http://www.defence.lk MOD News - www.defence.lk - 24/7 en-us Copyright (c) 2006 Ministry of Defence and Urban Development - SriLanka friday 17 May 2013 05:31:29 GMT friday 17 May 2013 05:31:29 GMT webinfo@defence.lk http://www.defence.lk/mashd.gif http://www.defence.lk 05/16/2013 05:40:40 Channel 4 has made serious mistakes by misinterpreting what the witnesses have said in Tamil to suit the Channel-4 agenda Head of Mission of Sri Lanka to the EU Ambassador P M Amza said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Channel_4_tampering_with_Tamil_civilian_statements_20130516_01 05/15/2013 05:40:40 Security Forces Commander Jaffna Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe handed over a cheque for Rs 2 000 000 00 towards the Ranaviru Dudaru Scholarship Fund today (15th May) http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Donation_for_Ranaviru_Dudaru_Scholarship%AD_fund_201305_04 05/15/2013 05:40:40 Our experience demonstrates the vital role of local traditions and culture in moulding the practices of local government institutions It also highlights the unique significance of the part played by these institutions in sustaining and strengthening the democratic way of life. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Local_government_has_vital_role_in_strengthening_democracy_President_20130515_03 05/15/2013 05:40:40 Chairperson of the Seva Vanitha Unit of the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Mrs Ioma Rajapaksa made a special inspection visit to Api Wenuwen Api house construction sites in the Matale District yesterday (14th May). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Seva_Vanitha_Chairperson_visits_Ranaviru_housing_project_in_Matale_20130515_02 05/15/2013 05:40:40 The customary UN Medal Parade the prestigious military ceremony that recognizes the exemplary contribution made by any specific contingent to maintain law and order in Lebanon saw Sri Lanka Sinha Regiment (SLSR) troops currently serving there honoured awarding UN medals as their period of service in Lebanon is nearing completion. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=UN_medals_awarded_to_Sri_Lankan_contingent_in_Lebanon_20130515_01 05/14/2013 05:40:40 The railway line from Medawachchiya to Madhu will be declared open today. The Northen railway line was completely destroyed by the tiger terrorists in 1987 thereby severing the possibility of having links between the people of the North and South and facilitating their anti Sri Lankan indoctrination of the Northern people. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Train_services_to_Madhu_commences_today_20130514_05 05/14/2013 05:40:40 Not a single civilian had gone missing in the Vanni district after the end of the war Vanni Security Forces Commander and Officer-in-Charge of Displaced Persons in the Northern Province Major General Boniface Perera said yesterday. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=No_Civilian_Went_Missing_In_Vanni_20130514_04 05/14/2013 05:40:40 All 54 member countries of Commonwealth will participate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka in November this year External Affairs Ministry Secretary Karunathilaka Amunugama yesterday said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=All_member_countries_will_participate_at_CHOGM_20130514_03 05/14/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa and Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni opened the new Sri Lankan High Commission in Kampala Uganda last morning. The new Sri Lankan High Commission in Uganda is the 62nd Sri Lankan diplomatic mission abroad and the sixth in the African continent. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_opens_new_Sri_Lankan_HC_in_Uganda_20130514_02 05/14/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa telephoned and congratulated Nawaz Sharif over his victory at Pakistan s Parliamentary Election. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_congratulates_Nawaz_Sharif_20130514_01 05/13/2013 05:40:40 Extending their services further the Sri Lanka Coast Guard opened a new Life Saving Post in Panadura yesterday (12th May 2013). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=New_Life_Saving_Post_at_Panadura_20130513_02 05/13/2013 05:40:40 The Sri Lankan and Ugandan delegations headed by President Mahinda Rajapaksa and President Yoweri Museveni held bilateral talks yesterday at the State House in the town of Entebbe, approximately 40km south of the Ugandan capital, Kampala, states a release from the Office of the Presidential Spokesman and International Media Unit http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Agriculture_energy_and_trade_dominate_Sri_Lanka_Uganda_bilateral_discussions_20130513_01 05/12/2013 05:40:40 Making an open statement to the courts Gunasundaram Jeyasundaram a onetime LTTE supporter and arms procurer said that he profoundly regretted supporting the LTTE leader and denounced him and his violent behaviour. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Former_LTTE_arms_procurer%AD_denounces_Prabhakaran_20130512_01 05/11/2013 05:40:40 His Excellency Dr. Jrgen Morhard, German Ambassador in Colombo on a visit to the Jaffna peninsula arrived in Palaly yesterday (10th May). During the visit the ambassador held a cordial discussion with the Commander of Security forces Jaffna, Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=German_Ambassador_Visits_Jaffna_20130511_05 05/11/2013 05:40:40 Work on Sri Lankas first Expressway (E-01), connecting Colombo and Matara via major cities in the Western and Southern Provinces will be completed by years end http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Work_on_E_01_Expressway_to_be_completed_by_year_end_20130511_04 05/11/2013 05:40:40 The Sri Lankan waters off the northern coast of the island - between India and this country - may well be the most poached fishing grounds in the world to judge by the numbers of Tamil Nadu and other South Indian fishing craft who enter this area each day. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Massive_poaching_brings_NO_CATCH_threat_to_Sri_Lanka_fishermen_20130511_03 05/11/2013 05:40:40 Rehabilitated former LTTE cadres have expressed interest in entering main stream politics. Minister of Rehabilitation and Prisons Reforms Chandrasiri Gajadeera said that several rehabilitated former LTTE cadres have expressed interest to enter politics. He said that measures would be taken for them to contest in future local government elections in a democratic manner. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Rehabilitated_former_LTTE_Cadres_to_contest_elections%AD_20130511_02 05/11/2013 05:40:40 Last night, President Mahinda Rajapaksa left for an official visit to Uganda, the Presidential Spokesman and International Media Unit said in a release. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_leaves_for_Uganda_20130511_01 05/10/2013 05:40:40 The "Jaya Pirith" chanting ceremony was held at the BMICH yesterday, (9th May) invoking blessings to the country, the President and the war heroes with the participation of 3400 monks invited from all parts of the Island. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Jaya_Piritha_invokes_blessings_on_Country_President_and_War_Heroes_20130510_02 05/10/2013 05:40:40 The winds of change blowing across the Northern landscape have ushered in prosperity and new found hope for the people of Jaffna, who for three decades had endured untold suffering under the curse of the LTTE, Northern Province Governor Maj. Gen (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri told the Daily News. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Northerners_thrive_in_a_North_Reborn_NP_Governor_20130510_01 05/09/2013 05:40:40 Three young cricketers from Sri Lankas war-affected regions have been named in the squads scheduled to participate in a one-day tri-series, which aims to prepare Sri Lankas national side for the Champions Trophy. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Jaffna_players_in_Sri_Lanka_squads_for_tr_series_20130509_05 05/09/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankan Airlines, Sri Lankas national carrier achieved a significant growth in passenger transportation compared to the last two consecutive years, Civil Aviation Minister Priyankara Jayaratne said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lankan_marks_significant_growth_20130509_04 05/09/2013 05:40:40 The Northern and Eastern Provinces are currently going through a rapid development process. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=North_East_development_encompasses_all_sectors_20130509_03 05/09/2013 05:40:40 The Editorial published in the Udayan Newspaper on April 30 was a deliberate attempt to stoke the flames of communalism in this country once again and drive the Tamil people towards another war, Security Forces Commander in the North Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Udayan_fanning_communal_flames_Maj_Gen_Hathurusinghe_20130509_02 05/09/2013 05:40:40 In contrast to the weary boatloads of Sri Lankans making the dangerous asylum-shopping trip to Australia, millions of different shoppers are out in force here as the island prepared for Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Tamils_flee_for_cash_not_from_harm_20130509_01 05/08/2013 05:40:40 The construction work of military hospital in Narahenpita is under full swing which intended to be vested in military personnel on the forthcoming Army Day (10th October). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=New_Military_Hospital_complex_in_Narahenpita_with_more_facilities_20130508_09 05/08/2013 05:40:40 The construction work of military hospital in Narahenpita is under full swing which intended to be vested in military personnel on the forthcoming Army Day (10th October). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=New_Military_Hospital_complex_in_Narahenpita_with_more_facilities_20130508_09 05/08/2013 05:40:40 The Royal Household today confirmed that His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, Heir to the Throne, will represent Her Majesty the Queen at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka this November. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Prince_of_Wales_to_represent_Queen_at_CHOGM_20130508_08 05/08/2013 05:40:40 Ranaviru (War Hero) Flag pinned onto His Excellency the President at the launching of this years War Heroes Commemoration Month ceremonially today (08th May) at Temple Trees. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=National_War_Heroes_Commemoration_Month_Launched_20130508_07 05/08/2013 05:40:40 Ranawiru Real Star (RRS) Mission III, Ultimate 12 Press Conference was held at the Taj Samudra Grand Crystal Ballroom in Colombo under directions of the Secretary, Ministry of Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa yesterday evening (7th May). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=RRS_Mission_III_The_Ultimate_12_20130508_06 05/08/2013 05:40:40 Ministry of Defence and Urban Development has made all arrangements to hold the "Jaya Piritha", an All Night Pirith Chanting ceremony on Thursday (09th May) to invoke blessing to the country, and the valiant war heroes. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ministry_of_Defence_to_hold_Jaya_Piritha_20130508_05 05/08/2013 05:40:40 In a ceremony on Monday (06), High Commissioner of India Ashok K. Kantha, Douglas Devananda, Minister for Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development and G.A. Chandrasiri, Governor of Northern Province jointly unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the commissioning of plant and machinery donated by the Government of India to the Fishnet Factory - Northsea Limited at Gurunagar, Jaffna. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Jaffna_North_sea_Fishnet_Factory_upgraded_20130508_04 05/08/2013 05:40:40 The full potential of regional organisations such as BIMSTEC to enhance technical and security cooperation must be exploited by member nations" said the Secretary of Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa delivering the keynote address at the 6th BIMSTEC meeting held at JAIC Hilton Hotel Colombo on 07th May. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Secretary_Defence_Chief_Guest_at_6th_BIMSTEC_Conference_20130508_02 05/08/2013 05:40:40 Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Brendan OConnor said his visit to Colombo has reinforced the Gillard Governments commitment to deepening Australias relationship with Sri Lanka, "states an Australian High Commission press release. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Australian_Minister_thanks_Sri_Lanka_for_cooperation_in_combating_people_smuggling 05/07/2013 05:40:40 Students of Gotabaya Ranaviru Vidyalaya in Wewa Gedara, Kurunegla received gift packs of school appliances at a ceremony held at the school premises today (07th May). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Gifts_for_Gotabaya_Ranaviru_Vidyalaya_students_20130507_07 05/07/2013 05:40:40 "Azerbaijan stands on the same line on international issues with Sri Lanka" said the Azerbaijan Foreign Minister Elmar Mammadyarov when he called on Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees Monday (06). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Azerbaijan_stands_on_same_line_with_Sri_Lanka_on_20130507_06 05/07/2013 05:40:40 The total number of tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka went up 7.7 to 98,155 in March 2013 while the figure was only 91 102 in 2012 March according to the latest figures released by the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Tourist_arrivals_increasing_20130507_05 05/07/2013 05:40:40 The month between 08th May and 08th June 2013 has been declared as the National War Heroes Commemoration month and a series of events have been scheduled to be held to coincide with the War Hero Commemoration including the Victory Parade at Galle Face Green and the special Commemoration Ceremony at War Heroes Memorial at Sri Jayewardenapura Kotte. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=National_War_Heroes_Commemoration_2013_20130507_04 05/07/2013 05:40:40 A multi-day fishing trawler illegally heading to Australia from India with 66 persons onboard was arrested by Sri Lanka Navy yesterday (06 May). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Australian_bound_boat_apprehended_20130507_03 05/07/2013 05:40:40 A Public Awareness Programme on Road Safety will be conducted by the Automobile Association of Sri Lanka at several venues in Colombo and suburbs on May 7 and 8 to coincide with the Second UN Global Road Safety Week organised by the Federation Internationale de L Automobile (FIA), yesterday. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Road_safety_public_awareness_programme_20130507_02 05/07/2013 05:40:40 Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Peter O’Neill strongly denounced attempts by certain quarters to hamper the hosting of CHOGM 2013 by Sri Lanka and indicated the full backing of his government for the Colombo summit. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Papua_New_Guinea_PM_keen_to_attend_CHOGM_2013_20130507_01 05/06/2013 05:40:40 The Indian Daily "The Hindu" has exposed both Karunanidhi and Jayalalitha on opportunist stands taken by these two Tamil Nadu politicians over the Katchatheevu issue http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Opportunism_of_Karunanidhi_and_Jayalalitha_on_Katchateevu_exposed_20130506_06 05/06/2013 05:40:40 20 fully furnished houses built by the army funded by Governor of the Northern Province were handed over to the recipients today by MP Namal Rajapaksha and Governor of the Northern Province Major General GA Chandrasiri at a ceremony held on Saturday Morning. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Fully_furnished_houses_to_female_army_soldiers_in_Kilinochchi_20130506_05 05/06/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas High Commissioner to the UK Dr. Chris Nonis blasted an Amnesty International report which he dubbed as a "fascinating piece of fiction" based on third party news reports and websites http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Nonis_slams_AI_20130506_04 05/06/2013 05:40:40 The resettlement of families who have been arriving in Mannar district after an absence of nearly 30 years due to the war and LTTE attacks, is being accomplished successfully. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Mannar_rehabilitation_in_top_gear_20130506_03 05/06/2013 05:40:40 Asian Development Bank (ADB) officials and SAARC ministers commended Sri Lanka for the progress made in development projects following the conflict. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=ADB_commends_Lanka_post_conflict_progress_20130506_02 05/06/2013 05:40:40 The Navy ceremonially re-launched the Vada Tharakai - 11 passenger ship from Kurikadduwan Jetty to Delft Island on May 1st http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Free_transport_to_passengers_from_Kurukadduwan_Jetty_to_Delft_Island_20130506_01 05/05/2013 05:40:40 Special diving teams of the Sri Lanka Navy on Saturday salvaged six parts of the huge wreckage of the Lion Air aircraft that crashed into the Northern seas off Iranatheevu in 1998 along with 48 civilians. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_Navy_salvage_wreckage_of_Lion_Air_20130505_07 05/05/2013 05:40:40 British Prime Minister Rt Hon David Cameron, and Foreign Secretary Rt Hon William Hague, will be attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka, Dr Chris Nonis, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK confirmed. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=British_PM_Cameron_will_attend_CHOGM_in_Sri_Lanka_20130505_06 05/05/2013 05:40:40 Admiral Thisara Samarasinghe, the High Commissioner for Australia concurrently accredited to Papua New Guinea presented the Letter of Credence of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka to the Governor General of Papua New Guinea His Excellency Grand Chief Sir Michael Ogio,, CBE, GCM, GCMG, KSt. J at the Government House Konedobu, Papua New Guinea recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Papua_New_Guinea_supports_SL_at_CHOGM_20130505_05 05/05/2013 05:40:40 Kilinochchi district in the Northern Province is the most affected district due to the 30-year-old war on terrorism in this country. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Civil_Defence_Department_program_helps_poor_in_Kilinochchi_20130505_04 05/05/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas national airline was called Air Ceylon in the good old days. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=LTTE_atrocities_committed_in_May_20130505_03 05/05/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa will launch the official website of the CHOGM 2013, detailing the main agenda, dates, programs and venues connected to the event, in two weeks time. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=CHOGM_official_website_to_be_launched_shortly_20130505_02 05/05/2013 05:40:40 Train services between Medawachchiya and Madhu on the Medawachchiya-Talaimannar line will commence on May 14 as the track up to Madhu has been completed by the Indian contractors, General Manager of Railways B.A.P. Ariyaratne told the Sunday Observer. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Trains_between_Medawachchiya_and_Madhu_from_May_14_20130505_01 05/04/2013 05:40:40 British authorities had gradually stepped up forcible extraditions of Sri Lankans seeking asylum in Britain since the conclusion of the conflict in May 2009. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Britain_increase_deportation_of_Sri_Lanka_asylum_seekers_20130504_05 05/04/2013 05:40:40 Urlaub!, a travel magazine launched by MME Austria Ltd., a public relations and media firm based in Vienna, features Sri Lanka in its cover page with a caption A couple of pieces of paradise. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Urlaub_travel_magazine_features_Sri_Lanka_20130504_04 05/04/2013 05:40:40 Muslim people who were unceremoniously chased away from the North are at present, settled down in their former places of residence. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Resettled_Muslims_are_provided_all_facilities_20130504_03 05/04/2013 05:40:40 Israel remains firmly committed to supporting Sri Lankas economic development in the prevailing climate of peace and stability, Israel Ambassador to Colombo Alon Ushpiz said addressing an event to celebrate his countrys 65th Independence Day at Hotel Cinnamon Lakeside on Thursday. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Israel_firmly_supports_Sri_Lankas_economic_development_20130504_02 05/04/2013 05:40:40 "Due to the rapid development of information dissemination and the media and the technical development achieved as a result, the whole of humanity has been embraced by the media. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Professional_journalists_should_act_comprehending_their_role_Minister_20130504_01 05/03/2013 05:40:40 There has been wide media coverage on the recent Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group Meeting held in London, UK and the statements made by Canada on Sri Lanka hosting the next Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in November 2013. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_High_Commission_in_Ottawa_responds_to_the_Canadian_position_on_CHOGM_20130503_06 05/03/2013 05:40:40 The Commonwealth Secretariat has agreed to provide technical assistance to strengthen the effectiveness and authority of the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Commonwealth_Secretariat_to_provide_technical_assistance_to_strengthen_Sri_Lanka_Human_Rights_Commission_20130503_05 05/03/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas effort in countering illegal and irregular migration attempts came under praise by Australian Minister for Immigration and Citizenship, Hon. Brendan OConnor during a meeting with the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Australian_Minister_lauds_Lanka_commitment_20130503_04 05/03/2013 05:40:40 Thailands Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul who called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees yesterday, invited Sri Lanka to become a partner in the joint port project between Thailand and Myanmar. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Lanka_invited_to_join_Thailand_Myanmar_port_project_20130503_03 05/03/2013 05:40:40 Applications have been called from children of Ranaviru families who excelled in the O-L examination for the Viru Daru scholarship programme organized for the third consecutive year by the Karuna Samadhi http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Viru_Daru_scholarships_for_Ranaviru_children_20130503_02 05/02/2013 05:40:40 "The goal of the Commonwealths partnership with the Human Rights Commission of Sri Lanka is to support Sri Lankas national efforts and plans to provide access for all its citizens to a life of dignity and opportunity in keeping with the values of the Commonwealth" - Sharma http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Commonwealth_Secy_Gen_meets_Sri_Lanka_HRC_delegation_20130502_02 05/02/2013 05:40:40 The article carried on page 2 of the Udayan newspaper of April 29, which is published in the Jaffna district is racist by nature and is meant to mislead the Tamil community in the region. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Tamil_community_condemns_April_29_Udayan_newspaper_article_20130502_01 05/01/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa, in a letter to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, expressed profound sadness at the tragic incident that took place in Rana Plaza earlier this month resulting in heavy loss of life. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_express_condolence_over_Bangladesh_tragic_incident_20130501_03 05/01/2013 05:40:40 In a letter to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, President Mahinda Rajapaksa expressed sorrow at the loss of lives and displacement caused by the earthquake in the Bushehr Province this month. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_Rajapaksa_condoles_with_Iran_Quake_victims_20130501_02 05/01/2013 05:40:40 It is with great honour that we extend the gratitude of the nation to the working people of our country who have given us the opportunity to celebrate International Workers Day with respect and dignity, President Mahinda Rajapaksa issuing a May Day message said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Let_us_unite_to_tosafeguard_workers_rights_President_20130501_01 04/29/2013 05:40:40 Ninety-five percent of the Confirmed Hazardous area has been cleared of mines, according to the National Mine Action Center which was established in the Economic Development Ministry after the war. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=Mine_learing_in_North_almost_completed_20130429_07 04/29/2013 05:40:40 A Bahrain parliamentary delegation, headed by the Speaker of the Council of Representatives Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Dhahrani, called on President Mahinda Rajapaksa at Temple Trees. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=Bahrain_wants_bi_lateral_ties_strengthened_20130429_06 04/29/2013 05:40:40 Soon after the war on terrorism ended the army commenced its humanitarian operation of rescuing two hundred and ninety three thousand (293,000) people and gave them food, shelter and protection for several months. Finally, a majority of them were able to settle down in their hometowns. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=fully_furnished_houses_for_the_homeless_20130429_03 04/29/2013 05:40:40 Prime Minister John Key says New Zealand will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Sri Lanka later this year despite the shouts to boycott. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=New_Zealand_to_Assemble_at_CHOGM_20130426_02 04/29/2013 05:40:40 Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma said that Sri Lanka would be hosting the 2013 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in November, as planned, and that no member government had indicated that it wishes to change the venue. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=CHOGM_summit_in_Colombo_as_planned_20130429_04 04/29/2013 05:40:40 The business and traders community at large in Chennai had observed that the activities of some extremists groups in Tamil Nadu, had caused a hindrance of Sri Lankans visiting the state and that had been detrimental to their business. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=new.asp?fname=Chennai_Business_Community_appeal_to_send_more_Sri_Lankans_20130429_05 04/29/2013 05:40:40 During a recent visit to China, the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage was able to hold wide ranging discussions on matters of mutual interests and bilateral importance with the Commander of the PLA Navy and officials. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=China_Sri_Lanka_to_boost_military_ties_20130429_02 04/29/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas first Safari Park is coming up at Ridiyagama in Hambantota. Plans are afoot to complete the work and vest it with the public in October. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_first_safari_park_will_be_completed_in_October_20130429_01 04/28/2013 05:40:40 Sharing experiences on counter piracy, counter terrorism and coast guard activities, visiting Japanese Coast Guard Officials held cordial discussions with the Director General of SLCG Admiral RC Wijegunaratne recently (26th April) at Coast Guard Headquarters. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Cordial_Discussions_Between_SL_and_Japanese_Coast_Guards_20130428_07 04/28/2013 05:40:40 Sharing experiences on counter piracy, counter terrorism and coast guard activities, visiting Japanese Coast Guard Officials held cordial discussions with the Director General of SLCG Admiral RC Wijegunaratne recently (26th April) at Coast Guard Headquarters. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Cordial_Discussions_Between_SL_and_Japanese_Coast_Guards_20130428_07 04/28/2013 05:40:40 Indian High Commissioner, Ashok K. Kantha visited the Central Province on April 22-23 and paid farewell calls on the Most Venerable Mahanayake Thero of Malwatte Chapter and the Most Venerable Mayanayake Thero of Asgiriya Chapter and Mahanayaka Maha Thero of Ramagna Chapter. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=people_to_people_bonds_between_India_and_Sri_Lanka_20130428_06 04/28/2013 05:40:40 Australias Foreign Minister Senator Bob Carr says Australia will not boycott the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to be held in Sri Lanka in November this year over allegations of human rights violations. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Australia_will_no_t_boycott_CHOGM_20130428_05 04/28/2013 05:40:40 Soon after the war on terrorism ended the army commenced its humanitarian operation of rescuing two hundred and ninety three thousand (293000) people and gave them food, shelter and protection for several months. Finally a majority of them were able to settle down in their hometowns. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Army_wins_hearts_in_North_20130428_04 04/28/2013 05:40:40 If there was a symbol to represent the strong bonds of friendship between the Southern people and the Northern people of Sri Lanka, it was the Yal Devi train. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Northern_Line_gets_ready_for_Yal_Devi_20130428_03 04/28/2013 05:40:40 A ceremony to distribute ambulances and medical equipment was held at the Northern Province Governors Secretariat recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ambulances_equipment_to_Northern_hospitals_20130428_02 04/28/2013 05:40:40 The 23rd Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference (CHOGM) would be held as planned in Sri Lanka, Chairman of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), Dr. Dipu Moni announced after a meeting of the CMAG in London yesterday http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=CHOGM_2013_to_be_held_in_Sri_Lanka_as_planned_20130428_01 04/27/2013 05:40:40 External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris had discussions at Marlborough House in London with Mr. Kamalesh Sharma, Secretary General of the Commonwealth about the arrangements well under way for the meeting of Commonwealth Heads of Government in Sri Lanka in November this year. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Gl_Briefs_Commonwealth_Secretary_General_About_Summit_20130427_01 04/27/2013 05:40:40 Two Japanese naval ships, Akebono DD- 108 and Hamagiri DD- 155, arrived at the Port of Colombo for logistics requirements on 25th April 2013 http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Two_Japanese_Naval_Ships_arrive_at_the_Port_of_Colombo_20130427_02 04/27/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa sent a congratulatory message to the new King of Netherlands, Willem-Alexander. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_congratulates_new_Netherlands_King_Czech_President_20130427_01 04/26/2013 05:40:40 Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa paid homage to the most sacred Temple of Tooth Relic during a special visit to Kandy today (26th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Secretary_Defence_pays_homage_to_the_Tooth_Relic_20130426_08 04/26/2013 05:40:40 The dependant war heroes at Mihindu Seth Medura in Aththidiya presented with New year gifts under the patronage of chairperson of the MoD Seva Vanitha Unit Mrs. Ioma Rajapaksa today (26th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=War_heroes_at_Mihindu_Seth_Medura_presented_with_New_Year_gifts_20130426_07 04/26/2013 05:40:40 Four Indian nationals and two locals were arrested by Sri Lanka Naval troops on board SLNS Udara in the seas off Kachchatheevu on 25th April. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Navy_cracks_cross_border_Cannabis_smuggling_racket_20130426_06 04/26/2013 05:40:40 His Excellency the President Mahinda Rjapaksa graced the launching ceremony of BUDDHABIWANDANA at the Sri Allan Methiniyaramaya in Kirulapana Colombo last evening (25th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=HE_the_President_graces_BUDDHABIWANDANA_launching_ceremony_20130426_05 04/26/2013 05:40:40 The new Helitours office of the Sri Lanka Air Force was declared open by the commander of the Air Force Air Marshal HD Abeywickrama at a function held on 22nd April 2013. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=New_Helitours_office_in_Jaffna_20130426_04 04/26/2013 05:40:40 The 22nd International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) meeting between Sri Lanka and India was held onboard the Indian Naval Ship Gharial at the Indo-Sri Lanka Maritime Boundary Line off Kankasanthurai on 23rd April 2013. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=22nd_IMBL_Meeting_held_onboard_INS_Gharial_20130426_03 04/26/2013 05:40:40 An Old Anandian Police Cadet Forum was formed recently to support the national Police Cadet Corps and the college cadet movement. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Old_Anandian_Police_Cadet_Forum_formed_20130426_02 04/26/2013 05:40:40 Vietnamese Prime Minister Vietnam Nguyen Tan Dung said he was happy to see Sri Lanka progressing in the post-conflict era. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Vietnam_PM_pleased_with_Lankas_progress_20130426_01 04/25/2013 05:40:40 Subsequent to the honour received from His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa by awarding President s and Regimental Colours Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment celebrated the glee in a delightful Guest Night yesterday (24th April) evening at Hotel Hilton Colombo. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Presidential_Colours_Honoured_Artillery_Regiment_Guest_20130425_03 04/25/2013 05:40:40 The humanitarian operation launched by the government to liberate the country from the clutches of terrorism was entirely a means of conflict resolution but not a war, Cabinet Spokesman and Mass Media and Information Minister Keheliya Rambukwella said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Media_role_in_conflict_resolution_vital_20130425_02 04/25/2013 05:40:40 The Embassy of the Republic of Korea and the Ministry of Culture and the Art of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka will co-organise the Korea -Sri Lanka Friendship Evening at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa theatre on April 25 and 26 at 6 pm http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Korea_Sri_Lanka_Friendship_Evening_at_Nelum_Pokuna_20130425_01 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Naval troops on patrol in the western waters intercepted a multi day fishing trawler illegally bound for Australia today (24th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Illegal_immigration_trawler_arrested_20130424_08 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Multinational Communication Interoperability Programme (MCIP) planning staff workshop 2 (SW2) started on Monday (22) with the participation of 90 officials including 63 Military Officers above the rank of colonel from 25 countries at Hotel Galadari Colombo in collaboration with United State Pacific Command (USPACOM) and Sri Lanka Army. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=MCIP_Staff_Workshop_Begins_in_Colombo_20130424_07 04/24/2013 05:40:40 The Passing Out ceremony of Maldives Police Officers who followed a special training course on VIP protection at Special Task Force (STF) was held at Kaluthara STF training school recently (22 April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=VIP_Protection_Training_for_Maldives_Police_Officers_20130424_06 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka has called for the total elimination of nuclear weapons from the world claiming it is the only possible way for the survival of humanity. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Indian_Housing_Project_exceeds_target_plans_to_launch_in_East_next_month_20130424_05 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka so far this year has arrested 125 Indian fishermen for violating Sri Lanka s International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) and entering into Sri Lankan territorial waters but no fishermen have been killed, Indian Defence Minister A. K. Antony said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=No_Indian_fishermen_have_been_killed_Indian_Defence_Minister_20130424_03 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha has called for a balanced approach in addressing the objectives of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_calls_for_a_balanced_approach_in_addressing_NPT_goals_20130424_02 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva Ambassador Ravinatha Aryasinha has called for a balanced approach in addressing the objectives of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_calls_for_a_balanced_approach_in_addressing_NPT_goals_20130424_02 04/24/2013 05:40:40 Bangladesh has reassured its support to Sri Lanka at international fora. This message was conveyed to President Mahinda Rajapaksa by Bangladeshi Foreign Secretary Mr. Md. Shahidul Haque at a meeting at Temple Tress this morning. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Bangladesh_will_stand_by_Sri_Lanka_Bangladeshi_Foreign_Secretary_20130424_01 04/23/2013 05:40:40 In parallel to the 125th anniversary of Sri Lanka Army Artillery regiment, it was honoured with awarding Presidents and Regimental Colours since its inception by the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Mahinda Rajapaksa today (23rd April) at Regimental Headquarters premises, Panagoda. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=SLA_Artillery_Regiment_Honoured_with_President_Colours_20130423_03 04/23/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas President Mahinda Rajapaksa vehemently rejected the allegations made against Sri Lanka by the United States in its report on Human Rights for 2012 issued recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_rejects_U_S_allegations_20130423_02 04/23/2013 05:40:40 An office of the Department for the Registration of Persons was opened at the Vavuniya kachcheri complex yesterday by Commissioner General of the Department R M Sarath Kumara. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=First_regional_office_of_Registration_of_Persons_opens_20130423_01 04/22/2013 05:40:40 A Conference on the Role of Media in Conflict Resolution and Peace Building organized by the Ministry of Mass Media Information in collaboration with the SAARC Information centre is scheduled to be held from 24th to 27th April 2013 at the Taj Samudra Hotel Colombo. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Conference_on_Role_of_Media_in_Conflict_Resolution_Peace_20130422_06 04/22/2013 05:40:40 Only 96 square kilometers of land, out of 2064 square kilometers remain to be de-mined the National Mine Action Center said. As per the information of the Center the cleared area is over 95 and most of the remaining areas are covered with shrubs and jungle. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Only_96_sqkms_to_be_de_mined_20130422_05 04/22/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankas premier annual motor sporting event Fox Hill Super Cross was held on 20th April at Diyatalawa the former garrison town and home to the Sri Lanka Army Academy. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Fox_Hill_Super_Cross_at_Diyatalawa_20130422_04 04/22/2013 05:40:40 A multiday fishing trawler with 80 persons onboard was taken into custody by the Sri Lanka Navy on 21st April. According to naval sources the vessel named Emmanuwel was making its way to Australia when it was intercepted by naval patrols on duty. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Illegal_immigration_attempt_foiled_20130422_03 04/22/2013 05:40:40 The government is planning to hold elections to the Northern Provincial Council shortly most likely in September President Mahinda Rajapaksa said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=First_NPC_polls_likely_in_Sept_20130422_02 04/22/2013 05:40:40 Two Tamil men have been jailed for a brutal unprovoked attack on a man in Wembley who was targeted because he was Sinhalese. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Two_Tamil_thugs_jailed_for_attacking_a_man_in_Wembley_20130422_01 04/21/2013 05:40:40 The world focus on terrorism was first observed with the 9/11 terror attack in the United States. The massive attack at New Yorks World Trade Centre and several other locations, shattered the world. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=West_must_look_more_positively_at_Sri_20130421_06 04/21/2013 05:40:40 Health, education and industrial sectors are being developed in the Eastern provinceon par with other provinces. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Boost_for_development_in_Trincomalee_20130421_05 04/21/2013 05:40:40 I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of life and devastation as a result of the earthquake in Sichuan Province, China on 20th April 2013. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Condolence_message_from_HE_the_President_to_President_of_China_HE_Jingping_20130421_04 04/21/2013 05:40:40 Vietnams Communist Partys deputy head of the Commission for External Relations, Nguyen Huy Tang said that Vietnam wound stand by Sri Lanka in the event of any challenge thrown at her internationally by Western countries. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=International_challenges_Vietnam_will_back_Lanka_20130421_03 04/21/2013 05:40:40 The first batch of SLAS (Sri Lanka Administrative Services) Trainees, from Northern and Eastern Provinces, was recruited for a training at Kalutara recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=SLAS_recruits_from_NE_undergo_police_training_20130421_02 04/21/2013 05:40:40 A thousand newly passed out Medical Officers from all State universities islandwide will be able to converse in Tamil with their patients by December end. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Tamil_language_training_for_new_doctors_20130421_01 04/20/2013 05:40:40 President MahindaRajapaksa sent a congratulatory letter to the new Venezuelan President Nicolas MaduroMoros. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_Rajapaksa_congratulates_new_Venezuelan_20130420_05 04/20/2013 05:40:40 There is no doubt that US Secretary of State John Kerry is having a tough time these days, with the noises from North Korea creating problems in the new area of influence the US is seeking to build in East Asia. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Violations_of_human_dignity_at_Gitmo_20130420_04 04/20/2013 05:40:40 Enhanced maritime connectivity between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka would figure prominently in talks, between the two countries, scheduled to commence in Colombo next week. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Bangladesh_SL_maritime_connectivity_to_be_enhanced_20130420_03 04/20/2013 05:40:40 Some of the Sri Lankan asylum seekers deported on Thursday did not speak with lawyers before they were expelled, Immigration Minister Brendan OConnor has confirmed. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Deported_Lankans_not_genuine_refugees_Aus_20130420_02 04/20/2013 05:40:40 Douglas Devananda, Minister of Traditional Industries and Small Enterprise Development, addressing the graduate trainees absorbed to the State service at the Coastal Environment Protection Programme held at Jaffna district secretariat recently said that the sea weed farming project covering the entire coastal area of Jaffna peninsula that was launched was of extreme significance towards the protection of sea resources as well as the expansion of fishing activities in the area. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sea_Weed_Farming_Project_in_Jaffna_coastal_area_20130420_01 04/19/2013 05:40:40 Security forces personnel attach to the 3rd Sri Lanka National Guard (SLNG) serving under 23 Division in Eastern Province (233 Brigade) donated a house to a needy family living in area recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Serving_the_people_20130419_06 04/19/2013 05:40:40 Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa declared open a reception of the Sri Lanka Navy in Kantale on an invitation extended by the Commander of the Navy Vice Admiral Jayanath Colombage today (19th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Secretary_Defence_declares_open_Lake_Front_Rest_20130419_05 04/19/2013 05:40:40 The Graduation Ceremony of the inaugural Asymmetric Warfare Course 1/2013 conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy was held at the Trincomalee Naval facility on 18th April. Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa attended as the Chief Guest. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Graduation_Ceremony_of_the_inaugural_Asymmetric_Warfare_20130419_03 04/19/2013 05:40:40 The Graduation Ceremony of the inaugural Asymmetric Warfare Course 1/2013 conducted by the Sri Lanka Navy was held at the Trincomalee Naval facility on 18th April. Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa attended as the Chief Guest. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Graduation_Ceremony_of_the_inaugural_Asymmetric_Warfare_20130419_03 04/19/2013 05:40:40 Oil exploration in the North would continue, the government said yesterday amidst a decision to pool all petroleum resources under one institution http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Oil_exploration_in_North_to_continue_20130419_02 04/19/2013 05:40:40 A reputed physician, Dr P. Sivapaalan in an open letter to Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh states that Tamils in post war Sri Lanka could live anywhere in the country without any fear unlike in the past and enjoy equal rights in terms of Sri Lankas constitution. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Tamil_doctor_writes_to_Indian_Premier_TAMILS_PRAISE_20130419_01 04/18/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka Navy intercepted 61 persons illegally bound for Australia in a multi-day trawler on 17th April 2013. The trawler named "Madushan II" was intercepted by a Sri Lanka Navys Fast Naval Patrol Craft attached to the Eastern Naval Command off Batticaloa. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=61_Australia_bound_Persons_intercepted_in_Eastern_20130418_07 04/18/2013 05:40:40 Government will not tolerate anyone perpetrating acts to create communal or religious disharmony. President Mahinda Rajapaksa said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Govt_will_not_tolerate_acts_provoking_communal_or_religious_20130418_01 04/18/2013 05:40:40 Two ships of the Indian Navy, INS Sujata and INS Tarangini and ICGS Varuna of the Indian Coast Guard arrived to Colombo yesterday (17th April) http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Indian_Naval_ships_in_Colombo_20130418_03 04/18/2013 05:40:40 Corporal D.M Seneviratne, a soldier attached to the 4 Gemunu Watch (GW) of the Sri Lanka Army successfully underwent an eye surgery in Singapore to regain lost vision recently. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Soldier_regains_sight_after_expensive_surgery_20130418_04 04/18/2013 05:40:40 Members of US Coast Guards specialized Mobile Training Team (MTT) are currently in Sri Lanka conducting "Maritime Law Enforcement Instructor Course" for Sri Lankan Coast Guard personnel from 15th to 26th April at Naval Base Trincomalee http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=US_Mobile_Training_Team_MTT_trains_Sri_Lanka_Coast_Guard_20130418_02 04/17/2013 05:40:40 A total of 48 children were awarded with Ranaviru Doo Daru educational scholarships by Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa at a function held at the Ministry premises today (17th April) http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ranaviru_Doo_Daru_Scholarship_for_children_20130417_04 04/17/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa in a message to US President condemned the Boston bomb attack while conveying condolences over loss of lives. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_President_condemns_Boston_attack_2013041702 04/17/2013 05:40:40 UPFA MP Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, yesterday said that the terrorist attack on the Boston marathon was the first attack on a sporting event in the world since the assassination of her husband, Minister Jeyaraj Fernandopulle, as he was about to flag off a marathon at Weliweriya, Gampaha on the morning of April 6, 2008. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Jeyaraj_widow_compares_Weliweriya_blast_with_Boston_attack_20130417_03 04/17/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa has sent a message of congratulations to Dr Abdullah Ensour on his election as Prime Minister of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_congratulates_new_Jordanian_PM_20130417_06 04/17/2013 05:40:40 The fact that British Airways, the UKs National carrier and third largest airline in Europe, has taken the decision to resume flights to Sri Lanka is an excellent index of their substantial confidence in Sri Lanka and its future growth potential, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK, Dr Chris Nonis said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=British_Airways_resuming_flights_after_15_years_20130417_05 04/17/2013 05:40:40 The Economic Development Ministry in coordination with the North Central Provincial Council will embark on a development project to renovate 500 abandoned small scale rural tanks with irrigation canal systems. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Over_500_abandoned_tanks_to_be_revived_20130417_01 04/16/2013 05:40:40 A function was held at the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development in view of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year this morning (16 April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ministry_of_Defence_begins_work_after_New_Year_20130416_02 04/16/2013 05:40:40 On the approval of the Hon. Minister of External Affairs Professor G.L. Peiris the Sri Lankan High Commission in Pretoria, South Africa appointed Mr Sackey Aipinge as Sri Lankas first Honorary Consul in Namibia http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Press_release_20130416_04 04/16/2013 05:40:40 The Indian Parliamentary delegation on a five-day tour from April 8-12, expressed satisfaction in Sri Lankas economic progress, especially in the conflict-affected areas in the north. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Indian_MPs_satisfied_20130416_01 04/15/2013 05:40:40 A meeting was held at the Kilinochchi District Secretariat with the participation of Water Supply and Drainage http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Kilinochchi_Jaffna_project_to_be_launched_soon_20130415_03 04/15/2013 05:40:40 In contrast to the weary boatloads of Sri Lankans making the dangerous asylum-shopping trip to Australia, millions of different shoppers are out in force here as the island prepares for Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations this weekend http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Migrant_Remittances_Drive_Asylum_Seeker_20130415_01 04/15/2013 05:40:40 A cross-section of representatives of Northern Fishermens Associations refuted the recent claims of their Indian counterparts that the Sri Lankan Navy had attacked them on the high seas. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lankan_Navy_never_attacked_Indian_fishermen_20130415_02 04/14/2013 05:40:40 The New Year is Sri Lankas biggest cultural festival conducted from times immemorial. It reminds us about the wonder of the earth linked to the activity of the Sun. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_biggest_cultural_festival_20130414_01 04/13/2013 05:40:40 Director General of the Media Centre for National Security Mr Lakshman Hulugalla said that investigations into the last nights burning of Udayan Newspaper office in Jaffna revealed that it was an inside work. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Burning_of_Jaffna_newspaper_office_20130413_02 04/13/2013 05:40:40 The regional building of the National Supply and Drainage (NWandSDB) in Vavuniya was opened by Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardena last week. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Iranamadu_Tank_to_be_tapped_to_supply_water_to%20Jaffna%20peninsula_20130413_01 04/13/2013 05:40:40 John Kerry, new Secretary of State, Washington DC has sent a congratulatory massage on behalf of President Obama and the American people saying that, "Sri Lankans around the world as you celebrate Sinhala and Tamil New Year, and offer my warmest wishes for happy holiday and prosperous New Year". http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=US_wishes_all_Sri_Lankans_20130413_03 04/12/2013 05:40:40 Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa yesterday said that US Ambassador Michele J. Sison was either ignorant of the post-war situation in the country or chose to ignore it in deeping with the US agenda. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Can_US_ignore_TNAs_complicity_in_LTTE_terror_20130412_02 04/12/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lankan artistes held an Adhisthana Pooja at the Independence Square yesterday (11th April) in response to protests by Tamil Nadu actors and actresses. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Artistes_held_an_Adhistana_determination_Pooja_20130412_01 04/11/2013 05:40:40 A six member Parliamentary delegation from India paid a courtesy call on Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (11 April) at the ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Indian_Parliamentary_Delegation_meets_Secretary_Defence_20130411_04 04/11/2013 05:40:40 "Sri Lanka has many attractions for its visitors, the best being the twenty million smiles awaiting to greet you" opined Ambassador Jaliya Wickramasuriya, Sri Lankas envoy to the United States. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ambassador_Wickramasuriya_invites_Washington_young_professionals_20130411_03 04/11/2013 05:40:40 The World Health Organization (WHO) lauded the Sri Lankan government for taking prompt action in connection with implementing the recommendations in the WHO Report of Chronic Kidney Disease spreading in certain parts of the country, a Health Ministry spokesman said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=WHO_praises_Sri_Lanka_Nadira_Gunatillekes_20130411_02 04/11/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa has sent a message of condolence on the death of the former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher in which he commends the late prime minister for her commitment to fighting terrorism. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_Rajapaksa_praises_Thatcher_commitment_to_fighting_20130411_01 04/10/2013 05:40:40 The Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa graced the New Year celebration of the Carlton Pre-School as a special guest, today (10th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Secretary_Defence_graced_the_Carlton_Preschool_New_Year_20130410_07 04/10/2013 05:40:40 Sri Lanka has maintained significant economic growth at an impressive pace while the economies of most countries were crumbling, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Fiscal_discipline_paid_rich_economic_dividends_Dharma_20130410_03 04/10/2013 05:40:40 The government has allocated more than Rs 214 billion so far for the Uthuru Wasanthaya and the Neganahira Navodaya programmes aimed to develop the Northern and Eastern provinces devastated by the tiger terrorists. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Rs_214_Billion_spent_for_North_East_Development_20130410_05 04/10/2013 05:40:40 The Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission (LLRC) appointed by His Excellency the President had made some observations pertaining to the Army and allegations made by Channel 4. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=LLRC_Observations_Cleared_Army_Commander_Hands_Over_Court_of_Inquiry_Report_to_Secretary_Defence_20130410_06 04/10/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa has sent a congratulatory message to new Slovenian Prime Minister of Alenka Bratusek. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=President_congratulates_new_Slovenian_PM_20130410_01 04/10/2013 05:40:40 The Sri Lanka Bureau of Foriegn Employment (SLBFE) yesterday said that all measures have been taken to ensure the safety of Sri Lankan workers in South Korea in case of an emergency. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=SLBFE_assures_safety_of_Lankans_in_South_Korea_20130410_02 04/09/2013 05:40:40 The National Savings Bank (NSB) today (09 April) officially handed over the funds for the constructions of the multimillion dollar teaching hospital for General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU), at a function held at the Defence Ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Funds_for_KDU_Teaching_Hospital_handed_over_20130409_09 04/09/2013 05:40:40 A 19 member delegation from the Pakistan National Defence University (NDU) led by Commodore Asif Saleem Chaudhry paid a courtesy call on Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa at the ministry premises today (09 April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Pakistan_NDU_delegation_pays_courtesy_call_on_Secretary_Defence_20130409_08 04/09/2013 05:40:40 Minister of Livestock and Upcountry Development Arumugam Thondaman has issued a strong warning to Tamil Nadu Film artistes. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Minister_Thondaman_warns_TN_Film_artistes_20130409_07 04/09/2013 05:40:40 Tamil Tigers might have threatened the then Chief Minister, M. Karunanidhi, in 1989 "with a significant increase in the level of militant violence in Tamil Nadu" if he did not "boost their cause," the United States surmised. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=LTTE_could_have_threatened_Karunanidhi_US_surmises_20130409_06 04/09/2013 05:40:40 More than 13,000 families, identified as shanty or slum dwellers within the city will get permanent houses in Colombo this year, according to Director General of Media Centre for National Security, Lakshman Hulugalle. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Over_13000_to_get_permanent_houses_in_Colombo_20130409_05 04/09/2013 05:40:40 Contact and interaction between Sri Lanka and India has continued since time immemorial. Civilisational ties and cultural links between all parts of India and Sri Lanka have been substantial. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Statement_by_the_Ministry_of_External_Affairs_20130409_04 04/09/2013 05:40:40 President Mahinda Rajapaksa appealed to everybody to join hands to steer the country towards development while safeguarding national identity. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Certain_elements_trying_to_push_back_development_20130409_03 04/09/2013 05:40:40 The government has given priority to launch sanitation projects apart from community water supply projects in the Northern Province,Water Supply and Drainage Minister Dinesh Gunawardane said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=More_water_supply_projects_in_North_20130409_02 04/09/2013 05:40:40 Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa made a visit to Kooragala ancient archeological site yesterday (08th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Secretary_Defence_Visits_Kooragala_20130409_01 04/08/2013 05:40:40 Dependent War Heroes at Abimansala wellness resort in Anuradhapura celebrated New Year festival at the resort premises on 06th April 2013. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=War_Heroes_at_Abimansala_Celebrates_New_Year_Festival_20130408_02 04/08/2013 10:03:25 External Affairs Minister Prof G.L.Peiris observed that the Commonwealth has to adapt to changing circumstances to avoid becoming extinct. "However, that does not mean that the character of the Commonwealth can be subverted to suit narrow political interests. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=SL_does_not_want_Cwealth_distorted_20130408_01 04/07/2013 08:45:07 Ranathunga ran a rice mill in the heart of Murunkan until he left the town on December 24, 1984 when the LTTE abducted and tortured him. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Evicted_Sinhala_families_resettled_in_North_20130407_01 04/06/2013 08:45:07 Officials and the staff of the Ministry of Defence and Urban Development along with their families celebrated the traditional Sinhala and Hindu New Year festival at Air force grounds (Rifle Green) today (06th April). http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Our_Sinhala_and_Tamil_New_Year_Celebration_20130406_04 04/06/2013 08:45:07 Plans are afoot to promote solar power based electricity, specially in the fields of agricultural and irrigation development in the Mannar district. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Solar_Power_based_electricity_for_Mannar_mooted_20130406_03 04/06/2013 08:45:07 The Civil Security Departments (CSD) Seva Vanitha Unit (SVU) on the direction of its Chairperson Kumuduni Peiris has taken measures to construct 250 new houses for CSD War Heroes this year. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Fair_to_raise_funds_to_construct_houses_for_War_Heroes_20130406_02 04/06/2013 08:45:07 Sri Lanka and Pakistan reviewed the ongoing bilateral cooperation in multi - faceted areas that exist between the two countries on Friday in Colombo. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_seeks_enhanced_co_operation_with_Pakistan_20130406_01 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, the Foreign Secretary of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan paid a courtesy call to Secretary Defence and Urban Development, Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (05th April) at the Ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Pakistan_Foreign_Secretary_pays_courtesy_call_to_Secretary_20130405_06 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Sri Lanka wins the third best exhibitor award at the International Tourism Fair (ITB) in Berlin, Germany. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_shines_at_International_Tourism_Fair_20130405_02 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Mr. Borislav Sarandev, Honourary Counsel of Sri Lanka in Bulgaria paid a courtesy call to Secretary Defence and Urban Development, Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (05th April) at the Ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Bulgarian_Honorary_Counsel_pays_courtesy_call_to_Secretary_20130405_07 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Eleven pro-Eelam students were taken into custody by the Indian police on Wednesday, as they barged into the Mihin Lanka airlines corporate office at Trichy. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Pro_Eelam_activists_arrested_in_India_20130405_05 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Six member Official Delegation accompanied by His Excellency Mr. Yipene Djibrill Bassole, Senior Minister of Foreign Affairs of Burkina Faso paid a courtesy call to Secretary Defence and Urban Development, Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (05th April) at the Ministry premises http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Senior_Foreign_Affairs_Minister_of_Burkina_Faso_pays_20130405_08 04/05/2013 08:45:07 The Sri Lanka Navy handed over the Kirinda Naval Detachment to the Sri Lanka Coast Guard during a brief ceremony held at Kirinda Naval Detachment premises on 2nd April. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Kirinda_Navy_base_handed_over_to_Coast_Guard_20130405_04 04/05/2013 08:45:07 Fulfilling a long felt need, the road constructed from Padeniya to Anuradhapura will be ceremonially opened by President Mahinda Rajapaksa on April 8 at 10 a.m. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=New_road_linking_North_to_be_opened_20130405_01 04/04/2013 08:45:07 There is a peace and tranquility one feels and a marked difference in Sri Lanka since the end of the war, said Pakistani Foreign Secretary , Jilal Abbas Jilani when he met President Mahinda Rajapaksa today (4) at the Presidential Secretariat http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=There_is_peace_and_tranquility_in_Sri_Lanka_Pakistani_Foreign_Secretary_20130404_06 04/04/2013 08:45:07 The alleged killing of Prabakarans son has evoked horror, but there can be no forgetting the children who were the LTTEs cannon fodder, P. Jeyaram stated in an Op-Ed in The Hindu of April 3 http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=No_forgetting_of_children_who_were_LTTE_cannon_fodder_20130404_05 04/04/2013 08:45:07 A three day Training Workshop for instructors began today (04th April) at the auditorium of the Institute of Human Resource Advancement of the University of Colombo. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Instructor_training_workshop_for_Security_Forces_personnel_20130404_04 04/04/2013 08:45:07 A Supplementary Contract Agreement was signed to construct a teaching hospital for the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, today (04 April) at the Defence Ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=KDU_to_get_new_multimillion_dollar_Teaching_Hospital_20130404_03 04/04/2013 08:45:07 According to foreign media reports the Thailand Police have arrested an organized gang involved in credit card scam that had fraudulently withdrawn around 10 million baht using over 100 ATM cards. The arrested include two former LTTE cadres who had fled to Thailand. Investigations are under way to ascertain the possibility of any terrorism funding involvement. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Ex_LTTE_cadres_arrested_for_credit_card_scam_in_Thailand_20130404_02 04/04/2013 08:45:07 IDPs expelled from the Northern Province by the LTTE in 1990s are yet to be resettled. However, the process in this regard is taking place as per the government pledge, said Industry and Commerce Minister Rishad http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Mannar_IDP_resettlement_in_progress_Minister_Bathiudeen_20130404_01 04/03/2013 08:45:07 A six member Chinese delegation headed by Mr. Zhou Qing paid a courtesy call to Secretary Defence and Urban Development today (03 April) at the Ministry premises http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Chinese_Vice_Minister_pays_courtesy_call_to_Secretary_Defence_20130403_06 04/03/2013 08:45:07 Sri Lanka, for the first time, was ranked in the "high human development" category of the United Nations Human Development Program (UNDP) "Human Development Report (HDR) 2013". http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Significant_reduction_in_Sri_Lankan_illegal_immigrants_to_Australia_20130403_05 04/03/2013 08:45:07 Sri Lanka, for the first time, was ranked in the "high human development" category of the United Nations Human Development Program (UNDP) "Human Development Report (HDR) 2013". http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Sri_Lanka_ranks_high_in_UN_HDR_20130403_04 04/03/2013 08:45:07 A decision has been taken to increase the number of scholarships awarded for foreign cadets to the prestigious General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU) http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=More_foreign_Cadets_to_the_KDU_20130403_03 04/03/2013 08:45:07 UK High Commissioner in Sri Lanka John Rankin yesterday welcomed the massive development activities taking place in the North and the East after the end of the 30 year conflict. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=UK_welcomes_massive_development_in_NE_High_Commissioner_John_Rankin_20130403_02 04/03/2013 08:45:07 Clergy representing different faiths yesterday stressed on the urgent need of working towards fostering ethnic harmony and peace while creating a better environment for mutual understanding and amity among all ethnic groups. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Clergy_appeals_for_ethnic_harmony_20130403_01 04/02/2013 08:45:07 Head of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Sri Lanka Mr. Richard Danziger paid a courtesy call on Secretary Defence and Urban Development Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa today (02 April) at the ministry premises. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=IOM_Chief_pays_farewell_call_on_Secretary_Defence_20130402_06 04/02/2013 08:45:07 Cuddalore MP K S Azhagiri raised doubts over Prabhakarans son Balachandrans death and claimed that there was no video evidence on the killing by the Sri Lankan armed forces. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=No_proof_of_Bala_murder_Congress_MP_20130402_05 04/02/2013 08:45:07 A memorial programme to commemorate the Valiant Malay War Heroes of the tri forces and police was held at the Sri Lanka Malay Club premise ‘Padang’ at Kew Road in Colombo 2 on the 30th of March. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Malay_War_Heroes_remembered_20130402_04 04/02/2013 08:45:07 Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaas on-going vengeful reactions in response to the two photographs produced by Callum Macrae are notable for their irrational and amateurish nature. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=She_that_plants_seeds_of_shame_and_danger_for_India_20130402_03 04/02/2013 08:45:07 A group of officers from Pakistan Navy War College visited Sri Lanka recently as part of their Foreign Study Tour Programme. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Pakistani_Navy_War_College_delegation_visits_20130402_02 04/02/2013 08:45:07 Ministry of Land and Land Development has opened Coordinating Offices in the Northern and Eastern Provinces for the implementation of the recommendations made by the Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission, states a Land and Land Development Ministry media release. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Land_Development_Ministry_Coordinating_Offices_20130402_01 03/31/2013 08:45:07 Children of the Preschool at Sri Lanka Air Force Batticaloa celebrated the annual New Year Festival at the Preschool premises on 28th March 2013 http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Kids_in_Batticaloa_celebrates_Annual_New_Year_Festival_20130401_05 03/31/2013 08:45:07 Children of the Preschool at Sri Lanka Air Force Batticaloa celebrated the annual New Year Festival at the Preschool premises on 28th March 2013 http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Kids_in_Batticaloa_celebrates_Annual_New_Year_Festival_20130401_05 03/31/2013 08:45:07 The Mahinda Rajapaksa government ensured the security of the Tamil and other minority communities while their reasonable demands have also been met, Prime Minister D M Jayaratne said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=All_communities_looked_after_by_govt_PM_20130401_04 03/31/2013 08:45:07 Three new trains provided by the Indian government to Sri Lanka are to be used in the Northern Railway Line, being constructed by an Indian company http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Indian_trains_for_Northern_Railway_Line_20130401_03 03/31/2013 08:45:07 The international community should maintain vigilance, and not create opportunities, even inadvertently, for terrorism to resurface in Sri Lanka, Korean ambassador to Colombo Jongmoon Choi said. http://www.defence.lk/new.asp?fname=Support_Lanka_20130401_01