Business
Development Research – a ‘passion’ at the Dr. Gamani Corea Foundation
By Lynn Ockersz
In its refurbished, salubrious and tranquil location at ‘Horton Lodge’, Colombo 7, which was the original home of internationally renowned economist Dr. Gamani Corea, the Gamani Corea Foundation hopes to forge ahead towards expanding the frontiers of Development Research.
‘Our passion is to promote Development Research. This is in keeping with the late Dr. Gamani Corea’s aim of furthering research in economic development in Sri Lanka. Our main mission could be likened to that of the Rockefeller Foundation in the US, which was committed to improving the living conditions of people around the world, Board Director of the Gamani Corea Foundation, Dr. Harsha Aturupane said. He was addressing a reception for family and friends at ‘Horton Lodge’ to mark Dr. Gamani Corea’s 10th death anniversary on November 2nd. The picturesque ‘Horton Lodge’ is now the headquarters of the Foundation.
Some extracts from Dr. Aturupane’s address: ‘Development Research is the focus of the Dr. Gamani Corea Foundation’s Innovators’ Forum as well, which is in the process of facilitating the conduct and writing of research by specialists on different aspects of the local economy. At present we are trying to help the National Planning Commission as well. We are majorly into international development and collaboration in the pursuit of the wellbeing of the world’s publics. We are also well into macroeconomic and Human Development Research.
‘A cause that is advanced by us with vigour is the formulation of a good national plan. “Blue Skies” research, studies into the “Dark Internet Economy”, and AI research are new areas that we are breaking into. We are also attaching priority to the furtherance of international links with development organizations, such as the South Centre and UNCTAD. In all these endeavours only the late Dr. Corea’s funds will be used.’
Chairman, Dr. Gamani Corea Foundation, Dr. Lloyd Fernando, speaking on Gamani Corea the person said, among other things: ‘The late Dr. Gamani Corea was kind, humble, amiable and witty. I met him first as a junior officer or “Podian” at the Planning Commission in the sixties. He did not care for hierarchy nor did he adhere to narrow thinking in educational matters. Despite some sections of the government of the day having reservations about my Russian qualifications, Dr. Corea enlisted me to state service and later recommended me to the Institute of Development Studies of the University of Sussex, where I completed my doctorate. This showed his character and humanity.
‘Dr. Corea had to resign from his positions in the state sector with the change of government in 1970. But the then Prime Minister, Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike, sent him as Sri Lanka’s ambassador to Brussels.’
Sri Lanka’s well known radio journalist and broadcaster, Dr. Vijaya Corea, a sibling of Dr. Gamani Corea, who was 18 years his junior said: ‘The Dr. Gamani Corea Foundation has done a classical job in carrying forward my brother’s name. He could relate to any generation with ease. Good humour was one of his strong points. The extent of his simplicity was such that he did not want to be referred to as “Dr.” He was as simple as simple could be.’
The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has transformed its iconic ‘Foreign Branch’ into the ‘Corporate Branch,’ reaffirming its commitment to delivering dedicated, comprehensive financial solutions to corporate and trade customers.
The Bank said this transformation represents a new milestone in its illustrious journey, and resonates with the rich commercial heritage of Colombo, a city that has long served as a vital trading hub in the region.
Strategically located at the Bank’s Head Office at Commercial House, 21, Sir Razeek Fareed Mawatha (Bristol Street), Colombo 1, this rebranded Corporate Branch stands as a first of its kind in Sri Lanka —a premier financial hub tailored exclusively to the needs of corporate customers, the Bank said. The transformation aligns with the Bank’s vision of providing unparalleled service excellence, bespoke financial solutions, and fostering long-term business partnerships.
Commenting on this strategic initiative, Commercial Bank’s Managing Director/CEO Sanath Manatunge stated: “It is our aspiration that just as the historic Delft Gateway, at which our Head Office is located, once opened the path to the Dutch Fort, our Corporate Branch will chart a new era of enduring and prosperous business collaborations, that will extend beyond Sri Lanka’s shores.”
Fits Retail has partnered with retail giant Abans PLC to showcase the iconic DeLonghi coffee machines at two of Colombo’s most prestigious locations: Abans Elite Colombo 3 and Abans Havelock City Mall showrooms.
At these dedicated demonstration zones, visitors can discover the unparalleled precision engineering and user-friendly technology that have made DeLonghi machines the preferred choice for discerning coffee lovers in more than 46 countries worldwide. Renowned for consistently delivering café-quality espresso, cappuccino, and even specialty cold brews, DeLonghi machines exemplify Italian innovation at its finest.
Yasas Kodituwakku, CEO of Fits Retail, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “This partnership represents our unwavering commitment to bringing global coffee excellence to Sri Lankan connoisseurs. With Abans PLC, we’re creating more than just demonstration spaces; we’re curating premium destinations for an authentic coffee experience.”
“As pioneers of premium lifestyle experiences in Sri Lanka, our collaboration with Fits Retail aligns seamlessly with our vision of elevating everyday moments into exceptional experiences,” said Tanaz Pestonjee, Director Business Development at Abans PLC.
Business
Members’ Night of the Sri Lanka – Russia Business Council of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce
The Sri Lanka-Russia Business Council (SLRBC) of The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) hosted a Members’ Night on March 27, at the Sophia Colombo City Hotel. The event, attended by His Excellency Levan S. Dzhagaryan, Ambassador of Russia to Sri Lanka, offered a valuable platform for business leaders, embassy officials, and Members to discuss and explore opportunities for deeper Sri Lanka-Russia collaboration, a CCC news release said.
SLRBC President, Mr. Jude Fernando, kicked off the evening with a speech highlighting the importance of strengthening international ties, which was followed by H.E. Dzhagaryan’s address on the need for continued engagement between the two countries. The event featured networking opportunities, allowing Members to connect with key stakeholders and discuss future business ventures, followed by a delightful dinner.
The event was made possible with the generous support of sponsors, including OCEAN 7 Logistics (Pvt) Ltd, Bally/Walkers Tours, Fibre cement associations, Ceylon Fresh Teas, SCANWELL Logistics, Regency Teas, Shan Teas, and others, whose contributions were key to its success.
The SLRBC is committed to further facilitating trade and cultural exchange between Sri Lanka and Russia, continuing to foster stronger business relationships.
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