News
US Embassy video chronicles 75 years of people, partnership and progress through USAID
Celebrating diplomacy through development
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the United States and Sri Lanka, the U.S. Embassy has unveiled a special video chronicling the remarkable journey of development, with an emphasis on the pivotal role played by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Whether it’s rebuilding after disasters and conflict, assisting in the development of democratic governance, or helping build an inclusive economy that creates jobs, USAID has been here for Sri Lanka as a steadfast friend over the decades.
U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung remarked on the occasion, “As we celebrate 75 years of bilateral relations, this heartwarming video showcases the accomplishments of decades of partnership between the United States and Sri Lanka. It highlights shared achievements that have impacted the lives of countless Sri Lankans through USAID’s partnerships in education, health, agriculture, and economic development. As we step into the next chapter of our journey, the U.S.-Sri Lanka friendship will continue to thrive, nurturing strong people-to-people ties, partnerships, and progress for years to come.”
USAID Mission Director to Sri Lanka Gabriel Grau said, “Since 1956, and through the generous support of the American people, USAID is proud to continue partnering with the people of Sri Lanka. Each of us here at USAID — Sri Lankan and American alike — is committed to helping improve the lives of every single citizen of this country. Thank you for placing your trust in USAID.”
The High Court has convicted 14 of the 24 men accused of being directly involved in the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings, which killed 279 people.
The three-judge bench read out its decision on Tuesday after a five-year trial and said sentencing would take place later, the AFP news agency reported.
The charges included murder and conspiracy to commit terrorism.
Nine others were acquitted, while another defendant was found guilty of only some of the charges, the court said.
By Shamindra Ferdinando
The ruling NPP yesterday (21) dismissed claims of a widening rift, within the government, over the proposed 22nd Amendment. Asked whether the NPP was concerned over a section of the Opposition alleging Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya and two dozen MPs taking a view contrary to that of the party in this regard, authoritative party sources said some persons were propagating speculation for their own interest.
Declaring that there was absolutely no issue regarding the controversial Amendment, sources emphasised once it was tabled in Parliament, it would be passed with 2/3 majority.
Sources dismissed claims that out of its 159-member parliamentary group a section of NPPers was opposed to the government move. According to an influential Opposition activist, there are 57 JVPers and 66 NPPers in the government group and the rest contested the last parliamentary polls, having aligned with the JVP.
Ministerial sources told The Island that the government was confident of going ahead with the 22nd Amendment and Judicature (Amendment) Bills. Sources said that the NPP was not bothered about the Opposition protests in and outside Parliament.
Speaker Dr. Jagath Wickremaratne is expected to disclose the confidential ruling that he received from the Supreme Court in respect of more than 65 petitions for and against the 22nd Amendment and Judicial Amendment Bills. The enactment of the 22nd Amendment would pave the way for extending the retirement age of Supreme Court judges, from 65 to 67 years, and Court of Appeal judges, from 63 to 65 years.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has appointed Court of Appeal Judge Mayadunna Sri Mevan Anthony Edirimannasuriya Corea as the Acting President of the Court of Appeal.
The appointment has been made as President’s Counsel Nalin Rohantha Abeysuriya, who currently serves as President of the Court of Appeal, will be overseas until the 24th.
Accordingly Justice Mayadunna Corea was sworn in as Acting President of the Court of Appeal before President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential secretariat last morning (21).
Secretary to the President Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake was also present at the occasion.
High Court convicts 14 over deadly Easter bombings
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India bat first in Asian games womens cricket final
Showers about 100mm will occur in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central and North-western provinces and in Galle and Matara Districts
Govt. confident of 2/3 majority despite NPP split speculation
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