The Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) stands as a bulwark of security along the nation's coastal waters and beyond. Mandated by the Department of Coast Guard Act, No. 41 of 2009, its mission encompasses safeguarding territorial integrity, managing immigration flows, ensuring maritime traffic safety, and preserving marine ecosystems.
In pursuit of excellence, the SLCG collaborates closely with international bodies and security forces, upholding the professionalism and legality of its operations. A testament to this commitment is the recent accord with the United States, securing a generous grant of US$355,575. This funding, facilitated by the US Department of State Export Control and Border Protection, will fuel a transformative Ship Prototype Project aimed at elevating the skills of Sri Lankan Coast Guard officers.
Endorsed by the Cabinet of Ministers, under the auspices of the President acting as Defence Minister, the initiative will find its home at the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Advanced Training Centre in Kirinda. This state-of-the-art facility promises to be a crucible of innovation, shaping the future defenders of Sri Lanka's maritime borders.
Revitalizing Trade: Sri Lanka-Singapore Free Trade Agreement
Amidst strategic economic maneuvers, Sri Lanka sets sail towards renewed prosperity with the revitalization of its Tariff Relaxation Programme under the Sri Lanka–Singapore Free Trade Agreement. Conceived to bolster bilateral trade ties, this initiative underwent meticulous scrutiny and refinement.
Following deliberations on May 29, 2023, the Cabinet of Ministers greenlit the reinstatement of the programme, delineating it into three distinct categories: 'Category 0', 'Category 10', and 'Category X'. An epochal moment arrived with the publication of an Order, as mandated by the Sri Lanka Export Development Act No. 40 of 1979, heralding the removal of cess levies.
Under the directive of the President, also the Investment Promotions Minister, this historic order was tabled in Parliament. It signifies a pivotal step towards fostering a conducive trade environment, unleashing the full potential of Sri Lanka's economic prowess.
Sowing Seeds of Prosperity: Youth Agripreneurship Villages
In a bid to nurture the next generation of agricultural leaders, Sri Lanka charts a bold course with the establishment of Youth Agripreneurship Villages. These hubs of innovation and cultivation will serve as incubators for budding entrepreneurs, equipping them with the skills and resources to thrive in the agricultural sector.
Underpinning this visionary initiative is a commitment to harnessing the latent potential of Sri Lanka's youth, propelling the nation towards agricultural self-sufficiency and economic resilience. Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, these agripreneurship villages will emerge as beacons of progress, heralding a new era of prosperity for Sri Lanka.
In a strategic move to invigorate agricultural communities and infuse innovation into rural landscapes, plans are underway to inaugurate Youth Agripreneurship Villages. These envisioned villages aim to cultivate a vibrant youth agripreneurship ecosystem, enticing young minds into the realm of agriculture while enhancing their economic stature.
Endorsing this visionary endeavor, the Cabinet of Ministers, led by the Agriculture and Plantation Industries Minister, has greenlit the ambitious project. The blueprint entails the selection of a village from each Divisional Secretariat area in 2024, marking the inaugural phase. These villages will serve as incubators of agri-innovation, empowering farmers with cutting-edge and smart technologies to revolutionize agricultural practices.
Fostering Cultural Bonds: MoU between Sri Lanka and Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Sabha
In a bid to fortify the cultural and religious ties between Sri Lanka and Vietnam, a landmark proposal has emerged to forge a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the All Island Shasanarakshaka Mandalaya of Sri Lanka and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Sabha. Garnering unanimous approval from the Foreign Ministry and the Attorney General’s Department, the draft MoU stands poised to deepen the historical rapport between the two nations.
With the Cabinet of Ministers' nod of endorsement, spearheaded by the Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Minister, this momentous initiative paves the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual understanding between the Buddhist communities of Sri Lanka and Vietnam.
Revamping Financial Governance: Reforms in State-Owned Banking Institutions
In light of systemic deficiencies plaguing state-owned banking institutions, precipitated by administrative lapses and inadequate risk management, a clarion call for reform has reverberated across Sri Lanka's financial landscape. The IMF, World Bank, and the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, convened under the aegis of a specialized committee, have meticulously outlined a suite of transformative reforms to mitigate future crises.
Recognizing the imperative for structural overhaul, the Cabinet of Ministers, under the stewardship of the President in his capacity as Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies Minister, has ratified the proposed reforms. Anchored within the framework of IMF's comprehensive financial facilities program and the World Bank's developmental policy monitoring, these reforms herald a new era of resilience and efficacy in Sri Lanka's banking sector.
Securing Vital Resources: National Policies on Drinking Water and Water Security
Recognizing the evolving landscape of water supply services and the pressing challenges therein, Sri Lanka embarks on a journey towards comprehensive reform. In response to shifting trends and burgeoning needs, the National Policy on Drinking Water and the National Policy on Water Safety emerge as beacons of strategic foresight and inclusive governance.
Crafted in consultation with domain experts, stakeholders, and public feedback, these policies epitomize a concerted effort to ensure equitable access to safe and quality drinking water. By fostering sustainable water management practices, the nation aims not only to safeguard public health but also to catalyze economic growth and prosperity within the water sector.
With resolute determination, the Cabinet of Ministers, under the leadership of the President in his capacity as Finance, Economic Stabilization, and National Policies Minister, endorses the integration and implementation of these policies. This decisive step underscores Sri Lanka's unwavering commitment to fortifying its water resources and fostering resilience in the face of future challenges.
Empowering Strategic Enterprises: Designation of Secondary Businesses
In a strategic maneuver to bolster Sri Lanka's economic landscape, the Cabinet of Ministers accedes to the proposal set forth by the President, doubling as the Investment Promotion Minister. This initiative seeks to designate select companies as secondary businesses of strategic importance, entitling them to exemptions and incentives outlined in the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Act.
Among the chosen enterprises are:
Port City BPO Pvt Ltd: Spearheading outsourcing services for the global entertainment industry.Iviva Pvt Ltd: Pioneering IT solutions powered by Smart City Technology, driving the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.Echelon Trade (Pvt) Ltd: Engaged in international trade across diverse sectors, including textiles, apparel, luxury goods, and electronics.99X Technology AS: Innovating digital solutions for global software businesses, focusing on user-centric design and technological advancement.Through strategic partnerships and regulatory facilitation, these enterprises are poised to propel Sri Lanka's economic agenda forward, fostering innovation and competitiveness on the global stage.
Forging Research Alliances: MoU between SL Institute of Biotechnology and Monash University
Propelling the frontiers of research and innovation, Sri Lanka Institute of Biotechnology and Monash University in Australia are poised to cement their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This landmark agreement, endorsed by the Foreign Ministry and cleared by the Attorney General’s Department, heralds a new era of collaborative endeavor in research and innovation.
Encompassing a spectrum of activities, the proposed MoU delineates a roadmap for joint initiatives, including the development of integrated research proposals, innovative technology incubation, and knowledge dissemination. Moreover, provisions for the exchange of research materials, scholars, scientists, and students underscore the commitment to fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and expertise.
Embracing a holistic approach, collaborative seminars, workshops, and research-related activities will serve as crucibles for innovation and knowledge exchange. With the imprimatur of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Education Minister spearheads the initiative, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and synergy between the two esteemed institutions.
Revitalizing Technical Education: Renovation of Motor Vehicle Workshops with KOICA Assistance
In a bid to fortify technical education and training, Sri Lanka embarks on a transformative journey to refurbish motor vehicle workshops across its technological colleges. With the generous support of the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), these workshops, instrumental in delivering motor vehicle mechanical courses, are slated for renovation and modernization.
Having served diligently for a decade, these workshops require refurbishment to meet evolving educational needs and technological advancements. KOICA's commitment to providing financial assistance of US$ 75,500 underscores its dedication to fostering educational excellence and skill development.
With the Cabinet of Ministers' endorsement, the Education Minister charts the course forward, signifying a pivotal step towards revitalizing technical education and empowering the workforce of tomorrow.
Strengthening Diplomatic Bonds: Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Chad
In a testament to Sri Lanka's commitment to fostering global partnerships, the government embarks on the establishment of diplomatic relations with Chad. With diplomatic ties already established with 46 African nations, Chad's desire for collaboration underscores its multilateral partnership with Sri Lanka.
As a stalwart supporter on the international stage, Chad's endorsement of Sri Lanka's endeavors at the United Nations and other multilateral forums underscores the shared commitment to global peace and cooperation. The Cabinet of Ministers, under the guidance of the Foreign Minister, extends its approval, signaling a new chapter in bilateral relations.
Facilitating Infrastructure Development: Transfer of Lands to SLPA for Kankesanturai Port Development
In a strategic move to bolster infrastructure development, the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) advances towards acquiring crucial land parcels from the Sri Lanka Cement Corporation. Guided by the assessment of the Chief Government Appraiser, SLPA initiates the transfer process with an advance payment of Rs. 52 million, marking a significant milestone in the endeavor.
Endorsing this pivotal step, the Cabinet of Ministers, under the leadership of the Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister, approves the proposal to formalize the acquisition of identified lands spanning 23 acres and 12 perches. Grounded in legal frameworks outlined in Section 6(1) of the State Land Ordinance, the transfer ensures undisturbed possession, laying the groundwork for future port development initiatives.
This strategic acquisition underscores SLPA's commitment to bolstering maritime infrastructure and advancing the nation's economic agenda. With meticulous planning and adherence to legal procedures, Sri Lanka sets sail towards a future defined by robust infrastructure and sustainable development.
In conclusion, the approved proposal signifies a pivotal milestone in Sri Lanka's infrastructure development journey, particularly in bolstering its maritime capabilities. With the formalization of land acquisition procedures by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), facilitated by the Cabinet of Ministers' endorsement, the nation is poised for significant strides in port expansion and modernization. Grounded in legal frameworks and guided by strategic foresight, this endeavor reflects Sri Lanka's unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and prosperity through robust infrastructure investments. As the nation embarks on this transformative path, it stands poised to harness the full potential of its maritime resources, laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.