offices in the areas where IDP are resettled.
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Sri Lanka takes steps to boost tourism industry

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 13) - Sri Lankan government is to implement a dual programme to boost the tourism industry, Tourism Minister, Achala Jagoda, said yesterday.
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Measures to develop heritage cities

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 13) - Urban Development and Sacred Area Development Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said the Government plans to expedite the economic development programs by considering all religious and heritage sites in all four religions in the country.
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Japan Extends Rs.103 million Grass-Roots Level Assistance to Sri Lanka

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 13) - The Government of Japan has provided a sum of Rs.103 million for one demining project in Mannar and Vavuniya districts and three livelihood and development projects in Jaffna, Batticaloa and Matara districts to accelerate resettlement process and to improve the lives of people at the grass-roots level.
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India to assist construction of Northern Railway line

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 12) India and Sri Lanka signed a commercial agreement yesterday (11) for the construction of the railway line between Omanthai and Pallai in the Northern Province.
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No limitations to visit Madhu Church

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 12) Limitations on visiting Madhu Church were lifted with effect from today (12).
| read more

President opens Pannipitiya fly over

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 12) President Mahinda Rajapaksa declared open the Pannipitiya Fly over this morning (12).
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Journalist J S Thissanayagam granted bail

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 11) Appeal Court granted bail amounting to Rs 50000 by the Appeal court on Medical Grounds for Journalist J S Thissanayagam today (11).
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More AP mines recovered by demining teams

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 11) Troops engaged in the demining process in the northern areas recovered a large haul of AP mines yesterday (10).
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China tea trade delegation visits FCCISL

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 11) - The Yunnan Province Sub Council of China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) led a 17-member strong trade delegation from the tea sector of China to the Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sri Lanka (FCCISL), recently.
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Sri Lanka stock exchange to open branch in Jaffna

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 11) - Sri Lanka’s Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) is planning to open a branch in Jaffna next month to cater the vast demand from the business community in Jaffna.
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Over 700 rehabilitated LTTE cadres to be released

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 08) The Government of Sri Lanka has decided to release 713 rehabilitated LTTE cadres tomorrow (09).
| read more

Kandy to get World Heritage City Foundation

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 08) Cabinet granted approval to a memorandum to establish the Kandy World Heritage City Foundation.
| read more

First ever Buddhist Encyclopedia now complete

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 08) The first-ever International English medium Encyclopedia of Buddhism is now complete, says its Chief Editor Dr. W.G. Weeraratne.
| read more

A-9 road open throughout the day

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 07) - The A-9 road which was earlier open for a limited time will now be open throughout the day as from midnight yesterday (06).
| read more

World Bank to assist in Emergency Northern Recovery Project

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 07) The Cabinet approved the memorandum submitted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Minister of Finance and Planning to obtain financial aid from the world bank for the Emergency Northern Recovery Project.
| read more

De-mining teams recover more AP mines in Vavuniya

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 07) Teams engaged in the demining process in Vavuniya were able to recover AP mines from the area.
| read more

More IDPs resettled in Jaffna HSZ

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 07) Another 509 families were resettled in the High Security Zone (HSZ) of the Jaffna Peninsula.
| read more

Pension for migrant workers

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 06) Steps will be taken to introduce a pension scheme for the migrant workers serving in the Middle East countries said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
| read more

Hotel Dolphin wins ITS Red Star Award

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 06) - Club Hotel Dolphin, managed by Serendib Leisure Management, a subsidiary of Hemas Holdings Plc, brought honour to Sri Lanka by winning the ITS Red Star Award under the ITS program managed by the REWE Group, Germany, recently.
| read more

Prabha’s personal weapon and Body armour recovered

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 06) A weapon which is believed to be used by the slain LTTE leader Velupille Prabhakaran has been found by the Vavuniya Police Crime Unit.
| read more

Kilinochchi General Hospital gets an X-ray unit

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 06) An X-Ray unit at General Hospital, Kilinochchi was declared open recently by the Governor, Northern Province Major Genaral G A Chandrasiri.
| read more

CSE second best performing stock market in world completes best year in history

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 06) - Overcoming the challenges experienced in past two years (2007 and 2008) the CSE completed its best year in history in 2009, said Nihal Fonseka, Chairman Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE). The performance of the CSE during the 2009 made it the second best performing Stock Market in the world.
| read more

CSE COMPLETES ITS BEST YEAR IN HISTORY TO BECOME THE 2^ND BEST PERFORMING STOCK MARKET GLOBALLY

The Chairman of the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE), Mr Nihal Fonseka, announced today that the CSE completed its best year in history in 2009, overcoming the challenges experienced in 2007 and 2008. The performance of the CSE during the year 2009 made it the 2nd best performing Stock Market in the world, according to Bloomberg Newswire.
| read more

CB revises interest rates for paying additional interest on deposits of Senior Citizens

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 05) - The Monetary Board of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka has revised the ceilings on interest rates that may be paid by registered finance companies (RFCs) on deposits with them. In revising the interest rates, the Monetary Board has considered the declining trend in market interest rates and the need for addressing the liquidity constraints of finance companies.
| read more

Troops recover 2000kg of explosives from Mullaittivu

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 05) Troops conducting search operations in Mullaittuvu were able to recover a large haul of explosives from the area yesterday (04).
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Injuries keep away Dilshan and Chamara from 02nd ODI against India

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 05) Sri Lankan top player Thilakarathne Dilshan and Chamara Silva will not be available for today’s One Day International (ODI) match against India.
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SLAF war heroes honoured

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 05) A function “Guwan Viru Upahara&rdqou; to honour the war heroes of the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) was organized held at the Sri Lanka Air Force at the Ekala Air Force Base yesterday (04).
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LTTE’s captured ship to be exhibited

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 24) The LTTE ship ‘Kristina&rsqou; which was captured in the territorial waters of a South Eastern country and brought to the island on Monday will be on display.
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Archbishop of Colombo wishes all God’s abundant blessings for this Christmas

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 24) The celebration of the feast of the Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus, should not simply be the commemoration of historic event nor should it be just the celebration of a birth said Archbishop of Colombo Rev Dr Malcolm Ranjith in his message for Christmas.
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Foreign inflow high at CSE in 2009

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 02) - At the end of the last year (2009) the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) recoded a 38 percent foreign inflow which accounted for 25.1 percent of the total purchases and local companies have accounted for 33.3 percent whereas Sri Lankans accounted for 38.8 percent.
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Sri Lanka’s gems stun Jaipur

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 02) - National Gem and Jewellery Authority said that the National Gem and Jewellery Authority organized “Sri Lanka Pavilion” at the seventh Jaipur Jewellery Show in Jaipur India recently for the first time.
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Foreign Ministry to focus on a “people centered foreign policy” in the New Year

(Colombo Lankapuvath January 02) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs would work towards building on a people centred foreign policy in the year 2010 while continuing to work towards consolidating on the follow up to counter terrorism measures with foreign governments. These observations were made by Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama at a function to mark the dawn of the New Year at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday 1st January 2010.
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Search and clearing operations in North and East continue

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 30) Troops conducting further search operations in Mullattivu recovered explosives hidden in the area yesterday (29).
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Large numbers travel on A9 road

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 30) Massive crowds have travelled via the A9 highway this festive season.
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Curfew completely lifted in Jaffna from tomorrow

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 30) The curfew in the Jaffna peninsula will be lifted from midnight tomorrow (31).
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Unnachchiya Tank renovated

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 30) The Unnachchiya Tank in the Eastern Province which was totally destroyed due to the 30 year long terrorist activities has been renovated.
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Education a link between Sri Lanka and India - Indian High Commissioner

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 21) - Participating at a reception held by the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka at Hotel Taj Samudra last week to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Minister of Education of Independent India, and to celebrate International “Students’ Day”, Higher Education Minister Prof. Wiswa Warnapala highlighted the achievements and contributions of Maulana Azad in the field of education. He thanked India for assistance extended to Sri Lanka in the field of education.
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Canada relaxes travel advice to SL

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 21) - An LTTE arms Vessel identified as “Princess Cristina” has been seized and is now being brought to Colombo, a Navy official said.
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Canada relaxes travel advice to SL

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 18) The Government of Canada has changed its Travel Report on Sri Lanka. While the new report advises appropriate caution, it no longer recommends prospective visitors to avoid non-urgent travel.
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President receive blessings of Maha Sangha

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 18) President Mahinda Rajapaksa subsequent to handing of nominations for the forthcoming Presidential Elections, paid homage to the sacred Temple of Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy yesterday (17).
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Upgrading of Provincial Road System

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 18) Cabinet granted approval to a memorandum submitted by President Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Minister of Finance and Planning to receive SDR 66.1 million from the World Bank for the implementation of Provincial Road System Development Programme.
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FACES of Presidential Candidates of Sri Lanka 2010

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 18) - Yesterday (17th) Election Commissioner accepted the Nomination papers of 22 candidates for forthcoming Presidential Election. That of one candidate was rejected.
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Jaffna a tourist hub soon

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 15) - The picturesque beach fronts in Karainagar and Kayts Island in the Jaffna Peninsula will be developed to attract tourists.
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UN gifts more equipment to speed up the demining process

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 17) Sri Lanka received more mine detectors and accessories from the United Nations (UN) to accelerate the demining process.
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If you want early results do not cause disturbances at polling booths-Election Chief

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 17) The nominations for the Presidential Election were handed over to the Elections Commissioner Dayananda Dissanayake at the Election Secretariat in Rajagiriya this morning (17).
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A massive stock of chemicals used by the LTTE recovered

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 16) In search operations conducted in the Puthukuduirippu and Devapuram areas troops recovered several cans of chemicals yesterday (15).
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ADB to upgrade about 250 km of rural access roads

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 16) - Isolated rural villages in Sri Lanka will be connected to provincial road networks through an innovative project that will work closely with local governments to employ poor villagers, particularly women, to rehabilitate and maintain rural access roads in their area, a release from the Asian Development Bank stated.
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President Rajapaksa anticipates a revolution in SL dairy farming

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 16) President Mahinda Rajapaksa stated a professional revolution in dairy farming in Sri Lanka with self-sufficiency in dairy produce in the not too distant future was his cherished goal.
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Jaffna a tourist hub soon

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 15) - The picturesque beach fronts in Karainagar and Kayts Island in the Jaffna Peninsula will be developed to attract tourists.
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Booby traps uncovered from Mullaittivu

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 15) Troops engaged in search and clearing operations were able to recover several Booby traps and claymore mines from Mullaittivu.
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President says he would always defend the Security Forces

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 15) President Mahinda Rajapaksa stressed that he would not betray the security Forces at any time.
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A meeting between Navy Chief and fishing communities

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 14) Navy Commander Vice Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe met representatives of Fishing Societies of Trincomalee recently.
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More ammos unearthed from Mullaittivu

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 14) Troops conducting search operations in Mullaittuvu were able to recover more war like items from the area yesterday (13).
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President emphasizes the role of the Police in the combat against underworld

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 14) The police play a major role in dealing with the underworld and the honour of minimizing the underworld activities and arresting underworld kingpins goes to the Police.
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Sri Lankan safe lamp project wins BBC World’s World Challenge 09

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 08) - This Saturday (05), BBC World News will broadcast the final programme of its popular World Challenge 09 series, announcing the ‘safe bottle lamp project’ as the winner.
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Text books distribution ceremony in the North tomorrow

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 08) The national ceremony for distributing books for the year 2010 will be held at the Wembadi Vidyalaya, Jaffna tomorrow (09).
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Sri Lanka earns Second Olympic silver medal

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 08) Sri Lanka’s Athlete, black Stallion, Susanthika Jayasinhga will receive the Olympic Silver medal on Wednesday (09).
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President says the Government is committed to the welfare of war heroes

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 08) President Mahinda Rajapaksa said that he was exceptionally pleased to have been able to change common attitudes of the public about War Heroes by establishing great institutes like these for the benefit of the children of the War heroes.
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Developing country, President’s objective - Senior Presidential Advisor

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 07) - President Mahinda Rajapaksa’s objective is to develop the country after obtaining a clear mandate from all the people including those in the North and East, said Senior Presidential Advisor Basil Rajapaksa MP.
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KKS harbour to be renovated

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 07) - Steps are under way to renovate the Kankesanthurai harbour which would soon operate as a modern commercial harbour at a cost of Rs.100 million, in line with the rapid development process in the country’s sea transportation system.
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It is the responsibility of everyone to work towards a religious revival in the country - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 07) It is every body's duty and utmost responsibility to build a better and a religious minded future generation to the country said President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
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Outer-circular Highway project launches today

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 07) The construction of the first phase of the Outer-circular Highway project commences today (07).
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Over 9300 IDPs visit relations

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 02) The Government yesterday (Dec 1) allowed freedom of movement for the Internally Displaced People, who were housed in Government run welfare centres in the north.
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Working class made numerous sacrifices in defeating terrorism - President

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 02) Sri Lanka’s working class had firmly stood by the Government and supported its endeavour to defeat terrorism, despite various attempts to mislead them.
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Thousands climb Sri Pada on first day

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 02) The annual Sri Pada season began yesterday and will continue until the Vesak Poya next year (May 2010).
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Statement by SAARC Heads of Missions in New York on Climate Change

We the Permanent Representatives of the SAARC countries to the United Nations in New York express our deepest concern about global climate change and its unfolding impact on the lives and livelihood of our people in the South Asia Region, which is home to 1.5 billion people.
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Lak Sathosa turnover tops Rs 765 M

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 04) - As a result of the lower prices of essential items stipulated by the Government to provide relief to consumers, for the first time history Lak Sathosa has recorded a significant turnover of Rs 765 million in November.
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Displaced Jaffana voters to cast their vote in Colombo

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 04) An office was open at the Wellawatte Post Office premises yesterday (03) where the displaced Jaffna voters list is kept for inspection.
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Country’s economy is driven by the women population - Dr. Amunugama

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 04) - The contribution made by women to the national economy amounts to over US$ 7.2 billion, Public Administration and Home Affairs Minister and Minister Deputy Finance Minister Dr. Sarath Amunugama revealed.
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Sri Lanka Insurance creates history

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 04) - Around Rs. 3 billion has been declared by Sri Lanka Insurance Corporation Limited (SLIC) as interim bonus, creating history in the insurance industry.
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Inflation in November 2009

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 03) - The annual average inflation rate, as measured by the Colombo Consumer’s Price Index (CCPI) (2002=100), computed by the Department of Census and Statistics, decelerated further to 4.1 per cent in November, 2009 from 5.2 per cent in October 2009, for the thirteenth consecutive month since November 2008.
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“Invest Sri Lanka - Time is now’

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 03) - The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Singapore and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Sri Lanka jointly organized a seminar titled,“Invest Sri Lanka - Time is now’recently at the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore with the twin objectives of disseminating first hand information on emerging business opportunities in Sri Lanka in the post conflict era and attracting institutional investors in Singapore to invest in Colombo Stock Exchange, which is one of the five best performing markets at present.
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Children must be protected from the dangers in the cyber space at any cost-President

(Colombo Lankapuvath December 03) Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa addressing the inauguration ceremony of the e-Asia 2009, conference and exhibition expressed that in order to take ICT led development to the next level, Sri Lankan officials are in the process of preparing the next phase of the National ICT Master Plan, which will see e-Sri Lanka 2, delivering the fruits of ICT to the citizens of our country over the next decade.
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New Edition of National Atlas Sri lanka

The Surveyor General of Surveyor Department of Sri Lanka has informed that they have launched the Second Edition of National Atlas in English, marking another milestone in its history of 208 years, presenting the first copy to his Excellency of President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a ceremony held at Temple Trees.
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4000 students to sit O/L

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 30) - Around 4000 resettled students in Vavuniya and welfare Villages have applied to sit for the Ordinary Level Examination.
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Act firmly against LTTE supporters: Vasan

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 30) - The police should firmly deal with demonstrations of support for the banned Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), said Union Minister of Shipping G.K. Vasan in India on Saturday (28).
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Free and fair election assured - Elections Commissioner

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 30) - The Elections Commissioner Dayananda Disanayake has pledged to hold a free and fair election. Local and international election monitors will be provided to facilitate this process.
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EU provides Rs.4.6 bn to the rehabilitation of the Southern Coastal Road

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 27) - The newly rehabilitated southern coastal road stands as a landmark of post-tsunami recovery while promoting a long term alliance between the people of the South and East of the Island.
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French court rules 21 LTTE activists guilty of involvement

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 27) - A French Court sentenced 21 LTTE activists found guilty of financing terrorist activities of the LTTE in Sri Lanka, while the Tamil Coordinating Committee of France (known as the CCTF) which was identified as the “legal front” of the LTTE in France, was ruled to be dissolved. The verdict was given on Monday 23rd, by the Paris Court.
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Over 63% qualify at A/Ls

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 27) The results of the Advanced Level (A/L) examination were released by the Examination Department yesterday (26).
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France donates Rs 1,600m to upgrade hospitals

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 27) The International Cricket Stadium in Pallakele Kandy was declared open today (27).
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“Mahinda Chinthanaya” is a continuing concept - President Rajapaksa

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 27) - Addressing the Media yesterday (26) at Temple Trees President Mahinda Rajapaksa said credit for the victory in the war against terrorism should be shared by all personnel including three military commanders and the political leadership.
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France donates Rs 1,600m to upgrade hospitals

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 17) - The French Government will donate Rs 1,600 million to upgrade hospitals in Sri Lanka on a request of Healthcare and Nutrition Minister.
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More international assistance to rehabilitate ex LTTE cadres

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 17) The government is seeking the assistance of the UN agencies, international donors and the local business community in rehabilitating over 11,000 former LTTE cadres.
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Heroes are born from the Patriotic forces says President

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 17) Heroes are only be made by the patriotic forces who truly love their Motherland.
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Scholarships for children of war heroes

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 17) Children of war heroes who sacrificed their lives and those who were disabled in the war against terrorism were awarded with scholarships by H.E the President Mahinda Rajapaksa at the Temple Trees yesterday (16).
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President Rajapaksa’s fourth year of Executive presidency feted

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 19) President Mahinda Rajapaksa celebrates 04 years of Executive Presidency today (19).
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Sir John Holmes, visiting Sri Lanka is under “more positive circumstances”

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 19) - The UN Under-Secretary -General for Humanitarian Affairs, Sir John Holmes, who is on an official visit to Sri Lanka from 17th to 19th November 2009 called on Foreign Minister Rohitha Bogollagama yesterday (18) at the Ministry.
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Mahela creates Test history

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 19) The Test series which began on the 16th of November against India in Ahmedabad, India, turned in favour of Sri Lanka.
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Myanmar leader concludes Sri Lanka visit

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 16) - Concluding a successful four-day official tour in Sri Lanka, the visiting leader of Myanmar left the country yesterday (15).
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Revenue by tea, rubber and coconut increases

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 16) - Ministry of Plantation Industry revealed that income from the tea, rubber and coconut exports during the first nine months of 2009 has increased.
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LTTE not only armed, trained ULFA too- Former rebel Sunil Nath

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 16) - On top of revelations that the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) bought arms from the Tamil Tigers, a former ULFA leader now says the Assamese separatist group also got military training from the Sri Lankan rebels.
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Indian Minister Pranab - President Rajapaksa discuss resettlement of IDPs

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 16) - Elimination of LTTE terrorism that lasted for three decades has given Sri Lanka a historic opportunity to bring permanent peace and stability to the country, India's Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said on Saturday.
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“Api Wenuwen Api” housing fund builds 1509 houses

(Colombo Lankapuvath November 12) The houses built by the "Api Wenuwen Api" fund will be handed over to 1509 valiant soldiers on 22nd November by H.E. the President Mahinda Rajapaksa, said additional Secretary of Ministry of Defence Mr. Willy Gamage at a media briefing at Media Centre for National Security premises.
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Myanmar President in Sri Lanka today

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 12) - The Head of State of Myanmar, Senior General Than Shwe and Madam will be in Sri Lanka from today (12 )-15 November 2009 on a State Visit. The President of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa made a State Visit to Myanmar at the invitation of the Head of State of Myanmar in June this year to commemorate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
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Sri Lanka Gems Captivate the Chinese Consumer Market

(Colombo-Lankapuvath-November 12) - The Sri Lanka Embassy in Beijing together with the National Gem and Jewelry Authority and Gem and Jewelry Association organized a colorful Sri Lanka Pavilion at the Internati