Protection for Lankans living abroad

Protection for Lankans living abroad

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched a programme to protect Sri Lankan nationals living abroad from attacks by LTTE sympathizers following the defeat of LTTE terrorism in the country and foreign ministries in all countries have been briefed on strengthening security for Sri Lankans.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama has held discussions with relevant governments to provide additional security for Sri Lankan nationals. Also, the minister has made a special appeal to provide additional security to Sri Lankan missions abroad.Under the Geneva Convention, parties to the agreement are bound to provide security to foreign embassies in their countries.

Sri Lankan Americans Hold Peace Rally in Washington

Sri Lankan Americans Hold Peace Rally in Washington

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 23, 2009) – Several hundred Sri Lankan Americans and friends of Sri Lanka gathered in Washington today for a daylong peace rally in support of the Sri Lankan victory over the LTTE earlier this week. Billed as Sri Lanka: One nation – under one flag, the rally organized by "We are Sri Lankans" was held in the shadow of The White House.The rally was attended by Sri Lankan Americans cutting across ethnic and religious persuasions. They hailed from several parts of the country including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Ohio, Michigan, Kansas, New Jersey, New York and Washington, D.C."Today’s rally was a show of solidarity in response to the government's humanitarian mission to rescue thousands of civilians and put an end to the 26-year-old conflict with the LTTE and widespread terrorism," said one of the rally’s organizers. "We are now a fully sovereign nation under one flag and one democratic ideal. We are now fortunate to move forward as a stronger and more peaceful, prosperous society." For more information, please visit http://www.wearesrilankans.com/.

Jinnah Scholarship Scheme 2009

Jinnah Scholarship Scheme 2009

The annual function for distribution of the Jinnah Scholarship among deserving Sri Lankan students of A Level, O Level and Bachelors programs (2006-07 results) was held in Colombo on May 14, 2009 under the auspices of the Pakistan High Commission. Hon Minister for Education Mr. Susil Premajayantha was the Chief Guest on this occasion.

Picture:
The Hon. Minister for Eduation Mr. Susil Premajayantha is awarding Jinnah Scholarship to a student in a function organized by Pakistan High commission in Colombo recently. The High Commissioner of Pakistan is also seen in the Photo. The Pakistan High Commission this year has awarded the 158 Jinnah Scholarship, sponsored by Government of Pakistan among the Sri Lanka students of O/Level, A/Level and Bachelor Programs.
The Government of Pakistan is funding the studies of deserving and top performing Sri Lankan students under this scheme. In 2007, during the launch of the Jinnah Scholarship Scheme, 85 students had received their stipends followed by 100 in next year. However, in view of the importance of this project which has served as yet another cementing block for bilateral friendly relations between Pakistan and Sri Lanka , the Government of Pakistan this year has decided to grant Jinnah Scholarship to 158 best Sri Lankan students, in the three categories.

Separate merit lists for O Level, A Level and Bachelors students are compiled, considering their results. Each successful student is given a stipend of SL Rs. 24,000/- (twenty four thousand) to assist in their studies.

In addition, Pakistan also offers sixteen scholarships to deserving students every year in Medicine and Engineering to pursue their higher professional education in Pakistan .

The High Commissioner, Shaheen A Gilani, in his brief remarks during the ceremony emphasized the importance of sharing bilateral capacities enabling socio-economic uplift of our peoples. He reiterated Pakistan ’s continued support to Sri Lanka in enhancing our younger generations nation-building capacities with better educational opportunities. He stated that only strong societies will have the resilience to sustain against emerging challenges; “strong societies make stronger nations. We need to help each other to be stronger in the face of contemporary challenges.”

The Chief Guest Mr. Susil Premajayantha thanked the Government of Pakistan for their unconditional and unequivocal support to Sri Lanka in the socio-economic domain

Pakistan felicitates Sri Lanka on great victory over terrorism

Pakistan felicitates Sri Lanka on great victory over terrorism

Pakistan felicitates Sri Lanka on great victory over terrorism

Pakistan has felicitated the Government of Sri Lanka on the achievement of the “great victory over terrorism”. This congratulatory message was conveyed to Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hussein A. Bhaila by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan who telephoned the latter 20th May 2009. Speaking further, the Pakistan State Minister stated that Pakistan has always been a steadfast friend of Sri Lanka and strongly supported the country’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity and re-affirmed his Government’s continued cooperation with Sri Lanka in countering terrorism. He requested the Deputy Minister to convey his good wishes and felicitations to President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister, Rohitha Bogollagama. Deputy Minister Bhaila, reciprocating the warm sentiments of his Pakistan counterpart, pointed out that the Government and the people of Sri Lanka have considered Pakistan as a true friend of Sri Lanka, which has always stood by it in times of need. Therefore, he deeply appreciated his Pakistan colleague’s spontaneous gesture to telephone and convey the congratulations of the Pakistan Government on the defeat of terrorism in Sri Lanka, which is indeed a great victory for all peace loving people in the country.

Jaffna and vavniya Local Government election soon

the Government will hold the local government elections for the Jaffna Municipal Council and the Vavuniya Urban Council soon. The Gazette Notification in this connection was to be issued last night. Nominations for the election will be announced on June 4.
According to Local Government and Provincial Councils Minister Janaka Bandara Tennakoon, establishment of local government bodies in the North would give an impetus for development and democracy in the Northern province which was battered by terrorism for almost three decades.

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U.N. Secretary-General visits IDPs in Chettikulam

U.N. Secretary-General visits IDPs in Chettikulam

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon visited the displaced ersons camps in Chettikulam with Minister of Foreign Affairs Rohitha Bogollagama today(23) .
The U.N. Secretary-General was pleased with the facilities given to the IDPs by the Government , sources said. Minister of Resettlement and Disaster Relief Services Risath Bathiyutheen told news.lk that the U.N. Secretary-General’s visit was appreciated by the IDPs warmly.

Government Agent of Vauniya S.M.Charles and Army Chief of Staff Major General G. A. Chandrasiri accompanied the U.N. Secretary-General in tour.Ban Ki-moon is scheduled to meet President Mahinda Rajapaksa later this evening in Kandy.

I will never allow this nation to be divided again- President

I will never allow this nation to be divided again- President

President Mahinda Rajapaksa,conferred with the highest national award-"Wishwa Keerthi Sri ThreeSinhaladeeshwara" at the Magul Maluwa in the historic Dalada Maligawa,Kandy today by the Malwatte and Asgiriya Chapters solemnly pledged to protect the nation that he united with his life, and to ensure that it will never be divided again.
An emotionally moved President said the blessings of the Maha Sangha was the greatest strenght in the effort to unite the divided nation after thirty years, and placed his reverence at the feet of the venerable maha sangha.He recalled with gratitude the yeoman service rendered by the Defence Secretary, Service Chiefs,IGP and the gallant armed forces in the battle to protect and unite this country

UN Chief arrives in Sri Lanka

UN Secretary General arrives in Sri Lanka

United Nations Secretary General,Ban Ki-moon arrived in Colombo last night.He is now in Kandy for an audience with President Mahinda Rajapaksa.The UN Chief is expected to visit several IDP camps during his brief stay.

National War Heroes Commemoration

National War Heroes Commemoration

This is the first War Heroes commemoration rally being held in the country that has obtained complete freedom after 30 years. I address you today a country that is completely free, in a unitary state, under a single national standard.

Many years ago many of you too, did not think it would be possible to defeat the LTTE militarily. Not only you, even the international community did not believe we would be ever able to carry out that task.Some national leaders from abroad told me that the LTTE leader was one who had achieved the best skills in warfare; that he had won in battles against many of our military commanders. The LTTE had both strength and experience. Therefore, we should not go to war with him. They wanted what was already divided to be given to the LTTE.

President Congratulates Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh

President Congratulates Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh

Message of Congratulations from President Mahinda Rajapaksa to Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on his being sworn in as Prime Minister for a second term.

The Government and people of Sri Lanka join me in extending to you our sincere congratulations on your being sworn in once again as Prime Minister of India. Having come to know you closely, I am indeed happy that our association will be strengthened in the years to come as a result of your re-election.

India's prime minister sworn in

India's prime minister sworn in

Dr.Manmohan Singh was sworn in Prime Minister on Friday evening for a second successive term along with 19 Cabinet colleagues as part of the first phase of government formation.

Dr.Singh is serving a secound consecutive term.

(from top) President Pratibha Patil administering the oath of office and secrecy to Manmohan Singh, as Prime Minister, at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday. Being sworn in Ministers are Pranab Mukherjee, Mamata Banerjee and Sharad Pawar.

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International Community welcome

US happy SL war ended
The United States welcomed the end to a three decade old terrorist war in Sri Lanka, reports reaching Colombo said.
The US has now requested the SL government to expedite the process of rehabilitation and reconstruction to facilitate the needs of the displaced.

Russia welcomes news of LTTE defeat

The Government of Russia has extended warmest congratulations to the President and the Government of Sri Lanka on the success achieved by the island nation in defeating LTTE terrorism, Foreign Ministry sources said.
According to the Foreign Ministry, "Russia supports the Sri Lankan government's fight against terrorism and separatism to ensure its sovereignty and territorial integrity," the foreign ministry said in a statement, adding it hoped the conflict's end would bring about "peace, stability and security" in Sri Lanka.
IRAN CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT
The Foreign Minister of Iran, Manouchere Mottaki, has extended his warmest congratulations to the President and the Government of Sri Lanka on the success achieved by the island nation in defeating LTTE terrorism.

According to the Foreign Ministry, the Iranian Foreign Minister has spoken to his counterpart in Sri Lanka, Rohitha Bogollagama over the phone. Mottaki has said that Iran maintained close relations with Sri Lanka and has always condemned terrorism and consistently upheld the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka.Minister Bogollagama pointed out that the government would give utmost priority to the humanitarian exercise underway to provide facilities to the IDPs in the welfare centres

A Peoples President mingle with crowds celebrating nation's victory...

The Peoples President mingle with crowds celebrating nation's victory...

Having accomplished the most important and impossible national task of wiping out LTTE terrorism from the face of the Sri Lankan earth, the man who traversed many a street and every corner in his life and journey in politics, last night was seen mingling with the crowds celebrating the victory over LTTE terrorism in the city of Colombo.
This charismatic personalty, known as the 'Peoples Friend' in all time politics was none other than the Head of State,President Mahinda Rajapaksa, who in his life felt quite comfortable mingling with the crowds. Terrorism distanced him from the people for a brief period.But, his mind was with the people.That was deeply demonstrated last night when the people touched and worshipped him when he made an unannounced,sudden and surprise visit to the city and visited many areas.
President Mahinda Rajapaksa began his surprise visit to the people celebrating the victory of the armed forces, from the President's House and traversed through Thimbirigasyaya, Kirulapona, Nugegoda, Maharagama and cut across through Boralesgamauwa where he paid a sudden visit to a house that had organised a pirith chanting ceremony to invoke blessings on the President, the gallant armed forces and the nation. The people at the venue could not believe their eyes when they saw a familiar face making entry into the venue.The President quite solemn and silent stood in a corner and participated at that religous event.The people there were jubilant and emotionally moved.They later embraced the President, thanked him, touched him and worshipped him for freeing them from the menace of terrorism. He took leave amidst pleas to wait longer with them.
Thereafter, the President visited the Udamaluwa at the Bellanwila Raja Mahaviharaya to pay homage and later met the venerable monks at the temple.The prelates too thanked the Head of State and invoked blessings on him for his remarkable service and dedication to wipe out terrorism to free his nation and the people.At every turn he alighted from his vehicle, the jubilant crowds embraced him and the President moved freely holding the hands of little children, whom he cherished most as a father of three children.He told the crowds, and especially the kids, that he saved the nation for them and completed his (the President's) responsibility by all generations."I want you all to walk freely in your country without fear now.I have saved this country for you.Don't fear now go anywhere you like",a smiling President quipped in an overjoyed style.The little kids around the President hung onto the hands of the President to thank him.In his own inimitable style, the President,with one foot inside the vehicle and the other on the ground waved long and longer to the jubilant crowds reluctant to take his leave, to work another day for the nation and the people.

Pic by; Sudath Silva

President celebrate with the people

President celebrate with the people

President Mahinda Rajapaksa took to the streets last night to celebrate with the people on the victory over the LTTE. Picture shows the President greeting some of revelers at the Boralesgamuwa junction.
Pic by :Sudath Silva

Seven more LTTE leaders identified among the dead

Seven more LTTE leaders identified among the dead
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090520_02

Troops have positively identified bodies of seven LTTE leaders, says defence sources in Wanni.
Accordingly, bodies of self-styled "Brigadier" Soosai, leader of the Sea Tigers, "Lieutenant Colonel" Verti, a senior intelligence leader, "Lieutenant Colonel" Ram Kumar, an Intelligence leader, "Lieutenant Colonel" Manimekala alias Komali , a senior female intelligence leader, "Lieutenant Colonel" Anna Thurai , political head in Batticaloa, "Colonel " Rangan, a senior Sea Tiger leader, "Lieutenant Colonel" Vinodan , a senior intelligence leader have been identified.

Bodies of 18 senior LTTE leaders positively identified

Bodies of 18 senior LTTE leaders positively identified;
clearing operations continue
http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=20090518_11
Armed forces officials have positively identified 18 bodies of senior LTTE cadres including that of Pottu Amman. The following is list of identified LTTE leaders found among the dead today (May 18).

Pottu Amman- LTTE's Intelligence Wing Leader
Bhanu - LTTE military leader
Jeyam- LTTE military leader
B.Nadesan- LTTE political head
S.Pulidevan- Head of LTTE's Peace Secretariat
Ramesh- LTTE special military leader
Ilango- LTTE police chief
Charles Anthony- the eldest son of LTTE chief V. Prabhakaran
Sudharman - aide to LTTE leader's son
Thomas- senior intelligence leader
Luxman - LTTE military leader
Sri Ram- senior sea tiger cadre
Isei Aravi - LTTE female military leader
Kapil Amman - LTTE deputy intelligence leader
Ajanthi- female LTTE training in charge
Wardha - LTTE mortar in charge
Pudiyawan- Secretary to LTTE leader
Jenarthan - Special military leader

Meanwhile, defence sources on the field said that troops are now conducting search and clear operations in area. Troops have so far found over 200 bodies of LTTE cadres along with large stocks lethal weapons. .

Armed forces commanders promoted

Armed forces commanders promoted

The Commanders of the three armed forces have been promoted to the next rank with immediate effect.
Accordingly, the President in his capacity as the Commander-in-chief of the three armed forces promoted Army Commander Lt. General Sarath Fonseka to the rank of General, Navy Commander Vice Admiral Wasantha Karannagoda to the rank of Admiral and Air Force Commander Air Vice Marshal Roshan Gunathilaka to the rank of Air Chief Marshal.
The Presidential media unit says that these promotions were granted in return to the accomplishment of duties assigned in the fight to save the country from terrorism.

DAYA MASTER AND KARUNA IDENTIFIED THE DEAD BODY OF PRABHAKARAN

DAYA MASTER AND KARUNA IDENTIFIED THE DEAD BODY OF PRABHAKARAN

While many LTTE supporters in London refused to accept the death of their leader Velupillai Prabhakaran military sources said two individuals who closely knew Prabhakaran, namely Minister Vinayagamoorti Muralidharan alias karuna Amman and Daya Master have positively identified the dead body as the remains of the LTTE leader.
Karuna Amman was the former deputy leader of the terrorist outfit and Daya Master was the media spokesman of the group in the past. Both traveled to the battlefield to identify the man whom they knew so well.
Sri Lanka Army Commander General Sarath Fonseka in his statement said the dead body of the LTTE leader was found by the 53rd Division troops led by Major General Kamal Gunaratne on Tuesday may 19.
Interviewed by the state owned ITN TV karuna Amman said it was definitely the body of Velupillai Prabhakaran whom he knew so well. He said the Sri Lankan armed forces dedicated their lives and limbs to end this war of 30 years on behalf of the suffering Tamil people of Sri Lanka. Although various international agents attacked Sri Lanka, now many realize the truth karun Amman said. To build a new united Sri Lanka the whole nation should rally round the President he added.
Defence officials said Prabhakaran’s bullet ridden body was discovered near Nanthikadal Lagoon’s marshy area in the Mulaittivu district.
Read more:http://www.lankaweb.com/news/items/2009/05/19/daya-master-and-karuna-have-identified-the-dead-body-of-prabhakaran-as-the-remains-of-the-man-whom-they-knew-so-well/