By Gagani Weerakoon in Ceylon Today, Sept 2, 2023
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, upon concluding his brief visit to the Eastern Province, had set aside Sunday to exclusively study Cabinet papers. Though he had a few private meetings, he had ensured that official commitments would not be a part of his agenda, in order to inspect the Cabinet papers and circulars.
On Monday morning the weekly Cabinet meeting took place and one of the main topics doing the rounds was the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Scheme. The President informed the Ministers that the relief will be provided to recipients from this week onwards. It was also conveyed to the Cabinet that the President would strive to revive the dormant local economy whilst maintaining cordial bilateral relations with the outside world.
When the President was about to leave the proceedings Presidential Adviser on Parliamentary Affairs Ashu Marasinghe and a few MPs stood by to talk to both the Leader and the PM.
Among the MPs were Premanath C. Dolawatta, Madura Vithanage and Jagath Samarawickrema. Marasinghe informed the President that the MPs had come with a complaint. Dolawatta alleged that the Opposition Leader along with his MPs was engaged in wasting time allocated for Government MPs in the morning in Parliament to ask oral questions. MP Samarawickrema too agreed with the sentiments expressed by his colleague and charged that an injustice has been caused to backbench SLPP MPs due to the controversial conduct of the SJB Leader and his fellow MPs.
MP Vithanage mentioned that a sum in excess of four million rupees is being spent for Parliament session per day and he too alleged that the Opposition Leader should be reined in. The Chief Government Whip, Minister Prasanna Ranatunga, who too joined the discussion, stated that though the SJB tends to agree on managing time for MPs at debates during Party Leaders meetings, they go back on their promise during sessions in the House. The President then, whilst looking at the PM, assured the lawmakers present that he would discuss the matter with the Speaker and resolve it to their satisfaction.
56th or 77th
President Wickremesinghe then proceeded to meet the officials from the Committee formed to supervise the UNP Anniversary celebrations. General Secretary Palitha Range had convened the meeting and among others joining it were Deputy Leader Ruwan, Vice Leader Akila Viraj, Chairman Wajira Abeywardena and National Organiser Sagala Ratnayake. Former Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake then inquired about an error that had been witnessed in letters addressed to party organisers regarding the anniversary which had been stated as the 56th event. He had then noted that the error committed cannot be condoned as the party had worked for this country and its citizens over a period exceeding seven decades. The General Secretary however was of the view that some had confused the party’s Convention with its Anniversary. He opined that the party, during its long existence in the local political firmament, had staged many special Conventions and Anniversaries. He explained that this year the party would mark its 77th Anniversary and stated that it would coincide with the date when the party was formed. He mentioned that the party had held Conventions to amend its Constitution and to introduce new reforms etc. He then stressed that this year the party would be pressing ahead with its 56th Convention.
Following heated arguments among members regarding the issue it was lastly decided to print new posters and invitations without mentioning the 56th Anniversary and Deputy Leader Wijewardene promised to intervene and resolve it in the coming weeks. Afterwards the General Secretary along with Shamal Senarath and Lasantha Gunawardene went to inspect the venue chosen to hold the party Convention and they were accompanied by PSD officers.
They then headed in the evening to the Presidential Secretariat to attend the party Management Committee meeting helmed by the Leader.
At the outset the President inquired into arrangements ahead of the party Convention and the General Secretary gave him the low-down. The General Secretary said they were anticipating a crowd of in excess of 20,000 and he then asked whether he should invite MPs, party leaders, foreign Envoys and Governors.
The President added that it was not needed and quipped that only one Governor could however attend, making those who attended the meeting burst into hearty laughter. The rest of the activities of the Convention were entrusted to party Deputy Leader Ruwan, Chairman Wajira and its National Organiser Sagala.
Afterwards, the Leader informed the party officials about the current political situation in the country. He was of the view that the country’s economy should turn the corner by January next year due to the improvements shown through the tourism industry.
He also briefed his party officials regarding the progress made by him during his short tour to Trincomalee and Arugam Bay. Ex- Minister Ravi Karunanayake was not pleased with the decision taken by the Government to provide relief to the masses through the Aswesuma Welfare Benefit Scheme without obtaining anything in return. He stated that all those receiving such relief should be entrusted with some responsibility. He said if that is the case such people would be responsible for benefits that are provided to them.
However, the General Secretary advised those present not to rock the boat till the next election is held or else they would all stand to regret it. Those present agreed with the sentiments expressed by Range Bandara.
Kurundi Matter
When the President arrived at his office on Tuesday a group of Ministers had arrived beforehand. They were curious to find out about what had taken place during the Trincomalee District Development Committee Meeting, where a group of Buddhist monks had forcibly barged into it. They were of the opinion that it will set a bad precedent. MP Wajira stated that if such incidents are not nipped in the bud, conducting of such meetings in other Districts too would be impossible. The Leader then promised the Ministers that he would broach the topics of Kurundi Temple and the Trincomalee incident with Chief Prelates. The President then attended the discussion on Sustainable Development and it was also attended by PM Dinesh Gunawardena. The President mentioned that it was time for Sri Lanka to stand on its own two feet rather than waiting for support from the rest of the world.
In the evening the President headed to Kandy and paid a courtesy call on Malwathu and Asgiriya Mahanayake Theras and he was accompanied by Ex-UNP Chairman and former Minister Malik Samarawickreme. The Leader then called on the Anunayakes of the Asgiriya Chapter Ven. Wendaruwe Upali Thera and Ven. Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera. Ven. Dhammadassi Thera appreciated the work being rendered to the country by the President and insisted that all should support him in his endeavour to revive the nation.
The monks inquired about the current state of the IMF agreement and the implementation of the controversial 13th Amendment to the Constitution. The President provided detailed explanations to the questions and noted that the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution will be tasked with the Parliament. He added that a National Lands Commission will be formed to probe the land issue in the 13th Amendment.
As a step to address the controversy that erupted with regard to the Kurunthamalai Temple, no outsider will be permitted to enter the site going forward, President Wickremesinghe said.
The President said, “Encouragingly, the Sinhalese, Muslim and Tamil communities of that area have united in agreement, pledging not to involve external entities. In times past, this region was characterised by harmonious coexistence among its inhabitants. Regrettably, the introduction of external groups has given rise to these recent complications. I have also communicated this matter to the Nayake Thera of Vavuniya region.”
In light of these circumstances, it is imperative that access to this area is restricted exclusively to those within our sphere of influence. To ensure the integrity of our actions, the Department of Archaeology has been directed to conduct a thorough investigation. These actions align with the mandates of the Antiquities Act, underscoring our commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.
Moreover, we are poised to undertake an excavation initiative at the esteemed Maha Viharaya. The ongoing excavation efforts in the Northern regions continue to yield valuable insights, and these undertakings remain in active progress. I wish to clarify that the preceding government took prompt action by deploying the Armed Forces to expedite the excavation process. However, a definitive course of action is still pending, awaiting the decision of the Department of Archaeology. Rest assured, our future steps will be in alignment with the verdict provided by this authoritative body. It is imperative to underscore our unwavering commitment to safeguarding these sacred regions, he said.
The President also said the Government’s efforts extend to the safeguarding of all Buddhist shrines. Our approach begins with the identification of archaeological sites of significance.
Following this crucial step, a comprehensive investigation ensues. Further, it is crucial to highlight our dedication to addressing any challenges faced by other religious communities in this context, he added.
“I must emphatically state that we remain resolute in preventing external entities from instigating disturbances. To foster harmony and prevent potential conflicts, we are actively working towards appointing a committee comprising esteemed religious leaders from the respective provinces. The collective efforts of these leaders are poised to avert any arising conflicts,” the President pointed out.
Addressing the country’s economic landscape, the President said the Government is presently transitioning out of financial turmoil. This revival is being facilitated through the implementation of a foreign debt optimisation programme and a series of substantial economic reforms.
Presently, local banks are grappling with challenges, leading to restricted access to funds. A significant number of domestic banks find themselves burdened with debt, he said.
“Should the banking system falter, it could precipitate severe financial repercussions. Moreover, the Central Bank has received liabilities from the Employees’ Provident Fund. Endeavours are underway to convert these liabilities into long-term bonds. While a marginal disparity in interest rates exists, it bears no detrimental impact on depositors. Notably, an agreement was reached last year to grant a 9 per cent interest to Employees’ Provident Fund depositors and I am steadfast in my commitment to enshrine this minimum interest rate into law.”
Additionally, our efforts encompass the formulation of a new Central Bank Act. This step will pave the way for subsequent negotiations with our creditor nations. Concurrently, we will address personal loans, aspiring to either substantially reduce our debt burden or devise a sustainable repayment plan over the long term, the President noted.
Speaking further, the President said it is the Government’s aspiration to convene discussions and finalise agreements with the International Monetary Fund by the conclusion of September or the onset of October. “This accomplishment would signify our emergence from the shackles of bankruptcy, enabling us to engage in economic transactions with renewed ease.
“Acknowledging the trade imbalance where imports surpass our exports, we are resolutely charting a course towards cultivating a competitive economic landscape. Central to this endeavour is the establishment of an export-oriented economy.”
The President then observed that he will not allow outside forces to enter places of religious worship henceforth and added that a Committee consisting of religious leaders will be formed to look into issues which concern such places in other parts of the country. The President then called on the Anunayake of the Malwathu Chapter, Ven Dimbulkumbure Wimaladhamma Thera.
The Leader then met US Senator Chris Van Holland at the President’s House in Kandy. He was accompanied by his Chief of Staff Sagala Ratnayake. The President then invited the US Senator to view the surrounding areas and the visiting American official was taken up with the scenic beauty of the President’s House. After spending around 30 minutes with the US Senator the President invited the visiting American official to view the Kandy Esela Perehera from the Queens Hotel and they were joined by US Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung.
US tells China
US Senator Chris Van Hollen, who is in Sri Lanka, underscored that China, the largest creditor of Sri Lanka, should not cut a better deal for itself but be on par with the rest of the creditors in debt restructuring, as a condition applied by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
The Senator, who is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations, expressed concern that a situation where China negotiates a more favourable deal at the expense of Sri Lanka’s people and economy would not be appropriate.
Emphasising the significance of support from the IMF for Sri Lanka, the Senator of Maryland said, “The Paris Club and India said to take steps to ensure that their creditor arrangements are on par with the terms offered. These creditors made sure that they have the same arrangement as China. It’s inappropriate for China to pursue more favourable conditions at the cost of Sri Lanka’s populace, given the current timing and urgency of the issue. It is of utmost significance that the country’s primary creditor refrains from exploiting its leverage to the detriment of a comprehensive agreement. Such an agreement holds immense importance for both the people of Sri Lanka and its economy,” he said.
The US Senator is in Sri Lanka as a part of a three-nation (Sri Lanka, Nepal and Maldives) tour and to focus on ways the US can further assist efforts to overcome Sri Lanka’s economic crisis and discuss the way forward on human rights and reconciliation.
Senator Van Hollen emphasised the significance of support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for Sri Lanka. He noted that the IMF’s three billion USD assistance is crucial to help stabilise Sri Lanka’s economy. Without this agreement with the IMF, Sri Lanka’s economic situation would spiral downward.
On the Domestic Debt Restructuring (DDR) programme where people are agitated about using deposits from sources like the Employees’ Provident Fund to address domestic debt, the Senator acknowledged that these decisions are by the Sri Lankan Government and he highlighted the importance of considering social safety net issues as discussions on this matter continue.
Senator Van Hollen said he believed that the IMF’s assistance, combined with effective debt restructuring decisions by the Sri Lankan Government, is crucial for turning around Sri Lanka’s economy. He stressed the need to consider the vulnerabilities of the population while making these decisions.
Apart from economic matters, the Senator’s visit also aimed to discuss human rights and reconciliation efforts in Sri Lanka and to meet the civil society as well.
MOD approves
Meanwhile,the Ministry of Defence has provided authorisation for the Chinese geophysical and seismic survey vessel named ‘Shi Yan 6’ to conduct research within Sri Lankan waters, in collaboration with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA).
A spokesperson from the Ministry of Defence confirmed that this approval was granted in response to requests made by NARA and the Foreign Ministry.
China’s request for the vessel to engage in research activities within Sri Lankan waters comes after a previous visit by a satellite-tracking vessel, which had raised security concerns in neighbouring India. The approval reflects a diplomatic accord that balances research interests and security considerations.
China’s State broadcaster, CGTN, said the Shi Yan 6 is a scientific research vessel crewed by 60 that conducts oceanography, marine ecology, and marine geology tests.
Sri Lanka is placed halfway strategically along the key East-West international shipping routes.
Last year, India had raised its concerns over a Sri Lankan port call in Hambantota by Chinese research vessel Yuan Wang 5, which specialises in satellite tracking and which New Delhi described as a “spy vessel.”
According to the Indian media, India is highly suspicious of China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean and its expanding influence in Sri Lanka, observing both as firmly within its domain of power.
The Foreign Ministry on Friday (1) confirmed to Ceylon Today that the Chinese Embassy has submitted a request for the research vessel Shi Yan 6 to be allowed into Colombo Port.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson said the vessel is intended for joint ocean research with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). However, it’s unclear whether NARA initiated the request for the ship’s arrival, and if so, why should the Chinese Embassy make the request.
“The Chinese Embassy had made a request to the Foreign Ministry to grant permission for the Chinese research vessel Shi Yan 6, and this is going to be a joint scientific research conducted with NARA,” stated the MFA spokesperson.
She further explained that the request is presently being processed, considering the nature of the vessel as a research ship. While the Government is involved in the decision-making process, details such as the research areas and dates have not yet been confirmed.
When queried whether NARA extended the invitation for the Chinese vessel’s arrival, the spokesperson said this information is still being processed and cannot be confirmed at this stage. The focus of the research will be related to ocean matters, she stressed.
It remains unclear whether NARA initiated the request for the Chinese vessel’s visit and why the Chinese Embassy sought permission for the ship to enter Sri Lanka. The Foreign Ministry also mentioned that both Chinese researchers and NARA would conduct the research jointly. “This is not the first instance of NARA collaborating on research with China and similar collaborations have occurred with other countries too,” she stressed.
JVP challenges FSP
JVP Leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake challenged the Front Line Socialist Party (FSP) to prove the allegation that the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) has invested money in a European island.
Dissanayake said the gravity of the situation was that the allegation wasn’t merely a simple accusation but a potentially complex political attack with broader implications.
Dissanayake highlighted that the allegations seemed to be driven by a need to associate the JVP with corrupt practices, much like the other major political parties, in an attempt to undermine the JVP’s reputation. He said proving or disproving the accusation hinged on specific actions and processes.
“They (FSP) can take legal action against us, or they can go to the CID if they have any evidence to support their allegation. If they can’t do that then they can disclose all the information they have to the public. If they can’t do any of these, it means what they said was a blatant lie. So they should apologise. They should acknowledge their mistake and retract the accusation,” the JVP Leader said.
Dissanayake implied that failing to provide concrete evidence or take appropriate action would indicate that the accusations were baseless and politically motivated.
Meanwhile, Minister of Public Security, Tiran Alles, stated that Duminda Nagamuwa, of the Frontline Socialist Party, is untraceable, despite repeated requests from the CID for him to provide a statement regarding his claim about a joint ‘investment done by Minister Alles and the JVP’.
Speaking at a media briefing, held at the President’s Media Centre (PMC), Minister Alles said, “Nagamuwa alleged that the JVP and I invested money together. In response to this allegation, I took the necessary steps. I filed a complaint with the CID and provided a statement. However, now that Nagamuwa has been asked to give a statement, he is nowhere to be found. It appears he is avoiding this. If the FSP possesses any evidence, they are welcome to present it to the CID.”
Speaking further, the minister said FSP Education Secretary Pubudu Jayagoda said in a television talk show that what FSP meant was they had suspicions about a possible political deal between him and the JVP.
“We had a political deal together since 2010. It was in 2010 that I, JVP, General Sarath Fonseka, Arjuna Ranatunga, formed a party and were elected to Parliament together. At that time Jayagoda and Nagamuwa too were with the JVP. They were at my office during the whole election time because we worked together for the election in 2010,” the minister said.
https://ceylontoday.lk/2023/09/02/heat-gathers-as-chinese-vessel-given-green-light-to-enter-sl-waters/
