News

‘One China’ policy is firmly embedded in Sri Lanka’s foreign policy – Vijitha

Published

9 months ago

September 26, 2024

editor

Newly sworn in Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka – Vijitha Herath has reassured the ‘One China’ policy is firmly embedded in the foreign policy of Sri Lanka.

“The One China Policy is firmly embedded in our foreign policy both bilaterally and on multilateral fora,” he said yesterday (Sep. 25) while addressing a reception in Colombo marking the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

He also said that Sri Lanka also deeply appreciates the continuous exchanges between the two countries, the assistance Sri Lanka received during the economic crisis, the projects completed under the Belt and Road initiative as well as the assistance extended by Chinese financial institutions in the ongoing debt restructuring process.

As we continue to deal with the challenges of economic recovery, Sri Lanka seeks China’s solidarity, support and continued partnership for the economic recovery process, he added.

Addressing the gathering, Chinese ambassador to Sri Lanka – Mr. Qi Zhenhong said : “History has proven that no matter how the international situation changes or whether facing traditional or non-traditional threats, the Chinese government and people always stand firmly with the Sri Lankan government and people. China remains a trustworthy friend and reliable partner to Sri Lanka. Facts have repeatedly shown that the closer and deeper the cooperation between China and Sri Lanka, the more capable Sri Lanka will be in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, development and dignity, and in playing a bigger role in regional and international affairs.”

“The people of Sri Lanka have now entered a new era and are writing a new chapter of their history. I firmly believe that, with the support and assistance from China and other friendly countries, and under the strong leadership of H.E. President Dissanayake, the diligent, intelligent, and heroic people of Sri Lanka will definitely overcome all sorts of risks and challenges, fully recover from the current crisis, and revive national economy to achieve prosperity. Sri Lanka, as the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean”, will shine brighter,” he added.

The reception was attended by a host of dignitaries including diplomats, politicians and military personnel.

News

NTC approves 2.5% reduction in bus fares (Update)

Published

8 hours ago

June 25, 2025

editor

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has approved a 2.5% reduction in bus fares effective from July 01 in line with the annual bus fare revision.

During a discussion between Transport Ministry officials and representatives of private bus associations, the government’s proposal to reduce bus fares by 2% was met by objections raised by bus operators.

(Previous News on 25th June 2025 at 4:51pm)

Bus associations oppose proposal of 2% fare reduction

The government’s proposal to reduce bus fares by a 2% effective from July 01 has led to the strong disapproval of bus associations, reports say.

It was also proposed not to revise the fares of the first two stages.

The announcement was made during a meeting between officials of the Transport Ministry and representatives of private bus associations to discuss the annual bus fare revision, scheduled for July 01.

News

2025 A/L exam dates announced

Published

8 hours ago

June 25, 2025

editor

The Department of Examinations has confirmed that the 2025 G.C.E. Advanced Level (A/L) examination will be held from Nov. 10 – Dec. 05, 2025,

Accordingly, applications for the 2025 G.C.E. A/L exam will be accepted online from June 26 to July 21, 2025.

It is further stated that students of government schools and government-approved private schools must submit their applications through their respective school principals, while private candidates are required to submit their applications themselves.

A statement by the Department of Examinations noted that private applicants must use their National Identity Card (NIC) number when applying for the examination.

Applicants are advised to visit the official website of the Department of Examinations of Sri Lanka, www.doenets.lk or www.onlineexams.gov.lk/eic, to carefully read the relevant instructions and submit their applications accordingly. After submitting the application, candidates are urged to keep a printed copy with them in case of an emergency.

The username and password required by school applicants to submit their applications have already been provided to the respective school principals.

Applications will not be accepted after 12.00 midnight on July 21, 2025. It is also emphasized that the closing date will not be extended under any circumstances, the statement added.

For further inquiries, applicants are advised to contact the Department of Examinations via the following telephone numbers or email : Tel: 011-2784208, 011-2784537, 011-2785922 / Hotline: 1911 / Email: [email protected]

News

UN Rights chief meets families of missing persons

Published

12 hours ago

June 25, 2025

editor

A group of activists and families of missing persons handed over letters and memorandums to the visiting United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk in Trincomalee today (June 25).

UN Human Rights Spokesperson – Jeremy Laurence, who is accompanying the High Commissioner, said while in Trincomalee that Mr. Volker Turk expressed sorrow and solidarity with the families of the disappeared.

Meanwhile, a peaceful demonstration was also held in Trincomalee during this visit, where a group of activists and victims of disappearances was seen holding placards and banners.

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights will visit Kandy before concluding his official visit to Sri Lanka tomorrow (June 26) after a special press briefing in Colombo.