News

US announces additional commitment of US $24.5 mn to SL

Published

1 month ago

August 9, 2024

editor

The U.S. Embassy in Colombo has announced an additional commitment of US $24.5 million (Rs 7.2 billion) to Sri Lanka.

The additional funding was announced during a visit to Sri Lanka by the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Assistant Administrator of the Bureau for Asia Michael Schiffer at an event at the Ministry of Finance.

USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives Mission Director Gabriel Grau also participated in Friday’s ceremony alongside State Minister of Finance Shehan Semasinghe.

The funds, committed through a Development Objective Grant Agreement between USAID and the government of Sri Lanka, are expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s market-driven growth, foster environmental sustainability and resilience, and promote good governance practices.

As a result of our partnerships across government, non-governmental organizations, and civil society, the funds support collaborative efforts that are making a positive difference in the lives of Sri Lankans, the embassy notes.

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung underscored the continued commitment of the American people to investing in economic growth and good governance with this additional funding: “Since 1956, the United States has invested in Sri Lanka’s people, empowering them in their entrepreneurial pursuits, strengthening Sri Lanka’s resilience to climate change and macro-economic shocks, and enriching lives across the country. This additional funding demonstrates our steadfast commitment to working with local partners in Sri Lanka. Together, we are building a foundation for lasting stability and prosperity for communities across the country.”

“The United States and the American people are proud of our longstanding partnership with Sri Lanka and its people,” USAID Assistant Administrator for Bureau of Asia Schiffer said. “This funding is an investment to further support the country’s locally led initiatives to drive sustainable solutions for Sri Lanka’s development challenges.”

News

Ranil, Sajith, Anura debate tonight at 10 pm

Published

3 hours ago

September 9, 2024

editor

The topical political dialogue discussing the future of Sri Lanka’s economy will be broadcasted on Rupavahini at 10 pm onwards through the ‘Karata Kara’ current affairs discussion programme.

Cabinet Spokesman, Minister, Dr. Bandula Gunawardhana will participate on behalf of the Independent Presidential candidate, President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Eran Wickremeratne MP on behalf of Sajith Premadasa, the Presidential candidate of Samagi Jana Balawegaya, Prof.Anil Jayantha on behalf of the National People’s Power presidential candidate Anura Kumara Dissanayake and MP Gamini Waleboda for Dilith Jayaweera, Presidential Candidate of Sarvajana Balaya will take part.

Debates, views and opinions will be presented regarding the national economic programme that will build the country and the moderator for the discussion will be journalist Chamara Wijayawickrama.

(Daily News)

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

News

Thalatha backs Ranil for stabilizing the economy

Published

3 hours ago

September 9, 2024

editor

Former Minister Thalatha Athukorala has announced her support for President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming Presidential Election.

Speaking at the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” rally in Welimada, Athukorala highlighted Wickremesinghe’s role in stabilizing the economy after the crisis following President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s departure.

She praised Wickremesinghe for making tough decisions that helped the country recover, emphasizing her careful consideration in backing him over Sajith Premadasa.

Athukorala described this as a significant moment in her political career.

News

Principal arrested in Mullaitivu for photographing postal ballot

Published

21 hours ago

September 8, 2024

editor

A principal has been arrested in Mullaitivu after allegedly photographing a postal ballot paper after casting his vote.

The incident occurred on Friday at the voting center located within the Mullaitivu Zonal Education Office.

According to reports, the principal, who was serving as an assistant returning officer, cast his vote on the ballot paper and then took a photograph of it. This was noticed by another officer at the location, who promptly filed a complaint.

The principal was taken into custody yesterday evening. The 55-year-old suspect, a resident of Puthukkudiyiruppu, has since been released on bail.