News
SLPP coalition partners are entitled to express their views – PM
by Norman Palihawadana
Coalition partners of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) have every right to express their views freely and fearlessly. The expression of a standpoint doesn’t boil down to disunity within the coalition government as they are entitled to their views, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said.
Some opposition members are elated as they seem to believe that cracks are appearing in the SLPP just because a partner in the ruling coalition gave expression to his thoughts, the premier noted.
“They are living in a dream world because the SLPP remains united, committed and as strong as ever”, Rajapaksa told The Sunday Island.
Without lending support to ongoing efforts to curb the Covid-19 threat, they are anxiously waiting for the downfall of the government. When a coalition partner expresses his views, they are elated that a collapse is imminent as there’s disunity within government ranks. This is far from the truth, he added.
Asked about underworld fugitives directing criminal operations in Sri Lanka from foreign countries, the Prime Minister said the assistance of INTERPOL (International Police) has been sought to bring them before the law.
“Whether underworld kingpins are in Sri Lanka or operating from other countries, there’s no escape as we are going all out to round them up”, he said.
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri arrived at the Port of Colombo on a formal visit on Friday [04 Apr 25]. The visiting ship was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in compliance with naval traditions.
INS Sahyadri is a 143m long Frigate manned by a crew of 320 and the ship is commanded by Captain Rajat Kumar.
During their visit to the crew of INS Sahyadri will participate in events hosted by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed to strengthen bilateral ties. They will also visit several tourist hotspots across the country.
Concluding the visit, INS Sahyadri is scheduled to set sail from Colombo on 07 Apr
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) BUNGO and ETAJIMA which arrived in Sri Lanka on a goodwill visit on 01 Apr 25, departed the island on Friday [04 Apr].
The Sri Lanka Navy bade customary farewell to the departing ships at the Port of Colombo, following naval traditions. Upon leaving, the duo of ships engaged in a successful Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with SLNS Vijayabahu. The PASSEX involved training exercises in communication and tactical maneuvering, concluding with the traditional cheer ship salute.
During their stay in Colombo, crew members of the JMSDF ships took part in several programmes organized by the Sri Lanka Navy, aimed at enhancing mutual cooperation. In addition, they also explored some tourist attractions in Colombo. Further, personnel of Sri Lanka Navy had the opportunity to visit JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA, gaining insights into their operational capabilities.
The Commanding Officers of JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA, Commander TANAKA Koji and Commander ODA Takayuki called on Commander Western Naval Area, and Director General Operations, on 01 Apr.
The official welcoming ceremony for the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, who arrived in Sri Lanka on Friday (April 4) night for a three-day state visit, is currently underway at Independence Square in Colombo.
INS Sahyadri arrives at Port of Colombo
JMSDF BUNGO and ETAJIMA depart island
Ceremonial reception for Indian PM Narendra Modi commences
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