News
COLOMBO AIR SYMPOSIUM-2023 (CAS)
The Colombo Air Symposium-2023 (CAS), an annual International Academic Forum organized by the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), is set to commence for the sixth time after a three-year hiatus. Scheduled for Oct 9 and 10 at the Eagle’s Lakeside Banquet and Convention Hall, CAS extends invitations to intellectuals, diplomats, military leaders, policymakers, and technological experts. The symposium aims to delve into the realms of defense and security, exploring the multifaceted dimensions of airpower, interaction, and juxtaposition.
Under the direct guidance and supervision of the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, CAS 2023 adopts the theme “Fostering shared air interests in the IOR: Geopolitical Cooperation, Complexities, and Compulsions.” This thematic choice establishes a platform to enhance cooperation and mutual understanding among nations in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), particularly regarding shared air interests. The symposium prioritizes discussions that promote transparency and trust-building, serving as a means to prevent conflicts within the airspace of the IOR. It also delves into strategies aimed at achieving efficient, safe, and sustainable airspace management within the intricate and complex IOR environment.
Furthermore, CAS 2023 critically examines the role of airpower within developing nations, especially within the challenging context of the geopolitical landscape, and assesses its far-reaching impacts on regional and global dynamics. It underscores the utilization of airpower for the betterment of human security through humanitarian endeavors, disaster response, and conflict prevention.
The symposium also addresses the imperative of ensuring the long-term effectiveness of airpower in developing nations despite the prevalent political and economic challenges. Notably, CAS 2023 seeks to identify strategies and cooperative measures that can bolster airpower capabilities in a region marked by Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA).
Distinguished guests at the Colombo Air Symposium 2023 include the Chief of Staff and National Security Advisor to the President, Hon. Sagala Rathnayake, who will serve as the Chief Guest. Additionally, Professor Adam Leong Kok Wey, a prominent figure in the field of strategic studies and the Director of the Centre for Defence and International Security Studies (CDISS) at the National Defence University of Malaysia, will deliver the keynote address.
Bottom of FormColombo Air Symposium will be represented by Ambassadors, High Commissioners and foreign delegates attending from over 40 countries including United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada, India, China and more. Furthermore, foreign research authors and high-ranked officers from defence forces will complete the lineup of papers presented at the event.
The Air Symposium themed “Fostering shared air interests in the IOR: Geopolitical Cooperation, Complexities and Compulsions” will explore a wider understanding and stronger collaborations under the following session themes.
* Air Space Management
* Airpower
* Socioeconomic compulsions
* Sustenance under ‘VUCA’
* Regional coherence and interdependence
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake officially opened the Wax Museum established at the historic Ehelepola Walawwa in Kandy.this morning (17)
The Ehelepola Walawwa, which was renovated by the Urban Development Authority, has been handed over to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. The museum was then established, ensuring the preservation of its archaeological and cultural significance.
The museum features wax recreations depicting the architecture, customs and arts and crafts of the Kandyan Kingdom, to which the Ehelepola Walawwa belongs. There are also exhibition stalls showcasing traditional industries, as well as a dining area illustrating how ancient royal meals were prepared, complete with their recipes.
Furthermore, 35 lifelike wax figures of significant historical figures have been recreated at the museum. These include Ven. Weliwita Sri Saranankara Sangharaja Thera, Ven. Wariyapola Sri Sumangala Thera, King Wimaladharmasūriya I, Queen Kusumāsana Devi, Monarawila Keppetipola Disawe, Devendra Mulachari, Governor Robert Brownrigg, Ehelepola Maha Adikaram, Kumarihami, and their two children.
It’s anticipated that this museum, designed to showcase Sri Lanka’s grandeur and pride, will be a major attraction for both local and international tourists visiting Kandy.
It’s also expected to become a centre where the current generation can accurately study the Kandyan Kingdom and its associated history.
Athula Herath, a resident of Gampola, is the designer of the museum. The project, which falls under the Ehelepola Walawwa Museum Special Project, was implemented at a cost of Rs. 300 million.
Among those present at the opening were Most Venerable Dr Niyangoda Vijithasiri Thera, Anunayake of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siyam Maha Nikaya and Most Venerable Ven. Dimbulkumbure Wimaladhamma Thera, Anunayake of the Malwathu Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya; Most Venerable Wendaruwe Upali Thera and Most Venerable Anamaduwe Dhammadassi Thera, the Anunayake Theras of the Asgiri Chapter of the Siam Maha Nikaya, along with other revered monks from both the Malwathu and Asgiri Chapters of the Syamopali Maha Nikaya, including their registrars and executive council members.
Also in attendance were K.D. Lalkantha, Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation, Pradeep Nilanga Dela, Diyawadana Nilame of the Sri Dalada Maligawa and a host of invited dignitaries and scholars from various fields.
It has been reported that three police officers holding the rank of Sub Inspector [SI] attached to the Matara Division Intelligence Unit and the Thihagoda and Mawarala police stations have been interdicted following allegations of misconduct.
The three officers are alleged to have visited a Spa in the Walgama area in Matara and demanded free service..
Based on a complaint received, an internal investigation conducted by the Office of the Superintendent of Police in Matara found the officers guilty of misconduct and corrupt practices.
Further investigations into the incident are being conducted.
It has been reported that indictments have been served on former Minister of Health Keheliya Rambukwella, his wife, three daughters and son-in-law charged for acquiring wealth unlawfully.
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