China's Diplomacy: Growing Empire Or Geopolitical Limbo?

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation

China’s diplomacy: growing empire or geopolitical limbo?

SENCHUDAR

The rise of the Chinese empire has caused a significant shift in geopolitical stratagems where US-India relations have been fused to counter the political giant’s impending domination. Whilst China has sustainably expanded its economic footing within the global market, the power’s tactics to ascend the geopolitical ladder have adapted a wide expanse of alternatives. Two of such techniques in China’s diplomatic pursuits include their debt and petroleum diplomacy. With China’s “debt trap” viewed as a significant pressure point upon many key developing and highly influential countries, it is crucial to assess the state of the hegemon’s efficiency in countering a geopolitical stalemate – especially concerning foreign competition to establish a footing in Sri Lanka. China’s relations with the Rajapaksa family have proven to reflect the empire’s tactic of dependence through diplomacy to exert their geopolitical influence. The return of the nepotistic Rajapaksa regime combined with the effect of the COVID-19 outbreak have assisted in exposing a tendency for China’s empire to slide into a geopolitical stalemate within the region thus raising questions regarding how this would impact Tamil sovereignty.

China and the Rajapaksas

China’s top-down approach has enabled the power to exert a steady presence within the geopolitical domain. Furthermore, DeVotta accounts for the Mahindha regime’s approach to increase relations with China as a counter to India and the West. This allowed China to enter the region with a “preference multiplier” strategy. As a result, China was not required to pressure their ideals onto Sri Lanka as they had walked into the grasps of China willingly. As Mahindha’s short-term economic plans aligned with China’s long-term economic goals, the bilateral ties were coordinated. Whilst there was a growing distrust towards China as Chinese projects such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BIR) are often funded by Chinese-owned state banks, the election of the Sirisena government did not see the annulment of ties with China. This was evident through the regime’s tender balance of interactions with geopolitical powers thus continuing to allow China access to the region. The Hambantota port issue which has allowed China the avenue to establish a naval presence in Sri Lanka, has been criticised as an

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation engagement which has allowed China to exploit Sri Lanka. However, the return of the Rajapaksas with the commencement of the Gotabaya regime raises concerns regarding the stance that would be adapted by the nepotistic regime in terms of foreign relations – especially with China. Whilst we have witnessed Gotabaya’s tentative balancing act with China and India (especially through his relations with Modi), Sri Lanka’s heavy financial dependence upon China is a growing pressure point which affects the island’s national and regional politics.

Debt trap

As a lender larger than the World Bank and IMF, China’s approach to debt diplomacy is infamous for its strategic nature. China’s barter loan repayments system has allowed them to raise an empire through increasing the dependence of developing countries upon them. This provides them an avenue to exert geopolitical dominance within regions where they establish a presence. The trade of SL’s Hambantota port to China for 99 years in exchange for USD 1.1 billion of SL’s debt in 2017 was one such trade which allowed China extensive access to sea routes within the region. Despite their existing debt history with China, Sri Lanka continues to seek outrageous amounts of loans from the country especially with the outbreak of COVID-19. However, Sri Lanka is not alone in their desperate rush for China’s financial assistance. BIR countries are rapidly borrowing loans from China whilst unable to pay back interest or debt to the economic giant due to the economic pressures of COVID-19. Financial experts such as Kaho Yu (senior Asia analyst at Verisk Maplecroft) have forecasted SL and Pakistan to be impacted the most. In turn, this has the potential of strengthening the authority of China.

Moreover, many developing countries have requested debt-relief from China through an extension of loans and reduced interest. However, China’s obligations as a signatory of the G-20’s “debt service suspension initiative” has struck a crossroad in China’s expansion. Despite loan suspension being in place from 01.05.2020 to the end of this year, China has been reported to be involved in the development of tactical conditions for debt-relief eligibility. An extension of loans and the development of conditions increase China’s leverage with debt diplomacy. However, according to a G-20 moratorium established in April 2020, China may also be obliged to write off their loans. Contrary to expectations that this may cause China to be at a loss of its power dynamics, this could provide China a window of opportunity to implement new loan and investment schemes within the region and thus continue their ascent.

In this regard, it becomes essential to examine SL’s economic state. Having made large requests to multiple lenders, SL’s requests for loans from China have been out of proportion. Whilst requesting loans to ease the economic impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak including currency swaps with China worth around USD 1.5 billion alone, the island’s reckless borrowing to develop infrastructure has been condemned by financial experts and political critics. The SL cabinet’s approval to request additional loans of USD 80 million from China to develop SL roads in the midst of a financial crisis is one such

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation example. Whilst the IMF forecasts SL’s net borrowing to increase from 6.8% of SL’s GDP to 9.4%, global rating agencies such as Fitch and Moody’s have warned that SL’s debt burden may rise to 100% of their GDP. This may cause SL to default their debt. Despite SL’s claims that they would not default their loans, the Rajapaksas’ continued dependence upon the Chinese empire raises the question as to whether a default of their debt would be inevitable and how that could possibly increase China’s authority.

Whilst the geopolitical dimensions of the debt sphere have a tendency to remain in China’s favour, it is crucial to examine China’s efficiency in exerting their geopolitical authority. Their presence within the domain of petroleum diplomacy, where the Tamils territorial integrity is at risk is also of concern.

Petroleum limbo

China has attempted to gain access to key sea routes where their implementation of the BIR initiative is known to be a tool for the empire to establish their presence within countries along the route. As espoused by Zhiqun Zhu, China’s petroleum diplomacy strategy includes their efforts to seek resources for gas and oil from the developing world to increase their geopolitical influence within the targeted region. In that regard, territorial waters play a crucial role in determining the leverage of geopolitical powers.

Mannar Basin

The Mannar oil Basin is situated along the coasts of the occupied Tamil homeland and is adjoined with the Cauvery basin which has yielded a significant amount of petroleum for India. Recent seismic studies have identified the basin as, “the largest and most prolific hydrocarbon province in Sri Lanka” and it is expected to be more abundant in petroleum than the Cauvery basin. As a result, the Mannar Basin has gained the attention of many foreign investors for oil exploration including China.

Whilst oil exploration has predated many decades, a Norwegian company had cautiously resumed the exploration of the Mannar Basin in 2001 – a year prior to the 2002 peace process. It is notable that many foreign investors were reluctant to explore within the territorial waters of the Tamil homeland due to the existence of the LTTE who protected Tamil sovereignty – namely the Sea Tigers who protected the Tamil homeland’s waters. However, Sri Lanka had gradually started to open up the occupied Tamil homeland’s territorial waters to foreign investors by 2007.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation

As evident, competition to establish a presence in the Mannar Basin, has established the region as a hotspot with signs of petroleum found in the blocks allocated within occupied Tamil Eelam’s territorial waters. Whilst China and India have been allocated blocks, acceptance has not been expressed despite significant interest. The blocks explored by Cairn have identified sources of petroleum – which aligns with the block allocated to India. However, China’s block has been allocated closer to Colombo where no sources of petroleum have been found as of yet thus lowering their possibility for influence.

Following a temporary halt in the matters, the basin was again open to foreign bidding in March 2019, with drilling expected to commence in 2020 and oil extraction by 2023-2025. In that regard, Gotabaya’s regime has extended the focus upon the Mannar Basin in a statement made in early January of this year. Whilst announcing the impending establishment of an oil refinery on the island at an undisclosed location, it was specified by SL’s Transport Management and Energy Minister, Mahindha Amaraweera, that drilling of the Mannar Basin would also commence for the extraction of natural gas.

Stalemate for China

With the current stance assumed by the Trump administration, the geopolitical climate demands the need for a confrontation between the US-China divide. The disruption of global order due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, has accelerated the possibility for any such confrontation. However, examples of China’s inadequacies in regard to petroleum diplomacy as evident through the

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation Mannar Basin, are evidence of obstacles preventing China from making an alternative move – especially within the region. As a result, a state of limbo ensues within the geopolitical arena. China or any geopolitical power may not advance with the Mannar Basin issue due to uncertainty regarding the sustainable yield of petroleum and other contributing geopolitical factors. However, it is likely that SL would not openly side with any hegemon as of yet for its own strategic interests. Nonetheless, with Sri Lanka expressing their commitment to China’s sovereignty, the history of the Rajapaksa’s relations with China cannot be ignored.

Misplaced pawns

With an accelerated interest within the territorial waters of the occupied Tamil homeland, many concerns arise regarding the plight of the Eelam Tamils. As established by Hortense Spillers, the ocean is an analogy for “undifferentiated identity”. In that regard, the appropriation and colonisation of the territorial waters of occupied Tamil Eelam are also detrimental to the Tamil identity. Geopolitical advance within the area would not have been permitted had the LTTE remained to protect Tamil sovereignty. However, in the instance that the Mannar Basin is found to be a sustainable source for petroleum, it is undeniable that the Tamils’ sovereignty would further be stripped by Sri Lanka and any other investors. There is also a tendency to ignite a renewed intensive rivalry amidst the global powers thus raising the question as to how this would impact the Tamils. China’s petroleum and debt diplomacy factor a significant shift in such dynamics.

As settlements and colonisation of Tamil lands and waters increase as a component of structural Tamil genocide, decolonisation emerges as a necessary step to liberate Tamil Eelam. As postulated by Fanon, “freedom from colonisation consists of freedom of acting with the earth to fashion land”. Therefore, the dimensions of resistance required to prevent the compromise of Tamil sovereignty become clear. It is crucial for Eelam Tamils to negate the geopolitical and genocidal exploitation of Tamil lands and water to liberate the occupied Tamil homeland from the grasps of global hegemons and the genocidal Sri Lankan state. Failing to challenge and expose the geopolitical dimension of the Tamil struggle may further diminish the pawn-like role which Tamils have assumed in the absence of the Tamil leadership.

International News

04.05.2020: Australia – The Australian High High Commission outlined that they Commission in Colombo had issued a would commit AUD 1.5 million in support. press release outlining their commitment to support SL to combat the spread of 06.05.2020: Germany – The German COVID-19, reports Colombo Gazette. The Embassy in Colombo has granted LKR 2.1 million in financial aid to the People’s

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation Action for Free and Fair Elections reported to have mentioned that (PAFFREL) to provide essentials for Gotabaya was no longer a US citizen. vulnerable communities, reports Colombo Gazette. It is notable that Rohana Hettiarachchi is the Executive Director of PAFFREL.

07.05.2020: OIC – According to Colombo Gazette, the General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) was reported to have expressed concerns regarding growing hostilities towards Muslims in Sri Lanka. The OIC was also reported to Quarterly Publication of Individuals, Who Have Chosen To Expatriate, as Required by Section 6039G have mentioned the need for Source: Federal Register Releases cooperation between states to effectively combat the COVID-19 10.05.2020: WHO – According to outbreak. Colombo Gazette, the WHO had mentioned that SL was on the correct 08.05.2020: US – According to Colombo path to contain the COVID-19 Gazette, the US National Security pandemic. Advisor, Robert Charles O’Brien had contacted Gotabaya to reaffirm 10.05.2020: Cuba – Following SL’s request bilateral cooperation and extend their to the Cuban government to assist support in SL’s efforts to combat the migrant SL workers in Haiti, a 5-member COVID-19 pandemic. medical team had arrived in Haiti on 07.05.2020 to assist the Sri Lankans. 08.05.2020: India - With the arrival of a Subsequently on 12.05.2020 during a 12.5 tonne consignment of essential meeting between Dinesh Gunawardena medicines from India to Colombo as a and Cuban ambassador Rodriguez at friendly gesture, India reaffirmed bilateral SL’s Foreign Ministry, Gunawardena had cooperation between the 2 countries, thanked Cuba for the assistance and reports Colombo Gazette. The donation discussed future economic cooperation arrived in SL with the High Commissioner- between the 2 countries, reports designate of India to Sri Lanka, who was Colombo Gazette. reported to have made the affirmation. 11.05.2020: India – According to

Colombo Gazette, the High 10.05.2020: US – According to Daily Commissioner-designate of India to SL, Mirror, the US Embassy in Colombo Gopal Baglay, had sought the blessings confirmed that Gotabaya Rajapaksa of Buddha through prayers via a video had renounced his US citizenship in April call to strengthen the multifaceted ties 2019. In response to a query by Daily between the 2 countries to encourage Mirror, an embassy spokesman was bilateral cooperation.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation 13.05.2020: Facebook – Bloomberg reports that Facebook has apologised to SL for its role in the riots of 15.05.2020: Counter- 2018. They terror alliance – The UN, were further EU and Germany have reported to initiated a joint counter- have terrorism effort in SL, outlined the reports Colombo measures Gazette. A virtual that they meeting was reported would to have contextualised implement the efforts to SL’s to counter challenges, legal any such frameworks and occurrence jurisdiction. from ensuing Sri Lankan military soldiers walk in front of a vandalised Mosque in in the future. Digana, some 157 kms away from Colombo, Sri Lanka, March 2018. Source: Tharaka Basnayaka/NurPhoto via Getty Images

13.05.2020: IBAHRI – According to 16.05.2020: India – India’s Madras High Colombo Gazette, the International Bar Court has requested a response from the Association’s Human Rights Institute Tamil Nadu state government to allow S. (IBAHRI) had emphasised the need of Nalini and her husband Murugan alias the GoSL to abide by legal procedures in Sriharan to speak with his mother via the case of Hizbullah. The request was video call for a few minutes daily, reports conveyed as a letter to SL’s Minister of Colombo Gazette. The couple were Justice expressing concerns convicted for alleged involvement in the regardingthe detention of Hizbullah assassination of former Indian Prime under the PTA, reports Colombo Gazette. Minister, Rajiv Gandhi.

13.05.2020: US – US Ambassador to SL, 17.05.2020: GTF – According to Colombo Teplitz, had expressed the US’s Gazette, the Global Tamil Forum (GTF) commitment to protect SL’s border and from the UK had encouraged Tamils and maritime security in a statement their leaders to strategically engage with commending the SL navy’s preservation “all relevant stakeholders in SL and the of SL’s sovereignty, reports Colombo international community.” Gazette. 19.05.2020: Canada – According to Colombo Gazette, Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau had addressed SL to implement “meaningful accountability”. The request was made in

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation commemoration of the 11th Tamil 26.05.2020: EU – The EU was reported to Genocide Remembrance Day. have written to SL authorities expressing concerns regarding the detention of 21.05.2020: US – US diplomat, Alice Wells Hizbullah under the PTA, reports was reported to have mentioned during Colombo Gazette. an online press conference that the US notes the importance of accountability 27.05.2020: India – Baglay visited in SL to ensure long term stability, reports Mahinda at the Temple Trees on the 50th Colombo Gazette. anniversary of Mahindha’s election to SL’s parliament, reports Colombo 23.05.2020: India - According to Gazette. The 2 parties were reported to Newswire.lk, Gotabaya and Modi had have identified areas of cooperation conversed over the phone. Modi was during their discussions. reported to have congratulated Gotabaya’s leadership during the 27.05.2020: Romania – 36 Sri Lankans Corona-Crisis. Both parties were further stranded at a Romanian airport have reported to have mutually agreed to been offered alternative employment accelerate Indian investment in SL to opportunities to allow them to continue boost economic activity. Boosts to their employment in Romania, reports Indian-assisted development projects Colombo Gazette. and value-addition investments by India’s private sector were reportedly 27.05.2020: UNICEF – According to discussed. Colombo Gazette, UNICEF had supported SL’s Ministry of Education and 23.05.2020: Seychelles – According to National Institute of Education to provide Colombo Gazette, COVID-19 infected learning material for children who did not patients from Seychelles were transferred have access to online learning. to SL for treatment as the SL health sector was not overcrowded. 29.05.2020: Repatriation – Dinesh Gunawardena was reported to have 24.05.2020: Maldives – According to mentioned that the repatriation of Colombo Gazette, COVID-19 infected migrant workers in the Middle East and patients from Maldives were transferred other regions would continue with to SL for treatment as the SL health sector respect to the vulnerability of host was not overcrowded. country communities, reports Colombo Gazette. 26.05.2020: India – The newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, 30.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to Gopal Baglay met with Dinesh Colombo Gazette, SL has indicated Gunawardena to discuss the support for a COVID-19 Technology strengthening of bilateral cooperation, Access Pool initiative launched in reports Colombo Gazette. Geneva on 29.05.2020 which was established upon the proposals of Costa Rica.

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation European Union and Sri Lanka

KAYALVIZHI

Relations between Sri Lanka and the European Union (EU) date back to 1975 with the conclusion of an Agreement on Trade and Economic Cooperation. Their relations are governed by a subsequent third generation agreement, ‘Co-operation Agreement on Partnership and Development between the European Community and Sri Lanka’, which came into force on 1 April 1995. The same year, a partnership and development agreement entered into force.

Sri Lanka also signed a Readmission Agreement with the EU on 4 June 2004. This was the first formal agreement Sri Lanka entered into concerning illegal immigration. The facilitation of Law Enforcement Cooperation, constitutes an integral part of the agreement and it recognizes the need for the two parties to take measures to combat organized criminal activities, including; human trafficking, migrant smuggling and financing terrorism.

Mr. Louis Michel, the European Commissioner responsible for development and humanitarian aid, instructed his services to prepare an emergency funding decision, amounting to EUR 3 million, to assist the ICRC’s (The International Committee for the Red Cross) to deal with the humanitarian drama which was unfolding against the Eelam Tamils in 2003.

For five years since 2004, the Commission has allocated EUR 95 million in aid to the populations affected by the humanitarian crises in Sri Lanka, including EUR 42 million to the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The aid was offered by the EU for the rehabilitation of war victims however this amount would be diverted.

Compliance with rules?

Since July 2005, in the aftermath of the Tsunami, Sri Lanka was included among a group of countries to receive the EU GSP+ (Generalised Scheme of Preference Plus) benefit. However, with the onset of the so-called “humanitarian operation” to defeat LTTE, in 2007/2008 the EU brought considerable pressure on Sri Lanka to end military action against the LTTE. This included a threat to terminate GSP+ benefits to Sri Lanka. In October 2008, an “investigation” was launched into the Government of Sri Lanka (GOSL)’s failure implementation of certain human rights according to the 27 international conventions. To be eligible for GSP+, countries must accept the reporting requirements and monitoring mechanisms imposed by the conventions without reservation. Notwithstanding the GOSL’s refusal to submit itself to “investigation” and the recommendations by the west to intensify the military operations against the LTTE, in late

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation 2008/early 2009, Sri Lanka continued to retain the GSP+ facility for an extended period. This was enabled through; continued engagement with the European Commission, the Permanent Representations to the EU and the European Parliament.

Whilst seeking to narrow down the differences on the related issues with the EU, this also allowed for the GOSL and Sri Lankan exporters engaged with EU markets, to adjust to the possible termination of the GSP+ facility. Following the recommendation of the “investigation” in October 2009 and the EU decision in February 2010 to temporarily suspend GSP+ from August 2012, engagement continued between the parties. This included two visits by a delegation of senior officials led by the Hon. Attorney General in March and May 2010. Member States as well as the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee was also lobbied in this regard. However, GOSL was compelled to reject a EU proposal made in June 2010. The proposal included that GOSL committed to fulfil 15 conditions in order to enjoy further extension of the GSP+ facility. As the conditions imposed by the EU sought to erode GOSL’s authority to deal with sensitive domestic issues, the GSP+ facility was temporarily suspended on 31 August 2010.

Since May 2017, the EU granted better access to the SL for its exports under the GSP +. The GSP + scheme is subject to Sri Lanka's promotion of human and labor rights and the achievement of sustainable development. In addition to rules and requirements for trade with Sri Lanka regarding the import and export, the EU is present on the ground in SL and its trade relations are part of the EU's overall political and economic relations with Sri Lanka.

Despite the violation of human rights committed by the Sri lankan government and the refusal of an opening of investigation by the EU and by the UN, these institutions show that they have no power vis-à-vis a criminal government and they always end up by giving it access to profits.

European Parliament or Friends of Sri Lanka?

Political relations between the SL government and the EU are not new. These two political bodies worked together long before the Tamil genocide. And as we have seen compared to the GSP +, despite the non-respect of Sri Lanka vis-à-vis the rules of international laws, the EU still agrees to help this country. Whilst we shout before them with banners, inside the institution, the GoSL has placed members to work there on their behalf.

Sri Lanka has maintained a continuing relationship with the European Parliament (EP) since 1986. Following the adoption of the Lisbon Treaty in December 2009, the European Parliament has become even more involved in the decision making process of the EU. The ‘co-decision’ procedure under the treaty has given the Parliament power to influence the EU’s position in many sectors, including trade. The Mission has been

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation engaging with the EP to leverage their support for Sri Lanka and to influence the other EU bodies.

A ‘Sri Lanka Liaison Group’ of the European Parliament was established in 2003 by Nirj Deva. This group visited Sri Lanka in November 2004. The group was relaunched as the ‘Friends of Sri Lanka’ group of the EP on 4 June 2008, under the Chairmanship of MEP Geoffrey Van Orden, to assist in bringing issues of importance to Sri Lanka to the attention of European policy makers and to give Sri Lanka a voice in the European Parliament. Over time the group has grown from 16 MEPs (2008) to 34 MEPs (2012) who represent 13 countries and all major political groups (the EPP, S&D, ALDE, ECR, & EFD). This group has been able to muster support for Sri Lanka in parliamentary debates, discussions and urgencies/resolutions, and also have made numerous pro-Sri Lanka declarations in the Parliament.

Participating in the discussion on Sri Lanka held by the South Asia Delegation of the European Parliament on 24 April 2012, Ambassador Aryasinha contrasted the “pessimistic” projections on Sri Lanka three years ago by some sections including sections of the European Parliament, with what has been currently achieved on the ground in Sri Lanka to restore normalcy to the lives of those previously affected by the ethnic conflict. He urged that the EU; not prejudge Sri Lanka’s will or capacity, avoid the application of double standards with respect to Sri Lanka, and join in supporting the process of development and reconciliation which is ongoing in Sri Lanka.

It should also be noted that members of parliament of Sinhalese origin, for example Nirj Deva who lobbies extensively for the Sri Lankan government and founded the Friends of Sri Lanka group in the European Parliament, work within the European Union in order to achieve their political ends, unlike some of us who are content to visit without really understanding the system.

European Union VS LTTE:

The EU which firmly believes that only a peacefully negotiated settlement can ensure a lasting solution acceptable to all. In this connection, the EU recalls the agreement reached in Oslo by all the parties involved to explore a specific institutional solution for Sri Lanka. According to the EU, it is the responsibility of all those concerned to act in the interests of all the people of Sri Lanka.

The Ambassador Aryasinha who addressed the European Corporate Security Association (ECSA) emphasised that, “it is important that European States and institutions do not provide any political or symbolic support, nor should they be fooled by the false pretences of those continuing to advocate mono-ethnic separatism in Sri Lanka through peaceful means, while espousing the ideology of the LTTE, using its money and being manipulated by its surviving military leaders”. He did so through detailing the increasing

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation recent arrests and convictions on European soil of the LTTE and the LTTE’s frontline activists, at a time the liberation movement was no longer operative in Sri Lanka.

The EU remains fully committed to the peace process in Sri Lanka and has solicited all parties to put an end to this conflict and to return to the negotiation table.

But let us not forget that it is clearly one of the main branches of the EU, the Council of the European Union, influenced by Washington and London which supported the maintenance of the LTTE on the blacklist by using an Indian anti-terrorist law as an appropriate precedent to prohibit the LTTE. They were accompanied by the European Commission, which claimed that there was no evidence that the Council had verified whether the terror suspects had access to a fair trial in India and whether the Wikipedia source was credible. Even if the European Court of Justice cancels for formal defect, insufficient evidence, these two EU bodies are not in a position to change their minds thus indicative of the instability of this institution.

Is it necessary to plead with them when we know that somewhere within the chain of linkage, they are also a involved in Tamil genocide?

Thus it is evident that the GoSL continues to prevent the Tamils in the diaspora from progressing the struggle through labelling them as a terrorist. This further exposes that whilst they claim to have destroyed the LTTE, they know that their ideology is still desired and pursued.

The EU at the instigation of Britain and the United States labeled the LTTE as a terrorist organisation and they deliberately broke the peace process, which ended horribly with the genocidal massacre - there is co-responsibility. This was a planned genocide, with the involvement of international powers who knew what was being implemented. The fact that this international powerplay will continue, with support for a brutal murderous chauvinistic regime in Colombo makes any hope of a ‘Just Peace’ or ‘National Reconciliation’ most unlikely.

Military News

02.05.2020: US – According to TamilNet, on 30.04.2020. The virtual conference saw the Commander of the SL Air Force (SLAF), discussions regarding the resumption of Air Marshal Dambure Liyanage joint-training exercises in air spaces with Sumangala Dias had attended a virtual the added knowledge gained from each conference conducted by the country’s crisis-management efforts due Commander of the US Pacific Air Forces to the COVID-19 outbreak. It was (PACAF) with air chiefs from 19 countries reported that statements from Tamil

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation political observers had indicated that SL’s 19.05.2020: War heroes - According to involvement was an indication of their army.lk, Gotabaya had announced in his consideration of inclusion within the US- speech that he India led Indo-Pacific airspace.

12.05.2020: Navy – SL’s MoD had “will not allow anyone or released a statement denying organization to harass war allegations that SL’s navy had concealed information regarding heroes.” infected naval officers from SL health officials, reports Colombo Gazette. According to Newswire.lk, he had also mentioned that the country would 12.05.2020: Inauguration - According to withdraw from any organisation or body army.lk, a ‘Harmony Centre’ for utility which was critical of the island’s projects was opened in Kankesanthurai treasured troops to protect their dignity. on 11.05.2020 by SL’s occupational Security Force HQ in Jaffna. It was 19.05.2020: ISIS – SL’s army assured reported that the centre was opened as citizens that reports of a warning from ISIS a component of the army’s civil-military circulating on social media claiming that cooperation to promote reconciliation, SL was under threat was not legitimate, cooperation and peace within the reports Colombo Gazette. Gunaratne community. Constructed under the was reported to have mentioned that SL supervision of the 515 Brigade’s intelligence agencies had not received Commander, the Jaffna Harmony centre any such information and that SL’s has been reported to facilitate cultural national security would be protected development through facilitation and despite their COVID-19 effort. training for locals in the future. Many occupational security forces had 19.05.2020: Promotion - According to attended the inauguration ceremony. Daily Mirror, a total of 177 SL Army Officers including Priyanka Fernando had 14.05.2020: Navy – Gotabaya been promoted to their next ranks due to dispatched Gunaratne to establish an a directive from Gotabaya. The occupational navy sub-post in Poththuvil, promotions were made in lieu of the Amparai, reports TamilNet. country’s 11th celebration of their National War Heroes Commemoration 19.05.2020: Ranaviru Day – Mass scale Day (Ranaviru Day). Ranaviru (war heroes) Day was th conducted by SL to celebrate the 11 5 senior Brigadiers of SLA were year since the defeat of the LTTE where promoted to the rank of Major General: social distancing measures were clearly breached. • Chandana Marasinghe - SL Army Ordnance Corps • Jagath Kodithuwakku - Sri Lanka Light Infantry

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2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation • Harendra Ranasinghe - Special Forces • Brigadier A.N Amarasekara USP ndu • Priyanka Fernando - Gemunu Watch • Brigadier N.L.K Samarasingha IG • Channa Weerasooriya - SL Light • Brigadier T.D Weerakoon RWP RSP USP Infantry • Brigadier I.H.M.N.N Herath RWP RSP psc 27.05.2020: Promotion - According to • Brigadier T.S Sallay RWP RSP USP psc army.lk, Gotabaya, had promoted an additional 5 senior Brigadiers to the rank 27.05.2020 - National Defence College - of Major General, upon the basis of According to Newswire.lk, Kamal recommendations from Shavendra Silva. Gunaratne had pledged the SL Defence The promotion was to be in effect from Ministry’s complete support towards the 22.05.2020. construction of a National Defence College in Visumpaya, Union Place.

Domestic News

Tamil Eelam 28.05.2020: Pakistan – Pakistan’s High Commissioner visited the occupied Tamil 05.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to homeland for the first time where he had TamilNet, COVID-19 testing at Jaffna donated sports items and school kits for University had been announced to be the students of St. Patrick’s College of temporarily suspended to facilitate Jaffna, reports Colombo Gazette. “reconstruction work” of the facility. However, reported news leaks indicating Sri Lanka unreliable testing are being investigated by SL’s State Intelligence Services (SIS). It 01.05.2020: SL Parliament - According to was further reported that the Daily Mirror, Gotabaya had responded investigations were tracing leaks to the to requests made by opposition parties Northern parts of the Tamil Homeland. by refusing to re-summon SL Parliament.

11.05.2020: Transfer – According to 02.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to TamilNet, a Community Consultant Newswire.lk, the SL College of Physician (CCP) Dr. Vallipuranathan had Microbiology had released an official been transferred away from the North to statement condemning the use of the the South. It was reported that the highly praised Decontamination transfer had come after he had raised chambers. Drawing from the WHO’s legitimate concerns regarding cross- outlook, the college’s statement outlined contaminations within the “dormitory”- that the chamber would be physically style military-run isolation centre in and psychologically harmful and would Kankesanthurai, Jaffna. not prevent the spread of the virus.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation 03.05.2020: Meeting – According to scheduling of SL’s General Elections for Newswire.lk, TNA was the only main 20.06.2020. The petitions have been opposition party that had attended allocated for support on 18.05.2020 and Mahindha’s scheduled meeting. It was 19.05.2020 by SL’s Supreme Court. noted that they had presented him with a letter expressing their commitment to 13.05.2020: Arrest – Colombo’s High work with the GoSL to tackle several Court had denied a bail order granted issues. by the Colombo Chief Magistrate court for former SL minister Rajitha Senaratna, due to an application made by SL’s Attorney General, reports Colombo Gazette. Senaratna had been arrested for exposing “white van” allegations. Senaratna was later arrested by the CID and will be remanded until 27.05.2020.

14.05.2020: SL CID – Mangala Samaraweera was questioned by the CID for allegations regarding his misuse of SL state property, TNA attends meeting scheduled by Mahinda Rajapaksa. reports Colombo Gazette. Source: Newswire.lk 15.05.2020: COVID-19 – Ajith Rohana 06.05.2020: SL Elections – According to mentioned that a strict curfew would be Colombo Gazette, the Chairman of SL’s in place across the island on 17.05.2020 Elections Commission, Mahindha and any violators would be arrested, Deshapriya had mentioned in a reports Colombo Gazette. published post on Facebook that he would resign from his position if found 17.05.2020: COVID-19 – SL’s police media guilty of allegations that he had sought unit had mentioned that 56,000 assistance from the SL President’s Office individuals and 15,490 vehicles had been to bring his son back to SL from the UK. arrested and seized for curfew violations from March 2020 to now, reports 11.05.2020: SL Parliament - The PMD Colombo Gazette. Subsequently on announced that new secretaries had 22.05.2020 SL’s police media unit been appointed to seven of SL’s Cabinet reported legal action files had been filed Ministries by Gotabaya on 11.05.2020. against over 18,000 people for violating curfew regulations since March 2020, 11.05.2020: SL Parliament – According to reports Colombo Gazette. Daily Mirror, seven Fundamental Right (FR) petitions were filed to challenge the 19.05.2020: SL Parliament - According to dissolution of SL Parliament and the Daily Mirror, further consideration of the 7

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation FR petitions were postponed for 10.00am was reported that Gotabaya had on 20.05.2020. responded that necessary measures would be implemented under his 19.05.2020: National security – Kamal leadership to rectify the impact. Gunaratne mentioned that the GoSL would protect national security and 23.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to implement measures to ensure lasting Colombo Gazette, Ajith Rohana had peace, reports Colombo Gazette. It was mentioned that 900 roadblocks had further mentioned that no force could been established across the island in become a threat to SL’s national security anticipation of the impending curfew under Gotabaya’s leadership. where SL police officers would be deployed in 8-hour shifts. 21.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to Colombo Gazette, Dr. Jasinghe had 25.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to the outlined that social distancing and other SL police, 1,710 individuals had been COVID-19 prevention practices would be arrested within 24 hours for curfew required to be in implementation into violations, reports Colombo Gazette. 2021 as well. Following this, Ajith Rohana reported, SL police had been granted the authority 21.05.2020: Infrastructure – According to to arrest individuals who fail to practice the Prime Minister’s media unit, the social distancing or fail to wear face proposed construction of a new masks from 26.05.2020, reports Colombo International Cricket Stadium in Gazette. It was reported that the powers Homagama had been suspended and a were granted through a circular issued decision had been made to redirect by Dr. Jasinghe. funds to develop school cricket and stadiums. The new International Cricket 26.05.2020: COVID-19 – According to Stadium was intended to be SL’s largest PMD News, SL’s COVID Prevention Task cricket stadium project. The decision was Force Committee had requested made following a meeting between Gotabaya to re-open SL’s airports for Mahindha and SL cricket officials (former foreign tourists from 01.08.2020 to and current), reports Newswire.lk. gradually return the country to normalcy.

22.05.2020: COVID-19 – SL’s PMD had 26.05.2020 – 29.05.2020: Thondaman – announced an island-wide curfew on Arumugam Thondaman, the Leader of 24.05.2020 and 25.05.2020, reports the Ceylon Workers Congress and SL Colombo Gazette. Cabinet Minister of Livestock and Rural Community Development was reported 22.05.2020: Buddhism – During the to have met his demise due to a heart second meeting with the Maha Sangha, attack, reports Newswire.lk. It was the monks raised their concerns reported that he had engaged in his last regarding the misbehaviour of a few meeting earlier in the day with the Indian monks which discredited Buddhism to High Commissioner to discuss bilateral Gotabaya, reports Colombo Gazette. It cooperation. It is notable that they had

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation discussed India’s housing project for the first group to leave again for plantation sector and the Jaffna Cultural employment overseas after such Centre. According to Newswire.lk, activities were suspended, owing to the Arumugam Thondaman’s son had been spread of COVID-19. proposed as a candidate for the upcoming elections by the Ceylon 28.05.2020: COVID-19 – PMD has Workers Congress. They had proposed announced that an island-wide curfew that he replace the vacant position in would be imposed on 31.05.2020, reports the Nuwara Eliya district under the SLPP. Colombo Gazette. However, it was reported on 29.05.2020, that the funeral procession for late A. 28.05.2020: War crimes – In response to Thondaman had caused immense an article published by The Hindu, SL’s backlash across social media as SL’s President’s Office mentioned that there election laws and social-distancing laws was no official documentation to prove had been violated at this gathering. allegations of war crimes, reports Colombo Gazette. 27.05.2020: UNP – According to Colombo Gazette, the UNP had 29.05.2020: UNP – According to Colombo indicated that the membership of Gazette, the Working Committee of the individuals who had sought nominations UNP had endorsed the suspension of 99 from other political parties would be members in accordance with the suspended. decisions made on 27.05.2020.

27.05.2020: COVID-19 – A group of 160 29.05.2020: UNP – Whilst addressing the individuals departed from Mattala Working Committee of the UNP at their Rajapaksa International Airport towards HQ, Ranil had mentioned that his party Korea, reports Sunday Times LK. It was did not intend to form a National reported that they would become the Government, reports Colombo Gazette.

Economic News

03.05.2020: Finance - According to by China. According to Newswire.lk, SL’s Sunday Times LK, SL’S Highways Ministry cabinet had approved LKR 15 billion to and the Road Development Authority be borrowed from China’s development (RDA) had received cabinet approval to bank to develop SL’s streets. It was borrow more than LKR 31.7 billion from reported that 105 kms of roads from 10 foreign or domestic sources. The different locations would be involved in borrowing was approved to kick- start the development. the stalled construction of the first section of SL’s Central Expressway. The majority 03.05.2020: Finance - According to Daily of the project is reported to be funded Mirror, Mahinda Rajapaksa rejected

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation allegations made by SL’s opposition Airlines were sent on a 3-month no-pay parties and had mentioned that SL’s leave. The measure was reported to President has the complete authority to have been implemented by the Airlines allocate funds for any purpose. administration to cut costs.

03.05.2020: Central bank – SL’s Central 06.05.2020: USA - According to Bank had mentioned that the deadline Newswire.lk, the US had committed USD for debt moratorium submissions to assist 5.8 million to assist SL in its management eligible businesses and individuals of the COVID-19 pandemic. The US impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic Ambassador to SL, Teplitz had would be extended from the previous mentioned: deadline of 30.04.2020 to 15.05.2020, reports Newswire.lk. “This assistance continues the 03.05.2020: Economy - According to The Economist, SL is amongst the long tradition of U.S. support for economically worst-hit countries. SL was Sri Lanka’s security and ranked 61st out of 66 countries and were sovereignty (…) Over the past allocated ranks according to each country’s; public debt, foreign debt and 20 years, U.S. assistance in Sri borrowing costs, reports Newswire.lk. Lanka has totaled more than $1 billion, including $26 million 04.05.2020: Debt crisis – During an address to a Non-Aligned Movement for health.” (NAM) summit, Gotabaya had mentioned that developing countries would be facing economic and debt 07.05.2020: Salary cut – SL’s Presidential crises due to the COVID-19 outbreak thus Secretariat had published a 4-page emphasising the need for the letter urging SL state employees to implementation of debt relief, reports donate a portion of their salaries to ease Colombo Gazette. the country’s budget deficit. According to the Secretariat, the GoSL requires LKR 04.05.2020: COVID-19 -According to 100 billion to pay state officials their Daily Mirror, Mahinda had informed that salary. It is notable that Gotabaya had no financial aid had been received from responded that one month’s salary is not foreign countries for the COVID-19 manageable for all and therefore campaign. Furthermore, he was reported suggested contributions of one-week or to have mentioned that the World Bank one-days’ worth of salary. had pledged the provision of USD 127 million – a sum which SL had not 07.05.2020: Medical tourism – According received yet. to Newswire.lk, Gotabaya had outlined medical tourism as a possible outlet to 04.05.2020: SL Airlines - According to incentivise foreign investment in the Newswire.lk, 400 employees of Sri Lankan island once the COVID-19 pandemic had subdued. It was reported that the

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation sector was a possible avenue to 5,000 would be paid as relief for emphasise the abilities of SL’s indigenous fishermen and farmers who receive a medical system. pension. The AAIB was reported to have mentioned that a total of LKR 831 million 08.05.2020: Borrowing - According to had been allocated to be provided for Verite research, Newswire.lk reported 162,000 farmers and 4,907 fishermen from that the legal borrowing limit of the GoSL the month of May. It is notable that had exceeded by LKR 120 billion. Verite payments could be collected from research further noted that the GoSL had allocated post offices from 11.05.2020 – borrowed LKR 841 million from January – 15.05.2020 onwards. April whilst only LKR 720 billion was permitted within the timeframe. 11.05.2020: Stock Market – According to 8.05.2020: IMF – The GoSL has engaged Newswire.lk, the Colombo stock market in discussions with the IMF to reconsider had lost LKR 84 billion within seconds. The existing funding programs that they were loss was reported by Daily FT once it had involved in, reports Colombo Gazette. It reopened after being shut down for 1.5 was reported that discussions were being months. held to replace their current extended fund facility arrangement with a rapid 12.05.2020: EU- According to Daily Mirror, financing instrument. the European Commission has de-listed SL from its list of High Risk Third Countries with Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Strategic Deficiencies. The Central bank was reported to have mentioned that the decision was published on 07.05.2020.

14.05.2020: Export - Legal Borrowing Limit Source: Newswire.lk According to Newswire.lk, SL had symbolically handed 08.05.2020: Allowance – According to over the first batch of Brandix’s Colombo Gazette, SL’s Agricultural and production of 200 million facemasks to Agrarian Insurance Board (AAIB) had the US. Basil Rajapaksa had handed it announced that an allowance of LKR over to Teplitz at the Brandix HQ.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation a statement to the media, that SL has 17.05.2020: Salary - According to Daily debt servicing of up to USD 10 billion from Mirror, Kamal Gunaratne had declared now to 2023. Ranil was further reported SL’s tri-forces, police and civil defence to have questioned SL’s current Prime services personnel exempt from donating Minister, Mahinda, as to how this issue a portion of their salary to the GoSL. The would be solved, to which Mahinda donation of a day’s income to the SL responded with the following: government was introduced to combat the financial constraints that emerged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “The team that is now running

18.05.2020: India - According to Daily the country from the President Mirror, Baglay had mentioned that Delhi downwards, won a war that would assist Colombo to deal with the was deemed unwinnable, and economic challenges which had emerged due to the COVID-outbreak. presided over the greatest economic boom since 21.05.2020: Allowance – Following independence despite concerns raised by SL political parties to their National Elections Commission impossible odds between 2006 regarding the SL government’s payment and 2014.” of LKR 5,000 as an allowance for individuals impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak, it is likely that the allowance 28.05.2020: Import – A proposal to import would be cancelled from June, reports 2,500 dairy cattle from Australia had Colombo Gazette. The cancellation is been approved by SL cabinet, reports possible due to claims that this may be Colombo Gazette. an election strategy by the current dominant party – an allegation which 29.05.2020: Funding – Whilst attending a Gunawardena was reported to have virtual “High - Level Event on Financing denied. for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and beyond”, Gotabaya had 23.05.2020: India - According to PMD mentioned that development-centric News, Gotabaya had requested India’s external funding should be established, assistance from Modi for the provision of reports Colombo Gazette. The event was USD 1.1 billion for the special SWAP organised by the Prime Ministers of facility to top up the USD 400 million Canada, Jamaica and the UN Secretary under the SAARC facility to assist SL to General. address its foreign exchange issues. 29.05.2020: COVID-19 - According to 25.05.2020: Economy – According to PMD News, COVID-19 Healthcare and Newswire.lk, SL’s former Prime Minister, Security Fund had reached LKR 1,213 Ranil Wickremesinghe had mentioned in million.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation News about Oppression & Resistance

02.05.2020: Protest - Locals protested there are 96 Tamil political prisoners, from attempts to forcibly cremate the body of whom only 47 could be pardoned by a man who had perished at Mullaitivu SL’s President. It is notable that Sumanthiran was also reported to have Quarantine Centre, reports Colombo discussed various other matters including Gazette. It was reported that the man changes in the constitution. had perished on 01.05.2020 and when his remains were tested it was found that he 13.05.2020: Commemoration – Tamils had not contracted COVID-19. commenced commemorations of the genocidal onslaught which unfolded in 05.05.2020: Land appropriation – A clash Mullivaikkal 11 years ago through events was reportedly ensued between Sinhala at Nanthikadal and at the Chemmani colonists from Dehiwaththa and Tamil mass grave in Jaffna, reports TamilNet. youth, thus resulting in a police case, Despite occupational forces’ reports TamilNet. It was reported that the intimidation, commemorations were colonists were attempting to appropriate conducted by the Tamils. Tamils lands owned by the Abiramy Amman including Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam temple between Meenankamam of were reportedly confronted by Muttur and Dehiwaththa. occupational police near the Chemmani mass grave. 09.05.2020: Harassment – According to TamilNet, occupational SL armed officials 13.04.2020: Commemoration – According who were possibly from the 522 Brigade to TamilNet, Tamil students and youth of Point Pedro had assaulted the family travelled from Jaffna to Amparai to members of former LTTE member, deliver ingredients required to make Aingaran in their home at Mullivaikkal Kanji (a salty porridge which Vaddamarachchi East on 08.05.2020. The was consumed by the Tamils as the only forces had arrived in search of Aingaran source of food within the no-fire zones) to to supposedly seek revenge for when he remember the hardships faced by the had slapped an occupational officer in Tamils and their unwavering resolve. a minor quarrel earlier in the year. Whilst he is in hiding, his family has been 14.05.2020: Remembrance – According harassed and his wife hospitalised due to to TamilNet, Jaffna University students the attack. who had lit candles outside the gates of campus premises in memory of the 13.05.2020: Political Prisoners - According second week of Mullivaikkaal to Newswire.lk, TNA’s Sumanthiran had remembrance, were intimidated and presented Mahindha with a letter within harassed by occupational police officers which the TNA had outlined the Tamils’ for the alleged violation of quarantine main issue. It was further reported that laws. It is notable that the Arts faculty

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation students had released a statement Guardian. The question was later condemning the UN’s deception of removed from the quiz, in response. Tamils. They outlined that the continuing structural Tamil genocide was being 18.05.2020: Militarisation - According to ignored by both the UN and the Daily Mirror, SL’s defence ministry had international community and instructed the occupational security international justice must be delivered forces in the North to take necessary against Tamil genocide. actions to prevent any gatherings or meetings from occurring in; Jaffna, 14.05.2020: Petition – According to Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu to supposedly Colombo Gazette, former Muslim MPs be in accordance with quarantine laws including the leader of the All Ceylon to prevent the spread of COVID-19. It Makkal Congress, Bathiudeen had filed a was reported that they had mentioned FR petition to SL’s Supreme Court. The that the locals were permitted to petition was reported to be in opposition remember their lost relatives within their to the body disposal rules where the homes but not through mass cremation of Muslim victims of COVID-19 commemoration. was in opposition to the Islamic faith. 18.05.2020: Commemoration – The 11th 15.05.2020: Shooting – Occupational SL Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day was armed forces deployed in Point Pedro commemorated across the occupied were reported to have shot at a Tamil Tamil homeland despite disruptions by youth, Anushan Pasupathy, without government officials, reports TamilNet. provocation, reports TamilNet. Sustaining 3 gun-shot wounds, Pasupathy was • TNPF-led events in Vaakarai and attacked whilst he was riding his Naavaladi blocked by occupational motorbike from Kaanthiyoor to Muraavil SLA and police on 14.05.2020 and was later admitted into hospital for treatment by his friends.

16.05.2020: Quiz – The Guardian Newspaper’s quiz created outrage amongst Sri Lankans. This was due to the following question: “Eelam is an indigenous name for which popular holiday island?” After displaying the answer as “Sri Lanka” a further description which was displayed mentioned the following: “the full name of the island’s recent military insurgency was LTTE – Liberation Tigers for Tamil Eelam”. This created further disapproval where the High Commissioner of SL in the UK wrote a letter to the editors of the

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation § Event moved to coastal area near room has been reported to have taken Kiraan measures to address the breach.

18.05.2020: Isolation – Following a report submitted by occupational SL police to an SL court, Gajendrakumar Ponnambalam and 10 others who had participated in commemorative events were ordered to be placed under isolation in their homes, reports Colombo Gazette.

19.05.2020: Media - The Sinhala colonists involved in the Muttur land appropriation incident have engaged with SL’s military intelligence wing to target Tamil youth activists, reports TamilNet. The Sinhala news-website, Gagana.lk which is owned by IBC Tamil Ltd. had posted an article on 18.05.2020, publishing the social media engagement of 3 Tamil youth Flames lit at 11th Tamil Genocide Remembrance held in from Muttur in light of Mullivaikkal Mullivaikkal. Source: TamilNet remembrances as promoting terrorism. As a result, it was reported that the • ITAK remembrance event at ITAK youths’ lives were endangered. office • SL military intelligence received 20.05.2020: SL TID – According to interim order from Batticaloa TamilNet, former ITAK youth-wing magistrate to prevent remembrance secretary and current chairman of the at ITAK office Thamizh Theasia Vaazhvurimaich • Tamil journalists harassed at 7 Changkam, V.S. Sivakaran was checkpoints en route to Mullivaikkal interrogated by 5 members of SL’s TID in were not intercepted at all when Mannar. It was reported that the returning to Jaffna interrogation involved the recording of • Temple bells tolled in unison across video statements of his responses the occupied homeland at 7.00pm regarding his involvement in Maaveerar • Remembrance flames desecrated Naal commemorations from 2019. It is and stamped out by occupational notable that the TID’s investigation had forces. 25.05.2020: Censorship – 2 Tamil 18.05.2020: Cyber Attack – According to journalists who had attempted to expose Colombo Gazette, 5 SL websites had initially the widespread use of the occupied been defaced by the “Tamil Eelam Cyber Tamil homeland as COVID-19 isolation Force”. The SL Air Force Cyber command centres, were blocked by occupying SL

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation navy and police forces, reports TamilNet. temples, reports TamilNet. It was reported It was reported that the journalists had that local sources had indicated that the attempted to video record an SL navy- Tamil-speaking Muslims were instructed led convoy of buses which was not to resist the surveying. transporting over 500 infected individuals including navy personnel and their 30.05.2020: Cyber Attack – According to families from the South to a military-run Newswire.lk, a group identifying facility in Pampaimadu, Vavuniya. The SL themselves as the “Tamil Eelam Cyber navy had blocked the convoy and the Force” had attacked many of the GoSL’s occupational police had convinced the official websites in commemoration of journalists not to publish the footage. the burning of Jaffna library in 1981. The attack was a ‘defacement’, where the 26.05.2020: Buddhist monks – Local lands appearance of the website changes. SL have been reported to be surveyed CERT|CC confirmed that government under occupational navy presence on pages had been defaced. However, 27.05.2020 in accordance with according to SL’s defence ministry, no Gotabaya’s promise to the Maha data breach had occurred. Sangha to allocate lands for Buddhist

Signs of Structural Genocide

02.05.2020: Militarisation - According to the activities that would occur at the army.lk, a ‘Harmony Centre’ for utility centre are of concern. projects was opened in Kankesanthurai on 11.05.2020 by SL’s occupational 22.05.2020: Buddhicisation – According Security Force HQ in Jaffna. It was to PMD News, a Presidential Task Force reported that the centre was opened as will be appointed under SL’s Defence a component of the army’s civil-military Secretary to conduct a comprehensive cooperation to promote reconciliation, survey of archaeological sites in the East cooperation and peace within the and to take measures to preserve them, community. Constructed under the regarding the destruction done to supervision of the 515 Brigade’s historical monuments. The decision was Commander, the Jaffna Harmony centre announced following Gotabaya’s has been reported to facilitate cultural second meeting with the Maha Sangha. development through facilitation and The focus of a component of the training for locals in the future. Many occupied Tamil homeland (the East) occupational security forces had combined with the activities of SL’s attended the inauguration ceremony. archaeological department are an The heavy militarisation combined with indication of the disruption of Tamils’ tendencies of cultural genocide through territorial integrity through imposed Buddhicisation.

MAY ISSUE 2020 Puradsi Media. Phoenix - the Next Generation Sinhalicisation and militarisation since 27.05.2020: Sinhalisation – According to 2009, reports TamilNet. According to TamilNet, Tamil dairy farmers of statements by former NPC Councillor, Batticaloa had indicated that SL’s Ravikiran, the Nanthikadal lagoon was Mahaweli authorities had conducted a being subject to Sinhala colonisation preparatory meeting on 26.05.2020 to from all 4 directions by the GoSL. The allocate lands for the Sinhala following were cited as examples in the colonisation of Periyamathavanai and media’s reportage: Mayilaththamadu. These lands have been the Tamils’ historic pasturelands for • Establishment of Vadduvaakal over 60 years with dairy farming Buddhist Vihara in 2010 – over 100 constituting one of 3 avenues for the acres of surrounding lands seized by Tamils’ livelihood within the district. Whilst occupational SL military. the locals had complained to Tamil • Establishment of SL Navy base – over administrative officials, the officials had 617 acres of coastal lands seized. indicated that they were incapable of • SL Department for Wildlife taking any action due to the pressure Conservation that was placed upon them to comply § Over 4,142 hectares of lands with the project, reports TamilNet. seized since January 2011 28.05.2020: Sinhalisation – Mullivaikkal • Over 10, 230 acres of lands and Nanthikadal have reportedly been appropriated along shores of targeted with the intent of implementing Nanthikadal lagoon