Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Mizukoshi Hideaki and Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Economic Stabilization and National Policies – Mr. K. M. M. Siriwardana yesterday (14) signed an Exchange of Note for providing JPY 1.23 billion in order to improve power supply vulnerability at hospitals.
This signing ceremony was held with the President of JICA – Dr. Tanka Akihiko and Dr. P. G. Mahipala, the Secretary of the Ministry of Health.
This grant aims to reduce carbon footprint and ease the financial burden on energy costs at Sri Jayewardenepura General Hospital, Teaching Hospital Ratnapura, and Teaching Hospital Kurunegala. With this assistance, the recipient hospitals will be equipped with solar power facilities, ensuring reliable electricity supply and contributing to achieving Sri Lanka’s goal of over 70% of electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
This project, similar to the fuel assistance, contributes to enhancing Sri Lanka’s healthcare infrastructure. The introduction of solar power facilities aims to improve the resilience of these healthcare institutions and contribute to the well-being of the Sri Lankan people. The collaboration signifies a strong commitment to improving healthcare services and promoting sustainable energy solutions, underlining the bilateral relations between Japan and Sri Lanka.
The embassy also notes that the Japanese government looks forward to a successful implementation of the solar power facilities, supporting Sri Lanka in achieving renewable energy goals and fostering a greener future.
Former Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella has been further remanded until June 03.
Colombo Chief Magistrate Thanuja Lakmali ordered to remand Rambukwella following his arrest by the Commission to Investigate Allegations of Bribery or Corruption (CIABOC) in over three complaints related to alleged corruption.
The court also granted permission to name Rambukwella’s son – Ramith Rambukwella, as a suspect in the case.
The magistrate issued the order after considering the submissions made by both the CIABOC and the defense counsel.
A gazette notification has been issued for the import of salt.
Controller General of Imports – Upulmali Premathilaka states that a gazette notification has been issued allowing the import of salt until June 10th.
Accordingly, a license is not required to import salt.
She noted that any importer who has recommendations from the Ministry of Health can import salt and that it is possible to import non-iodized and table salt under this.
Meanwhile, Minister of Trade, Commerce and Food Security Wasantha Samarasinghe stated that 250 MT of salt for consumption will be imported into the country today (May 20).
The Minister also stated that the salt stocks imported from India will arrive in the country soon.