News

USAID grants another USD 19 mn. for development of SL

Published

12 months ago

September 20, 2023

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The United States today (20) announced the commitment of more than US $19 million in additional funds to further the development of Sri Lanka, in a ceremony at the Sri Lanka Ministry of Finance.

The U.S. $19.23 million (Rs 6.2 billion) is obligated through the Development Objective Grant Agreement between the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the government of Sri Lanka. This development assistance will support economic growth and democratic governance activities and demonstrates the ongoing U.S. commitment to its partnership with Sri Lanka and in building lasting people-to-people ties.

The signing was commemorated today in a ceremony with Mission Director Grau and Mr. K M Mahinda Siriwardana, Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance Sri Lanka.

“This investment demonstrates the United States’ ongoing commitment to our partnership with Sri Lanka and our steadfast support to the people of this stunning, opportunity-filled country, as USAID Administrator Samantha Power and H.E. President Wickremesinghe discussed in New York,” said Gabriel Grau, USAID Sri Lanka and Maldives Mission Director. “With these funds we’ll continue to work with the government of Sri Lanka to improve economic growth and democratic governance and advocate for vulnerable populations.”

“The people of Sri Lanka appreciate the continued close collaboration and the very cordial partnership and support extended by the Government of the United States of America to Sri Lanka,” said Secretary Siriwardana. ”This grant will reinforce the government’s efforts to strengthen a democratic, prosperous, and resilient Sri Lanka.”

The United States has provided more than $2 billion (nearly Rs720 billion) in assistance to Sri Lanka since 1956.

News

Principal arrested in Mullaitivu for photographing postal ballot

Published

1 hour ago

September 8, 2024

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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.

News

Palitha Bandara Fifth in T63 Javelin at Paris Paralympics

Published

3 hours ago

September 8, 2024

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Sri Lankan athlete Palitha Bandara finished fifth in the men’s T63 javelin throw at the 2024 Paris Paralympics.

He achieved a personal best with a throw of 14.51 meters.

News

President meets ITAK leader amidst party’s conflicting support

Published

7 hours ago

September 8, 2024

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President Ranil Wickremesinghe met with Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK) senior leader MP Mavai Senathirajah at his residence in Kankasanthurai, Jaffna, during his visit as part of the “Puluwan Sri Lanka” presidential campaign.

Senathirajah expressed confidence in Wickremesinghe’s chances in the upcoming election, noting his potential to ensure development in the Northern region.

This meeting adds complexity to ITAK’s stance, as the party, under MP M.A. Sumanthiran’s leadership, had earlier declared support for Sajith Premadasa, the Samagi Jana Balawegaya candidate.

Meanwhile, ITAK had also announced their decision not to support Tamil common candidate P. Ariyanenthiran.

Senathirajah, however, had previously stated that he was unaware of these decisions.