News

Special security & traffic plan over Iranian President’s visit

Published

11 months ago

April 24, 2024

editor

In anticipation of the visit by Iranian President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi to Sri Lanka on Wednesday (24), Sri Lanka Police have announced a comprehensive security program and traffic plan.

Police Spokesman DIG Attorney Nihal Thalduwa disclosed that the security arrangements will encompass areas designated for the Iranian President’s travel.

Additionally, support from the Police Special Task Force and the Tri-Forces will be enlisted to ensure the safety of the visit.

As part of the traffic plan, several road closures are scheduled. The Colombo-Katunayake Expressway will be closed from 2-3pm and 9:30-10:30pm on Wednesday. Moreover, multiple roads in Mattala, Thanamalvila, Wellawaya, and Uma Oya will be closed from 9:45-11am.

The Police Spokesman said the road leading from the Colombo-Katunayake Expressway to the Orugudawatta Junction in Peliyagoda, Dematagoda to the D. S. Senanayake Junction in Borella, Horton Place, Horton Place Roundabout, Green Path, Library Roundabout, Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Liberty Roundabout, R. A. De Mel Mawatha, St. Michael’s Road, the road leading from Galle Road to Colombo Fort and the road to Hilton Hotel will be closed during specified times.

President Raisi’s visit itinerary includes the inauguration of a hydropower plant within the Uma Oya Multipurpose Project upon his arrival at Mattala International Airport at 9:30am.

Subsequently, he will proceed to Colombo for an official reception, where five bilateral agreements will be signed.

A special statement by the two Heads of State is also expected during this event.

Dr. Ebrahim Raisi, who assumed the presidency of Iran in 2021, previously served as the Chief Justice of Iran and Attorney General from 2019 to 2021 and 2014 to 2016, respectively.

His visit to Sri Lanka follows a three-day visit to Pakistan.

News

Police media spokesman resigns

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

The Sri Lanka Police Media Spokesman SSP Buddhika Manatunga has tendered his resignation from the position.

According to reports, he has handed over his letter of resignation to the Acting IGP Priyantha Weerasooriya.

News

Speaker endorses certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

Hon. Speaker of Parliament endorses the certificate on the Bill

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed without amendments in Parliament today (20).

The debate on the Second Reading of this Bill was held today from 5:40 PM to 7:10 PM. Subsequently, following the consideration of the Bill at the Committee Stage, the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was passed in Parliament.

The Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill was presented to Parliament for its First Reading on 01.03.2025.

Furthermore, Speaker, Dr. Jagath Wickramaratne endorsed the certificate on Inland Revenue (Amendment) Bill today (20), in accordance with Article 79 of the Constitution.

Accordingly, this Bill will be enforced as the Inland Revenue (Amendment) Act No. 02 of 2025.

News

Japan provides fire trucks to Sri Lanka

Published

9 hours ago

March 20, 2025

editor

The Government of Japan, through a grant assistance of JPY 300 million, has decided to provide state-of-the-art Japanese fire trucks to the Government of Sri Lanka to strengthen disaster response capabilities in the country’s Export Processing Zones (EPZs), ensuring a safer business environment and contributing to economic and social stability.

Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka – Mr. Akio Isomata SOMATA and Secretary of the Finance Ministry – Mr. K. M. M. Siriwardana, today (March 20) signed and exchanged notes in Colombo on this grant assistance.

The EPZs play a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s economy by attracting investment and driving industrial growth.

The increasing risks of fire hazards and other emergencies risk hampering its critical functions.

The Japanese fire trucks, equipped with cutting-edge technology, will bolster the capacity of EPZs, safeguarding businesses, workers, and communities.

The project also underscores Japan’s unwavering commitment to addressing Sri Lanka’s socio-economic challenges and promoting sustainable development.