Cabinet approves purchase of Wednesday 15M vaccine doses 26 MAy 2021 By Thameenah Razeek

Cabinet has approved the purchase of 14 million doses of Chinese manufactured Sinopharm COVID- 19 vaccines, as well as 1 million doses of Oxford AstraZeneca vaccines as soon as possible. Stating that there is no other option for controlling E-Paper the COVID-19 pandemic than inoculation, Co-Cabinet Spokesperson Dr. Ramesh Pathirana said vaccines must be brought to the country soon and by the end of the year, the Government hopes to have vaccinated 60 per cent to 70 per cent of the population. Addressing the weekly Cabinet briefing yesterday (25) at Government Information Department, Dr. Pathirana said in June, the Government aims to import a significant number of vaccines and expand the vaccination drive to other districts such as Kurunegala, Matara, and Galle.

President’s Vesak Message Stating that the country will be Fire on MV X-Press Pearl unable to collectively engage in religious activities due to the COVID-19 pandemic this year, like last year, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said Buddhists should be determined to engage in Amisa Pooja and Massive Prathipaththi Pooja with great veneration towards the Three Noble Events of Lord Buddha’s life (Themangula) by staying at “May All Beings Be home. In his Vesak Day message, the President said it is Explosion the social responsibility of the public to act wisely by Happy, Healthy And Free mindfully and calmly focusing on the above stanza, at a time when everyone is facing a national disaster. The President acknowledged the tradition of From Suffering…” performing religious observances during the Vesak season to mould their lives according to the teachings of the Buddha, as well as for the Heard betterment of this world and after. Have a Peaceful As preached by the Samma Sambuddha, who spread only compassion to all, it is our societal duty in the face of this pandemic to dedicate ourselves to the protection and well-being of others, the President Vesak! went on to say. “I wish that all physical and mental distresses of Onboard all the people in the country and across the world will cease with the practice of rites by preserving 10 Containers fall into sea Pehewas in a meritorious mind in this Vesak season,” the President said. Buying to last a week (TF) Entire crew evacuated Fishermen warned to keep The Buddha’s teachings provide a meaningful clear of containers way of life – PM Rajapaksa responds promptly to During a challenging time for the world, Lord Buddha’s teachings can provide a SLN call for assistance meaningful way of living one’s life in accordance with religious By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan emergency request by Navy principles, Prime Minister and deployed multiple assets to douse said, in his A massive explosion occurred on the the fire. “The assistance from India for Vesak Full Moon Poya Day distressed Singapore flagged MV firefighting as well as pollution control message. X-Press Pearl, in the early hours of was sought by the at People buying essential food items in a busy Colombo market The birth of Prince Siddhartha, yesterday (25), causing around 10 12.00 p.m. yesterday (25). This came in yesterday, when travel restrictions were relaxed for 17 hours. the Enlightenment of Siddhartha containers to fall into the sea. the wake of an onboard explosion,” the Crowds were gathered in a number of areas to purchase food items Gautama and the The Indian Government was soon Indian High Commission added. to last until 31 May, when restrictions will be relaxed next Mahaparinibbana (Passing Away) are called in for rescue operations and had The Department of Fisheries is (Pic by Sajeewa Chinthaka) commemorated on Vesak Full Moon Poya day, he agreed to send their teams along with working together with Marine said. On this day, Sri Lankans unite with those vessels Vaibhav, Vajra and Samudra Environment Protection Authority across the world to celebrate the occasion. Prehari of the Indian and (MEPA), Sri Lanka Navy, the Prime Minister Rajapaksa added the teachings of Tug Water Lilly of the Director General, Coastguard and other authorities to The Buddha can be appreciated and understood in a Shipping in addition to Dornier aircraft, contain and clean up the oil spill to Expressway connecting Athurugiriya truly practical sense during a time where the world for aerial reconnaissance. minimise damage to the marine and New Kelani Bridge is facing several problems. The Indian High Commission said environment. The MEPA said there are Through the Buddhist teachings of learning to immediately upon receiving the request, signs of an oil spill. coexist among races and religions, Sri Lanka can the relevant authorities in India were Also, the fishermen were warned not Construction awarded overcome any global problem it may face, the Prime alerted and assets were deployed to go close to the containers, as some of Minister added. expeditiously. While the Dornier aircraft them could be carrying dangerous He urged all Buddhists celebrating Vesak this year reached Colombo at around 4.00 p.m., chemicals and they were urged to to CHEC on BOT basis to conduct their religious activities at home and in the first vessel was scheduled to come inform the authorities in case they spot By Thameenah Razeek accordance with the prevailing health guidelines. in around 8.00 p.m. any containers. “As the Minister of Buddha Sasana-Religious and SLPA’s Harbour Master All crew on board of the X-Press Pearl, Cabinet has granted approval to award the construction of Cultural Affairs, I will join you in your celebrations,” Nirmal Silva told Ceylon Today around feeder vessal, were evacuated as the fire the expressway on pillars that connects the Athurugiriya he added. 10 cargo containers had fallen into the spread further yesterday morning. Interchange and the New Kelani Bridge to the China Harbour Prime Minister Rajapaksa wished all citizens a sea, however no chemical leak had been Minister of Ports and Shipping Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC). safe and healthy Vesak, free from the threat of spotted so far. Rohitha Abeygunawardena said, “SLPA The ownership of the expressway will be given to the Sri COVID-19 and one full of compassion and kindness. He added the fire had increased with and all other agencies are working Lankan Government after 18 years, Co-Cabinet Spokesperson (TF) a 4-5m swell as wind speeds reached together to overcome this challenge. We Udaya Gammanpila said. 40-50 knots and the tugs that were are trying our best to extinguish the fire He said, on 24 May, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the engaged in pumping water and as it broke out again due to the proposal submitted by the Minister of Highways to award the chemicals to douse the massive fire, continuous reaction of the chemical implementation of the elevated expressway project to CHEC, as were unable to reach the vessel to do materials in the containers and adverse recommended by the Cabinet’s Negotiation Committee. anything. weather. Gammanpila said yesterday (25) at the weekly Cabinet media Man pushing SLPA Chairman General Daya “In view of the prevailing situation, all briefing that CHEC will need at least 15 years to function and Ratnayake said heavy winds and the crew of the ship have been evacuated earn profit. cyclonic conditions aggravated the fire. and kept in safe places in accordance When queried about the timing for this procedure, a wheelbarrow full He added that the ship was continuing with the health regulations enforced in Gammanpila stated that 44 bids were received, and the tender to burn and the fire was spotted only in the country. We have made plans to was awarded to CHEC, implying that construction will take at of goods arrested the front portion of the ship. conduct future activities in a manner least three years to complete. The Indian High Commission said that does not harm the country’s seas He also stated that the CHEC has the right to occupy the For failure to wear facemask that India promptly responded to an and marine environment.” expressway for another 15 years in order to recover costs and By Thameenah Razeek earn profit. “Due to that, the ownership of the expressway would be passed to the Sri Lankan Government after 18 Aluthgama Police yesterday (25) arrested a 40-year- years,” he explained. old person, pushing a wheelbarrow on his return from Fielding to another question regarding the arrangement the a supermarket, for neglecting to wear a facemask. Liquor and meat shops Government has made regarding the procedure, he said that Police Spokesperson DIG Ajith Rohana said the the transfer year is the variable factor. “Cabinet paper has suspect has violated quarantine rules and regulations mentioned that cost is not the variable factor but the operating and was arrested yesterday at 6:30 p.m. at Dharga years,” he noted. Town. closed for Vesak The Cabinet meeting on 8 April 2020 approved the build, “This particular person was leaving the On the instructions of Prime Minister liquor stores will be closed on the given operation, and transfer of the highway on pillars that connects supermarket without a facemask and he was pushing Mahinda Rajapaksa, all liquor stores days. This decision was taken by the the Athurugiriya Interchange and the New Kelani Bridge on a a wheelbarrow with goods in it,” he said adding the and meat shops will be closed today Prime Minister in his capacity as the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) basis. suspect was brought to the Police station around 7:00 (26) and tomorrow (27), due to Vesak Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious According to the bids, relevant investors were asked to p.m. Full Moon Poya. and Cultural Affairs. submit detailed technical and financial ideas for the proposed DIG Rohana added the suspect will face charges for In addition, supermarkets will also In line with the travel restrictions, project. violating quarantine laws. not sell alcohol and animal meats and liquor stores had been closed already, The contract is awarded as per the recommendation of the Aluthgama Police are investigating further. all slaughterhouses, meat shops and the Prime Minister said. (TF) Negotiation Committee appointed by the Cabinet. A2 WEDNESDAY 26 MAY 2021 NEWS 16 Unions to DMC Raises strike if COVID jabs not provided Flood Alert as By K.L. Suraweera- Kandy Sixteen trade unions including those attached to the CEB warned the Government that if it fails to provide COVID-19 vaccines to their respective workforces before the end of May, they would collectively resort to strike action from early June. During a Media conference on 25 May in Kandy, the Water Levels Rise president of one of the trade unions, Nalaka Ratnayake stated that though they had made repeated requests to the Ministry of Health to provide vaccines for trade union members since last January and are prompted to launch a strike since those NBRO issues red alerts for several areas request had fallen on deaf ears. He described the CEB workforce as those who come into By Paneetha Ameresekere in the Nuwara Eliya and Kotmale DS and Meanwhile, the Metrology Department contact regularly with the public and noted that it would not surrounding areas in Nuwara-Eliya District yesterday forecast showers or be an issue to provide them with vaccines at this critical hour. The Disaster Management Centre (DMC) and at Balangoda, Nivithigala, Imbulpe, thundershowers occurring at times in yesterday (25) warned that Kuda Ganga in Kiriella, Kalawana, Ayagama, Elapatha and Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and Kalutara District and Attanagalu Oya in Pelmadulla DS and surrounding areas in North-Western Provinces and in Galle and Gampaha District have reached minor flood Ratnapura District to be ready to evacuate Matara Districts, up to 4.00 a.m. level due to the current South-West to a safer location if the need arises due to tomorrow (27). Monsoonal rains. the possibility of earth slips, rock falls and ‘Heavy falls above 100 mm can be Be safe, celebrate It further warned that the water levels in landslides taking place. expected at some places in Kelani Ganga and Nilawala Ganga in NBRO further advised those living in Sabaragamuwa Province and in Kandy Matara District are also rising. Neluwa DS and surrounding areas in the and Nuwara-Eliya Districts while fairly Vesak at home Meanwhile, the National Building Galle District; Bulathsinhala, Dodangoda, heavy falls above 75 mm can be expected Research Organisation (NBRO) yesterday Ingiriya, Mathugama, Agalawatta, in the Western and North-Western (25) issued a red alert for possible Palindanuwara and Walallawita DS and Provinces and in the Galle and Matara – Mawathu Chief Prelate landslides, earth slips, rock falls and the surrounding areas in Kalutara District; Districts,’ it said. like besetting Ambagamuwa Divisional Ganga Ihala Korale, Pasbage Korale, A few showers will occur in the Northern By K.L. Suraweera- Kandy Secretariat (DS) and surrounding areas in Udunuwara, Pathahewaheta, Yatinuwara, and North-Central Provinces and in Nuwara Eliya District and Ratnapura, Udapalatha and Gangawata Korale DS Hambantota District. Wind speed can The Chief Prelate of the Malwathu Chapter of the Sri Kuruwita and Eheliyagoda DS and and surrounding areas in Kandy District; increase up to 50-60 kmph at times over Dalada Maligawa Most Ven. Thibbatuwawe Sri Siddartha surrounding areas in Ratnapura District Galigamuwa, Kegalle, Ruwanwella and the island and especially wind speed can Sumangala Thera says that it would be apt for Buddhists to due to rainfall in those areas having Warakapola DS and surrounding areas in increase up to 70 kmph at times in the mark the Vesak Poya Day in the comfort of their homes, exceeded 150 mm in the past 24 hours. It Kegalle District and at Godakawela, western slopes of the central hills, without venturing out to temples nationwide due to the advised residents to move to a safer Weligepola, Openayake, Kahawatta and Northern, North-Central and North- spread of the third wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the location if rains continued. Kolonna DS and surrounding areas in Western Provinces and in Trincomalee and country. . NBRO also advised residents living in Ratnapura District, to be watchful of Hambantota Districts in the review period, Issuing a message to mark Vesak, the Prelate implored all Yatiyantota, Aranayaka, , landslides, earth slips, rock falls and it added. Temporary localised strong winds Buddhists to observe the thrice blessed day of Lord Buddha Dehiowita and Bulathkohupitiya DS and such like, as the rainfall in those areas and lightning during thundershowers will at home by giving prominence to Prathipaththi Pooja rather surrounding areas in Kegalle District and has exceeded 75mm in the past 24 hours. occur, the Meteorogy Department said. than visiting temples.

Getting COVID-19 jabs for family members COVID-19 vaccination portal CMLSSL calls for taken down – ICTA probe on GMOA By Eunice Ruth launched mistakenly. After yet and the website will be the website will notify the receiving several complaints available to the public, after applicant with an allocated The weblink which went viral regarding the selection option updates take place. This online date, time and a vaccination By Dilanthi preferential treatment. on social media yesterday (25), and the website updates, the platform will help the centre which is close to the Jayamanne Whereas there are several for citizen registration portal of link has been blocked Government to distribute the applicant, along with a categories in the health COVID-19 vaccination, has immediately by the technical vaccine to all transparently specific code which needs to The College of Medical sector alone that have not been blocked immediately by team. He said the updates of with prior appointments and be produced at their Laboratory Science Sri even been given the first the technical team of the the website, including the it is expected to launch the respective vaccination Lanka (CMLSSL) urged the dose of the coronavirus Information and information regarding vaccine website soon for the use of centres. Another advantage President and Health vaccine”. Communication Technology availability, date, time and the public, he said. will be, after receiving both Secretary to investigate Added to them were the Agency of Sri Lanka (ICTA), vaccination centres has not Furthermore, he said the vaccines, citizens will be fraudulent activities in the high risk groups who were said the Strategic been updated as yet. website will allow the issued with a Government- Health Ministry including constantly moving amongst Communication Specialist of He said the Ministry of applicant to enter their certified, internationally allegations that the the public who have yet to ICTA, T.M.G Chandrasekara. Health has not updated the personal details for recognised certificate, bearing Government Medical receive even at least the When inquired about the website with the vaccine registration and after a QR code which confirms its Officers’ Association (GMOA) first dose of the vaccine. He link, he said the website was details and MOH area details providing the relevant details, authenticity, he said. are getting AstraZeneca lamented that the vaccines by devious means. investigation units of the Although vaccinations are Health Ministry had prioritised for frontline turned a blind eye to these health workers, the policy of malpractices. the World Health The country at present is Organisation (WHO) and Sri faced with a severe Lanka does not state that shortage of the family members are eligible AstraZeneca vaccine and to that privilege. However, was carrying out Rushing according to a statement government to government made by Health Minister, negotiations to obtain more to buy Pavithra Wanniarachchi to doses of the vaccine to healthcare service unions enable the Epidemiology on 24 May, it has been Unit to administer the essentials decided to allocate the last second dose of the vaccine doses of AstraZeneca to several other sectors Police check vehicles in vaccines as second doses for engaged in front line work. the Colombo suburb of family member of 12,000 The Epidemiology Unit Kottawa, as people rushed medical workers. had a little over 300,000 to buy essentials, when “We know how versatile doses remaining to travel restrictions were medical practitioners are in administer the second jab relaxed yesterday from 4 reaping all the benefits for while of them it has already a.m. to 11 p.m. themselves,” Medical used 338,493 doses by (Pic by Amitha Laboratory Technologist Monday (24) 8.30 p.m. Thennakoon) Association president Ravi Public Health Inspectors Kumudesh alleged, adding and the Sri Lanka that 99 per cent of decision Government Midwifery in the Health Ministry are Association too are up in taken by this group of arms against this move by doctors to pander to their the Health Ministry to needs. vaccinate the kith and kin “According to the GMOA, of only one section of their family members are health workers over a large New COVID cases being administered the number of persons who Veg crops second dose, which begs the belonged to the vulnerable question as to how the first categories and were moving reported in upcountry does of the coronavirus amongst the public. devastated vaccine was administered to Meanwhile COVISHEILD them?” Kumudesh alleged. jab was administered to a By Sulochana Ramiah Mohan had been reported in the Lockhill Estate. “Since the Ministry of select group which The 50 families were subject to PCR tests by floods Health has never had such a comprised the family Five COVID-19 infected persons have and the results are expected in a few days. policy before it is surprising members of medical died between 17 and 23 May in the Another 10 COVID-19 patients had been By Channa Addarage- Hatton as to how a large number of professionals at the Lady Nawalapitiya MOH (Medical Officer of identified in the Kotagala area. individuals who are said to Ridgeway Hospital for Health) area, with new cases been The travel ban will remain in effect until Due to the heavy torrential rains be related to these doctors Children yesterday (25). reported up to Tuesday (25) further notice, the Ambagamuwa MOH experienced in the upcountry, several had been able to get Hospital sources said that In Ambagamuwa, an MOH officer said said. In this situation, there is heavy Police vegetable cultivations had been flooded. inoculated even against the amongst them several other that four areas under the Division have security provided to many areas in the On Tuesday (25), sources stated that country’s own vaccination persons had also received been isolated since Tuesday morning. upcountry. several farms in areas such as policy. Also it is apparent the jab. “But it is The isolated areas are Ginigathhena, People living in the hill areas came to the Agarapatana and Dayagama have been that these medical unfortunate that while we Morehengama, Millagamulla, Welioya and cities to buy essentials as travel devastated and added that several professionals have even ask patients to maintain one Vidulipura West in Norton Bridge. restrictions in place were temporarily vegetables crops such as leeks, hoodwinked the public by meter distance and adhere The patients have been identified relaxed on Tuesday. potatoes, capsicum and beetroot have adopting devious ways to to heath regulations the following PCR tests conducted in the area Police were posted at the entrances of been affected by the inclement weather. obtain vaccination not only crowd that gathered outside two days ago. cities to screen anyone coming in. The for themselves but even the LRH for the vaccine In Kotagala over 50 families were entry of vehicles into upcountry towns their families; seeking failed to do so,” they said. quarantined (167 persons) and one death have been prohibited. news tuesday 26 may 2021 A3

Fight against COVID-19 Scarcity of Serum Institute Covishield jab Australia Provides US$ 4.2 M By Paneetha Marise Payne said. Ameresekere “Australia’s contribution Govt in Talks With will go directly to those on Australia will provide an the ground delivering much- additional A$ 5.5 million needed assistance to those (US$ 4.2 million) to the UN who need it most. SDG Fund for critical Communities in Australia Other Manufacturers supplies and health systems are concerned for friends By Thameenah Razeek the Serum Institute would be Government is in talks with comparable trials. In Sri support to Sri Lanka’s and family in Sri Lanka,” able to supply the remaining AstraZeneca vaccine Lanka, though, health Health Ministry in the light Payne said. “Australia is The Government is Covishield doses as requested manufacturers in other experts have yet to approve of the COVID-19 pandemic, committed to supporting exploring alternatives to because the Serum Institute countries, and apart from the mix-and-match option,” the Australian Foreign countries in the North East import COVID-19 vaccines is yet to distribute the that the mix-and-match he said. Ministry said on Friday (21 Indian Ocean region as they from other countries, since 600,000 doses of the vaccine option is being explored to Stating that a shortage in May). face a surge in cases. In they have lost hope in getting requested earlier, while just deal with the crisis. vaccines was caused due to Australia has already partnership with our friends, the Oxford-AstraZeneca 300,000 persons have “Certain countries have the coronavirus situation in provided over A$ 6.2 million we will continue to support Covishield vaccine from received the second dose given the first dosage of India and a fire that had (US$ 4.8 million) in COVID- the region to respond to and Serum Institute, India. from Government reserves. AstraZeneca and the second broken out at the institute, 19 related support to Sri recover from COVID-19.” Co-Cabinet Spokesman, In response to the dose of Pfizer vaccination. Sri Dr. Pathirana said Sri Lanka Lanka in 2020-21. “Earlier Australia’s International Dr. Ramesh Pathirana, Covishield vaccine scarcity, Lanka is considering a is currently forced to look at this week, Australia Development Minister Zed yesterday (25), said the Co-Cabinet Spokesman similar option. Russia has alternatives to address the delivered oxygen and related Seselja said, “Australia is Government does not expect Udaya Gammanpila said the already performed shortage. supplies through UNICEF, working closely with trusted including 291 oxygen NGO partners in the region cylinders and 342 oxygen to procure critical medical regulators to Sri Lanka,” its and humanitarian supplies. Foreign Ministry added. Through our partners, “Australia is working in Australia is procuring SLCG Officer Cabinet nod to import partnership with our oxygen, ventilators, PPE and neighbours to minimise the other much-needed medical graduates with honours 120,000 litres impacts of COVID-19 on our supplies identified by our region. We will support Sri friends in Sri Lanka as well Lanka in their response to as bolstering contact tracing at USCG Academy liquid oxygen monthly increasing COVID-19 cases,” efforts of local health Australia’s Foreign Minister authorities.” By Thameenah Razeek Department, Co-Cabinet spokesperson Dr. Ramesh Highlighting that it is Pathirana said that the steps crucial to provide medical also included, the treatment in oxygen establishment of High concentrators for critically ill Dependency Units equipped patients diagnosed with with Wall Oxygen devices to Int’l bids for 100,000 COVID-19’s third wave, the treat critically ill Covid-19 Cabinet has granted patients in 25 identified approval to the Minister of provincial hospitals covering barrels-a-day oil Health’s recommendation to the entire island. take a several steps, “The rest of the stages are including importing 120,000 establishing 15 oxygen refinery to be called litres of liquid oxygen generator machines in 15 monthly to meet the rising specified remote hospitals to BY Thameenah Razeek 38,000 to 45,000 barrels, Standing left to right: A/S Lt C.L.W.S. Fonseka, US President Joe medical oxygen demand and secure the necessary establish a new oil refinery Biden and Air Sampath Wickremeratne maintaining adequate safe medical oxygen supply for International bids for a with a capacity of 100,000 storage in the island to the hospitals, and to provide 100,000 barrels per day oil barrels, and start Sri Lanka Coast Guard Acting Sub C.L.W.S. ensure a stable medical 2,500 mobile medical oxygen refinery on a build operate construction on a Build, Fonseka graduated with honours from the Cadet Memorial Field oxygen supply for critically generators with 100 each, transfer (BOT) basis will be Operate, and Transfer basis in the US Coast Guard (USCG) Academy in New London, US on ill patients. for the 25 districts, thereby called by the Government. In (BOT) are expected to be 19 May. Addressing the weekly addressing the demand for order to facilitate this, the finished by October. US President Joe Biden delivered the keynote address at this media cabinet briefing oxygen supply through Ceylon Petroleum “This will cost around Rs graduation ceremony. yesterday (25) at cylinders in the hospitals,” Corporation Act No. 28 of 600 billion, according to our Fonseka graduated with honours in Naval Architecture and Government Information he said. 1961 will be revised to end a estimates. It is also Sri Marine Engineering from this US institution. In total, 240 ‘local’ State refining monopoly, Lanka’s largest project in its and international cadet officers graduated at this event. Co-Cabinet Spokesperson history,” he said. His graduation and diploma certificates were presented by Udaya Gammanpila said. Since certain sections of Biden and Rear Admiral Bill Kelly, Superintendent of the USCG Addressing the weekly the Ceylon Petroleum Academy. Defence Attaché at the Sri Lankan Embassy in the Doctors and nurses Cabinet media briefing Corporation Act No. 28 of US, Air Commodore Sampath Wickremeratne was invited for the yesterday (25) at the 1961 are insufficient to meet ceremony. Close contacts vaccinated Department of Government current needs, the Cabinet Fonseka joined the Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) as an executive Information, Gammanpila approved to revise the Act, officer cadet of the 56th Intake of the Naval and Maritime By Thameenah Razeek – Ramesh said, currently Sri Lanka’s including the amendments Academy (NMA) on 3 July 2015 and was selected to follow the only oil refinery has a acknowledged in that regard, four-year officer cadet course at the USCG Academy from 6 The Government was capacity of 38,000 barrels and to instruct the Legal June 2017 to 19 May 2021, where he passed out with honours aware that the COVID-19 identified the necessity for per day. Feasibility studies Draftsman to prepare a draft in ‘USCG Academy Class 2021.’ vaccination was given to frontline health to raise capacity from Bill, he noted. (PA) doctors and nurses’ close professionals’ dependents to family members, relatives, be vaccinated as a and close acquaintances, precaution. Co-Cabinet Spokesman, Dr. “The decision was made Ramesh Pathirana said because frontline health By Sulochana Ramiah Rising number of COVID cases in garment sector yesterday (25). workers were at risk of Mohan He said Health Minister contracting the virus through Unions blame Labour Dept for failure Pavithra Wanniarachchi had close contacts,” he said. Free Trade Zones and General Services Employees Union (FTZGSEU) said the to facilitate Health Committees major reason for thousands of necessity of establishing FHCs received reports of large several of the garment factory workers infected with with worker representation. In numbers of apparel sector factories due to the COVID-19 coronavirus is the fact, we negotiated with the workers falling victim to the scare. SL receives 500,000 more irresponsibility of employers Joint Apparel Association COVID-19 virus spread. They The more serious of the and the Labour Department Forum (JAAF) about also said there were no infected are housed in a which has failed to include the establishing them. We have vaccines distributed to temporary ‘hospital’ leased out doses of Sinopharm jab Factory Health Committees released our communications garment factories and there is in Kalugala, Habaraduwa. By Dilanthi Jayamanne five million doses of the Pfizer (FHC) with workers with JAAF to the media as well a lack of PCR tests being done Some Brandix and Esquel vaccine till now. The total representations to work in an effort to promote social for workers. workers are also treated in Sri Lanka received a amounts to 32 million doses through the Medical officers of dialogue on FHCs. After a factory in there. donation of another 500,000 of all jabs to be imported to Health in the COVID-19 We were aware that factories with around 1,500 workers In Katunayake FTZ by 17 doses of the Sinopharm the country by 31 December preventive healthcare where hundreds of workers and their Thulhiriya export May last, the Next factory that coronavirus vaccine from the 2021. programme. collect daily for production are complex with over 8,000 reported over 100 positive People’s Republic of China He said the Epidemiology “The Labour Department prone to COVID-19 infection workers reporting large cases, had provided yesterday (25), an official for Unit had been able to has not taken any effort to spread and therefore health numbers of workers testing vaccination for 260 of their the State Ministry of vaccinate a little over one facilitate the formation of ministry guidelines for positive, the Labour Minister workers on a priority basis Production, Supply and million persons as of now. FHCs, as reported by our prevention must be monitored had reportedly instructed the decided by the management. Regulation of “We have been able to secure district trade union on a daily basis. We therefore Labour Department to There were also reports to the Pharmaceuticals (PSRP) said. more than three million co-ordinators, no employer stressed upon the necessity of investigate into the Thulhiriya effect that factory workers The Chinese Embassy in Sri doses extra, while one million had allowed formation of establishing FHCs with worker spread. A similar investigation would be vaccinated. Global Lanka tweeted “with the persons have already FHCs. Employers knew too representation decided by was ordered after the Brandix Lanka has begun PCR testing current COVID-19 situation received the first dose of the well, with such FHCs they will workers themselves along with factory in Minuwangoda for its workers, but with PCR being experienced in Sri jab. Therefore, we are in a not be able to exploit the other trade union reported mass infection in test reports getting delayed, Lanka, the Government of position to vaccinate at least workers as they wish to, representatives at the Tri- October last year, but Marcus workers complain they are China is making every effort 33.2 million people.” stressed, Joint Secretary of the partite Task Force meetings. says, the outcome of that compelled to work with those to expedite the process of “We would be able to Trade Unions, Anton Marcus. It was finally decided to investigation is yet unknown. who may be positive from tests delivering the consignment to curtail the spread of COVID- He said, “The necessity of establish them with worker Meanwhile, a factory in conducted. the country on time.” 19 by at least the end of June establishing ‘Factory Health representation decided by Bandaragama was reported The Trade Union said, Also, the State this year by administering Committees’ (FHC) with workers themselves at the Tri- closed due to COVID-19 virus according to information Pharmaceuticals Corporation the three million doses of the worker representation in all partite Task Force Committee infection of its workers. received from our (SPC) had signed an Sinopharm vaccine and one factories in the country was meeting on 16 November Infection of workers was also co-ordinators, Marcus said, agreement for the purchase of million doses of the Sputnik first discussed in the Tri- 2020. It was also decided that reported from factories in the situation seems to be another 14 million doses of V jab to as many people as partite Task Force Committee the process of establishing Norwood, Pallekele and serious, especially in the Sinopharm jab, General possible.” chaired by the then Minister of these FHCs should be Mullaitivu. Over a month Pudukudiyirippu divisional Manager, Dinusha “We have already paved the Labour, Dinesh completed by 15 December ago, a garment factory in area in the Mullaitivu district Dassanayake said. way to give the coronavirus Gunawardana. The Tri-partite 2020. At that same meeting, Ridimaliyedda reported to than in Vavuniya and SPC Chairman, Dr. vaccine to the public within Task Force Committee the responsibility of ensuring have virus infections among Kilinochchi. While workers Prasanna Gunasena said at a the course of this year,” he established under his the formation of FHCs was workers and the death of a who test positive are sent for meeting with the Presidential said. chairmanship to resolve given to the labour department worker as well who was an quarantine, but the details of Task Force, that according to Dr. Gunasena said a total labour issues related COVID- with the Commissioner engineer. ‘first line contacts’ of those the Epidemiology Unit, the of two million doses of the 19 was constituted by General of Labour to preside Marcus said, “According to tested positive are not made country required a total of 29 vaccine would be employers, workers’ trade weekly progress of the FHCs at our network of district available. Even ‘contacts’ million doses of the administered within the first unions and the labour the meeting of the sub- co-ordinators, a few weeks ago themselves do not provide coronavirus vaccines to two weeks of the month of ministry. This Task Force took committee. factories in Mirigama, such details. A more serious inoculate those above the age June. Travel restrictions upon itself the responsibility of Yet, the labour department Galigamuwa, Avissawella, issue is the compelling of of 20. He said the SPC had imposed to control level three controlling the pandemic, took no notice to facilitate the Kegalle, Mawanella, Hasalaka pregnant women to continue been able to secure 14 million of COVID-19 in the country especially in the export formation of FHCs, he added. had reported infections among work until she completes doses of the Sinopharm could be eased according to manufacturing sector. He went on to say that in the workers. Villagers have also seven months, without any vaccine, 13 million doses of the progress of vaccinations, “We continued stressing the last few days they have demanded a shutdown of COVID-19 concerns for them. the Sputnik V vaccine, and the SPC Chairman said. A4 wednesday 26 may 2021 world Blinken Begins Middle East Mission to Bolster Gaza Ceasefire

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken U.S. President Joe Biden has said a Palestinians during the Muslim holy began a Middle East visit in Israel on two-state solution was the only answer to month of Ramadan. Tuesday (25), hoping to bolster its resolving the Israel-Palestinian conflict, At least 253 people were killed in Gaza ceasefire with Gaza’s ruling Hamas and pledged a major package with other and more than 1,900 wounded, health militants and help speed humanitarian countries to help rebuild Gaza. Israeli- authorities said, during the heaviest aid to the devastated Palestinian enclave. Palestinian peace negotiations collapsed Israeli-Palestinian fighting in years. In tandem with Blinken’s mission, in 2014. The Israeli military put the death toll in Israeli authorities said they were allowing Blinken’s agenda included talks in Israel at 13, with hundreds treated for fuel, medicine and food earmarked for Jerusalem on Tuesday with Israeli Prime injuries after rocket salvoes caused panic Gaza’s private sector to enter the territory Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a and sent people as far away as Tel Aviv for the first time since 11 days of cross- meeting in the West Bank city of rushing into shelters. border hostilities started on 10 May. Ramallah with Abbas. Blinken is due to Commercial buildings, residential Blinken was also due to visit Ramallah remain in the region through Thursday towers and private houses across the in the occupied West Bank, Cairo and (27). Gaza Strip, where two million people live, Amman, with the United States The right-wing Netanyahu, who usually were damaged or destroyed by the time harbouring ‘every hope and expectation’ avoids using the term ‘Palestinian State’, the ceasefire was announced. the ceasefire would continue to hold, a had been largely in lockstep with Israel says air strikes hit legitimate senior State Department official said. Democrat Biden’s Republican military targets and that it did its utmost “Our primary focus is on maintaining predecessor Donald Trump, who cut off to avoid civilian casualties, including the ceasefire, getting the assistance to the U.S. aid to the Palestinians and promoted giving prior warnings when it was about people who need it,” said the official, who a peace plan that envisaged Israel holding to strike residential buildings that it said spoke on Monday (24) on the condition of onto most of its settlements in the West also had a military use. anonymity. Egypt brokered the truce, in Bank. Palestinian officials put reconstruction coordination with the United States. Hamas, which is regarded by the West costs at tens of millions of dollars in Gaza. But the official suggested it was too as a terrorist group and opposes any Israel has blockaded the territory since early for wider peace talks between Israel, Palestinian peace efforts with Israel, 2007, in what Palestinians condemn as in political flux after four inconclusive began cross-border rocket attacks on 10 collective punishment. Egypt also elections in two years, and the May, drawing Israeli air strikes. maintains restrictions on its border with Palestinians, divided by enmity between The hostilities were set off in part by Gaza. Both countries cite security Hamas and Western-backed President Israeli Police raids on the Al-Aqsa mosque concerns for the measures. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is greeted by Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Mahmoud Abbas. compound in Jerusalem and clashes with (Reuters) Ashkenazi, upon arrival at Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport, in Tel Aviv, Israel (Reuters)

New Delhi, India King Kong on a rampage! COVID-19 infections ebb As States struggle for jabs

India's official tally of daily infections of coronavirus fell to the lowest in nearly six weeks in the past 24 hours, offering hope that a devastating second wave is ebbing, but government leaders said shortages of vaccines were a big concern. Barely three per cent of the country's 1.3 billion people have been vaccinated, the lowest rate among the 10 countries with the most COVID-19 cases, leaving India and its ill-equipped healthcare system vulnerable to a potential third wave, experts say. The Serum Institute of India, which is supplying the AstraZeneca vaccine, and local firm Bharat Biotech which is providing Covaxin, have both said they are ramping up production but the supply remains way short of the millions of doses India needs. On Tuesday (25), the country posted 196,427 new coronavirus cases over the last 24 hours, its lowest daily rise in infections since 14 April, and less than half the 414,188 peak reported on 7 May. The country's overall officially recorded case load since the start of the pandemic now stands at 26.95 million. There are serious concerns that many new infections are not being reported, due to a dearth of testing in the countryside, where the virus has spread from the cities. Deaths due to COVID-19 amounted to 3,511 in the A gibbon walks amid models of vehicles at a zoo in the park of miniatures in Bakhchisaray, Crimea last 24 hours, bringing the total since the pandemic first stuck over a year ago to 307,231, according to Health Ministry data. Experts believe that grossly underestimates the actual toll as only people who have tested positive Bamako, Mali Brussels, Belgium are counted, whereas many victims were never tested. The Economist magazine’s excess-deaths model West African leaders EU to finalise huge estimates that around a million people have died of COVID-19 in India so far, way above the 590,240 in the United States, which is the worst hit country slated to arrive after farm policy overhaul based on official counts. In desperation, several Indian state governments Climate groups cry foul and even cities such as Mumbai have launched ‘attempted coup’ global tenders or sought expressions of interest from European Union’s firms such as Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson and West African officials were on Tuesday (25), heading for Mali, (EU) negotiators begin Johnson for urgent supplies. plunged into crisis after the military detained the President, Prime two days of talks on But Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia Minister And Defence Minister in what international bodies called Tuesday (25), on a said the three firms told them they were in touch an "attempted coup". plan designed to with the Federal Indian Government and that they President Bah Ndaw, Prime Minister Moctar Ouane and Defence make the bloc's huge will not be dealing with State level authorities. Minister Souleymane Doucoure were taken to a military base in farming subsidies Sisodia blamed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Kati outside the capital Bamako on Monday (24), hours after two greener and fairer, Government for mishandling vaccine procurement members of the military lost their positions in a government although and not moving fast enough to secure supplies for reshuffle. campaigners question the country. The detentions come after the military in August ousted its environmental "It is a global blunder," said Sisodia, whose President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. Ndaw and Ouane were tasked impact. AamAadmi Party is bitterly opposed to Modi's with overseeing an 18-month transition back to civilian rule. The Common An aerial view shows a yellow rapeseed, wheat and sugar beet fields in Carnieres, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Bamako was calm on Tuesday morning, with streets almost Agricultural Policy France (Reuters) The northern State of Punjab also said over the empty and people staying at home. Ndaw and Ouane were still (CAP) will spend 387 weekend its efforts to directly source supplies had detained in Kati, according to Nohoum Togo, a spokesman for the billion Euros (USD been rebuffed by the foreign vaccine manufacturers. M5-Rfp opposition coalition, and a source in Kati. Reuters could 473 billion), around a third of the EU's 2021-2027 budget, on The hill State of Uttarakhand extended its global not independently verify their whereabouts. payments to farmers and support for rural development, with tender till the end of the month after failing to get (Reuters) new rules kicking in from 2023. any bid, local Media reported on Tuesday. The revamp aims to align agriculture with the EU's target of "The vaccination drive is in shambles and people zero net emissions by 2050, by tackling the 10 per cent of EU are suffering and despairing," Anand Sharma, a greenhouse gases emitted by farming. leader of the main opposition Congress said, urging "We aim to close the deal this week," an EU official said of Modi to put aside politics and work with State talks between negotiators from the European Parliament and Governments to help them procure vaccines. the EU Member States. Pfizer said it was in talks with the Indian The proposed changes have come under fire from Government to supply its vaccine, which has still to environmental campaigners, who say they lack firm targets and be cleared by India's drug regulator. would allow the bulk of subsidies to be spent on polluting forms "Pfizer remains committed to continuing our of industrial farming. engagement with the Government of India towards The latest proposal would set aside 23 per cent of payments to making the Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine farmers from 2023 for schemes that safeguard the environment, available for use in the country," a spokeswoman and 25 per cent from 2025 onwards. That could include organic told Reuters, declining to provide details of the farming or the use of feed additives to reduce methane ongoing discussions. emissions from cows. (Reuters) Negotiators are also tussling over how to ensure the CAP The new Interim President of Mali Bah Ndaw is sworn in during the supports small farmers. Inauguration ceremony in Bamako, Mali (Reuters) (Reuters) wednesday 26 may 2021 b5 Inflation to Rise with Food Prices Rising Further Sri Lanka’s inflation will rise 225.87), coconut oil (Rs 162.77) in the medium-to-long term due and Mysore dhal (Rs 122.12). to the expansionary monetary Non-Food price hike was and fiscal policy employed driven primarily on the back of coupled with rising food prices an increase in groups such as due to potential future supply- Bus Fare, Clothing and side shocks arising from the Footwear, Furnishing, third wave of Covid, SC Household Equipment among Securities (Pvt.) Limited stated others. in its latest research note. The acceleration in non-food Headline inflation, based on inflation, YoY last month was led the National Consumer Price by the increased cost of bus fare, Index (NCPI) came in at 5.5% in which went up by Rs 138.02 YoY April 2021 when compared to its highest elevation thus far for month, YoY, from 5.1 per cent in to last month for an average Sri Email: [email protected] 5.1 per cent in March 2021. the year, Census and Statistics March. Lankan household. Rise is attributed to an Department (CSD) said on Consequently the monthly Index value of Food items and increase in both Food and Non- Friday. food expenditure basket of an Non-Food items rose by 0.02 per Food segments with Food Items Furthermore, food inflation average household increased by cent and 0.06 per cent Tuesday Markets seeing increases in April across contributed 4.35 percentage Rs 1,884.25 YoY last month respectively, SC Securities said. many counters. points or 78.5 per cent to the driven by the increase in the This inflation still remains just Countrywide food inflation overall increase in inflation, i.e. expenditure cost of vegetable within the Central Bank’s target Treasuries Gain at accelerated by 9.7 per cent year- both food and non-food inflation, consumption by Rs 355.28 YoY, threshold of 4 per cent – 6 per on-year (YoY) last month from which, on an overall basis rice by Rs 328.12, coconuts (Rs cent, it said. Pvt. Sector Expense 8.8 per cent in March to reach accelerated to 5.5 per cent last 237.66 ), turmeric powder (Rs (PA) By Paneetha Ameresekere

Government of Sri Lanka’s (GoSL’s) money printing borrowing costs (MPBCs) sharply By Paneetha decreased for the second consecutive market day Ameresekere CBSL sells to yesterday, this time by 0.68 per cent (Rs 137.26 million) to Rs 19,906.41 million due to panicky An all too familiar investor preference for the low returns, riskless refrain was seen at Treasury (T) Bonds and T Bills in secondary Monday’s weekly 390% of market trading, rather than lend to the private Primary Treasury (T) sector, the engine of growth, due to sustained Bill primary auction as uncertainty, market sources told this reporter. The well, where for the total benchmark administered ‘spot’s understood, but issuance of Rs 39,000 91-Day unwritten two way quotes were unchanged at Rs million Treasuries, saw 199.75/200.25 to the US dollar at 4 p.m. for the only 4.84 per cent (Rs seventh consecutive market day to yesterday in 920 million) of the Maturities the interbank foreign exchange (FX) market, with, original ‘long term’ 364 ipso facto, no trades done, led by exchange and day (one year) T Bills original parcel of on the whole, Monday’s import controls, moving to an era of shortages and sold to the market from Rs8,000 million on low returns riskless queues, reminiscent to that which dominated the a total of Rs 19,000 offer for sale, was weekly T Bill auction Global Govt. economy from 1970-77, they said. Yesterday was million of this tenure finally sold to the saw CBSL being able to also the 19th consecutive market day than no up for sale due to the market at a maximum sell 96.38 per cent trades were executed in the interbank FX market market consistently administered yield (Rs37, 587 million) of Debt to as a whole due to importers believing that there is asking for higher yields (MAY) of 5.13 per cent, the original parcel of a room for the administered ‘spot’ to ‘further’ led by a combination of up, one basis point (bp) total of Rs39,000 strengthen in value, sources said. sustained uncertainty week on week (WoW) to million worth of reach $88T Nonetheless, the unsaid market exchange rate and inflation, while, on Monday, leading to the Treasuries offered to (MER) has theoretically depreciated by between Rs the other hand Central continuance of a the market. Global Government debt current policy priority, as 12.25-11.75 (6.53-6.23 per cent) in two way Bank of Sri Lanka distortion in the market Meanwhile, the MAY reduction will likely Governments continue to quotes in the calendar year to yesterday and year (CBSL)/Government of where GoSL borrows fixed/fetched by the require eventual fiscal focus on supporting on year by between Rs 14.15-14.45 (7.62-7.78 per Sri Lanka (GoSL) wants ‘short’ to repay 364day tenure on adjustments and economic recovery. In cent) , thereby causing cost-push inflationary to maintain an maturing ‘long term’ Monday was 5.18 per improved primary addition, fiscal multipliers pressure in the event trades were executed as Sri artificially low interest debt. cent, unchanged balances, James are higher when interest Lanka is an import dependent economy. rate regime to spur In respect of the 182 WoW. The MAY McCormack, Global Head rates are at the zero lower Friday saw a liquidity appreciation of Rs 5, 094 growth. day maturity, that saw fetched/fixed for the of Sovereigns, Fitch bound, and central banks million (US$25.48 million) led by the However, the 91 day 47.02 per cent (Rs5, 182 day tenure at Ratings said in a recent are intent on retaining settlement/s of Central Bank of Sri Lanka’s maturity once more 642 million) of the Monday’s auction was report. accommodative policy (CBSL’s) swaps with the market and/or GoSL’s uplift total sales, where original parcel of 5.14 per cent, also Global Government debt stances. Interest rates dollar sales to and/or swaps with CBSL during 390.06 per cent (Rs Rs12,000 million unchanged, WoW. reached US$ 78 trillion at that are lower than GDP trading. Transactions between GoSL and CBSL are 31,205 million), ultimately sold to the CBSL is the steward of end-2020, up by $10 growth rates can deliver foreign reserves neutral. Conversions are based on compared to the market. Consequently, GoSL debt. trillion from 2019 and reductions in debt ratios CBSL’s administered ‘spot’ rate on Friday which equivalent to 94 per cent over time. was Rs 199.90 to the dollar. of world GDP (debt and There is much debate Consequently net excess liquidity increased by GDP converted at average about whether interest 1.07 per cent (Rs 1,294 million) to Rs 121,861 annual exchange rates). rates will remain low million yesterday. Fitch forecasts a similar relative to GDP growth CBSL’s face value money printing (FVMP) assets increase in 2021 to $88 rates, and the decreased by 0.44 per cent (Rs 3,800 million) to Rs Petroleum trillion, followed by a implications for the future 861,733.17 million yesterday, thereby partially smaller rise in 2022 to path of Government debt mitigating demand-pull inflationary pressure. $95 trillion. ratios. GoSL’s FVMP debt has been over Rs 0.5trillion for Global Government History confirms that a record 135 consecutive market days to Friday testing lab for debt/GDP ratios also low interest rates relative due to lack of revenue. increased markedly in to GDP growth are neither On 31 December 2020 due to less rigid controls, 2020, as did median a necessary nor sufficient the MER then, which was one week’s forwards, ratios by rating categories condition for reductions was trading at Rs 187.50/188.50 to the dollar in Hambantota Port and by region. By year- in Government debt two way quotes as at 4 p.m., while a year ago, the end, the global, DM and ratios. MER which was the ‘spot’ due to ‘no controls’ was Hambantota inspections. Intertek Wickramasinghe, COO, EM median debt/GDP In a simplified trading at Rs 186.60/80 to the dollar in two way International Port (HIP) helps to ensure that HIPG. ratios were all at about 61 framework, Government quotes. ‘Spot’ trades are settled after two market will partner Intertek products meet quality, Intertek has earned a per cent, though there debt ratios can decline days from the date of trading. Lanka (Pvt) Ltd to health, environmental reputation for helping were significant with stronger real GDP establish a state-of- safety and social their customers differences for regional growth, higher inflation, the-art petroleum accountability increase the value of and rating category fiscal consolidation, and testing laboratory standards for virtually their products, gain medians. through debt Shares continue which will be unique to any market around the competitive advantage, “Fitch Ratings forecasts restructuring. Sri Lanka, a press world, with our and develop trusted global Government debt Empirically, the first three release said. extensive global brands, minimising will reach $95 trillion by means of debt reduction to recover Through this facility, accreditations, adverse health and 2022, a 40 per cent all interact with each By Mario Andree Intertek will provide recognitions and environmental impacts increase in nominal terms other in iterative innovative and bespoke agreements. We look of the products and compared with 2019. A processes, complicating The continued to assurance, testing, forward to working with processes for the multi-year trend of policy frameworks aimed recover from its last week’s fall, as the benchmark inspection and the Hambantota Port benefit of society as a emerging-market (EM) at reducing debt ratios. index posted gains for the second consecutive certification services. which is ideally located whole. Government debt growing Inflating away debt may session on Tuesday (25) on a lower turnover with Johnson Liu, CEO of to serve the east-west This partnership will more quickly than that of require financial continued foreign exits from the Bourse. HIPG says, “HIPG has shipping routes,” says enable HIP’s clients to developed-market (DM) repression to preserve low The benchmark All Share Price Index (ASPI), great potential in Priyantha De Silva, get their products such Governments ended with real interest rates so the which started the day at 7,233.58 points peaked energy services due to Country Managing as fuel oil and marine the COVID-19 pandemic, numerator of the debt/ to 7,286.23 points during the latter part of the its location in the Director, Intertek diesel tested efficiently as the DM fiscal response GDP ratio increases more day but settled at 7,278.24 points gaining 44.60 Indian Ocean rim, Lanka. as the petroleum has been much larger, slowly than the points (0.62 points) compared to the previous where 50 per cent of The leading global laboratory will be especially on the spending denominator, but day’s close. The more liquid S&P SL20, which the world’s maritime oil independent inspection within the port side,” Fitch stated in its repression affects started the day at 2,900.34 points gained 25.26 is traded. Our oil fuel service provider will premises. The new lab Prospects for Government medium-term real GDP points (0.87 per cent) to close at 2,925.87 points. bunker, LPG and bring all of its global will also open up Debt reduction report. growth. Policymakers may The day’s turnover neared Rs 1.08 billion, lower future LNG operations capabilities to ensure employment “Favourable interest be tempted to run than the Rs 1.35 billion recorded during the are sure to cement the laboratory is opportunities for the rates and GDP growth inflation ever-higher to try Market’s previous day’s trading. HIP’s position as an classified as a truly local community and rates are probably not keeping real rates low, at Shares of 243 listed companies were traded energy hub in the international state-of- provide exposure to sufficient,” it stated. the risk of accelerating during the day of which 108 were winners region.” the-art facility which is laboratory operations Median debt ratios for inflation and financial comfortably ahead of 50 losers. In a virtual ceremony capable of testing IMO of international EM and DM Governments instability. More than 51.29 million shares changed hands held this week, HIPG 2020 global Sulphur standards. are similar, at about 61 Fitch does not believe during the 13,952 trades that took place. and Intertek signed an protocol. Attending the virtual per cent of GDP in 2021 proposals to write off Foreigners exited the CSE on Tuesday (25) for agreement for a 10-year “This will be a great signing ceremony were and forecast to be around Government debt held by the fifth consecutive session. The net foreign partnership, which value addition to HIP’s Liu, Wickramasinghe 65 per cent by 2022. central banks are being outflow during the day amounted to Rs 55 million provides Intertek the offering and as we add along with Intertek However, median interest considered seriously. This as foreigners sold shares worth Rs 173 million as opportunity to more services for the Regional Director Trade payments are provides no debt service against purchases worth Rs 118 million. establish its services in shipping network on James Ignatovich, considerably higher in relief if Central Banks The top ten winners during the day were: SMB the port. the main east-west Regional Director Sales EMs, equivalent to 2.5 per regularly surrender Leasing, Bimputh Finance, Colombo Fort ‘Petroleum testing is shipping lanes, and Technical Support cent of GDP this year profits to the Treasury, Investment. an important activity in Hambantota Stephen Harrington, while they are only 1.2 per and would carry risks of Top ten losers were: Bogala Graphite, Aisa port related services Port will take its Regional Managing cent in DMs. This gap has financial market Asset, Amana Life, Millennium Housing such as testing marine rightful place as a Director Sandeep Das, been growing and will disruption with questions Development, Citrus Leisure. products, bunkering global maritime De Silva and Regional remain wide. around markets’ lowest- and bunker related location,” says Tissa CFO Ajay Kapoor. Debt reduction is not a risk instruments. A6 wednesday 26 may 2021 sports Bangladesh in Record Maiden Series win Over SL

On their way to the top of ODI -takers' chart. His Bangladesh needed early finishing with three , the ICC's World Cup Super 122 wickets in Mirpur are the wickets while defending 246 before Rahman added League points table, joint-most wickets at a single runs, and it came from two more to his kitty Bangladesh struck off Sri venue, alongside Wasim debutant Shoriful Islam who - Ashen Lanka from their list of teams Akram's 122 wickets in removed in the Bandara against whom they haven't Sharjah. sixth over, with Iqbal timing won an ODI series. Only But Bangladesh's win was his jump perfectly at Australia and England remain set up by Rahim. He was the mid-on to get rid in this list. Mushfiqur Rahim's glue that kept Bangladesh's of his opposite and masterly 125 got them to 246 batting together after they lost number. The Lakshan runs on a two-paced pitch, Tamim Iqbal and Shakib in other Sri Sandakan - both before the bowlers packed up the second over. The match Lankan opener, caught trying to hit down the visitors to 141 for 9 in a got off to a frenetic start when Danushka Gunathilaka, the ground. truncated 40-overs second Isuru Udana conceded 14 holed out to deep point off Sri Lanka only had their innings to win by 103 runs runs off the first two legal Rahman, having made the bowling to be cheerful about. courtesy the DLS method. deliveries of the match. But innings' top score of 24. Chameera and Sandakan Miraz and after he went for 15 in the first Bangladesh's spinners took took three wickets each. But took over, over from this point. Shakib the visitors couldn't take three wickets each, while removed both Iqbal and had Pathum Nissanka caught advantage of Chameera's first 's two wickets Shakib in the following over to at midwicket by Iqbal. Mehidy over double-wicket maiden, got him level on wickets with set the game up for the had lbw, nor Sandakan's luck after he Mashrafe Mortaza's 269, at visitors. playing back to a fullish had one wicket with a half- the summit of Bangladesh's Rahim found little support . tracked and two others down from Liton Das, whose suffered the same fate against the leg-side. Udana took two opening position was Shakib shortly afterwards as wickets while Wanindu questioned by BCB President Sri Lanka were tottering on 89 Hasaranga's only wicket - the Nazmul Hassan during the for 5. googly that spun between previous game. Mosaddek Mehidy added Dasun Miraz's defenses - was the Hossain, who was making an Shanaka and Wanindu best ball of the match. ODI comeback after two years, Hasaranga to his tally, (ESPN) was also under considerable pressure, but couldn't impress. Mahmudullah added 87 Bangladesh Sri Lanka runs for the fifth wicket with Rahim after they slipped to 74 TIqbal lbw D Chameera 13 D Gunathilaka c S Hasan b M Rahman 24 for four in the 16th over. The Liton Das c W Hasaranga b L.Sandakan 25 K Perera c T Iqbal b Shoriful Islam 14 recovery was akin to their Shakib Al Hasan lbw D Chameera 00 P Nissanka c T Iqbal b S Al Hasan 20 109-run fifth wicket stand, M Rahim c Ashen Bandara b D Chameera 125 K Mendis lbw M Hasan 15 from a similar position, in the M Hossain c Kusal Perera b LSandakan 10 Dhananjaya de Silva lbw S Al Hasan 10 first game. Mahmudullah c K Perera b L Sandakan 41 A Bandara c Mahmudullah b M Rahman 15 The pair focused on milking A Hossain c P Nissanka b Isuru Udana 10 DShanaka c Mahmudullah b M Hasan 11 runs in singles and twos, Mehidy Hasan b Wanindu Hasaranga 00 Wanindu Hasaranga b M Hasan 06 Rahim hitting just one four M Saifuddin Run Out (Kusal Mendis) 11 Isuru Udana 18 between the 19th and 38th S Islam c KPerera b Isuru Udana 00 L Sandakan c Tamim Iqbal b M Rahman 04 over. Mahmudullah, after Mustafizur Rahman Not Out 00 D Chameera Not Out 04 striking two sixes and a four Extras (1b 4lb 3nb 0pen 3w) 11 Extras (0b 0lb 0nb 0pen 0w) 00 in his 41 off 58 balls, fell to a Total (48.1 overs) All Out 246 Total (40.0 overs) for 9 wickets 141 smart catch down the leg-side Fall of Wickets: 1-15 Iqbal, 2-15 Al Hasan, 3-49 Fall of Wickets: 1-24 Perera, 2-53 Gunathilaka, by Kusal Perera. Meanwhile, Das, 4-74 Saikat, 5-161 Mahmudullah, 6-178 3-71 Nissanka, 4-77 Mendis, 5-89 de Silva, Rahim struck eight of his 10 Dhrubo, 7-184 Miraz, 8-232 Saifuddin, 9-246 Islam, 6-104 Shanaka, 7-114 De Silva, 8-116 Bandara, fours in the last 10 overs, 10-246 Rahim 9-122 Sandakan scoring 47 out of the 58 runs Bowling: Isuru Udana 9-0-49-2, Dushmantha Bowling: Mehidy Hasan 10-0-28-3, Shoriful as there was little support Chameera 9.1-2-44-3, Wanindu Hasaranga 10-1- Islam 6-0-30-1, Taskin Ahmed 8-0-27-0, after Mahmudullah's 33-1, Dasun Shanaka 7-0-38-0, Lakshan Sandakan Mustafizur Rahman 6-1-16-3, Shakib Al Hasan dismissal. 10-0-54-3, Dhananjaya de Silva 3-0-23-0 9-0-38-2, Mosaddek Hossain 1-0-2-0 Dushmantha Chameera Mushfiqur Rahim

Asia Continental Hybrid Chess Event – Day 4 Susal, Theekshana and Minul win 15-year-old FIDE Master Susal de Silva of Nalanda College sprang a surprise when he beat the higher rated Mongolian FIDE Master Ganzorig Amartuvshin (2350) in a well defended game at the Online Asian Continental Picture shows D.G. Ministry of Sports and President SLTA (right) exchanging the Hybrid Chess Tournament agreement, while Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa looks on yesterday (25). With this win, Susal now has 3 High-Performance Training Programme points, just one point behind the leaders. Minul Sanjula Minul Sanjula Susal de Silva Theekshana Denuwan SLTA and Min. of Sports Doluweera of University of Colombo and Theekshana of Philippines. 4 points out of a possible 2350) Denuwan also had a good At the end of round-5, 5 games. Minul Sanjula sign agreement day, when they beat lower eight players - 7 The sixth round of the Doluweera (2129) beat rated opponents Battulga Grandmasters (Xu Yinglun tournament will be held Battulga Tenuunbold Sri Lanka Tennis Association (SLTA) General Secretary - Sri Lanka Tennis Tenuunbold (1753) of and Lu Shanglei - China), today (26), and CFSL are (Mongolia - 1753) and the Ministry of Sports signed an Association, Pradeep Goonasekera, and Mongolia and Gladimir Yakubboev Nodribek and rooting for the Sri Lankan H.G. Denuwan agreement yesterday for a High- a few acclaimed Sri Lankan tennis Chester Romero (1519) of Vokihidov Shamsiddin - players to win their games Theekshana (2045) beat Performance Training Programme for players and members of the Sports Philippines convincingly. Uzbekistan, Temur and make the country Gladimir Chester Romero the National Squad. The agreement was Council were present at the event. The The biggest Kuybokarov - Australia, proud. (Philippines - 1519) signed at the SLTA premises adhering occasion marks the first time SLTA is disappointment was Parham Maghsoodloo and Results of Round-5 Ellan Asuela to all COVID-19 safety and health signing a long-term agreement with the National Chess Champion, Amin Tabatabei - Iran and Games (Sri Lankans): (Philippines - 2248) beat guidelines. The programme will be Ministry of Sports for player Ranindu Dilshan Liyanage International Master Irvan Susal de Silva (2085) Ranindu Dilshan Liyanage partially funded by the Ministry of development. The National Squad of Ananda College, who Mohammed – Indonesia, beat Ganzorig (2203) Sports. Programme will commence once the lost to Ellan Asuela (2248) are leading the event with Amartuvshin (Mongolia- (IR) Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports pandemic is brought under control. Namal Rajapaksa, Director General - In a media release SLTA states: “SLTA Ministry of Sports, Amal Edirisooriya, would like to thank the Ministry of President - National Olympic Sports for joining hands with us for this Committee of Sri Lanka, Suresh initiative, and we hope for a successful Subramanium, President - Sri Lanka partnership in the journey to take Sri Hamilton keeps calm after losing Tennis Association, Iqbal Bin Issack, Lanka Tennis to a higher level.” championship lead

Man City’s Guardiola wins LMA Lewis Hamilton and pain,” said the Briton, dwelling on it. off. The weekend is done. I Mercedes lost their Formula winner of a record 98 races. “I’m sure for Max it was a probably won’t re-watch Manager of the Year Award One championship leads at “Of course, it’s not a great pretty chilled afternoon. For this race. the Monaco Grand Prix on weekend, but I’m not me personally, I’ve switched “I’ll probably watch the Manchester City Manager Pep Guardiola was named Sunday, but the sport’s highlights for a better League Managers Association (LMA) Manager of the Year most successful driver said understanding of where I on Monday for leading his side to their third Premier he was calm and ready to lost potentially three places. League title in four years. City finished 12 points ahead come back stronger. Otherwise I’ll focus on of second-placed Manchester United and also won a The seven times world something else.” fourth consecutive League Cup, beating Tottenham champion, who finished Hamilton lost out with a Hotspur 1-0 at Wembley in April. Guardiola’s team take seventh as Red Bull and pitstop strategy that on Chelsea in the Champions League final on Saturday. Max Verstappen triumphed backfired and said The Spaniard has been awarded the honour for the to take over at the top of the Mercedes, who also had second time, having previously been recognised during standings, told reporters it Valtteri Bottas retire in the City’s record-breaking 2017-18 campaign when they won had been a boring race and pits when a wheel could not the league title and became the first top-flight club to he was glad it was over. be removed, had not done a Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton in action during the race Pep Guardiola record 100 points. (Reuters) “I don’t really feel like any good enough job. (Reuters)

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