highlights Monday India and China: 16 AUGUST 2021 Vocational Latest Edition Education in Vol: 10/176 Price : Rs 30.00 Comparison In Sports page A6 FSL on lookout for Veteran Banker a new head coach K.E.D. Sumanasiri Football Sri Lanka (FSL) is on the lookout for a foreign head coach to appointed replace current men’s head coach Amir Alagic, FSL President BoC GM Jaswar Umar confirmed. A16 page B10

Covid positive cases and deaths Drastic Taliban Enter Afghan increase within fortnight Capital Kabul – Prof. Jayasumana Situation in the country is serious Interior Ministry official and there is nothing to hide says President Ghani By Dilanthi Jayamanne

State Minister of Production, has left for Tajikistan Supply and Regulation of Pharmaceuticals (PSRP), Prof. Channa Jayasumana warned that American diplomats there would be a drastic increase in the number of COVID positive cases and deaths within the next two evacuated from their weeks, when the virus completes its incubation period. embassy by chopper Story Continued on page 2 Taliban insurgents entered Afghanistan’s capital Kabul on Sunday and an official said President Ashraf Ghani had left the city for Tajikistan, capping the militants’ lightning push for power. No weddings, A senior Afghan Interior Ministry official said Ghani had left for Tajikistan. Asked for comment, the President’s Office said, it “cannot say anything about Ashraf Ghani’s receptions until movement for security reasons.” A representative of the Taliban said the group was checking on Ghani’s whereabouts. further notice American diplomats were evacuated from their embassy by chopper after a swift advance Weddings and receptions will not be permitted by the Taliban, who were poised to run until further notice from midnight tomorrow (17), Taliban forces patrol a street Afghanistan again 20 years after they were Head of the National Operation Centre for Prevention in Herat (Reuters) toppled by US-led forces following the 11 of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO), Gen. Shavendra September attacks on the United States. Silva said. Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Loss of COVID Vaccination Card Nearly 600 attempting Quarantine curfew to cross provincial Obtain certificate borders sent back from 10pm to 4am from area PHI By Thameenah Razeek starting tonight – State Minister Nearly 600 people and 333 vehicles travelling to By W. K. Prasad Manju the Western Province, in breach of travel restrictions, were turned back by the Police at COVID death toll exceeds State Minister of Primary Health Care, checkpoints set up at entry and exit points. Epidemics and COVID Disease Control Consultant 6000 mark Dr. Sudharshani Fernandopulle told Ceylon Today Story Continued on page 2 Quarantine curfew will be imposed islandwide from 10 p.m. if a person who has had both doses of the COVID today (16) till 4 a.m. tomorrow (17). The curfew will continue to vaccine but has misplaced the card issued to them, be imposed every day during this time period until further they have to get a certificate from the Public Health notice, Head of the National Operation Centre for Prevention Inspector of the area certifying that both of COVID-19 Outbreak (NOCPCO), Gen. Shavendra Silva vaccinations had been obtained. announced. Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Request to permit Pvt labs Govt should conduct Rapid PCR at airports JVP urges heed advice of CMLS writes Govt planning to public to go for specialist self-lockdown to President vaccinate children doctors – Vajira By Nabiya Vaffoor seeking probe over 12 – PM JVP Leader Anura By Nabiya Vaffoor Kumara Dissanayake By Thameenah Razeek Priority for those with special needs urged the public to go for UNP Chairman Vajira By Thameenah Razeek a self-lockdown for their Abeywardana said the The College of Medical Laboratory Science own safety, saying it was Government should pay (CMLS) Sri Lanka, has requested President Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa announced absurd to appeal to the heed to the advice of Gotabaya Rajapaksa to look into the suggestion yesterday (15) the Government intends to administer Government to impose a specialist doctors due made to permit private sector laboratories to the COVID-19 vaccine, step-by-step, to children over lockdown as it was not to the failure of the undertake Rapid PCR tests at airports, while the age of 12 years, with priority being given to heeding expert opinion. COVID-19 Suppression resources were available at the Ministry of children with special needs. He said COVID-19 deaths should be Task Force to take Health. considered as a ‘massacre’ for which the control of the spread of Story Continued on Government should take the the disease. Story Continued on page 2 page 2 responsibility. “The number of COVID-19 outbreaks and deaths is increasing day by day...

Only a quarter of Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Blood Bank Lankans immune CTU admits strike running low on to coronavirus reserves – Scientists caused O/L results delay By Thameenah Razeek Only around a quarter of Sri Lanka’s population is By Nabiya Vaffoor after initiating an online petition by the completely immune to the coronavirus, according to joint alliance, formed by teacher-principal The blood reserves at the National scientists. The World Health Organisation (WHO) The Ceylon Teachers’ Union (CTU) has trade unions, yesterday (14), urging the Blood Transfusion Service appear to supports achieving ‘herd immunity’ through acknowledged that the trade union action Government to resolve the salary have depleted as a result of the vaccination rather than allowing a disease to spread taken by teachers was the main reason for disparities in their respective services. COVID-19 pandemic, according to through any segment of the population, according to the delay in releasing Ordinary Level exam “It is a critical issue that this Director of the National Blood Dr. Chandima Jeewandara, Director of the results. Government doesn’t take this as a serious Centre (NBC) Dr. Lakshman Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine CTU General Secretary Joseph Stalin issue. If the Government drags this issue it Edirisinghe, who also said that 950 at the Sri Jayewardenepura University. said this, addressing a Media briefing, wouldn’t affect us, but it is just delaying... to 1,000 units of blood are required daily.

Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 Story Continued on page 2 A2 monday 16 august 2021 news

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Govt should... Taliban Enter Afghan... Kidney donor wanted ...and the country is heading towards a catastrophe. To save the country from such a Taliban fighters were reaching the capital “from Just last week, a US intelligence estimate said A 57-year-old widowed mother situation, the Government should now heed the all sides,” a senior Afghan Interior Ministry official Kabul could hold out for at least three months. seeks a kidney from a donor having advice of specialist doctors and set up a committee told Reuters. Before news that Ghani had left Kabul, a palace any one of the following blood affiliated to the WHO to take immediate action,” he But there were no reports of fighting and the official said he was in emergency talks with US added. group’s spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid said they peace envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and officials from groups: B+, B-, O+, or O- (Ideally Abeywardana said it has been about eight were waiting on the outskirts and were in talks the NATO transatlantic alliance. B+) and should be between 30 and months since countries passed Ordinances. But with the Western-backed government for a Power would be handed over to a transitional 60 years of age. Medical and related Sri Lanka has not passed a single Bill in this peaceful surrender. administration, the Government’s Acting Interior expenses will be taken care of. connection. “Taliban fighters are to be on standby on all Minister, Abdul Sattar Mirzakawal, tweeted on the Donors could contact: “The vaccine was not delivered on time. entrances of Kabul until a peaceful and Tolo news channel. “There won’t be an attack on Vaccination does not provide immediate satisfactory transfer of power is agreed,” he said. the city, it is agreed that there will be a peaceful 0771631937/0773333433. protection. We, politicians do not know, experts Representatives from the two sides were due to handover,” he said without elaborating. say that it will begin protection only a month after meet in Qatar on Sunday, Fawzi Koofi, a member A tweet from the Afghan Presidential Palace taking it. We mentioned in our 2020 election of the Kabul negotiating team, told Reuters. A account said firing had been heard at a number of manifesto about COVID-19. Today, what we stated source familiar with the matter said they would points around Kabul but that Security Forces, in has proved correct but was rejected by the public. discuss a transition of power and US officials coordination with international partners, had The public chose other things. In our policy would also be involved. control of the city. Quarantine statement we stated how to suppress COVID-19,” Known during their past rule for keeping girls Many of Kabul’s streets were choked by cars and he added. out of school and hardline Islamic punishments people either trying to rush home or reach the Abeywardana was speaking yesterday (15) at a such as amputation, stoning and hanging, the airport, residents said. curfew... Media briefing. Taliban appeared to be trying to project a more “Some people have left their keys in the car and Permission to travel during modern face. have started walking to the airport,” one resident quarantine curfew hours would be Another spokesman Suhail Shaheen said the told Reuters by phone. Another said: “People are given only to essential service group would protect the rights of women, as well all going home in fear of fighting.” providers, he added. as freedoms for media workers and diplomats. Afghans had fled the provinces to enter Kabul in Meanwhile, the local death toll has “We assure the people, particularly in the city of recent days, fearing a return to hardline Islamist crossed the 6,000 mark with another JVP urges... Kabul, that their properties, their lives are safe,” rule. 161 deaths being confirmed by the Shaheen told the BBC, saying a transfer of power Early on Sunday, refugees from Taliban- Director General Health Services for “The JVP is with the people and will provide any was expected in days. controlled provinces were seen unloading Saturday (14), according to the assistance if they faced any issue in making such The ease of the Taliban’s advance, despite belongings from taxis and families stood outside Government Information Department a decision. State employees should stay at home billions of dollars spent by the United States and embassy gates, while the city’s downtown was (GID). Accordingly, the country’s total even if they are summoned for duty as their lives others to build up local Afghan government forces, packed with people stocking up on supplies. COVID-19 deaths stands at 6,096. were more valuable than anything else. We has stunned the world. (Reuters) (DJ) should not fall prey to the ignorant decisions of the Government and the ruler. We should ensure our own safety, if the ruler is not paying attention to our request,” he said. Dissanayake said the PHI Union had also urged the public to self-lockdown for the safety of Govt planning... individuals and added that several towns had put up shutters due to the critical situation in the The Prime Minister made this to such pandemics is tough. entire country respects their and people’s lives protected. country. announcement, via video “At a moment like this, we need dedication from the bottom of “If you consider the “President Gotabaya Rajapaksa was acting only technology, from Carlton House, to be stronger and more united in their hearts,” he said. Government’s role in such a on instructions of the State Intelligence Services Tangalle, at the inaugural our response to such pandemics. He went on to say that scenario and do your obligation and disregarding the recommendations of ceremony of the Southern Doctors, nurses, hospital controlling COVID-19 has become by following the health medical experts. The WHO and local medical Provincial COVID-19 Child Care workers, the Tri-Forces, and a challenge not only for us but guidelines,” he added, “it will not experts have advised the Government on the Unit of the Hambantota Hospital. Police continue to work around also for many industrialised be difficult for us to overcome this action to be taken to curtail the escalating deaths He stated that everyone has a the clock to safeguard the public countries throughout the world, challenge.” and positive cases. Health Minister, State responsibility to protect children from the pandemic. As a and the only option now available The traditional coconut oil lamp Minister Sudarshani Fernandopulle, the GMOA because they are the country’s government, we have always was vaccination to prevent illness was lit and the Southern and Cabinet had pointed out the need to take future and the world has valued their dedication. Not only spread and death. Provincial COVID-19 Pediatric immediate action. However, the President is only experienced different plagues that, the entire people of the He highlighted that while Sri Unit at the Hambantota Hospital acting on the advice of the State Intelligence throughout history, but no matter country appreciate their Lanka is far ahead of the curve in was inaugurated by Prime Services,” Dissanayake said. He expressed these how technologically advanced the commitment from the bottom of terms of immunization and Minister Rajapaksa and his wife views at a Media briefing, yesterday (15). globe is, finding a definite answer their hearts. Not only that, the vaccination must be hastened Shiranthi.

Blood Bank... CMLS writes... Drastic increase... The National Blood Centre invites donors to donate In a letter dated 12 August 2021, President of Addressing the Media, while on tour of marked 160 while on Thursday amounted blood because getting the requisite amount on a daily College of Medical Laboratory Science Ravi Anuradhapura, Prof. Jayasumana said, to 155. basis is difficult. He said willing donors can call Kumudesh, stated that it is unfortunate to “The situation in the country is serious and According to statistics given by the Health 011-5 332 153 or 011-5 332 154 to schedule an observe some deceptive acts by the authorities, there is nothing to hide.” As it is, there is a Promotion Bureau (HPB) on its COVID-19 appointment at any blood transfusion institution in in the guise of controlling COVID-19, and marked increase in the cases being dashboard, the numbers have seen only a the island. requested the President’s intervention to diagnosed and the number of deaths. The gradual increase of new cases that have While urging the public to donate blood in conduct necessary investigations to find out next two weeks will be decisive as the been diagnosed with the virus. The 2,904 accordance with health guidelines, he pointed out who is attempting to sabotage the country’s incubation period of the virus would have cases on 10 August 2021 leaped to 2,987 that the country’s blood scarcity was caused by the health system and embarrass it. ended giving rise to an increase in positive on 11 August. The number of fresh cases pandemic’s discontinuation of blood donation The letter was written in reaction to a letter numbers, he noted. reached a startling 3,039 on 12 August. The programmes. issued to the Civil Aviation Authority on 9 A marked increase has been witnessed in cases per day have increased further to Dr. Edirisinghe stated that blood donors can go August 2021 by the Secretary, Ministry of the number of COVID-19 deaths being 3,152 and 3,263 on 13 and 14 August. to major hospitals and blood centres throughout Health (MoH) with the subject of ‘Setting up announced by the Director General Health The country’s fatality rate has reached the country, and that the blood centre is open from Laboratories at the Airport to Facilitate UAE Services (DGHS) during the past number of 1.69% whereas the global fatality is at 2.1 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for such donors. According to the Rapid PCR Test Requirements’. days. The number of deaths on Friday (13) per cent. National Blood Transfusion Service, the website He stated that rapid molecular assays are a may be utilised to make blood donation more new type of molecular diagnostic test that convenient. detects viral RNA or nucleic acids in Individuals who received their first or both doses approximately 20-40 minutes, and that 16 rapid of any sort of COVID-19 vaccine are discouraged PCR units are already available in the country from donating blood and can obtain the relevant at Government institutes thanks to generous No weddings,... information by phoning the above phone numbers. donors. Pregnant women, thalassemia patients, and cancer As a result of the College of Medical Gen. Silva said yesterday (15) the decision midnight yesterday (15). patients at the Maharagama Hope Hospital, the Laboratory Science Sri Lanka’s request, had been taken as yet another measure of Gen. Silva added restaurants can only Colombo National Hospital’s Accident Unit, and the approval was received to release a budget for preventing the spread of the virus and accommodate 50 per cent of their seating Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital are all in another 30 units of rapid PCR. thereby permission would not be given to capacity. “The Government appealed to the desperate need of blood on a regular basis. “During the first week of June 2021, the MoH host any weddings at home, reception halls public to refrain from visiting public places called for tenders for 14 units of rapid POCT RT or hotel ballrooms. He said permission as much as possible,” head of the NOCPCO PCR, with a preference given to companies that would also not be given for any events that added. can provide short-term on urgent need. It’s would call for social gatherings from (DJ) surprising to see that the tender’s final decision is still on hold. The reason for delaying the final CTU admits... decision for this tender, despite the fact that the ...the release of the ordinary level results further bidding period was as short as 3 – 5 days, is more. The recent spike in COVID-19 infections in the highly suspicious,” he said, adding that a country forced the trade unions to limit our outdoor reasonable suspicion arises whether some of the Nearly 600... campaigns. We intend to continue the trade union authorities in the MoH are procrastinating until action until the Government provides proper the friendly parties get the opportunity, by During the last 10 months, 54,359 people He said that inter-provincial travel is solutions to our issues. We invite everyone to sign this allowing enough time to register new were arrested for violating quarantine rules, prohibited, except in emergencies and only petition to urge the government to resolve this issue,” instruments without due consideration. according to Police Spokesman SDIG Ajith government officials, engaged in essential he added. They also stated that in a recent letter Rohana. More than 100 people were services, are permitted to travel between General Secretary of Ceylon Teachers Service Union submitted by MoH to the Civil Aviation arrested for violating the country’s provinces. Anyone attempting to cross (CTSU) Mahinda Jayasinghe also alleged the Authority, a private laboratory that has been quarantine laws. provinces for any reason other than an Government is trying to drag this issue by appointing blacklisted in China due to erroneous reports is At a time when the COVID-19 virus is emergency should have a reasonable sub-committees without giving any time frame to included, and that this laboratory is spreading rapidly across the country and grounds. solve the problem. continuously nominated by MoH on many poses a significant threat, he said the Police He went on to say that if vehicle drivers Government Nursing Officers Association (GNOA) occasions without considering the impact it has are continually working to arrest and using the roadway provide false president Saman Rathnapriya, who supported the had on the health system by issuing erroneous punish such reckless individuals, adding information, the law will be enforced movement by signing the online petition, warned the reports. that 4,544 persons were checked at these against them when they get to their Government that other trade unions will join in for a “An NMRA unapproved instrument is checkpoints. destination. massive trade union action if the Government does recommended for rapid PCR in the same letter. Currently, there are strict restrictions “If a vehicle exceeds the provincial border not resolve the salary disparities in the Teachers and If this instrument produces incorrect test on travel between provinces and the Police at any point along the highway, it will be Principals services immediately. results, the recommended party must accept along with the Armed Forces have set up diverted, and if someone gives false responsibility because the quality is not checkpoints on by roads in addition to the information when attempting to access the evaluated by the NMRA committee,” he said. main roads to cover provincial expressway, the law will be enforced at the According to the letter, the parties disagree on boundaries. departure point,” he stated. the recommendation of an unapproved instrument and the private sector to conduct Only a quarter... tests, because there are 16 rapid PCR units running at full capacity at Government He tweeted that attempts to achieve ‘herd immunity’ institutes and another 14 rapid PCR units’ by exposing people to a virus are scientifically tender is on hold despite having the President’s Obtain certificate... problematic and unethical, according to the WHO. approval. Since the COVID Vaccination Card National Identity Card. The WHO was reported as saying, “The proportion “Hence, we kindly request that you provide the certifying that both doses of the When a vaccine is being given, a person’s of the population that must be vaccinated against rapid PCR instruments to conduct the required vaccination had been obtained is identity is certified through the National COVID-19 to begin eliciting herd immunity is not tests, as we have the capability to conduct tests compulsory when moving about, State Identity Card and it is computerised. known.” for free for foreign employee heroes,” he Minister Fernandopulle said the card Therefore, she said the card is proof of (TR) concluded. should be kept safely similar to the whether the person is vaccinated or not. news monday 16 august 2021 A3 Navy Seizes Kerala Cannabis and ‘Ice’ Worth Rs 50M

During a special foot Command, conducting as three packages. The patrol conducted in a special foot patrol in Navy arrested three Valvettithurai area, the beach area of suspects in connection Jaffna, on 14 August, Valvettithurai, spotted with the incident and the Navy arrested three a group of individuals seized the cab used to suspects with Kerala loading polythene transfer the items. 75th Independence cannabis and crystal sacks into a cab parked The three suspects methamphetamine on the beach. On are residents of (‘ice’) worth over Rs 50 suspicion, the Navy Kilinochchi, aged 32 to Day of India million. The special searched the cab and 38. The suspects, search operation led to found about 126 kg of together with the stock the seizure of about Kerala cannabis in 60 of narcotics and the marked in SL 126 kg of Kerala parcels stuffed into cab were handed over The 75th performances organised cannabis and over 2 kg three sacks and about to the Valvettithurai Independence Day of by Swami Vivekananda of ice. 2.33 kg of ice concealed Police for onward legal India was celebrated in Cultural Centre in The Northern Naval in a plastic container action. (NV) different parts of Sri collaboration with Lanka on 15 August in Arusri Art Theatre. strict compliance with A unique programme COVID-19 protocols. ‘Diamond Bridge’ by The celebrations this Global Association of year are part of the Sri Lankan Bharatha Euro 480,000 Grant ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Natyam artistes was Mahotsav’ initiative webcast. This event launched by Prime comprised presentation Minister Narendra Modi of various Indian dance to fight COVID in March 2021, to forms and violin Critical emergency medical resources for Sri Lankan commemorate 75 years renditions by renowned equipment worth Euro 480,000 as healthcare workers as well as of a progressive and exponents. A series of part of an Euro 2 million grant has enable Sri Lankan courses to be self-reliant India. innovative initiatives been made available to 78 shared worldwide, the EU said. The main event was were organised on hospitals countrywide in Sri Lanka WHO-EU collaboration also held at ‘India House,’ social media platforms for the COVID-19 response supports key community-centred the official residence of in the run-up to the through a partnership between the activities for resilient health the High Commissioner event including a World Health Organization (WHO) systems including risk of India. The High fashion show, food and the European Union (EU), the communication and, notably, Commissioner hoisted festival and recital of EU said on Thursday (12 August). mental health and psychosocial COVID-19 Relief Programme the national flag and Indian patriotic songs. They include high dependency wellbeing. inspected the guard of These events received unit (HDU) beds, finger pulse Ambassador of the Delegation of honour. He also read an enthusiastic oximeters, oxygen concentrators, the EU to Sri Lanka and the Berendina NGO excerpts of the response and oxygen jumbo cylinders and other Maldives Denis Chaibi said, “EU President of India’s thousands of people urgent supplies, it said. and WHO are working together to message on the participated from As a comprehensive approach to ensure that our support can hands over meds to occasion. The event across the island. case management, the EU grant is rapidly assist people affected in was telecast live and Events were also being used to strengthen order to help address the spread of Akkaraipattu Hospital was attended virtually organised by the health worker capacities. Based on the disease.” by friends of India in Assistant High the potential of e-learning as Dr. Alaka Singh, WHO A non-governmental Sukunan (Centre) handed Sri Lanka and members Commission in Kandy, highlighted during the COVID-19 Representative to Sri Lanka, said, organisation named over these medications and of the Indian Diaspora Consulate General in experience and with technical “Particularly notable is the ‘Berendina’ based in equipment received from the in Sri Lanka. Jaffna and Consulate support from WHO, the Ministry of flexibility of EU funding that allows Batticaloa, under its Regional Manager of Ashirvad Puja was General in Hambantota Health (MoH) has established a responsiveness to immediate COVID-19 Relief Berendina S. Vijayakanthan held at Param Dhamma as well to mark the virtual learning management country needs during this Programme, handed over to the Medical Officer Chaitya Pirivena for the 75th Independence information system (LMIS). unpredictable pandemic. This has urgently needed In-Charge Dr. M.U. Wafa. well-being of people of Day. Several iconic The LMIS has enhanced all 43 been seen with the supply of medications and other Medical Officer In-Charge of India and Sri Lanka on buildings like the Galle Medical Officer of Health (MOH) urgent life-saving equipment to equipment for COVID Kalmunai Regional COVID the day. The Indian Fort, Jaffna Cultural training centres, already reaching hospitals across the country. At patients valued at Rs Treatment Centres and monks at the Pirivena Centre, India House, more than 12,000 health workers the same time, longer-term 870,000 to the Treatment Intermediate Centres Dr. especially celebrated Taj Samudra and currently undergoing training and support continues, making Centre and Intermediate M.C.M. Mahir and other the Independence Day Indian Chancery shall reach an additional 5,000 important contributions to Centres at Akkaraipattu Medical Officers of the with great fervour. premises at Colombo, new recruits every year. Further, strengthening resilience in Sri Divisional Hospital. Hospital were also present. Several other cultural Jaffna, Hambantota WHO’s global learning networks Lanka’s health system.” Kalmunai Regional Director (Pic by M.A.P. Deen – events were also and Kandy were will be used to facilitate access to (PA) of Health Services Dr. S. Ampara Correspondent) organised online to illuminated with commemorate the colours of the Indian occasion. flag on Independence This included Day eve. A number of performances by the events are being held If right to dissent is not guaranteed Colombo Expatriates across Sri Lanka Cultural Association, throughout the an Indian Diaspora milestone year, till 15 grouping and ‘Pavala August 2022, under the Govt’s days are numbered Natya Maala’ - a ‘Azadi Ka Amrit collection of dance Mahotsav’ initiative. The Federation of University mercenary force of the authoritarian approach. A wide Teachers Associations (FUTA) Government, be immediately number of civil society – FUTA has warned the Government reformed to carry out its organisations and trade unions that instead of attempting to constitutionally mandated duty were involved in organising this people are crammed into a small resolve the crisis created by the of safeguarding the right to life, protest walk and rally. The space, FUTA pointed out that proposed Kotelawala National liberty, and property. Police are attempting to the Police are always present Defence University (KNDU) Bill, FUTA has been instructed to characterise this democratic with a yardstick to measure if it continues to stifle the focus on the fact that the Police protest as a highly dangerous social distancing at public people’s constitutionally are currently conducting a terrorist-like activity, and the protests about pressing societal protected right to dissent, its witch-hunt against Dr. Mahim Police Force, which is currently issues. They also scoffed at days are numbered and its Mendis and 15 other activists behaving like a government- attempts to characterise the political future is jeopardised. who took part in the peaceful hired mercenary paramilitary lowering of a few mobile barriers They said in the face of this protest walk and demonstration, force, is mocking law and the slight melting of the repression, they are appealing which concluded in the enforcement by invoking tarmac as a major vandalism of to the legal community, civil symbolic burning of a coffin and quarantine regulations and laws public property when the people society networks, activist the lowering of a few barricades. pertaining to public property responsible for the Bond Scam organisations, and those “The protest walk and rally damage against these activists,” and numerous other instances committed to the protection of organised on 3 August with the they said. of misappropriating public human rights to stand up and participation of academics While criticising the Police for funds have got away with it for demand that the Police Force, representing FUTA is the finest turning a blind eye to political years. which is acting like a private example of the Government's activities where hundreds of (TR)

Due to Combating climate change COVID-19 surge NTMI Korea to support SL projects services By Thameenah Razeek only by Korean Ambassador Santhush Woonjin Jeong said the Republic of Korea’s Government would continue to support projects carried out by the Sri Lankan Government under booking the Global Climate Change Prevention Programme. Dr. Sachindra Gamage, Environment Minister Mahinda Amaraweera received an Chairman of the National invitation from Ambassador Santhush to attend the COP28 Transport Medical Summit proposed by the Government of the Republic of Institute (NTMI), Korea in October 2021 to combat climate change. announced that the The meeting took place at the Ministry of Environment. institute's services have The Minister added that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s been restricted due to the projects were carried out in accordance with the United spread of COVID-19. Nations climate change programme. From today (16), all Thereby, the Ministry of Environment formed a Climate branches of the NTMI, Change Secretariat, through which a variety of including the Nugegoda programmes have been launched. Head Office and “Due to global warming, the President decided not to Werahera, will only rebuild coal power plants in Sri Lanka and instead provide services to clients introduce renewable energy that generates 70 per cent of who book appointments total electricity demand, giving priority to electric cars,” he on the 225 hotline or via said, adding that a number of steps have been taken to eChanneling and Court- increase Sri Lanka’s forest cover to 30 per cent. directed drivers will The Ambassador also added that his Government is receive unlimited medical prepared to lend its support to support Sri Lanka’s examination services. (TR) measures aimed at combating global warming. A4 monday 16 august 2021 column India at 75 Forging Partnerships to Enhance Neighbourhood Diplomacy

By Dr Srimal Fernando large amount of aid to Sri it is time for the policymakers of numerous socio economic Lanka by India. both nations to think ahead and spheres to uplift the rural base The changing order in the make trade transaction especially in the Northern and global power shift requires India’s Neighbourhood smoother and business friendly Eastern provinces. The Indian nations to balance their First Policy for both these countries. Government has provided over foreign policy making based Bilateral trade between the two $ 2.5 billion aid and credit line on their interdependencies Being one of the largest states nations has increased in the facilities to bring about self- with neighbouring states. As in the South Asian region, India past four years resulting in a sustainability in these regions. of late, India’s regional considers Sri Lanka to be of direct impact on Sri Lanka’s Indian public and private interest in Sri Lanka, its significance in order to promote domestic market. Bilateral ties institutes have provided Southern neighbour has been its geopolitical and trade between the two countries have suitable facilities for the many pivotal. interests as well as its strengthened since the signing of Sri Lanka students to pursue Sri Lanka’s foreign policy as Neighbourhood First Policy and the Indo-Sri Lanka Free Trade higher education. Affordable an Island Nation should be to SAGAR doctrine. From the Agreement (ISFTA) along with and standard education made promote its national interests power bound and trust-building the increase in trade volume in available by Indian institutions in synchrony with India neighbourhood strategy – the several spheres. Intermediate provides the opportunity for without compromising its Gujral Doctrine of the late ’90s to goods, transportation and Sri Lankan students to travel relations with other major the present-day Neighbourhood capital goods imported from to their neighbouring country nations. In order to maintain First Policy, India-Sri Lanka ties India have a direct benefit on Sri to pursue education instead of the region’s power balance, have gradually advanced as far Lanka’s industrial output. On having to travel to the West. Sri Lanka will be an as identifying economic the economic front, gas and oil The new foreign policy important partner for India diplomacy as a priority. are vital energy consumption approach underlines the with whom it can easily requirements of Sri Lankans and increasing interdependencies develop bilateral ties. The Sri Lanka’s India the Lanka Indian Oil Company of India and Sri Lanka across cornerstone of this bilateral First Policy plays a vital role to meet this many fronts. Sri Lanka is in a bond is founded on mutual antecedence. The South the 1970s, of Srimavo need. In the field of transport, moderately advantageous trust based on historic and Asian region’s evolving geo- Bandaranaike that solidified With its new India First India has significantly position to fast-track its ethno-religious grounds political concerns have driven the old bonds between the approach to foreign policy, Sri contributed towards uplifting Sri recovery from the pandemic's along with political and India to forge a stronger two nations. A key element in Lanka does not intend to risk Lanka’s railway connectivity challenges. economic factors. commitment with Sri Lanka. reshaping ties and bridging India’s ongoing strategic security such as by relaying the Northern About the Author: Traditionally, India has stood In order to reinforce these the gap between the two interests in the India Ocean railway tracks and modernising Dr. Srimal Fernando by its neighbouring island ties, India has taken a multi- nations should be primarily realm. The key purpose of this the existing signalling system of received his PhD in the area nation during its times of faceted approach with trade founded on the policy of non- policy is to generate a shift in the the Southern railway lines. Port of International Affairs. He need and presently still and aid diplomacy being an interference which in fact was global order wherein Sri Lanka and shipping is another sphere was the recipient of the stands by this policy by being important feature. The a key foreign policy norm of would no longer be dependent that provides mutual benefit to prestigious O.P. Jindal a dependable partner. In republican foreign policy Indian Prime Minister Moraji on a Western-oriented policy. To both nations while Colombo and Doctoral Fellowship and order to provide stability in doctrines fostered by both Desai’s Government in 1977. ensure an economically resilient Mumbai are some of the busiest SAU Scholarship under the the Indo-pacific region, the India and Sri Lanka were Considering the bilateral ties future, Sri Lanka will need to handling ports in Asia. There SAARC umbrella. He is also strategically located small Eastward-oriented within a in the recent past, it can be adopt a policy approach that are also a large number of an Adviser/Global Editor of islands such as Sri Lanka are broad framework of non- debated that Sri Lanka’s emphasises on promoting middle class tourists from India Diplomatic Society for of diverse significance to alignment. Based on national foreign policy dynamics saw a bilateral ties and improving visiting Sri Lanka, helping to South Africa in partnership major nations. and regional interests, the sea change since 2014, after collaboration with its boost the island nation’s with Diplomatic World Gandhi’s key drive of Sri Lanka’s then Narendra Modi became Prime neighbours. Accordingly, Sri hospitality industry. During the Institute (Brussels). He has Prime Minister Minister and implemented Lanka's largest regional trading past years, Indian and Sri received accolades such as daughter State Bandaranaike’s non-aligned India’s Neighbourhood First partner, India, can be a key ally Lankan businesses have 2018/2019 ‘Best Journalist policy was her proposal to policy. Modi’s Neighbourhood that Sri Lanka should strive to established numerous ventures of the Year’ in South Africa, When Mahatma Gandhi ensure that the Indian Ocean First policy has reinforced engage with. together to promote prosperity (GCA) Media Award for 2016 visited Sri Lanka in 1927, he be made a zone of peace or cooperation between the two Economic Diplomacy and to create sustainability. and the Indian Council of referred to the island nation nuclear free zone which was nations including India’s aid Aid Diplomacy World Affairs (ICWA) as India’s daughter state. adopted by the United to Sri Lanka. A key turning With the growth of the accolade. He is the author This statement emphasises Nations in 1972. It could point in bilateral relations Indian economy and with India The Indian Government has, of ‘Politics, Economics and the utmost importance that perhaps be held that, it was during the last seven years being one of Sri Lanka’s throughout the years, Connectivity: In Search of India has for Sri Lanka since the foreign policy approach in has been the provision of a closest prospering neighbours, contributed positively in South Asian Union.’ Let’s have a cup of coffee! By R.S. Karunaratne Boston found indirect evidence that conducted by a leading researcher in caffeine may actually combat neurology. Dr Alan Leviton of “If it weren’t for the coffee,” David Parkinson’s disease. Harvard University said, “Evidence Letterman once quipped, “I’d have no Studies have been done to see shows that coffee drinkers are identifiable personality whatsoever.” whether there is a link between coffee significantly less likely to be Those of us who start the day drinking and miscarriage. According depressed than people who do not clutching a cup of coffee relate, but to a Canadian study, pregnant drink it. Coffee’s positive impact on we have some worries. Is coffee really women who drank two cups of coffee mental health appears to be related good for us? Relax and take a hard a day had 36 per cent more to its anti-inflammatory, anti- look. The bad reputation of coffee is miscarriages than women who drank oxidative and microbiome-promoting being rehabilitated thanks to many less than that. However, Mark properties which are also associated large scale studies. Klebanoff at the US National Institute with coffee drinkers’ reduced risk of Coffee has been both praised and of Child Health and Human developing certain cancers and mocked at for centuries. It has been Development says, “Whether chronic diseases. The greatest mental blamed for causing impotence and drinking coffee increases the risk of health benefits come from drinking at madness, at other times a cure for miscarriage or whether many women least two cups of coffee a day. With laziness or “gift from heaven.” Coffee who have a normal healthy Covid-19 pandemic dramatically is the most widely consumed pregnancy just lose their taste for increasing stress in many people, psychoactive substance in the world. coffee is still uncertain. this comes as a piece of good news. It is the best known ingredient in Some people still believe that there With all the medical evidence coffee. Its beneficial effects on the is a link between coffee and cancer. confirming the benefits of drinking human body have been researched In the 1980s there was a coffee scare coffee, there are many people who quite well, but coffee as a whole is a after a study linked coffee with think that it would damage their complex beverage with a thousand pancreatic cancer. However, it proved health. In fact, the idea that coffee is different substances. Some studies whether caffeine adversely affected to be a false alarm. Some European bad for your health pops up indicate that decaf and caffeinated blood pressure. Doctors at Johns studies found that there was an periodically. Several studies in Europe coffee may have the same health Lateral Hopkins University tracked 1,000 increased risk only among those who found that regularly drinking very effects and suggest that it is not the former medical students for over 30 drank ten or more cups of coffee a strong coffee could sharply increase caffeine that is responsible for most thinking years and found that coffee drinkers day. Doctors warn that pregnant cholesterol levels. Researchers even coffee’s health benefits. had reasonable levels of blood women and those who breastfeed isolated fatlike chemicals, cafestol According to a Greek study, one they found no link, but those who pressure and they were not at great their babies should not drink more and kahweol, responsible for the rise. cup of coffee a day could reduce your had up to six cups a day were five risk of developing hypertension. than two cups of coffee a day. For However, it turned out that the blood pressure. However, coffee could times less likely to develop Recent research shows regular, others, there is virtually no risk in European brewing method – boiling keep you awake all night. Two cups Parkinson’s disease. Webster Ross, a moderate coffee drinking does not drinking even three cups of coffee a water sits on the coffee grounds for of coffee a day could keep Alzheimer’s neurologist, says caffeine appears to raise blood pressure. Researchers day. several minutes before straining – at bay, say researchers from protect brain cells from the damage have failed to prove that coffee might produces concentrations of cafestol University of Florida. A US study that leads to Parkinson’s disease. trigger abnormal heart rhythms in Powerful stimulant and kahweol. By contrast, filter and found that three cups of coffee a day In 2003, Harvard University healthy people. Meir Stampfer, an Caffeine found in coffee is a percolation methods remove all but a can lower the risk of gall stones, researchers found that people who epidemiologist at Harvard University powerful stimulant and the trace of these chemicals. Moreover, while another from Stockholm imbibed four to five cups daily cut says as far as heart disease is International Olympic Committee has the studies involved large amounts of reports that three cups of coffee may their risk of type 2 diabetes by 30 per considered, the issue is closed. set limits on how much can remain coffee – five to six cups a day – but make a woman’s breasts shrink. cent. Meanwhile, scientists at According to him, coffee drinking at in the blood during competition. average coffee drinkers down not Four cups and you are combating the Germany’s University of Munster reasonable levels is unrelated to Apart from that, caffeine is well more than two cups of the brew. risk of cancer. identified a compound in coffee that heart risk. known to increase alertness and More research is being carried out appears to protect against colon improve your mood. However, there and until we know the results it is Heart attacks cancer. Many other studies show that Parkinson’s disease is a danger in drinking too much of quite safe to drink up to three cups of Coffee is one of the most caffeine in a cup of coffee can There is increasing evidence to coffee. If you do so, you may become coffee a day. The latest evidence researched beverages in the human increase alertness and improve suggest that coffee may fend off restless and unable to sleep. What is shows that there is nothing much to history. In the 1960s doctors performance on tests of mental Parkinson’s disease. It has been more, you may become physically worry about drinking coffee. wondered whether coffee increased function. It was the considered found that avid coffee drinkers had dependent on caffeine. Sometimes, there can be unexpected heart attacks. They asked 8,000 opinion of Andrew Smith, a one-fifth the risk of those who did not Drinking coffee can reduce benefits as well. So let’s have another Japanese American men how much psychologist at Cardiff University. drink the brew. Researchers at depression risk by up to one third, cup of coffee! coffee they drank. Forty years later, For many years, experts wondered Massachusetts General Hospital in according to a comprehensive study [email protected] COLUMN MONDAY 16 AUGUST 2021 A5 Pakistan-Sri Lanka Pact on Extradition of Criminals Pakistan Courts Release Convicts Citing Laws Incompatible

By Sugeeswara Senadhira registrar’s office to forward the petitions to the interior ministry “who The recent crackdown on drug shall treat the same as representations dealers and smugglers revealed in on part of the petitioners and work out graphic detail how Colombo was used These suspects, the incompatibility/compatibility and as a major trafficking hub for illicit evidently with approach the court of competent drugs produced in Afghanistan and jurisdiction for determination of the smuggled to Sri Lanka by Pakistani sufficient financial same; while doing so, the competent drug kingpins. Anti-narcotic sleuths authority shall place on record before revealed that Sri Lanka is in the resources to hire top the court of competent jurisdiction”. clutches of Pakistani drug traffickers lawyers, filed “After obtaining the orders for who work with Middle East based drug compatibility, the competent authority lords circumventing their Sri Lankan petitions in the shall pass orders for the release of the counterparts. petitioners where so required or They use Sri Lanka as a Islamabad High determined,” the court order transhipment hub for heroin trafficked Court seeking their concluded. into the country mainly from the Deputy AG later announced that the Indian sub-continent. Alert police and release claiming that matters regarding Pakistani suspects narcotic bureau officials detained a sentences for drug extradited from Sri Lanka have been large number of drug smugglers and directed to Anti-Narcotics Forces traders among who were several smuggling offences magistrates. Fifteen cases were sent to foreigners, mostly Pakistani nationals. magistrate Shaista Kundi while the In November 2020 Sri Lanka sent in Sri Lankan laws other 26 sent to the other court, he 41Pakistani drug smugglers to stand were not compatible added. The court summoned the trial in their country under the interior secretary on the subject and bilateral Prisoner Transfer Agreement with Pakistani laws. adjourned the case till 24 August. The (PTA) signed by Pakistan and Sri This move has petitioners are incarcerated in Adiala Lanka in 2004. According to the Central Jail in Rawalpindi. agreement, transfers are allowed in resulted in a court Sri Lanka is extremely concerned cases where sentences exceed a period about smuggling of narcotics and its of six months. This was the first case trial in the effect on the younger generation. of repatriation over the past seven Seized illegal drugs to be destroyed provisions of the Furthermore, there is evidence that years under the pact. the drug trade, in turn, is fueling However, these suspects, evidently petition referred to the sentence for the the relevant authority for their release. PTA between Sri Islamic extremism. Pakistan is one of with sufficient financial resources to offence of drugs trafficking in Pakistan He argued that the court of competent the major drug trafficking countries in hire top lawyers, filed petitions in the as contained in Section 9 of the jurisdiction in this case was the Lanka and Pakistan the South Asian region. Afghanistan’s Islamabad High Court seeking their Control Narcotic Substances Act, Special Court for the Control of Ambassador to Sri Lanka release claiming that sentences for 1997. Narcotics Substances which could acknowledged that Taliban-produced drug smuggling offences in Sri Lankan The petitioners pleaded that in decide about the compatibility of the drugs entering Sri Lanka through laws were not compatible with almost all cases, the quantity of the sentences. with the sentences provided under the Pakistan and even the Sri Lanka Navy Pakistani laws. This move has resulted drugs recovered from the petitioners The Deputy AG said that the laws of the Pakistan was worked out, knows well that much of the narcotics in a court trial in the provisions of the did not entail life imprisonment or petitioners had no fundamental rights the petitioners had already served the originates from Pakistan where drug PTA between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. capital punishment as was present or any right for that matter since they sentences and, therefore, they were kingpins work hand in hand with the Last week, the Islamabad High Court under the laws of Pakistan and the were convicts and they were serving entitled to be released forthwith. Taliban, who facilitate the cultivation Judge Aamer Farooq directed the sentence was less than the one their sentences. He further argued that Justice Farooq observed that since and production of drugs in Interior Ministry to make awarded by Sri Lankan courts and the petitioners had been convicted and the high court could not determine the Afghanistan. arrangements for examining whether that the sentence provided in the laws awarded punishment for the heinous compatibility of the sentences, “the In addition to the group of 41 who the sentences awarded by Sri Lankan of Pakistan had been served out by the offence of smuggling of narcotic competent authority namely the were convicted for drug trafficking and courts were compatible with Pakistani petitioners and, therefore, they were substances and they could not claim Ministry Of Interior, Government of extradited, there are several more laws. The counsel for the petitioners entitled to be released immediately. In their release from the prison as their Pakistan, ought to have determined Pakistani suspects in police custody in informed the court that the sentences support of the petition, the counsel right. the question of incompatibility of the Sri Lanka facing trial and not convicted awarded by the Sri Lanka courts for cited provisions of relevant laws as well The counsel for the petitioners sentences between the laws of as yet. offences of drugs trafficking were not the treaty between Pakistan’s and Sri counter-argued that even a convict Pakistan and Sri Lanka and made There is an imperative need for South compatible with the sentences for the Lankan Governments with respect to serving the sentence had some reference to the court of competent Asian cooperation to fight narcotics, same crime under Pakistan’s laws. the transfer of the offenders. fundamental rights, especially the jurisdiction for ascertainment of the including its cultivation, production Their argument was that if the Deputy Attorney General Raja Khalid right to be dealt with in accordance same, but they failed to do so in and trafficking in the region. Hence, sentence of a person was incompatible, Mehmood Khan, representing the with Article 9 of the Pakistan violation of the statutory obligation, as there is keen interest on Islamabad the court of competent jurisdiction federal Government, said that the Constitution. He further said that if provided in section 9 of the court’s verdict on the anti-narcotic could make it compatible and pass an petitions were not maintainable since the compatibility of the sentences Ordinance”. cooperation and the bilateral pact appropriate order. In this case, the the petitioners could seek relief from awarded by the courts in Sri Lanka Subsequently, the court directed the between Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

‘Sinification’ of Religions in China Roots, Functions and Dysfunctions By P.K.Balachandran India, for instance, Christianity, with its being launched now, Harvey says. Western cultural baggage, was According to him, Xi has sensed The “Sinification” or “Sinicisation” of indigenised (or Hinduised) after danger from the “burgeoning of civil religions, especially Islam and independence, especially in South society” in China after Deng Xiao Ping Christianity, in China, is one of the key India. Many nuns began to wear an and he himself opened up the country programs of President Xi Jinping. ocher colored Sari instead of the to the world. In Beijing’s view, the religions existing Western habit. Some Catholic priests Foreign influences, ideas, thoughts in China (many of which are of non- began to wear white dhoti or Vetti. In a and aspirations had crept in and Chinese origin) will have to develop a few churches in Tamil Nadu, spread their influence. To quote symbiotic relationship with the larger worshippers would sit cross-legged on Harvey: “Legions of entrepreneurs, Chinese or “Han” culture, and become the ground with footwear removed and academics, religious groups, Chinese part of a unified national religious not on benches with shoes on. Catholic studying abroad, lawyers, and others ethos, even as they maintain their women began to put on the ‘bindi’ or have formed associations and adopted individual and distinctive beliefs and ‘pottu’ which was previously considered new belief systems that view CCP practices. the hallmark of a Hindu woman. (Communist Part of China) ideology as The regime sees Sinification of However, these adaptations did not hopelessly hackneyed. As multi- religions as a vital necessity for China’s taken place due to any governmental national and Overseas Chinese national unity, stability and security. fiat but out of a desire on the part of the Christian wedding in China corporations have poured into China, But Western critics see it as a threat to church itself to make Christianity, a many Chinese now have foreign religious freedom, cultural diversity, Western import, acceptable to locals (CCP) to “guide the adaptation of accept designation from overseas bosses and can ignore Party democracy and human rights. with a Hinduistic background. religions to a socialist society’. He aims religious groups or institutes, or violate apparatchiks. They move freely both Neither side is wholly correct or Adaptation ensured its longevity in the at the indigenization of religious faith principles on independence from in and out of China on business apart wholly wrong. Nationalisation or country. by rooting it’s practice and ritual in outside. from government oversight and indigenisation of religions has been a However, changes are taking place Chinese culture and society. Successive violent terrorist incidents control. The result has been the constant phenomenon in the history of now. Governments and political parties But Harvey says that Xi’s principal in the Muslim-dominated Xinjiang emergence of intellectual, religious, nations the world over. But when a are now taking a role in the aim is to use ‘Sinicisation’ to bring Uygur Autonomous Region and the business, literary, and artistic religion is seen as a national security indigenisation process out of political religions under the Chinese persistence of separatist feelings in communities that only grudgingly nod threat, then nationalisation and and national security considerations. Communist Party’s control. The project Tibet because of the Buddhist leader to Party ideology. This has proved indigenisation tend to take an ugly form Governments have begun to view is so important to the State and the the Dalai Lama, had been responsible both a blessing and a curse to CCP and invite censure. China has become religions with international connections party, that ‘Sinicisation’ has even for China’s fears and the tough fortunes. The strong economy a butt of criticism because of its current like Christianity and Islam with entailed the imprisonment of vast measures taken to regulate religions. dampens dissent, but the rise of civil national security approach to Islam and suspicion. Conversions are now seen as numbers of Uighur, Kazakh, and Hui According to Shen Guiping, a society diminishes and even questions Christianity, especially the former a demographic and political threat and Muslims as well as intractable religious expert at the Central Institute the CCP’s ideological sway.” because of the challenge from as a conduit for the spread of radical (or Christian leaders, who pose a challenge of Socialism, Sinicization means “It is Xi’s conviction that, if the rule separatism and terrorism in the terroristic) ideas. Governments keep an however mildly. sinicizing Christianity in every aspect, of the CCP is to survive, it must Muslim-majority Xinjiang region. eye on the activities of foreign-funded According to Global Times in including doctrines, cultural customs, instigate radical ideological renewal Sinification of religions in China can churches and Madrassahs. Even in February 2021, China's National morality and culture. Shen told the and Sinicisation of religions is but a be viewed as being rooted in its history. Islamic Turkey, what is taught in the Religious Affairs Administration Global Times that "Christianity part of the task.” Unlike some other nations, historically, Madrassahs or is preached in the announced regulations for the religious currently follows the rule of This is already affecting many in China has not been multi-ethnic mosques, is scrutinized so that the clergy. The new regulations, titled indigenisation but it doesn't necessarily China, locals as well as expats, ideologically. Traditionally, it has alien and disruptive Wahabbism is not "Measures for the Administration of implement Sinicisation. Harvey adds. “Foreign businesses, looked upon non-Chinese as implanted in the minds of Turkish Religious Personnel," came into force "A good religion fosters openness and intellectuals, artists, religious leaders, barbarians and has always sought to Muslims. Therefore, religions are under on1 May. desire to learn new information. and their institutions both in and absorb the minorities into the larger pressure to change everywhere, not just It has seven chapters and 52 Articles. Religion should not be self-centered beyond China are feeling the whole. in China. The clergy have been asked to resist and constrained to its own doctrines," pressure. Like the purges and Indigenisation or nationalisation of illegal religious activities, religious commented Chen Qijia, a professor incarceration of suspected political religions has also been a global Chinese Case extremism or overseas forces' use of from the Renmin University of China. A enemies in the 1950s, ‘Sinicisation’ is phenomenon, and not a peculiarity of In his essay on the “Sinicisation” of religion to infiltrate China. Religious Muslim leader said that indigenization now the ideology and policy that China. Christianity, an Asiatic religion, religion in China in www.lausanne.org personnel should not do the following: or Sinification of Islam would help it drives the mass incarceration of up to got thoroughly Westernised when its Thomas Harvey says that the process undermine national security and public survive in China. two million Muslim Uighurs, Hui, and headquarters shifted to Rome in was introduced in 2016. Noting that safety; promote, support or fund Kazakhs in Xinjiang re-education Europe. Indigenisation became religions were becoming popular among religious extremism; split the country; Non-Religious Reasons camps, as well as the detention and pronounced in countries where one the Chinese, President Xi Jinping engage in terrorist activities; be However, there are non-religious re-education of Chinese Christian religion or culture was dominant. In wanted the Chinese Communist Party manipulated by overseas forces or reasons too for the Sinification process pastors.” A6 monday 16 august 2021 editorial

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Cash Bonanza for Pardoned Ex-LTTE Cadres The Government in its magnanimity has taken steps to provide funds to the ex-LTTE cadres, convicted by the country’s Courts of Law for engaging in terrorist activities during their over three-decade war against the State, on top of their being freed by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, India and China: recently, exercising the power of Presidential Pardon vested in him in terms of the provisions of the Constitution. The historic event took place last week under the patronage of Army Commander General Shavendra Silva Vocational Education when 15 ex-LTTE cadres were given cash emoluments to initiate self-employment and begin normal lives. A sum of Rs 100,000 was distributed for this purpose to each person. The distribution was made at the Jetwing Hotel in Jaffna on 9 August 2021. in Comparison Following the distribution, General Silva said it was their turn to prove to the world that they have shunned By Dr. Rajkumar Singh education and is a part of violence and were ready to lead peaceful lives as law- 9-year compulsory education. abiding and respected citizens of this country. Vocational education is that These schools are mainly A special memento was also presented to Vamadevan form of instruction designed to located in rural areas and Thyagendran, the sponsor of the project. Major General prepare people for industrial meet the requirements of Deepal Pussella - General Officer Commanding 51 or commercial employment. It labour forces for the Division, Major General Haren Peiris, General Officer can be acquired either development of rural economy Commanding 52 Division, Major General Mahinda formally in trade schools, while those who pass the Jayawardena, General Officer Commanding 55 Division, technical secondary schools, primary school graduates or Brigade Commanders and a few Senior Officers of Tri or in on-the-job training have equivalent cultural Forces and Other Ranks were present at the event. programmes or by picking up knowledge are admitted to It is highly commendable for the Government to take the necessary skills on the job. senior secondary schooling this initiative not being vindictive about the meaningless All things alike, the vocational which lasts 3 to 4 years and mayhem perpetrated by a group of utterly irresponsible education in India and China meant for the vocational citizens of the country, engaging in a meaningless war is also different, although, the education in senior high against the State while at the same time enjoying all the quality and volume of their school stage having a two-year comforts provided by that same State. human resource power can course with the role of guiding They destroyed an immense number of lives, ruined the contribute a lot for the whole low-cost, volume-based for this imbalance include- the and working at the forefront of economy and brought untold misery to the people of the of humanity because in these manufacturing. As a result, attraction for traditional white production. country including their own and finally themselves died two most populous countries India also suffered in quality collared profession, general At the level of tertiary, those martyrs without a cause. However, their political leaders of the world, live two-fifth of of faculty member, research, education being cheaper, and who graduated from regular who instigated and incited them calling them ‘boys’ can earth’s total population. No along with result-oriented and even though the students who high schools and vocational never be pardoned for they still persist in playing the old doubt, they both have problem-solving research. At joined vocational institutions schools are enrolled and it ‘card’. registered a tremendous vocational level the number of possess low intellectual ability lasts for two to three years Granted that it is economic inequality in society that growth in socioeconomic enrolled students is more than or low economic status. with emphasis on training of drives people, especially, the youth to rise up against the conditions and improvement double, while at doctoral stage Despite repeated suggestions practice-oriented and craft- State providing the kind of relief given in this instance in per capita gross domestic it is four times more in China and recommendations by the oriented talents. With this, ipso facto is only symbolic of the need of the larger product despite having in comparison to India. different committees neither equal emphasis has been segment of the over 11,000 LTTE cadres rehabilitated by different social, economic, and Vocational central nor state government given on quality and the Army very soon after the end of the war in 2009 who political structures and public paid serious attention and as up-gradation of teachers who may not have still got a foothold in life or for that matter policies. In three initial education in India a result remained last choice generally come from general of the crying need of the people at large that has to be decades-1950s,1960s, and As vocational education for students and guardians as education. considered. 1970s they both remained on includes all kinds of well. However, a major Status in India and China Poverty and joblessness are the main reasons for being the same footing, rather New employment wherever breakthrough has been made drawn to a chimera such as being afforded all comforts by Delhi was ahead of Beijing in specialised education is in the New Education Policy In nutshell, there is no winning a revolution, liberation movement or a separatist some respects, but between needed, keeping in view the 2020, yet to be implemented comparison between the State. As all of us know revolutions for whatever cause 1980 and 2010 China went development of the nation first and whose results are likely to status of vocational education are long outdated consequent to that view being farther leaving India far such suggestion was given in be encouraging. as existed in India and China proclaimed in 1956 by no less a person than Nikita behind in almost all domains Wood’s Despatch of 1854 who Chinese scheme of as the former is lagging far Khrushchev, Leader of the Soviet Union, the then second including education. In over suggested for the provision of behind the latter in content, largest economy in the world. The in thing today is 30 to 40 years China became 8 practical education of Indians. vocational education structure and effectiveness of Socialism by a process of evolution. to 10 times bigger than India. In two other succeeding Mainly established and the course. In particular, with Therefore, the State has to attend to the needs of the In last decades, while India committees - the Hunter expanded since the the advancement in people reasonably well so that they get at least the three became the largest Commission 1882 and Hartog liberalisation of the Chinese technology, improved basic needs, namely food, clothing and shelter not concentrator of enrolled Committee 1929, it was said economy in 1978 followed by infrastructure and easy access allowing a few to amass unlimited wealth because the undergraduate students of to diversify the courses of the decision of the Communist to domestic and global market, trickle-down theory is unreliable in a context where the more than two crores in studies and options for Party of China Central job profiles are continuously rich are not all philanthropists, save of course those like comparison to 1.27 crore in commercial and industrial Committee Decision on and rapidly evolving every day. benefactor Vamadevan Thyagendran the sponsor of the China and 1.04 crore in the career, especially for Reformation of Educational In the context, the position in above project. United States which created a secondary stage was System in May 1985, several India is disappointing as 60% Democracy, as Sir Winston Churchill described it is the situation of credential recommended, but it was needed effective measures of candidates and employees best of the worst forms of government, so, once a inflation, meaning devaluation totally ignored by the were taken to bring about a find the vocational courses government has been elected to office vain revolutionary of a degree with time due to Government. The first such huge development in the area. taught in India ineffective tactics in the form of bringing the people on to the streets oversupply of graduates and attempt was made by the It clearly says that a vocational where only 18% of students are but out of the question whether launched by shoddy at the same time it reflected Government under the New and technical education get jobs of which merely 7% revolutionary parties having a history of dismal failure or our poor quality of education Pattern of Education in 1936- system should gradually be enters in formal jobs according by those who have impatience for power in their blood and skills imparted at many 37 and two vocational set up, embracing all levels of to a survey. In addition, they and claiming alternate leadership, inciting them by institutions. The data of education experts - Abbot and education and whole sets of also lack qualitative training, calling to start street fighting. postgraduate is also of more Wood were invited by the occupations, sound in employability, weaknesses of So, the puerile activities of not only northern but than double between India Central Government to give structure and related with infrastructures, etc., and southern terrorists motivated by such mundane needs as and China, while India some expert guidance as ordinary education. Over the these all need to be corrected against Islamist terrorists whose motive has been purely miserably failed in vocational about the same time Mahatma years, due to the continuous without making any delay. religious – aiming at merciless local and world domination courses and skilled man Gandhi also insisted on advancement of reforms About the Author: – must be put down tooth and nail. power. A significant reason manual and productive work China’s vocational education Dr. Rajkumar Singh, The path taken by the Government of late in between their difference lies in in his concept of ‘Basic industry has now ushered in a Professor and Head camaraderie with all countries, led by America, China, the fact that while India Education’. Although some golden era of development Department of Political India and Russia, augurs well for the well-being of the missed the opportunity in the efforts were made in with broad prospects. In Science, country so that those of all communities need not have last three-four decades, China Independent India to raise the present day China there are Dean, Faculty of Social any apprehension in any regard. expanded vocational number of vocational courses, three levels of vocational Sciences, It’s like the proverbial giving of a fishing rod rather than educational system to develop it was 5.5% in India, as schools: a. Junior secondary, Bhupendra Narayan fish to a man to earn his livelihood – the giving of Rs a skilled manpower base for compared to 17% in China, b. senior secondary, and c. Mandal University, 100,000 to start life in earnest. For pardoned persons manufacturing related 24% in France, 29% in Italy, tertiary. The junior level Madhepura-852113. receiving such funds it would be like water to a thirsty activities, and therefore, 59% in USSR, 65% in United vocational schools refer to the Bihar, India. man. Beijing leaped forward by Kingdom and 80% or more in vocational and technical Email-rajkumarsinghpg@ engaging the masses through Switzerland. The main causes education after primary school gmail.com column monday 16 august 2021 A7

By Shivanthi Ranasinghe Time to Straighten Embassies & Their Lackeys advancing inclusive governance, women’s empowerment, environment Early this month (August, 2021), a and climate action and growth that farmer in Vilavotei, Kilinochchi, whilst works for everyone in Sri Lanka and the preparing his paddy field, detected a Maldives. part of a uniform worn by Sri Lankan The statement admits that this is a soldiers with skeletal remains. He Silence Over LTTE highly competitive and sought out promptly informed the Police. The programme. Here lies the problem, investigators found besides the which the Defence Ministry should take aforementioned also evidenced that serious note. This substantial funding strongly suggested a site used by the and support is only given to those that LTTE as an execution ground. meets the Canadian criteria. In simpler Surprisingly, or not, this news had Execution Ground terms, this award is given to those with not generated any interest in the Media, the most brown noses. This is an civil societies or amongst the nosy absolutely unacceptable situation. western diplomatic corps. Even the The role of an embassy is to establish various groups that have sprung up in and strengthen bilateral relations support of our war heroes are keeping between its Government and the mum. administration of the host country. As On taxpayers’ money the high such, an embassy cannot be seen to be maintenance Office for Missing Persons intervening in internal matters of its (OMP) functions. In the year 2018 host country. This includes all attempts national budget, Rs 1.4 billion was at moulding societies, groups and allocated for the functioning of the organisations to carry an external OMP. In the 2019 April budget, another agenda. Rs 500 million was included to honour However, these local societies that are an interim report submitted by the funded by these embassies and Western OMP. This additional sum was to Governments do not work towards provide the affected families with strengthening the positioning of their missing persons a monthly allowance of own country but rather to discredit it. Rs 6,000/ until a suitable The persistent demand to release Easter compensation package can be finalised Attack suspects as Hejaaz Hisbulla and through the Reparations former CID Director Shani Abeysekera Commissions. The necessity for this OMP staff members: Mohanti Peiris, Nimalka Fernando,S. K. Liyanage, Mirak Raheem, Kanapathipillai Venthan, Punniyamoorthy who fabricated false evidence against allowance was established on the basis Jeyatheepa, Saliya Pieris Yahapalana Government’s political that the surviving families could not opponents is made by such civil proceed with their legal rights without a to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs terrorists to rebuild their lives through societies. The fact that they did not death certificate. Therefore, recognising Ravinatha Aryasinha and the It is the prime various vocational programmes. make a hum when the military a person as missing until his/her fate Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka In April 2017, hundreds of ex-LTTE intelligence officers were similarly can be determined is important for the to the UN in Geneva Ambassador ALA responsibility of the gathered in protest against the move to incarcerated on flimsy charges that had surviving family. Azeez. OMP, to thus hand over the farms and pre-schools no evidence highlights their It was reported that the High managed under the Sri Lankan Army to hypocrisy. The West for centuries Responsibility of the OMP Commissioner greeted the Yahapalana determine the the TNA-dominated Northern Provincial operated on a divide and rule principle. It is the prime responsibility of the Government delegation warmly and identity of the Council. They insisted that their In this context, they always created OMP to thus determine the identity of expressed satisfaction on the progress livelihoods would be adversely affected confusion and chaos in non-white the victims in this mass grave. Since made by Sri Lanka in some of the key victims in this mass if these were given to be managed by supremacist countries. They do not wish DNA testing is available locally this is human rights commitments arising grave. Since DNA the NPC. Therefore, they wish to work to see our countries progress. not an impossible task. The work from HRC resolution 30/1. In what was under the military in which they have Thus far, US ambassador Alaina involved may be tedious but the described as frank and candid testing is available more confidence. It is noteworthy the Teplitz has been exposed twice over Government has made a generous discussion between the two parties, the locally this is not an TNA once was the political stooge of the misleading comments made on the allocation to the OMP, so that they may High Commissioner had also referred to LTTE. Therefore, it is clear from these Colombo Port City, the key project that execute their responsibilities without “certain information contained in the impossible task. The protests that the TNA is no longer a will strengthen our economy. First she constraints. Therefore, it is of great Office of the High Commissioner’s work involved may credible or accepted political entity claimed that the Port City would be a importance that the OMP submits to Report such as the ‘mass graves’ in amongst the very people who fought for haven for money laundering. Recently Parliament a progress report on the Mannar.” be tedious but the a separatist movement. she falsely implicated that “the US has identity of the skeletal remains. The Government has These protests, unlike the howls one of the companies working on the Parliamentarians too, especially those One-sided story reaching generated over the disappeared Port City Development on our sanctions who won their seats by speaking on Geneva made a generous persons, are not funded by any NGOs. list,” and further commented that “doing behalf of our war heroes, should push This makes the protests by the ex-LTTE business with that company may not be for such a report from the OMP. Whether High Commissioner allocation to the cadres a genuine cry and denotes the something that’s advisable.” Bachelet would express similar interest OMP so that they true state of affairs in the country. She made these comments to a select Kilinochchi Mass Grave vs on the mass grave with remains of Sri “During the current recruitment group of journalists. This in itself proves Mannar Mass Grave Lankan soldiers in the upcoming may execute their drive, more than 1,600 from the Tamil that the US embassy is not as big on UNHRC September session is to be responsibilities community had joined the Army,” Media freedom as they claim. When the Mannar mass grave was seen. It is unfair to predict a reaction observed Army Commander Shavendra CHEC Port City Colombo (Pvt) Ltd was discovered in 2018 in the north- before its time. However, it is not without constraints. Silva when he toured the Northern quick in correcting this falsehood. The western town of the then German unreasonable to be doubtful as the Therefore, it is of peninsula in April, 2021. The Tamil response noted that neither this ambassador himself visited the site news that reach the UNHRC only caters youth seeing career prospective in the company nor its parent company China with a Media crew on tow. The to a narrative that is supportive of the great importance Sri Lankan military is the best evidence Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) immediate presumption was that this LTTE propaganda. that the OMP we have of the harmony between the and China Communications was a crime committed by the Sri There is a reason for the UNHRC to military and the civilians in the North Construction Company (CCCC) have Lankan armed forces. The western fail in forming a comprehensive picture submits to and East. been listed in the US sanctions diplomats and civil societies dependent vis a vis Sri Lanka. The highly Parliament a It is most unfortunate that the Sri announced in August 2020, nor are on these western agencies were licking politicised UNHRC picks on certain Lankan Government and especially the these two companies engaged in any and smacking their chops with developments concerning Sri Lanka progress report on Foreign Ministry fails to latch on to such business with companies in the US anticipation of finally finding evidence and not all news. Despite the UN the identity of the developments. These developments are sanction list. In fact, the CCCC is a to prove their wild allegations against maintaining an office in Sri Lanka, the thus seen as isolated incidents and get Fortune 500 company currently ranked our war heroes. They did not even for a UNHRC tends to give more of a hearing skeletal remains dismissed even before the end of the in the 78th position. moment entertained the possibility that to the Human rights groups, civil rights day. The silence maintained by the Foreign this mass grave could have been the activists and other Non Governmental Treacherous Agenda in Ministry over these developments is a works of the LTTE - even though the Organisations funded by the West that hate campaign against the country. matter of grave concern. The damage disrepute of LTTE included the continuously carry tales against Sri Hence, as a State arm we are not as Discrediting Sri Lanka done by these civil societies is immense. indiscriminate killing of innocent Lanka to the UNHRC. persistent in presenting a positive The recent trade union actions civilians who they perceived as against The UNHRC Resolution 30/1 brought image of the country as those who are Earlier this month, Canada instigated by the JVP have put the whole them. against Sri Lanka in 2015 is a case in engaged in discrediting our country. announced funding to nine NGOs to the country in jeopardy. If not for the However, carbon data from the point. That Resolution hinges on the For instance, 15 ex-LTTE combatants tune of CAD 300,000 under a teachers’ protests, Sri Lanka would have world’s most advanced labs proved that outrages allegation that 40,000 were recently given cash emoluments of programme labelled 2021-2022 Canada resolved the pandemic to a great extent the mass grave was created by neither perished during the last phase of the Rs 100,000 each to initiate a means of Fund for Local Initiatives. These nine by September. Instead, today the the Sri Lankan armed forces nor the war against terrorism. Yet, the UN self-employment. This is certainly not a Organisations include Centre of Human country is in danger of another LTTE. This was a crime committed Colombo office’s estimate of this figure one time event or something that took Rights and Development, Colombo lockdown of at least three weeks. This during the forced European occupation is around 7,000. This figure of 40,000 place for the first time since the Friends in Need Society, Comdu.it, will affect the daily wage earners as well and was few centuries old. Immediately, was first published in the illegal annihilation of the LTTE. Chrysalis, Media Law Forum, Save the as the overall economy of the country all interest on it vapourised. Darusman’s Report. When Rear No longer credible Beach Maldives, Transparency sinking under the weight of debt taken When the Mannar mass grave was Admiral Sarath Weerasekera International Sri Lanka, Verite Research by the Yahapalana Government. still a hot topic, it was discussed even challenged Yasmin Sooka, who made Since the conclusion of the war and Women & Democracy. Therefore, the Defence Ministry must in Geneva. On 20 March 2019, The up the three-member panel that against terrorism, the Sri Lankan According to the press statement take stern action against these nefarious United Nations Human Rights produced the Darusman’s Report, as to Governments under Mahinda released by the Canadian High elements behind these protests. At the Commission’s High Commissioner how the 40,000 figure was arrived at, Rajapaksa and Gotabaya Rajapaksa Commission on 04.08.2021, this same time, the Foreign Ministry must Michelle Bachelet met a high profile all she could do was stare back have concentrated on aiding the former initiative is to support and empower put the embassies and ambassadors in Government delegation that comprised dumbfounded. LTTE cadres to return to the civil Organisations addressing local issues their due place. Otherwise, these the then Foreign Minister Thilak The Foreign Ministry is too entangled society. From the rehabilitation while strengthening ties with civil society so-called civil societies will continue to Marapana, Parliamentarian Dr Sarath in negating these exaggerated or even programmes and thereafter, these two and local communities. This year, the strain in the most uncivilised manner to Amunugama, Governor of the Northern false reporting and appeasing our Governments have initiated many statement further read, this initiative release a big dump on our heads. Province Dr Suren Raghavan, Secretary accusers in the belief that will stop the programmes that have helped former will contribute to promoting and [email protected]

75th Independence Day of Pakistan celebrated in Sri Lanka The High Commission of envisioned by Quaid-i-Azam Almighty Allah in thankfulness Pakistan and the Pakistani Muhammad Ali Jinnah. We have and a day of renewing our pledge community in Sri Lanka surmounted monumental that we will continue to struggle celebrated its 75th challenges during the course of with unity, faith and discipline Independence Day “The our history to emerge as a for the objectives, for which the Diamond Jubilee” with united, peaceful and resilient country was created. traditional fervor and resolve to nation. Even today, the changing On Sri Lanka-Pakistan make Pakistan a strong, regional dynamics along with relations, the High dynamic, progressive, tolerant some domestic issues continue Commissioner said that Pakistan and democratic Islamic welfare to test our resolve. Like each attaches great importance to its state. time, we will also overcome these relations with Sri Lanka, based The High Commissioner of the obstacles with our characteristic on mutual respect, Islamic Republic of Pakistan in determination and come out understanding and close Sri Lanka, Maj. Gen (Retd) stronger as a nation”. cooperation. He further said that Muhammad Saad Khattak In his remarks, the High Pakistan has always extended hoisted the national flag of Commissioner of Pakistan, paid unconditional support to Sri Pakistan in vibrant and colorful tribute to the forefathers of the Lanka at all fora and will always ceremony at the Pakistan High nation who faced continue to do so. Commission in Colombo. successes in various fields defeated the menace. Similarly, Asmma Kamal, Commercial insurmountable challenges and The event was well-attended by Ms. Ayesha Abu Bakr Fahad, making the country the development of nuclear Secretary. The message gave unparalleled sacrifices for a good number of participants Second Secretary (Political) read distinguished from other deterrence by Pakistan is a great included: “As we hoist our achieving the dream of Pakistan. including members of the out the message of the President nations. The world must achievement that has made the national flag to mark Our elders sacrificed their Pakistani community, officials of Pakistan, H. E. Dr Arif Alvi, appreciate the fact that country’s defence impregnable”. Independence Day, we must present for our future. He and families of the High quoting, “Pakistanis are a Pakistan singularly fought a The message of the Prime reiterate the firm resolve to reiterated that 14th August is the Commission, local dignitaries, brilliant and brave nation, that long-drawn war against Minister of Pakistan was read uphold our national values of day of happiness; a day of journalists and friends of has made tremendous terrorism and eventually out for the audience by Ms. unity, faith and discipline as bowing our heads before Pakistan. A8 monday 16 august 2021 focus Prospect of US Military Bases in Central Asia By Emil Avdaliani suspicion in Beijing that the There are reports that the US is happy with a Western presence in American exit might be a ploy. allegedly trying to establish military Central Asia because the region The American exit from Greater Chinese involvement in bases in Central Asia. This was borders on the restive Xinjiang Afghanistan has created a power Afghanistan might prove to be a trap. possible 20 years ago, because province. vacuum. The quartet of China, A Chinese move to fill the power Moscow was willing to help the US China has been expanding Russia, Pakistan, and Iran stands to vacuum in Afghanistan would indeed build anti-terrorism momentum. This both militarily and in terms of benefit the most from the US be a bold geopolitical move, as history time around, it is unlikely that the security in Central Asia. It has withdrawal. The area to accrue the shows that no sole power has ever US will be allowed into Central Asia. opened a military base in Tajikistan least benefit is Central Asia, whose been able to control the space all the America established a military and over the past several years has five states (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, way from China to the Mediterranean presence in Central Asia following the increased the number of military Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and for any significant length of time. terrorist attacks of 9/11, but today’s exercises it conducts with Central Uzbekistan), together with Even the Mongols, who managed to geopolitical configuration is strikingly Asia states. An external competitor Afghanistan, represent one unify this expanse, saw their empire different both in the region and risks disturbing the regional balance continuous geographical space. divide into four warring parts and across Eurasia. Conditions are not as of power China has been carefully Separation would be geopolitically eventually fade away. conducive as they once were to a US building. harmful to the Central Asian states, It is by no means clear that the presence. This is not only because The diplomacy around the Afghan as security spillover from Afghanistan Chinese would be able to succeed the Central Asian states are now conundrum shows that Russia and has a direct impact on Tajikistan, where others have failed. Beijing has better prepared to militarily the US, despite being in tense Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan greater resources than any other withstand the Taliban threat. Russia competition over vast swathes of because of their long border. power in Eurasia but would still face too has strengthened its military Eurasian territory, can From a long-term perspective, the myriad problems, from terrorism to presence in the region, and will be sometimes cooperate. Russia’s American exit signals a shift in US nationalism to competition from unwilling to allow external powers in– alleged decision to allow the US foreign policy away from the Middle other powers. In the end, its fate is especially in the age military to use its facilities in Central East and South Central Asia and likely to resemble that of previous of Moscow’s exclusion policy. Asia fits into Moscow’s great power toward the Indo-Pacific. America is unsuccessful attempts to influence Ultimately, while Russian approval model. In this type of international essentially internalising the limits of and control the depths of Eurasia for the stationing of military bases relations, cooperation and its military potential: it sees that out- from a single center. Beijing would prefer to work closely with Moscow than with Washington still matters (as shown by one of competition coexist. competing China in the heart of If the withdrawal from Afghanistan Sergei Lavrov’s statements), it is not But whereas in the early 2000s Eurasia is a self-defeating geopolitical is in fact an American ploy, it is the only factor guiding the Moscow supported America’s goal. similar to what sea powers have done attention was drawn to other issues. establishment of a new US presence offensive against terrorism in What the US has managed to in the past to prevent continental It has become increasingly clear in Central Asia. Afghanistan, its thinking has evolved accomplish so far in the region is powers from dominating entire that Afghanistan was in fact a top Another player–China–will be since then. A potential exceptional for a sea power. It continents. Great Britain stopped issue during the summit. The strongly opposed to any kind of American presence is now viewed in a penetrated deep into Eurasia–into Napoleon’s France by essentially Russian daily Kommersant reported American presence. In the early negative light. Moreover, the issue is hostile lands that rarely, if ever, were cutting the country off from the sea on July 17th that Putin offered Biden 2000s, concern about Taliban increasingly not only about Russia in tamed, even by continental powers in and pushing it into the depths of the the use of Russian military bases in support for Xinjiang-based separatist Central Asia. The US now has to heed antiquity or the Middle Ages. The European continent. In the Central Asia for information- and extremist groups Chinese concerns as well, which will American expansion into Afghanistan 20th century, the US managed to gathering from Afghanistan. pushed China to view the US efforts be extremely difficult. thus represented a historical stop the Soviet Union by navigating Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan host a as fitting its own security interests. Beijing would prefer to work closely anomaly. It could not continue for Soviet expansionism into tricky number of Russian military bases Since then, however, China-US ties with Moscow than with Washington. long without expanded cooperation places–like Afghanistan. and other installations, some of have deteriorated sharply, with China and Russia share similar with the neighboring states, which The US withdrawal could serve, which are close to the Afghan border. Beijing coming to see the US concerns, and both oppose a Western did not occur. somewhat surprisingly, as a basis for There have also been several high- presence in Afghanistan as deviating military presence. But Russia could America’s withdrawal frees up the potential improvement in bilateral profile meetings in Washington from its initial anti-terrorism mission cooperate with the US for the purpose space, offering China, Russia, and ties with Russia. When the Russian recently between US and Central and focusing instead on containing of showing China that it is Moscow, other Eurasian powers the and American presidents met in June Asian diplomats about letting in China’s regional ambitions. not Beijing, that is in charge in the opportunity to fill the gap–and in the in Geneva, the media was flush with at-risk Afghan citizens. For the Beijing will therefore be a staunch region, and that it will decide whether process, divert resources and details of the summit. But because moment, it seems that opponent of America’s military to permit or prevent the military attention away from other critical neither leader touched upon the potential cooperation would involve expansion to Central Asia–a critical presence of non-regional powers in theaters where the US is facing stiff question of Afghanistan at their the exchange of information region for Beijing’s westward push. Central Asia. resistance. In that light, there is segregated press conferences, world gathered via drone. Moreover, China would not be (www.moderndiplomacy.eu)

By Mohamad Zreik Asia-Pacific Region The foreign policy of the United States has changed dramatically with the accession of Barack Obama to the presidency in 2008, especially with regard to the Asia-Pacific region. Barack Obama is the exceptional U.S. Foreign Policy forty-fourth president of the United States of America, who presented a different model from his predecessors in foreign relations. In 2009, the Obama administration announced a new strategy towards the Asia-Pacific region based on rebalancing. This under Obama region was a priority for Obama, Obama’s unique policy toward Asia- message to the Chinese strengthen its interactions with the unlike previous US administrations. Pacific that combines structural administration. However, since 2009, Asia-Pacific; otherwise it will give This orientation of the United States realism with institutional the United States has become an China more power, which goes towards the East coincided with the neoliberalism. The bulk of my economic, military and institutional against its interests. In 2010 tremendous Chinese progress, which research links between structural actor in the Asia-Pacific region. Since President Obama clarified his ideas has become an imminent threat to the realism and the foreign policy of the 2009, the institutional, economic and when he said, “In the past, the United international standing of the United US administration. However, Obama military participation of the United States has thrived when both our States. has presented an advanced model in States with regional institutions has nation and our national security So the Obama administration’s foreign policy. It is certain that the increased, as well as military policy have adapted to shape change move to place great attention on the United States will not make change resources, trade and investment, instead of being shaped by it …. Now, Asia Pacific region can be seen as through military force alone, such as the periodic deployment of we must once again position the anticipating Chinese progress and specifically in the Asia-Pacific region. American forces and ships in United States to champion mutual strengthening the US presence there. He has promoted neoliberalism at the Australia and Singapore, and the interests among nations and peoples”. The Obama administration intended expense of realism, as he has given signing of new military agreements The administration of President to provide great support to Asian priority to institutions and economic with Japan and the Philippines since Obama has strengthened US ties with organizations such as ASEAN in order exchanges without excluding the 2009 and 2010. Thus, the practical the Asia-Pacific region due to the to strengthen the US political and military option. policy began in 2009, but was changing international balance of moral influence, and to isolate China In this context, I rely on Obama officially announced in 2011. The US power. Therefore, it has become in its Asian surroundings. Obama’s administration’s interest in the Asia- administration at the time had necessary for the United States to policy towards the Asia-Pacific region Pacific region. Obama established a strengthened its military presence follow a new strategy towards Asia- went beyond political support to new model in the foreign policy of the and increased trade exchanges as a Pacific. The US interests in that region include strengthening the military United States based on realism and moral support for its allies in the are being threatened by the great presence there. It was a clear and neoliberalism on soft and hard power; region, but China has been in Chinese openness. This explains declared message from the United therefore, this article discusses the continuous progress at all levels and Obama’s neoliberal approach on this States to the Chinese that they will extent of the success of this policy in has not been disregarded by those issue. The question that arises today not abandon that region as it is a the Asia-Pacific region and the American movements. is “will US President Joe Biden follow strategic part of the US geopolitical possibility of establishing it as a A military report indicates that the the same Obama policy approach map. model. Therefore, I wonder about the United States forces stationed in toward Asia-Pacific, or will he have his As part of Obama’s strategy, the feasibility of this unique hybrid policy Europe and other continents own policy towards this important United States increased its economic presented by Obama’s administration. sculpt the future of the U.S., that’s decreased – relatively and absolutely – geostrategic region?” exchanges with that region, with the I explain this US policy towards Asia- why I have made restoring U.S. while the deployment of US forces in The world’s experience with the aim of increasing the economic role of Pacific by applying realist and engagement a cornerstone.” Obama the Asia-Pacific region increased. Democrats indicates that the US the United States and reducing neoliberal methods. Many previous has reduced the United States’ Therefore, the US government policy under President Joe Biden may exchanges with China. Several US studies have been published on this engagement in the Middle East and reduced its interest in Europe and the not resemble Trump’s policy and will reports indicated that Obama was topic, but I am here to approach it other regions to strengthen its Middle East and increased its focus not be very different from Obama’s tough and flexible with China at the from a different perspective and to presence in the Pacific. I am not about on the Asia-Pacific region. Chinese policy. US President Joe Biden should same time. His administration has add some clarification. The Obama to judge the paradigm shift Obama progress has made the Obama realize that war on terror and military put great pressure on the Chinese administration’s move towards the made, but the main thing is that there administration seriously consider a interventions in the Middle East and while maintaining the good bilateral Asia-Pacific region is extremely are many challenges ahead for the policy of orientation toward Asia- other conflict areas would not be in relations. Therefore, the primary goal important, and this issue turned to be United States in Asia-Pacific. In this Pacific, but at the lowest cost, such as the interest of the United States of Obama’s new strategy toward the a hot topic in international relations context Hillary Clinton stated in 2011 increased institutional participation, because the great danger to the Asia Pacific region is to counter to this day. that “it is becoming increasingly clear rotational deployment and long-range United States is coming from the Far Chinese progress and strengthen the The Obama era was characterised that in the 21st century, the world’s missile systems, rather than a East; China is making rapid and role of the United States, which has by great concern for the Pacific, as it strategic and economic center of massive increase in military resources tremendous economic progress and is been greatly affected by Chinese used the term “Asia-Pacific” that gravity will be the Asia-Pacific.” sent to the region. The Chinese likely to become the world’s first openness. corresponds to Chinese aspirations, The “Strategic Pivot to Asia” that the administration is aware of the economy. The withdrawal of US forces Obama was able to combine in contrast to the Trump Obama administration adopted in repercussions of US policy, so it has from Afghanistan and their realpolitik elements, such as administration, which used the 2011 aimed at maintaining the never stopped developing its military mobilization in Asia-Pacific indicates strengthening the military presence of concept of “Indo-Pacific”, which led to security of the South China Sea, systems and securing the necessary that President Biden has well US forces, and liberal elements, such turmoil in the US-Chinese relations. reducing the threat of North Korea, protection for the South China Sea, understood the rules of the game of as more economic exchanges with In 2012 Obama stated that “‘the U.S. and strengthening the American which is part of Chinese sovereignty. contemporary international politics. that region. I am focusing here on is a Pacific nation. [The] Pacific will counter-presence as an indirect The United States is obligated to (www.moderndiplomacy.eu) world monday 16 august 2021 A9

Port-au-Prince, Haiti At Least 28 Killed in Lebanon Fuel Tank Explosion At least 28 people were killed and 79 injured when a fuel tank exploded in People walk past a house destroyed following a 7.2 magnitude northern Lebanon early on Sunday, the earthquake in Les Cayes, Haiti (Reuters) Health Ministry said. Military and security sources said that Following major quake the Army had seized a fuel storage tank hidden by black marketeers and was handing out gasoline to residents when the explosion occurred. Haitians Lebanon is suffering from a severe fuel shortage, leading to long lines at gas stations and extended blackouts. The scramble to disaster happened in the town of Altalil, in the Akkar region that is one of Lebanon's poorest areas. rescue survivors About 200 people were nearby at the time of the explosion, eyewitnesses said. Haitians laboured solidarity with the Caretaker Health Minister Hamad overnight to pick through emergency," said Haiti's Hassan said the worst cases of burns shattered buildings in search Prime Minister Ariel Henry, a probably needed quick treatment abroad of friends and relatives neurosurgeon who was to save their lives. trapped in the rubble after a thrust to the forefront of the Army and Security Forces personnel devastating earthquake troubled country after the were among the casualties, sources said. Ambulances are parked near the site of a fuel tank explosion in Akkar, in northern Lebanon (Reuters) struck the Caribbean shocking assassination of Accounts varied as to what caused the country on Saturday, killing President Jovenel Moise on 7 explosion. Abdelrahman, whose face and body was hospital said he had two other sons he still more than 300 people and July. "There was a rush of people, and covered in gauze as he laid in Tripoli's hadn't located. injuring many more. Some Haitians said they arguments between some of them led to al-Salam hospital, was one of those in line The Red Cross said its teams were still The 7.2 magnitude quake would spend Saturday night gunfire which hit the tank of gasoline and to get gasoline. searching the explosion site. flattened hundreds of homes sleeping in the open, so it exploded," said a security source. "There were hundreds gathered there, Angry residents in Akkar gathered at the in the impoverished country, traumatised by memories of Local Al-Jadeed TV channel reported right next to the tank, and God only site and set fire to two dump trucks, which is still clawing its way the magnitude 7.0 2010 from eyewitnesses that it was caused by a knows what happened to them," he said. according to a Reuters witness. back from another major quake that struck far closer person who ignited a lighter. The father of another casualty at the (Reuters) temblor 11 years ago, and to the sprawling capital Port- has been without a head of au-Prince, and killed tens of state since the assassination thousands of people. of its President last month. Footage of Saturday's Southwestern Haiti bore aftermath posted on social Hong Kong, China Cape Town, South Africa the brunt of the blow, media showed residents especially in the region in reaching into narrow and around the city of Les openings in piles of fallen Former S. African Cayes. masonry to pull out shocked Haitian officials had by and distraught people from Saturday evening registered the debris of walls and roofs President Zuma at least 304 fatalities and that had crumbled around more than 1,800 people them. injured. Access to the worst-hit undergoes surgery Churches, hotels, hospitals areas has been complicated and schools were badly by a deterioration in law and Jailed former South African damaged or destroyed, while order that has left key access President Jacob Zuma has the walls of a prison were roads in parts of Haiti in the undergone unspecified surgery rent open by the violent hands of gangs, although and remains in hospital with more shudders that convulsed unconfirmed reports on operations planned, prison Haiti at 8:29 a.m. that social media suggested they authorities said on Sunday. morning. would let aid pass. Zuma, serving a 15-month "We need to show a lot of (Reuters) sentence in Estcourt prison for Contempt of Court, was sent to a hospital outside for observation on 6 August, days before the start of a corruption trial he has thus Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia far avoided. "Mr. Zuma underwent a surgical procedure on Saturday, 14 August 2021, with other Former South African President PM Muhyiddin Jacob Zuma (Reuters) procedures scheduled for the coming days," prison spokesman Police in April accused the group of breaching the Singabakho Nxumalo said in a Judge to produce a medical report to resign Societies Ordinance and asked it to submit information statement. by 20 August. regarding its finances and past activities (Reuters) There was no word on a The prosecutors may appoint a potential discharge date for Zuma, doctor of their choice to assess on Monday In latest blow to democracy movement who in July asked the country's whether Zuma is fit to stand trial. Top Court to reverse his Zuma, whose jailing last month Malaysia's Prime Minister incarceration, saying it was ignited looting and unrest, faces Muhyiddin Yassin will resign Organiser of unjust and might kill him if he charges with co-accused, French on Monday, news portal catches COVID-19. defence firm Thales, over a US$ 2 MalaysiaKini reported, after Last week, a High Court billion arms deal corruption case he lost his majority due to Hong Kong postponed his corruption trial to 9 that led to his sacking as South infighting in the ruling September after his Africa's Deputy President in 2005. coalition. hospitalisation. It is unclear what Zuma and Thales have denied The resignation, if mass protests medical condition ails Zuma and the allegations. confirmed, would end a his legal team was ordered by the (Reuters) tumultuous 17 months in office for Muhyiddin but also disbands bring more uncertainty to Malaysia as the country Civil Human Rights Front (CHRF), the pro- grapples with a COVID-19 democracy group that organises Hong Kong's annual Seoul, South Korea surge and economic 1 July rally and galvanized millions to take part in downturn. street protests in 2019, said it has disbanded, in the Despite N. Korea rebuke It was not immediately latest blow to the opposition movement. clear who could form the The group was established in 2002 with an aim to next government as no provide a platform for different organisations to S. Korea, US to begin lawmaker has a clear Malaysia's Prime Minister promote the development of human rights and civil majority in Parliament, or if Muhyiddin Yassin speaks society in Hong Kong. elections could be held in during opening remarks for It organised the global financial centre's first 1 July joint military drills Malaysia amid the pandemic. virtual APEC Economic rally in 2003 that saw half a million people took to the It would be up to the Leaders Meeting 2020, in streets to protest against a draft National Security South Korea and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia constitutional monarch, King (Reuters) Law, known as Article 23, that was later shelved. the United States will Al-Sultan Abdullah, to decide Police in April accused the group of breaching the begin their annual what happens next. that, he will head to (the Societies Ordinance and asked it to submit joint military drills on Muhyiddin will submit his palace) to submit his information regarding its finances and past activities. Monday, the South's resignation to the king on resignation," Mohd Redzuan "The Police reiterated that for crimes committed by military said on Monday, according to Mohd told Malaysiakini. an organisation and its members, the criminal Sunday, amid North Redzuan Md Yusof, a Muhyiddin's grip on power responsibility will not be wiped out due to the Korea's warnings of a minister in the Prime has been precarious since he disbandment or resignation of the members," Police diplomatic and Minister's Department, came to power in March 2020 said in a statement, adding they will continue to security crisis. Malaysiakini reported on with a slim majority. pursue any organisation or person for violations of the South Korea and Sunday. Pressure on him mounted Hong Kong National Security Law and others. the United States South Korea and the United States regularly stage military exercises, mainly in the spring and sum- Reuters could not recently after some CHRF said an annual meeting was held on Friday regularly stage mer, but North Korea has for decades reacted immediately reach Mohd lawmakers from the United and the members decided to disband immediately. military exercises, angrily, calling them a rehearsal for war (Reuters) Redzuan. The Prime Malays National "In the past year, the Government has continued to mainly in the spring Minister's Office did not Organisation (UMNO) party - use the epidemic as an excuse to reject and summer, but simulated command COVID-19 situation, immediately respond. the largest bloc in the ruling demonstrations' applications from CHRF and other North Korea has for post training with joint defence posture Mohd Redzuan said alliance - withdrew support. groups," it said in a statement on Sunday. decades reacted minimum personnel and ways to support Muhyiddin informed party The Premier had for weeks "Member groups have been suppressed, and civil angrily, calling them but no live field diplomatic efforts to members of his decision to defied calls to quit and said society has faced unprecedented severe challenges," a rehearsal for war. training, the Joint denuclearise and resign as he had exhausted he would prove his majority CHRF said. The exercises will Chiefs of Staff (JCS) foster lasting peace all other options to sustain in parliament through a CHRF said its HK$ 1.6 million (US$ 205,581) of continue for nine said. "The alliance on the Korean the Government. confidence vote in assets would be donated to other appropriate days, mostly made the decision Peninsula," the JCS "Tomorrow, there will be a September. organisations. consisting of after comprehensively said in a statement. special cabinet meeting. After (Reuters) (Reuters) defensive, computer- considering the (Reuters) A10 MONDAY 16 AUGUST 2021 SL Must Diversify Export Basket, Maximise GSP+ Utilisation Import restrictions within WTO framework By Rajiesh Seetharam our products don’t’ qualify under countries export to 20 countries.” doesn’t mind this as long as there the rules of origin criteria. At least The EU is a high end market; it is free and fair trade. Sri Lanka’s Generalised Scheme 50% of our garment exports are not imports products with high “The WTO allows these import of Preferences (GSP) Plus utilisation utilising GSP plus concessions due standards, stated Ambassador of restrictions under some conditions remains at a lower level compared to not being able to qualify under the European Union to Sri Lanka if they are temporary and if they to the other eight GSP plus these criteria. We need to Denis Chaibi. are notified,” beneficiary countries, stated encourage more investments in He said, “The EU is the best Former Ambassador to the WTO Ambassador of Sri Lanka to the fabric manufacturing in Sri Lanka. market for Sri Lanka as if offers Dr. Dayaratna Silva said that 83% Friday Markets European Union (EU) Grace Another reason is a lack of high margin, moreover Sri Lanka of Sri Lankan exports under Asirwatham. awareness for preferential benefits doesn’t have a large consumer base preferential agreements come with Speaking on a virtual conference under GSP plus for specific which makes EU a highly attractive GSP, thus it is very significant to on GSP Plus, Ambassador noted products. market. Since 2017, Sri Lanka’s retain the GSP+ concession. Shares recover that Sri Lanka had a utilisation rate We have less product exports have grown by 28%. It is not The current GSP+ scheme offered By Mario Andree of 62.7% in 2019, whereas other diversification. Although zero easy to replace the EU market for to eight countries including Sri GSP plus beneficiaries had utilised tariffs are given for seven thousand Sri Lanka.” Lanka will lapse in 2023. EU is in The Colombo Stock Exchange recovered over 90% of their tariff concession. products lines, our export product Speaking import restrictions of the process of framing the terms from a near one month low on Friday (13) as “The balance of trade between 2 basket has not expanded for a long the Sri Lankan government, Chaibi and conditions for GSP after this the benchmark index posted gains on a parties has been in favour of Sri time. We should expand into new said “Though it has nothing to do period ends. modest turnover despite continued foreign Lanka for several years. Trade products like organic goods, zero with GSP plus, the import In June 2021 the European exits from the Colombo Bourse. between Sri Lanka and EU stood at waste products, sugar free restrictions imposed by Sri Lanka Parliament adopted a resolution The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI), Euro 4587 million, of which Sri products such as kithul, processed are understood in the context of asking the European Union (EU) which started the day at 7,980.91 points, rose Lanka’s exports were Euro 3038 foods and other value added the balance of payments; however Commission to consider to 8,025.30 points during the early hours million and imports were Euro 1549 products. We need a proper market it would be better if the rules of the temporarily withdrawing Sri before crashing to 7,971.24 points by mid- million. study to diversify into more zero WTO were respected and notified. Lanka’s access to the GSP+ day. The index afterwards gained to 8,033.56 “Sri Lanka could benefit from tariff products with higher EU exports to Sri Lanka were the concession. points before slowing down to settle at 7000 product lines at zero duty margins. At present most Sri lowest in a decade, meaning EU The 705-member EU Parliament 7,996.04 points, gaining 15.13 points (0.19 under the GSP plus facility. Lankan exporters are targeting exported less in 2020 compared to adopted the resolution with 628 per cent) compared to the previous day’s “The reasons for under utilisation around 9 EU countries out of the 2010. Thus there is a serious votes in favour, 15 against and 40 close. of the GSP Plus facility are some of 27 EU countries, while other imbalance in trade, however EU abstaining. Ambeon Capita, LOLC Finance, LOLC Development Finance, Commercial Leasing & Finance and Hayleys pushed the ASPI up, while Melstacorp, Asian Hotels and Properties, Ambeon Holdings, Laugfs Gas and Expolanka Holdings dragged the index. Veteran Banker The more liquid S&P SL20, which started HNB yet again delivers the day at 2,989.02 points, rose to 3,014.25 points during the early hours of the day before K.E.D. Sumanasiri sustainable business performance crashing to 2,989.36 points. The index then rose to 3,005.93 points before slowing down appointed BoC GM Hatton National Bank to settle at 2,990.91 points, gaining 1.89 (HNB PLC) continued to points (0.06 per cent) compared to the Veteran banker K.E.D. demonstrate resilience previous day’s close. Sumanasiri has amidst volatile conditions, The daily turnover reached Rs 2.3 billion assumed duties as posting a Profit Before Tax during the day, lower that Rs 4.13 billion General Manager of (PBT) of Rs 10.9 billion and recorded during the previous day. Bank of Ceylon, (BoC) a Profit After Tax (PAT) of Rs Shares of 262 listed companies were traded Sri Lanka’s number one 9.1 billion. The Group during the day, of which 92 were losers ahead commercial bank. profits also improved in of 90 winners. Sumanasiri, who line, with PBT and PAT at More than 162.7 million shares changed assumes duties as the Rs 12 billion and Rs 9.8 hands during the 31,158 trades that took General Manager of the billion respectively. HNB Chairman, HNB MD/CEO, place. bank today, 16 August The loan book recorded a Nilanth de Silva Jonathan Alles Foreigners exited the Colombo Stock 2021, joined the bank in growth of 8.6% over the the first six months of 2021 Assets of 1.4% and a Exchange during the day. The net foreign 1990 and served in the past 12 months to June to 4.25% in comparison to a Return on Equity of 13.2%. outflow (NFOs) during the day amounted to different grades as a 2021. Despite same, the deterioration of nearly 50 Strong second quarter Rs 21 million, as foreigners sold shares worth career banker. reduction of over 280 bps in bps witnessed during 1H growth facilitated a 3% Rs 42 million, as against purchases worth Rs He has been a Deputy AWPLR over the same 2020. The Bank made an expansion in the loan book 21 million. General Manager, a period resulted in a 10.6% impairment charge of Rs during the first half to Rs The top ten winners during the day were: member of the Bank’s YoY drop in 1H interest 6.3 billion for the 1H 2021 839 billion. Total deposits Ambeon Capital, Sierra Cables, Nation Lanka Corporate Management K. E. D. Sumanasiri income, to Rs 48.1 billion. compared to the increased to Rs 1.032 Finance, Singhe Hospitals, Renuka Hotels, Team, since 2013. His effective professional Strong CASA mobilisation impairment of Rs 9.1 billion Trillion as at end of 1H Sinhaputhra Finance (P), Mackwoods Energy, experience and industry banker and thus gained efforts led to a 27.1% YoY in the corresponding period 2021 recording a growth of Vidullanka (non-voting), Raigam Salterns and acumen as a banker Associate Membership of growth in the CASA base of 2020. 6.7%. The Bank is also e-Channeling. ranges across many key the Institute of Bankers which improved to Rs 405.5 The Bank was successful among the best capitalised The top ten losers were: Blue Diamonds areas of banking. His of Sri Lanka and the billion as at end of June in containing the increase and most liquid in the (non-voting), Blue Diamonds, Laugfs Gas, contribution in retail Chartered Institute of 2021. This growth together in Operating Expenses to industry as demonstrated Lighthouse Hotels, Laugfs Gas (non-voting), banking, micro and Personnel Management with the low deposit rates, 5.2% YoY, despite the by a Tier I Capital Adequacy Bansei Resorts, Ambeon Holdings, Laugfs corporate finance and Sri Lanka. contributed to a 20.4% YoY Operating Expenses for 1H Ratio of 15.31%, Total Power, AHOT Properties and Mercantile human resource He has undergone drop in interest expenses to 2020 being 6% below the Capital Adequacy Ratio of Shipping. development has professional and career Rs 25 billion. Accordingly, corresponding period of 18.42%, a Liquid Coverage contributed immensely training. Among them Net Interest Income for the 2019. This together with Ratio of 273.7%, and a to the bank’s the following stand out: first half 2021 exhibited a the healthy growth of 13.3% Loan to Deposit ratio development. Over the “The Linkage 20 3.2% YoY growth to Rs 23.2 YoY in Total Operating 81.2%. The CASA ratio also Panic selling of years he has played conversations billion. Income resulted in an stood at 39.3% as at end of many roles such as Area Leadership Programme” Fee and Commission improvement of 289 bps in 1H 2021. Total assets T-Bills and Bonds Manager, Operations conducted by Harvard income continued its Cost to Income ratio which expanded by 3.5% in the six Manager and Assistant Business School of USA, uptrend in 2021 increasing stood at 37.4% as at end of months ended June 2021 continues General Manager leading and “Management to Rs 4.4 billion billion, a June 2021. to Rs 1.337 Trillion, while By Paneetha Ameresekere him to gain a deep Development Programme 27.7% YoY growth over the In line with the reduction Group assets grew to Rs insight into banking in for Key Management corresponding six months in Corporate Tax Rate to 1.417 Trillion. Government of Sri Lanka’s (GoSL’s) money practice. Personal”, the “Special in 2020. Bank recorded an 24% from 28%, the current All Group companies printing borrowing costs (MPBCs) sharply After receiving his Management Course of exchange gain of Rs 3.4 tax liability and the deferred complemented the Bank in increased by Rs 517.38 million (1.63 per cent) Bachelor of Science higher Management and billion during 1H 2021 tax asset as at end 2020 enabling the Group to post to Rs 32,264.35 million on Friday due to (Hons.) Degree in Public Policy for relative to Rs 1.5 billion in were reassessed. a PAT of Rs 9.8 billion and a panic selling of Treasury (T) Bills and T Bonds Business Administration Business Leadership” the first six months of 2020 Accordingly, the effective profit attributable to in secondary market trading for the second from the University of Sri conducted by the Post due to the depreciation of tax rate for the period shareholders of Rs 9.5 consecutive market day led by lockdown fears. Jayewardenepura (USJ), Graduate Institute of the Rupee and lower swap improved compared to the billion. Accordingly, the GoSL’s face value money printing (FVMP) Sumanasiri persevered Management (PIM). volumes. corresponding period of Group recorded a ROA and debt decreased by Rs 21,200.52 million (1.67 in his efforts to be an The Gross NPA ratio of 2020. PAT of Rs 9.1 billion ROE of 1.4% and 12% per cent) to Rs 1,251,400.26 million (Rs 1.25 the Bank improved during translated to a Return on respectively. trillion) on Friday, thereby marginally defraying demand pull inflationary pressure. GoSL’s FVMP debt has been over Rs one trillion for a record 17 consecutive market Reserves in 12-Year Low at $ 2.8B days to Friday due to a lack of revenue. Market Aversion for SLDBs Due to Uncertainty The interbank foreign exchange (FX) market was ‘dead’ for the 72nd consecutive market CBSL admits Buys only 1.25% via Pvt. placement day to Friday due to Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) / GoSL continuing to fix the By Paneetha the original offer of US$ 150 the nine months at a WAFR benchmark ‘spot’ at an unrealistic inflated IMF boosted Ameresekere million made which evoked of 7.82 per cent and the rate of Rs 202/203 to the US dollar in two way a poor response of a miserly three years and five months quotes amidst depreciative pressure due to a Central Bank of Sri US$ 61.21 million (40.81 maturity also at a WAFR of lack of supply. Reserves in 2009 Lanka’s (CBSL’s) private per cent) worth of offers 7.82 per cent, respectively. If, however, trades were executed even at the (direct) placement of Sri from the market. In related developments, administered selling rate of Rs 203 to the By Paneetha showed that a figure Lanka Development Bonds Vis-à-vis the private the splits from the US$ dollar, the market exchange rate (MER) in Ameresekere lower than this last took (SLDBs) evoked a poor placement, the US$ 1.17 56.21 million raised at interbank FX trading will have had depreciated place on 31 March 2009 response, with CBSL being million split was US$ 1.04 Wednesday’s SLDB auction by Rs 14.50 (7.69 per cent) in the calendar Sri Lanka’s foreign when foreign reserves able to sell only 1.25 per million of one year and were US$ 49.41 million from year to Friday and year on year by Rs 19.90 reserves fell to a 12-year fell to $ 1,082 million, ie cent (US$ 1.17 million) of seven months maturity the nine-month maturity at (10.87 per cent), thereby causing cost-push and five-month low of at the height of the LTTE the remaining issue (US$ SLDBs at a weighted a WAFR of 7.82 per cent, inflationary pressure as Sri Lanka is an import US$ 2,833.5 million as conflict which ended on 93.79 million), primarily due average fixed rate (WAFR) of US$ 5.26 million from the dependent economy. at last month end led by 18 May 2009. to the market’s aversion to 7.83 per cent and US$ 0.13 one year and seven months Liquidity increased by Rs 3,481.52 million the settlement of a $ However, consequent to invest in SLDBs underlined million of four years and 11 maturity at a WAFR of 7.83 (US$ 17.41 million) on Friday due to the one billion sovereign an IMF-SBA facility of by uncertainty, CBSL’s months maturity at a WAFR per cent, US$ 0.03 million settlement/s of CBSL’s swaps with the market bond which matured on SDR $ 1.65 billion ($ 2.6 Friday data showed. of eight per cent, from the three year and five and/or GoSL’s dollar sales/swaps with 27 July, Friday’s billion) signed on 24 July Prior to the private respectively. month maturity at a WAFR CBSSL. Net excess liquidity decreased by Central Bank of Sri 2009 as BoP support, placement, CBSL by an Meanwhile, CBSL was of 7.82 per cent and US$ 53.36 per cent (Rs 17,719 million) to Rs Lanka (CBSL) data country’s foreign reserves auction held on Wednesday unable to raise any money 1.51 million from the four 15,488 million at the end of Friday’s trading. showed. were boosted to $ 5,097 was able to raise only US$ from the other two years and 11 month Immediately available million by end December 56.21 million (37.47 per maturities on offer from the maturity at a WAFR of eight CBSL data further 2009, CBSL then said. cent) by selling SLDBs, from private placement, namely per cent, respectively. News monDAY 16 august 2021 Ceylon FT b11 Sri Lanka Banks' National Ratings Constrained by Sovereign Rating The National Ratings on Sri Lankan significant direct exposure to the relative to lower-rated peers, largely in our expectation of extraordinary challenging operating environment, banks remain constrained by the sovereign, largely via Government- terms of their more established support from its ultimate parent CT their ratings reflect relativities on the sovereign credit profile (CCC). The security holdings, as well as to the franchises and better financial profiles. Holdings PLC, and takes into national scale. highest National Rating for domestic wider domestic economy and local CB’s and HNB’s ratings are at the consideration CT Holdings' ability and These banks' ratings are mainly banks with ratings driven by their financial markets through their Sri highest point on the national scale that the propensity to support its driven by considerations relating to intrinsic credit profiles is 'AA-(lka)'. Lanka-centric operations. corresponds to an international scale subsidiary. non-financial factors, such as This is the highest point on the Moreover, sovereign exposure tends rating of 'CCC', despite their relative Fitch view CBL's standalone credit company profile (which includes an national scale that corresponds to an to be higher among the larger banks in strengths, as they are constrained by profile as lower than the support- assessment of their franchise and international scale rating of 'CCC' Sri Lanka. This has led to rating the sovereign's credit profile. driven rating of 'AA-(lka)' due to its business model) and risk appetite, according to Fitch’s National Ratings compression at ‘AA-(lka)’ on the Fitch is no longer a factor in weaker financial profile, and small and financial factors, such as Correspondence Table for Sri Lanka. national scale. We have six banks extraordinary support into the ratings and developing franchise. capitalisation and leverage, asset Given current conditions, Fitch rated at this level: Bank of Ceylon on BOC and PB, despite their strong The National Long-Term Ratings on quality, earnings and profitability, would not assess Sri Lankan banks’ (BOC), People’s Bank (Sri Lanka), state linkages, because the sovereign's Standard Chartered Bank, Sri Lanka and funding and liquidity. Viability Ratings (or intrinsic credit Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC (CB), ability to provide extraordinary Branch and Citibank, N.A - Colombo For instance, the National Long- profiles) and Local-Currency Issuer Hatton National Bank PLC (HNB), support is severely constrained. Branch are at ‘AAA(lka)' with Stable Term Ratings on National Default Ratings (IDRs) on the Sampath Bank PLC and Cargills Bank As a result, the National Ratings on Outlook, reflecting the capacity for Development Bank PLC (NDB, international scale to be above the Limited (CBL). these banks are now driven by their these international banks to support A+(lka)/Stable) and DFCC Bank PLC sovereign's Local-Currency IDR of With the exception of CBL, the intrinsic credit profiles rather than their Sri Lankan branches, if (DFCC, A+(lka)/Stable) reflect their ‘CCC’ and the banks’ operating ratings of these banks are based on sovereign support. The National Long- necessary. While other domestic modest franchises and weaker environment score of ‘ccc’. their standalone credit profiles and Term Rating on CBL is also at 'AA-(lka)' banks are also exposed to the financial profiles relative to banks This is because the banks have capture their stronger credit profiles with Stable Outlook, but it is driven by sovereign credit profile and rated 'AA-(lka)'.

Three Decades of Economic Liberalisation in India Diversified and resilient business Massive economic growth, model guides Sampath Bank but challenges still remain Sampath Bank's diversified and resilient corresponding period. In the period under business model proved to be valuable in review, the Group recorded a PBT of Rs 10.1 By Rajiesh Seethram navigating through the current macro- Bn and PAT of Rs 7.5 Bn compared to the economic environment and has ensured a PBT of Rs 5.4 Bn and PAT of Rs 3.9 Bn Harsha Amarasekera, Chairman, Sampath Bank “It took us more than two years and 50 trips from Bangalore positive development on the bottom line of recorded in the corresponding period. PLC (left) and Nanda Fernando, Managing to Delhi to import a computer. At that time, technology in USA the Bank while ensuring the safety and well- The Bank's Net interest income for the Director, Sampath Bank PLC advanced every six months. By the time we got the approval to being of the staff and customers during this period under review was Rs 19.2 Bn import a computer in December 1982, the disk manufacturers turbulent time. compared to the Rs 17.4 Bn reported for the The Bank maintained all capital ratios in the USA had released a new version of the disk drive, with Sampath Bank posted a profit after tax corresponding period in the previous year. well above the regulatory requirements at 50% more capacity at 30% lower price. So I re-applied to (PAT) of Rs 7 Bn for the first half of 2021, Interest expenses dropped by 21% to Rs the end of Q2 2021. At the end of June update the model number in the licence, which took another against Rs 3.9 Bn for the same period in 22.7 Bn in the first half of 2021 from Rs 28.7 2021, the Bank’s CET 1, Tier 1 and total year. Overall it took three years to get a computer. India 2020. This significant increase of 78.1% in Bn recorded for the same period in the capital ratios were at 12.45%, 12.45% and remained at least two generations behind due to bureaucracy, profit after tax was the result of a 16.7% previous year. This helped to boost the 15.83% respectively. Meanwhile, the same red tape and the ‘licence Raj’” stated Infosys founder increase in total operating income. Bank's NIM to 3.42% as of 30th June 2021, ratios stood at 13.44%, 13.44% and Narayana Murthy, during a speech on the pre-liberalisation As a result of the growth recorded in PAT, which is 12 bps higher compared to the 16.41% respectively at the end of 2020. era of the Indian economy . Currently, Infosys is the second the return on Average shareholder’s Equity figure recorded at the end of 2020. During the first half of 2021, the Bank largest IT Company in India. (ROE) increased by 533 bps to 12.91% as at Net fee and commission income (NFCI) raised Rs 6 Bn worth of Tier 2 capital via India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on 15 August, 30th June 2021 compared to 7.58% reported recorded a growth of 33.5% from the figure Basel III compliant, listed, rated, 2021 and also marks 30 years of economic liberalisation of at the end of the year 2020. In the meantime, reported in the corresponding period of the unsecured, subordinated, redeemable India. Three decades after liberalisation, India is one of the Return on Average Assets (ROA) also previous year. 7-year debentures with a non-viability leading software developing and exporting countries in the increased to 1.67% as at 30th June 2021 Net other operating income increased by conversion. world. Export revenue from the IT industry in FY21 is estimated against the 1.09% reported for the year 2020. 27.9% in the first half of 2021 compared to Net loans and advances increased by at US$ 150 billion. IT & BPM industry’s revenue is estimated at The Bank recorded a PBT of Rs 9.5 Bn for the corresponding period in the previous 8.4% (annualized) in the period under US$ 194 billion in FY21, an increase of 2.3% YoY. the first half of 2021 compared to Rs 5.3 Bn year. review, compared to the figure reported at After independence in 1947 until 1991, successive Indian reported during the corresponding period in Operating expenses, which stood at Rs 9.5 the end of 2020. At the end of 30th June governments promoted protectionist economic policies with the previous year, denoting a growth of Bn during 1H 2020, increased to Rs 10.9 Bn 2021, the Bank’s gross Advance portfolio extensive state intervention and economic regulation, in the 79.3%. Driven by strong performance during the period under review, reflecting a stood at Rs 794 Bn compared to Rs 759 Bn form of the ‘License Raj’. The Indian currency, the rupee, was recorded by the Bank in the first six months YoY increase of 14.7%. as at 31st December 2020. Consequently, inconvertible and high tariffs and import licensing prevented of 2021, the Sampath Group too posted The impairment charge for the period Sampath Bank's total Asset base increased foreign goods reaching the market. significant growth, with Group PBT and PAT under review dropped by 32.8% compared to to Rs 1.17 Tn at the end of the second India started having balance of payments problems in 1985, growing by 86.1% and 88.2% respectively the first half of the year 2020 to reach Rs 4.9 quarter of 2021 from Rs 1.11 Tn recorded and by the end of 1990, it was in a serious economic crisis. over the figures reported for the Bn by the end of the period under review. at the end of last year. The government was close to default. Foreign exchange reserves had reduced to the point that India could barely finance two weeks' worth of imports. India asked for a $1.8 billion bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which in return demanded de-regulation. Wednesday’s Rs 53.5B T-Bill Auction, 3rd Largest In 1991, a new minority government was formed with P. V. Narasimha Rao as prime minister. An economist Manmohan Singh was head hunted to be Finance Minister, who drafted Issue superimposes with dues after four weeks economic reforms. The ‘Licence Raj’ system was gradually dismantled, tariffs and interest rates were reduced, many By Paneetha Ameresekere auction of Rs 64,000 million held on 19 July, allowed to be oversubscribed, while the other public monopolies ended. where the maturities due that week two maturities, with the exception of the 182- The reforms drew heavy scrutiny from opposition leaders, Wednesday’s (18 August) proposed weekly amounted to Rs 61,415 million, equivalent to day maturity on rare occasions, are leftist parties in the ruling coalition, and also from members of Treasury T-Bill auction for the issuance of a 95.96 per cent of 19 July’s proposed issue. administratively undersubscribed to keep the ruling party too. The New Industrial Policy and 1991 total of Rs 53,500 million worth of T-Bills is In related developments, the proposed split their weighted average yields (WAYs) low, Budget was criticised by opposition leaders as ‘command the third largest T-Bill auction and where the for Wednesday’s auction is 91-day and 182- resulting in the 91-day maturity collection not budget from the IMF’ and worries that withdrawal of subsidies T-Bill maturities due to be settled this week day maturities (Rs 17,500 million each) and only paying for the 91-day maturing issue for fertilisers and hikes in oil prices would harm lower and (Rs 53,777 million) virtually match (99.77 per 364-day maturities (Rs 18,500 million at a due, but also for the other two maturities as middle-class citizens arose. However, political analysts often cent) the proposed new issuances after a maximum administered yield (MAY) of 5.38 well, thereby further distorting the market. referred to PM Rao as a ‘Chanakya’ for his ability to steer lapse of four weekly T-Bill auctions. per cent, a week on week (WoW) increase of Another distortion is that the administered tough economic and political legislation through Parliament at The largest T-Bill auction was for the issue three basis points (bps). WAYs of the 91-day and 182-day maturities at a time when he headed a minority government. of Rs 64,000 million worth of T-Bills held on Due to inflationary pressure, the MAY of the times superimpose, thereby not only putting a Liberalisation of the Indian economy led to a massive 19 July; second largest, T-Bill auction of Rs 364-day maturity has been increasing every stop to the creation of a yield curve, but also to economic boom in the past 30 years. Nominal per capita GDP 56,000 million held on 14 July and the fourth week for this month thus far, with its a corporate bond market yield curve as well. A in $ terms has jumped by more than 500 percent as more and largest, T-Bill auctions for the issuances of cumulative increase for this month to Treasury yield curve acts as a guide to create a more Indians had been pulled out of poverty. Nominal GDP Rs 51,000 million worth of T-Bills each, called Wednesday being 12 bps (2.28 per cent). corporate bond market yield curve. per Capita has grown from $ 370 in 1991 to $ 1,901 in 2021. for in the weekly T-Bill auctions held on 2 Nonetheless, Central Bank of Sri Lanka Meanwhile, the split of the maturing T-Bills Foreign reserves have grown from $ 5.8Bn to $ 610 Bn. June and 9 June, respectively. (CBSL), the steward of Government of Sri due this week are 91 days (Rs 27,155 million), Foreign Direct Investment jumped from a mere $70 million in Meanwhile, after the T-Bill auction of 19 Lanka (GoSL) debt and GoSL want to 182 days (Rs 4,222 million) and 364 days (Rs 1991 to $81.7 billion in 2020-21, the highest ever FDI inflow July and before that of Wednesday’s,that is, artificially maintain a low interest rate regime 22,000 million), respectively. MAYs for the in a year. in the three T-Bill auctions held in-between, to minimise GoSL’s borrowing costs and to 91-day and 182-day maturities are not Despite the massive growth in the last three decades due to the amounts called for used to be over and spur growth, despite the fact that such an specified at these auctions,with CBSL saying liberalisation, India still faces challenges like developing its above the maturities falling for that week. action gives negative returns to savers. that if such maturities are accepted, their human index, tackling pollution, sustainable growth and Previously such a close call took place was Consequently, what in reality happens at WAYs will be administratively lower than the other geo political issues. at the largest T-Bill auction to date, the T-Bill these auctions is that the 91-day maturity is WAY fixed for the 364-day maturity.

SLT-Mobitel’s ‘The Embryo’ to build digital solutions for SL SLT-Mobitel, the National ICT the aid of state-of-the-art the Group, the Intrapreneurship opportunity to present their and research, ‘The Embryo’ has Solutions, Telecommunications and technologies. such as 4G, 5G, GPON, Studio provides the impetus to solutions which have been enhanced entered into Memorandums of Mobile Services Provider, recently Cloud Computing, Open RAN, Intent harness their talents, and set in through mentoring, at a Demo Day. Understanding (MOUs) with leading established ‘The Embryo,’ the SLT Driven Network, IoT, Open Source motion a new wave of Ensuring the start-ups are not academia in the country. Among Group’s pioneering Research and Applications, Blockchain, Analytics entrepreneurship and a robust stifled by a dearth of investment these are the University of Development initiative. The Embryo including AI/ML/DL, Hyper platform for the Intrapreneur capital,The Embryo’s third pillar, the Moratuwa, University of Peradeniya, comes with the aim of driving a multi- Automation (RPA/DPA),Open Digital programme. Venture Capital Studio aims to drive University of Ruhuna, University of channel innovation pipeline to build Architecture (API, Micro services, Zero The Entrepreneurship Studio is innovation through a partnership Kelaniya, University of Colombo cutting-edge digital solutions to serve touch Networking) and Developer designed to provide an attractive formed for co-financing. Nurturing School of Computing and the the Nation, using the valuable Platforms. opportunity for early-stage tech these businesses, this programme will General Sir John Kotelawala knowledge and skills within the SLT The initiative creates a platform for entrepreneurs to gain access to provide the capital injection that start- Defence University.‘The Embryo’ is Group and collaborating with the next generation of innovators to funding, mentoring and to build ups critically need by creating strategic also collaborating with prominent Academia, Industry, Integrators and tap into the wealth of knowledge and connections in the tech ecosystem, partnerships to drive value creation. Academia by operating Research and Entrepreneurs. skills of the Group, establishing a enabling them to reach an ‘The Embryo’ has also undertaken Development centres within their ‘The Embryo’ initiative will be driven strong partnership that fosters the impressive scale. The first to use technological innovations to premises and hopes to expand this through three main pillars; namely growth of innovative digital products programme of the Entrepreneurship address pressing social challenges footprint. These ties will be the Intrapreneurship Studio, the and services. Studio was launched in May 2021 affecting the Nation. Through the strengthened with the inclusion of Entrepreneurship Studio and the The Embryo’s Intrapreneurship and is currently progressing at the 'The Elephant Decoder other leading academia in the Venture Capital Studio. It will serve Studio has already commenced its mentoring and coaching stage. The Hackathon,’‘The Embryo’aims to country, in the future. vibrant ecosystem partners to work in programme. It will drive innovation by selected Entrepreneurs receive address the growing human- Through ‘The Embryo,’ SLT- a range of verticals spanning health, supporting the Group’s employees to mentoring and coaching from high- elephant conflict by seeking Mobitel aims to continue to drive the education, environment, agriculture, be the entrepreneurs with their calibre experienced resource disruptive and practical solutions to Nation’s aspiration towards being a tourism, finance, and others creating inherent skills, to define technology of persons, participate in workshops, help curb this recurring issue. technology-based smart Nation breakthrough technological the future. Empowering and and boot camp sessions. With the aim of expanding the building a strong ecosystem with the innovations. The initiative will employ encouraging in-house teams within Furthermore, they have the partner ecosystem for innovation participation of all stakeholders. B12 Ceylon FT MONday 16 AUGUST 2021 news Coca-Cola Clocks 60 Years in Sri Lanka Coca-Cola’s journey in Sri Lanka To celebrate its 60th anniversary in began 60 years ago in April 1961, Sri Lanka, Coca-Cola recently took the when consumers tasted their first sip initiative to spread positivity with the of Coca-Cola from a 300-millilitre ‘60 Days of Kindness’ radio campaign glass bottle. By establishing its to reward people in need and celebrate footprint in Sri Lanka, Coca-Cola has those who have gone above and invested in the future of its business, beyond to spread kindness and demonstrating long-term commitment, compassion. while adding economic value to the Recording its 60th year in Sri Lanka country. The Coca-Cola system has for posterity, 12 local artists have been Left to right: S. Janaka Sri Chandraguptha, Additional Secretary (Development), invested US$99 million in Sri Lanka commissioned to design Coca-Cola Dr. S. H. Munasinghe, Secretary, Ministry of Health, Pavithra Devi Wanniarachchi, over the past two decades and created bottles 3 feet tall. Each artist has been Minister of Health, Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief Executive, Dialog Axiata thousands of jobs directly and given a theme central to Coca-Cola PLC, Dr. Asela Gunawardena, Director General of Health Services, Dr. Anver indirectly. and once complete, the pieces of art Hamdani, Director, Medical Technology and Supplies, Coordinating In Charge/ Through this evolution, for 60 years, will be auctioned for charitable Covid-19 Coca-Cola has silently broken new causes. ground with impactful environmental Reflecting on its enriching journey, and social projects that deliver Coca-Cola takes pride in having built Dialog Axiata to fund 18 critical enduring value to the nation, close community ties, achieving refreshing communities by making a growth and expansion of its beverages care hospital facilities difference. portfolio, and embarking on impactful Coca-Cola’s vision is to craft the sustainability initiatives. As part of its ongoing commitment Ragama Teaching Hospital, brands such as Coca-Cola, Sprite, Today, as the country faces the to empower the national health care Puttalam Base Hospital, and Fanta and Kinley to refresh people and ongoing challenge of COVID-19, efforts during the pandemic, Dialog Kalubowila Teaching Hospital. create a more sustainable business Coca-Cola committed LKR 130 Mn Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s premier Furthermore, 12 more hospitals and and better shared future that makes a towards the COVID-19 response in connectivity provider, pledged to COVID-19 treatment centres difference in people’s lives, 2020 and has further pledged LKR 45 enhance urgently required critical selected by the MOH covering all communities and our planet. The Mn in 2021 to support those on the care infrastructure in 18 hospitals provinces will be facilitated with company is continuously evolving to frontlines. No matter the crises the selected by the Ministry of Health fully-automatic 10L Oxygen cater to consumers better and is now nation has faced, Coca-Cola has (MoH). Concentrators, used to treat critical providing more convenient packages, always endeavoured to stand in Through this initiative, the High COVID-19 and other respiratory innovating, and introducing new lower solidarity with the people in Sri Dependency Unit (HDU) capacity at cases, complete with in-built plants and no-sugar drinks. Lanka. the Anuradhapura Teaching to produce Oxygen and fill the Hospital will be enhanced with the cylinders. addition of seven HDU beds and Supun Weerasinghe, Group Chief state-of-the-art equipment. The Executive of Dialog Axiata PLC said, Eheliyagoda Base Hospital, which “We are grateful to the Government currently does not have HDU and the Ministry of Health for their facilities and treats over 150,000 collective efforts in mitigating the patients in the OPD and 20,000 pandemic, and to all those working indoor patients per year, will be tirelessly on the frontline to care for equipped with an HDU facility. those affected by COVID-19. We are Puttalam Base Hospital, serving a pleased to pledge additional funds population of over 400,000 with only towards the critical care one Continuous Positive Airway infrastructure enhancement of Pressure (CPAP) machine – required hospitals designated by the MOH as for treating a variety of diseases and part of our ongoing commitment to conditions affecting the respiratory support the national COVID-19 system – will receive a life-saving mitigation endeavours. We are CPAP machine under this thankful to our customers for commitment. Additionally, state-of- enabling this initiative and giving us the-art equipment will be facilitated the strength to help our country to the Rajagiriya Treatment Centre, during these challenging times.”

Anoma de Silva - Joint Secretary, MCPPA, Eshani Thenuwara - Committee Member, MCPPA and Vice President, NDB Investment Bank, Visakha Tillekeratne - Joint Secretary, MCPPA, Nelum Senadira - Principal, Musaeus College, Sanjaya Perera - Senior Vice President Personal Banking, Marketing & Customer Experience, NDB Bank, Zeyan Hameed - Vice President, Branch Network Management & Product Development, NDB Bank and Asanka Herath - Deputy manager, Cards, NDB bank Ceylinco Life gifts gold to NDB launches Musaeus College another 103 policyholders

Another 103 Ceylinco Life Ceylinco Life policyholders would Affinity Credit Card policyholders are celebrating the have won Rs 30 million in gold as a luck of the draw they were reward for their loyalty. The NDB Bank recently launched an card will enable Past Pupils of Musaeus of the value spent by cardholders. All presented with gold worth Rs 5 decision to present policyholders Affinity Credit Card in partnership with College and the Musaeus community cardholders can enjoy the benefit of not million under the 14th edition of its with gold instead of the customary the Musaeus College Past Pupils’ to assist the school, which will benefit paying a joining fee and having the first ‘Family Savari’ mega promotion. overseas holidays and local Association. This uniquely designed by receiving a substantial contribution year annual fee waived off. The latest recipient of the grand excursions of the ‘Family Savari’ prize of Rs 1 million in gold was a promotion was on account of the policyholder from Negombo. With travel restrictions and safety this round of presentations precautions necessitated by the Ceylinco Life has gifted gold to the COVID-19 pandemic. 3rd Oceanfront Apartment, Amber SKYE Negombo value of Rs 20 million to 412 Pictured here are some Ceylinco winners in all. When the curtain Life’s latest gold winners, including comes down on the promotion with a “jackpot” winner of Rs 1 million in Seylan Tikiri Prime Lands Residencies the sixth and final draw in gold, posing with their families and introduces Online registers 50% sales in September this year, a total of 618 representatives of Ceylinco Life. Account Opening less than 20 days Seylan Bank has introduced online Amber Skye Residencies, “The rapid uptake of Amber account opening for Seylan Tikiri, the Negombo affirms its position as Skye by foreign investors, number one minor savings brand in the an exceptional and unique residential customers and even market in line with its responsible oceanfront development with Sri Lankan expats is a strong banking principles. The initiative will closing over 50% sales in less indication of the immense ensure greater safety and convenience for than 20 days, following Sri potential of Negombo as a its youngest customers and parents with Lanka’s first ever virtual property growing leisure and residential minimal physical interaction, whilst launch. Amber Skye Residencies destination. For those looking to continuing to inculcate the habit of offers investors a lifetime blend urban convenience, savings in Children. opportunity to set down roots in lifestyle amenities, privacy, Seylan Bank has been at the forefront of the exotic locale of Hotel Road, tranquil vistas of the Indian offering digital banking solutions for Negombo. The property spoils its Ocean alongside all day customers, and the online account residents with a highly attractive entertainment, Amber Skye opening option is the latest in a long line blend of luxury living and leisure really has it all. These living of solutions by the Bank tailored to and is so far favoured by spaces are truly unreal not only minimise the need for customers to visit residential customers, local because they offer seclusion and Baby Cheramy launches physical locations for their banking needs. investors and Sri Lankan expats. exclusivity but because of its To maximise customer safety parents/ Amber Skye Residencies hosts location and the sophisticated guardians only need to spend a minimal a collection of 145 spacious, one- architecture that blends right new Herbal Cologne amount of time to sign and receive the to three-bedroom apartments into the natural landscape physical savings passbook at their branch with prices starting from Rs 19.5 offering access to infinite leisure Baby Cheramy’s latest addition is the Baby of choice at their convenience. The Bank Million. The project is slated for opportunities. This is luxury Cheramy Kohomba and Sandalwood Herbal will then be in touch with the parents/ completion in mid-2024 and oceanfront living at its very Cologne with 100% natural extracts. guardians directly to complete formalities offers attractive interest free best,” remarked Prime Group Baby Cheramy, with a nearly six decade- and get their little ones’ savings journey payment plans spread across Chairman Brahmanage presence in Sri Lanka is committed to ensure started. three years. Premalal. all product formulas are mild and safe The Bank’s continuous strategic focus reiterating its commitment to stringent quality, on technology advancement and safety and care for little ones. digitisation has enabled it to overcome the Baby Cheramy has been actively working to many challenges posed by the COVID-19 develop products with ingredients that have a pandemic. Seylan Bank recently unveiled local relevance. The brand’s herbal soap range a data centre to make digital banking includes Pokuru Wada and Sandun, Kohomba seamless for customers and announced a and Venival and Pichcha and Wadakaha, which tie-up with PayHere to empower Sri are manufactured to highest quality standards. Lankan businesses with online payments. Inspired by local herbs, which are in use for Most recently, Seylan Bank received the herbal soap range, the latest herbal cologne massive public support for its comes with a fresh herbal fragrance that helps #ResponsibleMe campaign, to keep the mother and baby smelling fresh and conceptualised to highlight the fragrant. importance of self-awareness and The new Baby Cheramy Herbal Cologne is individual responsibility in ensuring the IFRA (International Fragrance Association) safety of all Sri Lankan citizens in the certified and is dermatologically tested for COVID-19 pandemic. proven mildness and manufactured adhering to the highest local and international standards. news monday 16 august 2021 CEYLON FT B13 Is Regular Workplace Dead from COVID-19? By Tharindu Dananjaya For example, if transportation the corona epidemic alone. These are Weerasinghe facilities are provided for employees conditions that existed before the coming to the institution, other suitable onset of the corona epidemic. What Today we are entering an era of ‘new- welfare facilities or allowances should happened during the corona epidemic normal’. But many are still questioning be planned for employees working from was that the use of the aforementioned whether we can get ‘back to normal’. If home. If food is provided to employees hybrid remote work plans and the risk so, at what time? The problematic word who come to the institution, the welfare of a dissociation epidemic were in those questions is ‘back to normal’. choice for employees who work from severely highlighted. The world is moving forward day by day home should be planned. The above Managers and business leaders to an uncertain new future and there is explained about such hybrid-remote must first exemplify the behavior and no going back. Thus, there is no going work designs. Organizations will have difference they expect to see in back to the world and environment that to adopt many policies and procedures employees through hybrid remote existed before the corona epidemic. on a hybrid-remote basis, such as planning. It is easy to give an example, Instead, ‘another normal’ will emerge in setting employee performance goals, but it is difficult to be an example. It is the future. performance appraisal, grievance more important to show by action and It is not only human lives that have handling, and disciplinary example what to do than to say what died and are dying from corona. Many administration. needs to be done. Managers need to pre-existing economic structures died Losing the opportunity to choose work to be role models that employees because of the corona. Some parts of from the aforementioned hybrid-remote can follow in such a post-epidemic the education system, not only certain plans is detrimental to employees. If so, period as well as in the next-normal. It political models, but many fields such work from home, away from the office. beneficial to amalgamate work from one group will be isolated in a social helps to preserve the coherence of as art and sports are half-dead from the It brought not only benefits but also home with work at office. It is a hybrid vacuum with the weakening of vital hybrid remote work plans and to build corona. Traditional workplace and the many challenges. We all are social approach. In order to get the potential social connections. They will suffer trust and understanding between world of work also died because of beings. Thus, we cannot live in a social results, employers need to develop a from digital fatigue. Others will suffer those outside the workplace. corona. Moreover, corona has vacuum. We need to be together for a structured system that prioritises the from a breakdown in the flexibility they The Sanskrit literature states that drastically changed the traditional time to understand each other, create length of time employees should be are accustomed to working from home. the most important encounter is not a thinking of many professionals. and maintain human relationships, physically in the office. Any hybrid-remote work design set in physical encounter but a meeting of Even before the corona epidemic, the and generate new ideas and solutions Designing hybrid-remote work plans the next-normal should be the hearts with each other. Of course in practice of working from anywhere was so that social needs can be met. For & schedules that allow for geographical comparative ones that address the the next-normal it is more important to in the corporate atmosphere. But it was that, physical proximity between flexibility and work from anywhere is needs of all of these employee groups. meet from the heart with mutual trust not until about a year and a half ago employees at work is very important. important to the new world of work we Otherwise it could lead to employee and understanding than to physically that many companies subjected their Accordingly, the problem with working are entering. In addition, hybrid-remote frustration and trauma. In such hybrid- meet each other. We thought that not office workers to the practice of working from home, outside the office, is not arrangements should be made to remote systems, it is not enough for being able to work with new technology from home with a laptop or other whether the practice continues or facilitate the convening of staff groups managers and business leaders to would lead to isolation in the corporate technological device. Once the corona stops, but how its long-term application to the office as appropriate, to maintain simply keep the virtual door of their atmosphere. But what has happened epidemic is over, the former office life is meaningful and effective, and under open bilateral communication, and to virtual office open for employees. today is that people who work closely and work life cannot be expected from what circumstances. facilitate the exchange of experiential It is the employees themselves who with technology are at risk of mental such employees. Calling employees to Working from home is ideal for knowledge. Planning to nurture can best say how and why they have isolation. Therefore, hybrid remote offices as before will not be a relatively independent works and informal social interactions and related changed as a result of the corona work plans should be aimed at meaningful and logical practice in the duties, where job knowledge and advice communication networks in remote epidemic. It is very simple and easy to genuine practices that bring together a ‘next normal’, despite the fact that can be reported and easily shared workplaces is also very important. find out how employees like to work group of employee hearts through many of the duties of the job can be remotely. The practice of working from Some employees may be interested in from home and work at office through a technology. performed from home using technology home is not suitable for jobs where re-establishing social relationships survey. It requires an honest, collective, Not only organisations but also without having to physically come to tasks are interdependent, where previously they had within the open dialogue. Such genuine dialogue employees need to develop the the office. physical coexistence is essential, and organisation. But let’s not forget that helps to build employee trust and boost individual capabilities they need to Accordingly, business leaders and that tacit knowledge must be rapidly they are also accustomed to the employee commitment. It is also a prevent a dissociation epidemic among managers need to create and maintain shared among employees, with results flexibility that comes with working from space where employees can expose and employees. However, it does not arise a new world of work in which employee that are unpredictable and require home. In the next-normal, employees share their insights. automatically. For that, mindfulness motivation and productivity can be close coordination and supervision. will be able to come to the organisation Proper preparation and must be exercised. It is not necessary maintained at a high level. The purpose Conceptual simplicity leads to for the essential duties that the implementation of effective hybrid to go on a long excursion or party to of this articles is to illustrate some of operational complexity. Therefore, in company calls them, but will also be remote work schedules is crucial to get rid of the monotony caused by the practical strategies that business order to achieve competitive advantage more willing to maintain a working better manage the dissociation hybrid remote work plans. Even a leaders and managers can adopt to in the next-normal, organisations lifestyle from home. So even if the epidemic [pandemic isolation] that is moment of loving conversation with create such a new world of work during should plan the future world of work organisation plans a meeting for predicted to emerge after the corona own family is enough. the post-pandemic of Covid-19. not based on mere concepts but on the employees, unlike usual, managers will epidemic. What is really needed is to Tharindu Dananjaya During the Corona period, many of potential to generate outcomes in each have to give them two options. One take the right steps to prevent such a Weerasinghe the regular office practices we followed job. In the short-term it is a somewhat option is to physically come to the dissociation epidemic from occurring Senior Lecturer underwent significant changes. The task-oriented approach. The employee- organisation and attend the meeting, or among the employees of organisations. Department of Human Resource most important of these is that, as oriented consequences are somewhat else, connect to the relevant meeting Working from home, as well as the Management mentioned above, many people have to long-term. For many organisations, it is online from home. stress of dissociation, is not caused by University of Kelaniya Softlogic Invest Pelwatte expands celebrates first production and growth Pelwatte Dairy Industries has Pelwatte Dairy was able to introduce 89% growth in the Uva Province, 13% recorded a quarterly Dairy Milk two new flavours as Faluda and growth in the Hill Country, 39% Collection Growth of 24% compared Ginger Biscuit to its diverse and growth in the North Central, 56% anniversary to 2021. The dairy giant has also growing range of flavours. growth in the North-Western and a 20 recorded an overall growth of 41% in The Company invested over Rs 35 % growth in the Eastern Province. Softlogic Invest, the Asset its milk collection network island- Million to set up New Chilling Centres Pelwatte Dairy secured Rs 463 Management arm of the Softlogic wide compared to the Q1 of the year and 1,500 milk cans. These served as million from the Smallholder Group, recently celebrated one year of 2020. spots for milking, storage and as Agribusiness Partnerships Program revolutionizing Sri Lanka’s investment Pelwatte Dairy set up several points of collection and transport of (SAPP) a few months ago and since landscape with their unique and facilities, streamlined management milk. It has involved farmers in then has been involved in catalysing it innovative approach to making Unit and strengthened its core evening milking which has increased on 1000 farmers during its first Trust Funds accessible to a whole competencies over the last year. The the quality of milk too. phase. Farmers have enhanced new generation of aspirational young company set up new chilling centres, The chilling centres and milking infrastructure facilities and availed investors. With a simplified, 6-step made effective use of the SAPP facility sheds were equipped with necessary themselves of professional training digitized solution related to “Dialog it received and also introduced two equipment as milking machines and and development opportunities. The Genie” customers, a culmination of new flavours amidst the pandemic. all required infrastructure to provide project facility revolves around a 4P the best in financial investments and These measures and approaches a comfortable environment for cattle value chain model that brings the digital services, Softlogic Invest offers have ensured an effective and efficient and farmers. This has helped in public sector, rural smallholder a highly rewarding, reliable use of resources, thereby improving delivering the milk to the processing farmers and private sector companies investment option to Sri Lankan’s productivity, uplifting lives and plant on time; increasing productivity to a common platform, uplifting starting at just Rs.5000. Unit Trust reviving the industry and the and efficiency of production and economic and social standards of fund values were Rs 2.6 Bn whilst economy. distribution. rural farmer communities while Private Wealth Management Funds During the first quarter of the year, The Company recorded a strong improving overall productivity. were Rs 30.5 Bn. With an ICRA Lanka “(SL) A mfs” rating, the company’s Money Market Fund average yield at 7.73% (at 8th July 2021) since inception over Samsung to unveil powerful, Next-Gen performed the traditional savings Iftikar Ahamed account return benchmark 3-5% within just an year of operating in a aggressively looking to expand with Foldable Phones in Sri Lanka next month tough, pandemic-stricken backdrop. other Institutional Investors, Heralding the next chapter in the possibilities with foldable day, and provide premium sound Exceeding a Unit Trust Fund value of Corporates and High Net worth promising foldable smartphone smartphones that empower users quality to immerse in the moment, Rs. 2.6 Billion with over 2800 new individuals. market, Samsung Electronics on with the flexibility and versatility wherever you are. As one of the investors, Softlogic Invest was among The company also partnered with Wednesday launched Galaxy Z Fold3 needed for today’s fast-paced world,” latest additions to the Galaxy Buds the top five asset management Asiri Hospitals to offer a novel 5G (with first ever S Pen support on a said Dr. T.M. Roh, President and lineup, Galaxy Buds2 join the companies in terms of unit holder solution where every newborn at any foldable) and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Head of Mobile Communications Galaxy Buds Live and Galaxy Buds share and is one of the highest Asiri Hospital receives Rs 5,000 in a devices globally, that will be available Business, Samsung Electronics. Pro, providing more choices to contributors to industry growth in the Softlogic Money Market Fund, in Sri Lanka from next month at a According to a latest Counterpoint consumers to fit their needs. As a openended fund category according to securing a valuable investment for very competitive price in the premium Research report, Samsung part of the Galaxy ecosystem, The Unit Trust Association of Sri when the child reaches 18 years of segment. Electronics is expected to dominate Galaxy Buds2 make the perfect Lanka. age. These innovative solutions While the 7.6-inch Galaxy Z Fold3 the foldable smartphone market this companion to your Galaxy The Company’s Equity Fund amongst a number of other initiatives will be available globally for year with an 88 percent share, as the smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. performed well providing investors in the pipeline have supported the $1,799.99, the 6.9-inch Galaxy Z global foldable market is estimated to Galaxy Bud2 will retail for $149.99, with a return since inception of exponential growth of the retail Flip3 will cost $999.99. The Sri Lanka triple from a year earlier to reach allowing more consumers to 23.46% (at 8th July 2021). The fund market and supported the company’s pricing of the devices will be revealed around 9 million units in 2021. experience an immersive sound, manager also has under its portfolio vision to make Unit Trusts available at a later date. Joining the Galaxy Z Series are with a comfortable all-day design, Softlogic Life, which is the country’s to financially empower young and “With Galaxy Z Fold3 and Z Flip3, Galaxy Buds2 – designed for a seamless connectivity and powerful fastest growing Life Insurer and is aspiring Sri Lankans. Samsung is once again redefining the comfortable fit made to be worn all features. A14 MONDAY 16 AUGUST 2021 Sports Osaka to donate prize money to Haitian earthquake relief efforts Naomi Osaka has ancestors’ blood is pledged to donate her strong we’ll keep earnings from next rising.” week’s Western & World number two Southern Open to Osaka, whose mother support earthquake is Japanese and who The All Blacks celebrate with the Bledisloe Cup following The Rugby Championship and Bledisloe Cup match between the relief efforts in Haiti, plays under the New Zealand All Blacks and the Australian Wallabies the Caribbean nation Japanese flag, has her father hails from. used her platform to The four-time Grand call attention to the Slam champion causes she cares announced her pledge about. in response to the She wore masks at All Blacks 7.2-magnitude quake last year’s U.S. Open that struck the Naomi Osaka with the names of impoverished country victims of Police on Saturday, killing at can’t catch a break,” violence on them. least 304 people and Osaka said on Twitter. Osaka is seeded Thrash Wallabies injuring hundreds. “I’m about to play a second at the “Really hurts to see tournament this week tournament in all the devastation and I’ll give all the prize Cincinnati, which runs Keep Bledisloe for 19th straight year that’s going on in Haiti, money to relief efforts from 14 Aug. to 22 Aug. and I feel like we really for Haiti. I know our (Reuters) The All Blacks overwhelmed last week, scored three tries through a before the halftime break as Australia Australia with a record 57-22 drubbing brace from winger Andrew Kellaway exerted real pressure on the home line, in Auckland on Saturday to make a and a Tate McDermott effort, but fell and they continued in the same vein winning start to away towards the end. early in the second half. the Rugby Championship and ensure “Felt like we battled away in the first Savea was shown a yellow card two the Bledisloe Cup stays in New Zealand half, but it was really nice that we got minutes after the break as the home Afghanistan ODI series shelved for a 19th straight season. some dominance and put points on the side defended frantically, but a crooked Australians free to finish IPL Hooker Codie Taylor scored twice board,” said All Blacks captain Sam lineout throw relieved the pressure, and Rieko Ioane, Brodie Retallick, Whitelock. “Sure, there’s always things and by the time the loose forward Australia›s scheduled one-day the UAE,» the Boards said in a Ardie Savea, Sevu Reece, Will Jordan to work on, but if you’d offered me a returned New Zealand had scored 10 international series against statement. and David Havili also grabbed tries as win at the start tonight, I’d have been unanswered points. Afghanistan in India has been “With the World Cup relocated the hosts earned a bonus point and put happy, so really, really happy.” “We didn’t capitalise on that yellow postponed, the Cricket Boards of from India to the UAE, the ACB will paid to any notion that they are a The Wallabies had more possession, card at all,” said Australia skipper the competing countries said on continue to explore the possibility of fading force. but the All Blacks are past masters at Michael Hooper. “In fact, New Zealand Sunday, leaving players free to fulfil hosting a proposed T20 tri-series The visitors were still in touch at the counter-attacking game, and time really put us to the sword there and their Indian Premier League (IPL) involving Australia and the West 21-15 down at halftime, but five tries in and again they ruthlessly punished the showed their class. commitments. Indies.” the second half comfortably secured visitors for their errors. “We didn’t respect the ball; couple of The three one-dayers were The IPL was suspended the All Blacks a 22nd successive Centre Ioane’s fourth minute try and intercept tries ... you do that against a supposed to take place ahead of the indefinitely in May after several victory over the Wallabies at Eden Park the Reece score that took the lead to team like New Zealand and they Twenty20 World Cup, but that players and backroom staff tested in a winning streak stretching back to 38-15 14 minutes after the break, both capitalise. We didn’t stay in the fight tournament has now been moved to positive for COVID-19. The 1986. came from intercepts of lofted passes long enough.” the United Arab Emirates because remaining matches will now be Centre Havili’s try after the fulltime as Australia attempted to get the ball World champions South Africa, who of the prevalence of COVID-19 in played in the UAE from 19 Sept. to hooter gave the All Blacks their highest wide quickly. The tries from lock sat out last year’s Rugby India. 15 Oct. points tally in 118 years of tests Retallick and number eight Savea both Championship because of concerns at “The Afghanistan Cricket Board Despite the proximity of the between the two countries, bettering came from broken play with the All the lack of preparation time for their (ACB) and Cricket Australia agreed tournament to the T20 World Cup, the 54 points they scored to crush the Blacks showing once again that few players during the COVID-19 to postpone the tour given the Cricket Australia said it would grant Wallabies in Sydney four years ago. teams can match them when it comes pandemic, return to the fray against complexities of travel, quarantine permission for their players to take Australia, who had needed a win to to moving the ball quickly and finding Argentina in Port Elizabeth later on periods and finding a suitable part and fulfil their lucrative keep the annual three-match Bledisloe support players. Saturday. location for the matches given the contracts. Cup series alive after a 33-25 defeat Scrumhalf McDermott’s try came just (Reuters) relocation of the T20 World Cup to (Reuters) sports monday 16 august 2021 A15

Rugby Scrapbook SLAF and CH Push Start Rugby By: Vimal Perera to coaching, conditioning and medical staff. Since attendance for the friendly The scores were close, and in the Rugby Match between Air Force and second half, it was a close call till the CH and FC was limited, it was a relief to SLAF took the lead 21 -20 around the switch on the TV and see a local match 79th minute. In the last minute of after 18 months. If the rugby traveler injury time, CH scored through a expected a honeymoon where penalty conversion and finished everything was fantastic, then it was a winners 23-21. CH had a strong team disappointment. Once you overcome with well-known names, but coach the differences and find a sense of Rohitha Rajapakse and Rajiv Perera will belonging in your new environment, review the performance before the you learn to accept. While it might not second leg next week. Most times, they be the levels of love of rugby you felt in were late to the breakdown and tended the honeymoon stage, you become to fall over. Luck was with them at comfortable with these new places and times, not getting penalized more than feelings. Rugby has started once again. they should have. It happens when you have spent so Shamly Nawaz, the Air Force Coach, long away from your rugby and should be proud of the team, especially watering hole and been accustomed to the forwards who got the better of the watch the big games on TV. The period more skilled and more oversized CH you have to spend to get adjusted to players. Yet the SLAF team were unable experiences is a re-entry rugby shock, to hold the scrum on the second push and is different for the different rugby dropped way below. The positive point leg on the 20th of August. The first Rugby amid a pandemic that respects after the engagement. Many times, they fan. is that the game was where it was when thought was that the first leg should be nobody. The effort of the Sri Lanka Air won the line out against the throw. The analysis of the game on the 13th last played. The negative is that one in Kurunegala as a stimulus to take the Force in getting Rugby back on its feet The game saw many youngsters must be after considering the does not see an improvement, as some game outstation. However, COVID had is laudable and is a step to give life to being introduced, which is good for the environment of COVID, as some have say. What is it that one can do in the its plans, but the alternative was the game. Will there be others to follow? game and the community at large. The been prone to criticize the standard of background of a pandemic? playing both at Ratmalana. Plan B was Rugby returned after forced opportunity to feel the oval ball should Rugby at times, equating it to not being A push start on the 13th of set in motion and the game shifted. hibernation because it is a contact have satisfied the youngsters who as good as junior schools’ game. Rugby August restarted local Rugby. A push The return to Rugby in Sri Lanka sport that has different demands than would otherwise be moping thinking commenced after 18 months, and one start because the game was the private required preparation, maintenance, many other team sports such as soccer, when rugby would start and when they cannot expect the structure and finesse effort of the Sri Lanka Air Force, which and recovery different from normal hockey, cricket. Consequently, social would step onto the green grass. of the Bledisloe or a super rugby game. previously trumpeted about sevens for circumstances. Coaches and measures prevent sports competition A round of applause to Air Force Nevertheless, it was encouraging to the Commander’s Cup. The current administrators relatively well and many aspects of team sports Rugby Chatman Group Captain note that ball-handling and passing attempt is the Commander’s Cup, but a understand and have a wealth of training. Players are unlikely to train Subash Jayatillake and the Manager of were as good as 18 months ago. Rugby fifteen a side ‘friendly’ played in two legs experience supporting athletes under together as teams in any form, access CH and FC Udani Edirisinghe, who was as it was 18 months ago, not an between SL Air Force and the CH and normal circumstances. Nevertheless, training facilities or public were much involved in getting the game improvement, but neither had it FC. The proposal is to play the second there is a difference in getting back to gymnasiums, nor have routine access started. Man United Azam helps Pakistan build lead over Windies thrash Leeds in A patient unbeaten innings from captain Babar Azam helped Pakistan overcome a lengthy rain interruption to build a 124-run season opener lead over the West Indies, with five wickets in hand, as they reached 160-5 in their second innings on the third day of the first Test at Fernandes fires hat-trick Sabina Park on Saturday. Babar, who is 54 not out, proved Bruno Fernandes scored his first hat- the mainstay of the innings as runs trick in English football in front of a came slowly on a difficult pitch raucous Old Trafford crowd as after Pakistan dismissed the Manchester United thrashed Leeds Windies for 253 not long after the United 5-1 to get their Premier League start of the day’s play, with the season off to a flying start on Saturday. home side adding only two runs to Babar Azam French midfielder Paul Pogba also their overnight score of 251-8 for a starred with four assists - one more than 36-run first innings lead. than two hours. Holder for 34 to see Pakistan slump he managed in the whole of last season Azam, whose half century came Roach was responsible for the to 65-3, and then three balls later in the league - to help United run riot in off 117 balls, will resume with dismissals of Imran Butt, trapped induced a faint edge from Fawad front of their first full crowd in 17 Faheem Ashraf (12 not out) on leg before wicket without scoring in Alam, who departed without scoring months. Sunday. just the third over of Pakistan’s after making 56 in the first innings. Fernandes got the goalscoring West Indies opening bowlers second innings, and Azhar Ali, who Brief Scores underway on the half hour mark, before Kemar Roach and Jayden Seales made 23 before having his leg Pakistan: 217 and 160/5 (Babar a Luke Ayling thunderbolt out of took two wickets each to take the stump uprooted. 54*, Abid 34, Roach 2-15) nowhere levelled things up three early initiative as Pakistan were Seales took two wickets in a single West Indies: 253 (Brathwaite 97, minutes into the second half. 117-4 shortly before tea when a over as he first had opener Abid Ali Afridi 4-59) It was only a short reprieve for Leeds, rain storm stopped play for more caught at second slip by Jason (Agencies) however, as Man United livewire Mason Greenwood fired the hosts back in front before Fernandes added a quickfire third to put Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side in command. Fernandes completed his treble with Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes in Chaminda and Shafeek steer another fine finish on the hour mark, action before Brazilian Fred got in on the act to season, Fernandes, came up with the complete the rout and cap a memorable goods once more to settle the nerves, afternoon for the hosts, who laid down collecting a perfect pass Colombo Masters to 5-wicket win an early marker in the Premier League from Pogba before slotting under title race. onrushing Leeds keeper Illan Meslier. By M.H.Yakeem “My objective every season is being Ayling’s strike from 25 yards out better than the last,” Fernandes told BT sparked scenes of wild celebration Colombo Masters led by their Sport. “Every performance I do, I want to among Leeds travelling supporters, who dynamic 65-year-old allrounder do better and better. I’ve started with had waited 17 years to see their side Rohan Raj Perera, an old three goals, but it’s a long way to go. truly compete down the M62 motorway Kingswoodian, overcame Richmond “We know the quality of the players at Old Trafford. legends by 5 wickets in a 35 over who have come in, but the team was Their joy, however, was short-lived, as cricket encounter played at the already very good. We showed it last another sublime pass from Pogba picked Bloomfield ground recently. season. We didn’t win trophies, but the out the onrushing Greenwood, with the Batting first, Richmond legends team was growing up. Our focus has to Yorkshire-born teenager giving United lost 3 early wickets for 13 runs, but be game by game. We’ll achieve the lead again less than two minutes Ex National cricketer Champaka something with this mentality.” later. Ramanayake, with a gallant batting Pogba missed a glorious chance to Soon enough it was three, as the performance of 31 runs, together open the scoring, slotting wide with the effervescent Pogba picked out Fernandes with Nishantha Mendis, put up a goal at his mercy, and the Yorkshire side again, before Lindelof floated a pass over solid stand of 68 runs for the 4th Colombo Masters team then grew into the match with Mateusz the top for the Portuguese to add this wicket. However, with Colombo Cricketer Suranjith Dharmasena (23) comfortable win with 10 overs to Klich forcing a fine save from home third. Fernandes is the first United Masters Skipper Rohan Raj Perera putting them in a commanding spare. goalkeeper David de Gea before striker player to score a hat-trick on the coming into the attack, he captured position. However, the dismissal of Richmond Legends: 130 (33) Rodrigo headed wide. opening day of a league season since Lou these two prize wickets. Amal these two batsmen, and three more (Champaka Ramanayake 31, The hosts, who welcomed new signing Macari against Birmingham City in Karunaratne claimed 3, Pujitha wickets falling at regular intervals, Nishantha Mendis 41, Amal Raphael Varane onto the pitch pre- 1977-78. Gunawardena 2, Chaminda placed them in the precarious Karunaratne 3/23, Rohan Raj Perera match, began to look nervy with the Fred’s finish in the 68th minute made Rajapakse 1 and Riyad Mahmood 1 position of 5 down for 75 runs. 2/14, Pujitha Gunawardena 2/23) pressure of an expectant crowd, it five, with fans calling for a sixth – a to help get the visitors bundled out Chaminda Rajapakse with a gutty 38 Colombo Masters: 131/5 (25) anticipating their first sustained league repeat of last season’s haul against for 130 runs in just 33 overs. not out (4x 3; 6x2) and Shafeek (Palitha Liyanage 22, Suranjith title challenge since Sir Alex Ferguson’s Leeds at Old Trafford – as big-money Colombo Masters, chasing this Raheem 15 not out (4x2) ensured Dharmasena 23, Chaminda final season in 2012-13, seemingly summer signing Jadon Sancho came off modest total got off to a good start there were no further hiccups by Rajapkse 38 not out, Shafeek weighing upon them. the bench. with their openers Palitha Liyanage adding 56 runs for the 6th wicket to Raheem 15 not out, Nishantha But their top goalscorer from last (Reuters) (22) and former Tamil Union take Colombo Masters to a Mendis 2/10) MONDAY 16 AUGUST 2021 Binder wins in Austria after tyre gamble pays off FSL on South African Brad and hung on in the Binder delivered a downpour for three wild sensational home laps. Austrian Grand Prix win Ducati's Italian factory for his KTM team on rider Francesco Bagnaia, lookout Sunday after a late, crazy who had led for much of gamble to stick to slick the race and was one of tyres on a wet and the frontrunners who slippery track paid off. pitted, roared back As the rain came down through the field to take and the top five riders second place but was a for a new peeled into the pits at full 9.991 seconds Spielberg's Red Bull Ring behind. Spanish pole- to switch to bikes shod sitter Jorge Martin, on with wet tyres, sixth- the Pramac Ducati, placed Binder stayed out finished third. head coach Amir Alagic to remain as Technical Director Amir Alagic

By Mustaq Sydeen Alagic came to Sri Lanka as one Sri Lanka have shown a lot of When asked whether FSL has of the most high-profile foreign improvement when it comes to already shortlisted any coaches to Football Sri Lanka (FSL) is on coaches in its footballing history. playing a positive brand of take over the reins at the men’s the lookout for a foreign head There is no denying that Alagic football, and scrapping the long- camp, Jaswar Umar said they coach to replace current men’s faced situations that no previous ball tactics in big matches. The have not yet finalize or shortlisted head coach Amir Alagic, FSL head coach of the Sri Lankan Bosnian tactician must take much any coaches as of now. President Jaswar Umar confirmed. football team had to endure due to of the credit for providing a “We haven’t shortlisted any However, Alagic who is also the the COVID-19 pandemic. Amid calming influence and shrewd coaches yet. Until we find the right Technical Director, will remain in the resultant chaos, the Bosnian guidance, which was witnessed candidate Amir Alagic will that position to overlook the achieved his objective by an with Sri Lanka almost turning continue to prepare the team technical strategy and pathways improved performance in the tables over Lebanon, and an (including for the SAFF Wood and Curran for the next generation of young World Cup Qualifiers, and there is improved performance against top Championship).” players. no doubt it has caught the ranked South Korea. Ceylon Today Learns, Sujan “We are looking for a foreign new imagination of the youth of the Alagic holds an UEFA Perera led Sri Lanka football put England in box head coach for the Men’s National country. Professional coaching license and team will have a good chance at team to replace Amir Alagic. Ever since the Bosnian born has worked with many European the South Asian Football However, our present coach Alagic tactician took over the reins of the and elite clubs in Asia. Alagic has Federation (SAFF) seat against India will remain as our technical National camp, the Golden Lions a rich coaching career spanning Championship, which will take Mark Wood struck eventful one that ended Director to overlook the technical have had some inspirational 25 years, having coached clubs in place from 1-13 October, twice in two overs and with Rohit Sharma being strategy and pathways for the next performances on the pitch, which countries such as Australia, especially after an eye-catching Sam Curran claimed the dismissed for 21. generation,” the FSL President proves beyond doubt their ability Bosnia, Germany, USA, Brunei, display during the recently prize wicket of India Rohit dragged a chest- said. on the field. Oman and Sweden. concluded World Cup Qualifiers. captain Virat Kohli to put high ball from outside England in the box seat the off-stump and pulled on day four of the second it for an audacious six, test at Lord's on Sunday. but Wood had the last India lost both their laugh in this duel. in-form openers to Wood The last ball of that SLC praises Dravid for ensuring by the time they erased over was a similar one their 27-run deficit and and this time Rohit were reeling at 56-3 at could not middle the ball India’s tour went on after COVID hit lunch with a massive and Moeen Ali took a rebuilding job ahead of tumbling catch at deep Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has accommodating and to make the XI and We were very grateful to BCCI top them. square leg. acknowledged the positive role of understood the that's why they were brass - Jay Shah and Sourav Cheteshwar Pujara His team needed Kohli Rahul Dravid in the recent white- situation. He picked in the squad. I Ganguly - for acceding to our was batting on three at to lead by example, just ball home series against India. SLC appreciated the efforts feel it is exciting to see request to play three additional the break, having needed like his opposite number said that tour could've been we were taking and them perform. Yes, the T20Is. Originally the tour was for 35 balls to get off the Joe Root, whose discontinued but for Dravid, who, realised that we were balance of the side will only three ODIs. It enhanced the mark. unbeaten 180 was the per the Board, was responsible for doing our best to be a little fragile commercial value of the whole Ajinkya Rahane was on bedrock of England's ensuring the completion of the six- protect the boys from because we can only tour. We ended up earning almost one and there possibly first innings total of 391. match series which resulted in a virus dangers with all pick from the players $ 14.5 million. It is a huge boost to cannot be a better time The India captain windfall of sorts for the Lanka bio-secure guidelines," available," Dravid had our finances," the SLC Secretary for the India vice-captain played a couple of Board. the SLC official said just before the disclosed. to rediscover his form. gorgeous drives but "If he wanted, he could have explained. start of the 2nd T20I De Silva also stressed on the role Wood jolted India early Curran angled one away easily taken the team back to After the fourth on 28 July. India went of the Governments of the two with clever change of and Kohli could only India," Mohan de Silva, the game of the six-match on to lose the T20I countries in ensuring the series did length to dismiss KL guide it to Jos Buttler Secretary of SLC told Cricbuzz, series, Krunal Pandya series, but Dravid saw not end abruptly. "There were Rahul for five. behind the stumps to explaining the role of various was found to be the importance of concerns from many quarters - the Rahul, who scored 84, depart for 20 with his factors that made sure the tour COVID positive, leading to isolation completing the task on hand than BCCI, the Indian High Commission 26 and 129 in his last team in disarray. went ahead despite the COVID-19 of nine other players. That left the offering excuses. and the team management. We three innings, could only The rain-marred outbreak. "The most encouraging Indian squad with exactly 11 With all planned six matches were in regular touch with all of edge the express delivery opening match of the aspect of the whole Pandya episode available players to field in the going ahead, the SLC reaped them. In the Indian High to be caught behind. five-test series had was the role of the support staff of remaining fixtures. "We have 11 dividends of over 280 crore Sri Commission in Colombo, they were Wood's next over ended in a draw in the Indian team, led by Rahul. If he players available and we will play Lankan rupees. "It was a very, very very concerned; sought regular turned out to be an Nottingham. wanted, he could have easily taken them. There is nothing to feel sorry valuable tour for us. We were updates. the team back to India. He was very about. All the 11 are good enough looking forward to it for a long time. (Cricbuzz)

Britain's Ujah Dialog - SLC Invitational T20 League (Day 2) 'shocked and BLUES and GREYS record second wins Unbeaten SLC Blues and SLC partnership of 84 runs for the Greys recorded their second second wicket. Nissanka scored devastated' by consecutive wins in the Dialog - an unbeaten 76 runs including 7 SLC Invitational T20 League on fours and 3 sixes in 54 balls. day two on Saturday. Kamindu Mendis scored an positive test SLC Greys beat SLC Reds by unbeaten 53 runs in 25 balls 35 runs and SLC Blues beat SLC with 4 fours and 3 sixes. Greens by 5 wickets. However, it Maheesh Theekshana claimed 2 is SLC Blues who are leading the wickets for 12 runs. points table. Chasing 181 to win, SLC Blues Two matches will be held today scored 181 runs for 5 wickets in (16) – day 3. SLC Reds will meet 19.3 overs. Opener Sadeera SLC Greens and SLC Blues will Samarawickrama (47), Sahan meet SLC Greys. Arachchige (38), Ashen Bandara Greys beat Reds Lahiru Madushanka claimed two (36*) and Dhananjaya Lakshan Skipper Dasun Shanaka and wickets each. (27) made valuable all-rounder Lahiru Madhusanka Scores: contributions. Samarawickrama steered SLC Greys to win over SLC Greys: 154/8 (20) Dasun faced only 38 balls for his 47 SLC Reds by 35 runs in their Shanaka 48, Pulina Tharanga runs which included 3 fours and second match. At one time SLC 20, Kamil Mishara 18, Lahiru a six. Samarawickrama and Greys were 5 wickets for 59 runs Madhusanka 16 n.o., Lasith Dhananjaya Lakshan were Olympic silver medalist and would never in 9.1 overs, but Dasun Shanaka Croospulle 13, Seekkuge involved in a valuable 75 runs CJ Ujah has denied knowingly take a banned once again came to his side’s Prasanna 2/9, Prabath stand for the second wicket in wrongdoing and said he substance." rescue. He scored a valuable 48 Jayasuriya 2/29) 8.1 overs. Sahan Arachchige (38 is ‘shocked and Ujah was informed on runs (38 balls; 5x4; 2x6). Lahiru SLC Reds: 119/9 (20) Oshada runs in 22 balls with a boundary devastated’ after a Thursday of an ‘adverse Madushanka scored an Fernando 52, Asela Gunaratne and 2 sixes) and Ashen Bandara positive drugs test. analytical finding’ - the unbeaten 16 runs and Pulina 16, Akila Dhananjaya 12, (unbeaten 36 runs in 18 balls Ujah, 27, ran the first presence/use of Tharanga chipped in with 20 Himesh Ramanayake 10 n.o., with 2 boundaries and 2 sixes) leg as Great Britain's prohibited substances runs in10 balls to help build the Nuwan Pradeep 2/24, Ashian put on a 71 runs stand for their 4x100m men's relay team ostarine and S-23, which innings. Greys finished with a Dasun Shanaka Daniel 2/18, Lahiru 5th wicket. narrowly missed out on are selective androgen score of 154 for eight in their 20 Madushanka 2/21) Scores: gold in Tokyo. He has receptor modulators and overs. Seekkuge Prasanna for three in the 4th over. Oshada SLC Blues outplay SLC SLC Greens:180/2 (20) been provisionally help with building claimed 2 wickets for just 9 runs Fernando top scored with 52 Greens Pathum Nissanka 76 n.o., suspended after a test muscle. in his 4 over spell. Prabath runs (49 balls; 5x4; 1x6). Asela SLC Greens batting first Kamindu Mendis 53 n.o., Lahiru showed the ‘presence/ If the case against him Jayasuriya claimed 2 wickets for Gunaratne (16), Akila Dananjaya scored 180 runs for 2 wickets in Udara 44, Maheesh Theekshana use’ of two prohibited is proved, the British relay 29 runs. (12) and Himesh Ramanayake their 20 overs. Kamindu Mendis 2/12) substances. quartet - also including Reds chasing 155 to win could (10*) were the other batsmen to and Pathum Nissanka were SLC Blues: 181/5 (19.3) "To be absolutely clear, Zharnel Hughes, Richard not get a good start. Their top reach double figures. SLC Reds involved in an unbroken 95 runs Sadeera Samarawickrama 47, I am not a cheat," said Kilty and Nethaneel order (Avishka Fernando, Nipun could manage only 119 runs for stand for the 3rd wicket. Opener Sahan Arachchige 38, Ashen Ujah in a statement to Mitchell-Blake - are likely Dhananjaya and skipper Dinesh nine in their 20 overs to lose the Lahiru Udara scored 44 runs in Bandara 36 n.o., Dhananjaya the PA news agency on to be stripped of their Chandimal) failed once again. match by 35 runs. Nuwan 39 balls with 6 fours and a six. Lakshan 27, Ishan Jayaratne Saturday. "I have never silver medals. (Agencies) Reds were badly positioned at 20 Pradeep, Ashian Daniel and Udara and Nissanka put on a 1/26) (IR)

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