News

Chinese ambassador meets Speaker (Pics)

Published

2 weeks ago

January 3, 2025

editor

The Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka – Mr. Qi Zhenhong, paid a courtesy call on the newly elected Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka – Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne on Jan. 01 at the Parliamentary premises.

The meeting was also attended by the Secretary General of Parliament, Mrs. Kushani Rohanadeera.

During the meeting, Ambassador Qi Zhenhong presented the letter of greetings from Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China (Speaker of the Parliament of the People’s Republic of China) – Hon. Zhao Leji to the newly elected Speaker.

The Ambassador extended New Year wishes and emphasized the longstanding cooperation between the two nations. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between two legislative bodies in the future, particularly through exchange programs.

The Speaker reflected on his prior experience as Deputy Director of the China – Sri Lanka Friendship National Nephrology Specialized Hospital in Polonnaruwa and expressed gratitude for Chinese development projects in Sri Lanka, which have been highly beneficial to the people of Sri Lanka. He also expressed interest in reviving the Sri Lanka-China Parliamentary Friendship Association in the Tenth Parliament to strengthen ties between two parliaments.

Ambassador Qi further highlighted the preparations underway for the first state visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to China, describing that this historical event would further enhance bilateral relations.

News

Writ petition against Mannar Wind Power Project fixed for May 23

Published

2 minutes ago

January 17, 2025

editor

A writ petition seeking an order to prevent authorities from issuing any permits or approvals for carrying out the wind power plant project on Mannar Island was yesterday fixed for May 23 by the Court of Appeal.

The petition was filed by the President of the Sri Lanka Green Organization, Sanka Chandima Abhayawardena. Counsel appearing on behalf of the Attorney General informed Court that several important applications related to the matter are scheduled to be called before the Supreme Court in March.

The Attorney General’s Department further stated that the Government has not yet made a final decision regarding the project. Taking these facts into consideration, Court of Appeal Judge S. U. B. Karalliyadde scheduled the petition for May 23.

The Petitioner stated that the Cabinet of Ministers of previous regime, has purportedly decided to award the Construction and operation of the Mannar Wind Power Project (Phase-II) in the Mannar Island to Adani Green Energy Sri Lanka Limited (AGESL), as a Build, Own and Operate (BOO) project for a period of 25 years.

(DailyNews)

(This story, originally published by DailyNews has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

SJB appoints committee for talks on working together with UNP

Published

9 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

The Working Committee of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) has approved a proposal for discussions to work together with the United National Party (UNP).

Accordingly, a five-member committee, headed by SJB General Secretary – Ranjith Madduma Bandara, has been appointed for the discussions.

News

China pledges to back sovereignty, territorial integrity & independence of SL (Video)

Published

10 hours ago

January 16, 2025

editor

Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) of China, stated that China is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence.

This statement was made during a meeting between President Anura Kumar Disanayake and Zhao Leji, which took place earlier today (Jan. 16) as part of President Disanayake’s four-day official visit to China.

During the meeting, Chairman Zhao warmly welcomed President Disanayake, further emphasizing that working with Sri Lanka in a continuous and cooperative manner is a key expectation of the Chinese National People’s Congress.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism – Vijitha Herath, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation – Bimal Rathnayake, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka – Qi Zhenhong and Sri Lankan Ambassador to China – Majintha Jayesinghe, were also present at the event.

(President’s Media Division)