President Anura Kumara Disanayake returned to the island this morning (15) after successfully concluding his official visit to the Federal Republic of Germany.

During the visit, the President held bilateral discussions with German President  Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Foreign Minister Dr. Johann Wadephul and Minister of Economic Cooperation and Development Ms. Reem Alabali-Radovan. These discussions focused on exploring new avenues for expanding cooperation between the two countries in areas such as trade, the digital economy, investment and vocational training, in line with the priorities of the Sri Lankan government.

In addition, the President attended a special meeting with representatives of Germany’s Tourism and Travel Industry Associations.

President Disanayake also delivered the keynote address at a Business Forum organized by the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) at its headquarters in Berlin.

During his official visit, the President also took time to meet with members of the Sri Lankan community residing in Germany.

He was accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, along with senior government officials.

Colombo Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith has found fault with the incumbent government for failing to fulfil its promise to bring the true perpetrators of the Easter Sunday attacks to justice and accused the Attorney General Department officials of dancing to the tune of their political masters.

The Cardinal said on Thursday evening that despite the government’s assurances, those commitments had not been fulfilled.

Speaking at a religious ceremony at Kochchikade St. Anthony’s Church in Colombo, Cardinal Ranjith expressed his disappointment at the government’s failure to fulfil its promises, saying, “I am still concerned about the government’s failure to honour its commitment regarding the investigation into the attacks.”

The Cardinal said that six years after the terror attacks, the investigation into the incident remained insufficient.

He said that more than two dozen recommendations had been made in the first volume of the Presidential Commission Report, but no political leader or party had taken any steps to implement them. “No proper framework or mechanism has been put in place,” he lamented.

Cardinal Ranjith criticised former Presidents, Prime Ministers, and senior officials of the police and security forces, saying they had failed to take any action to prevent the attacks despite having the responsibility to do so.

The prelate expressed concern over lapses on the part of the Attorney General’s Department, which had not taken any legal or disciplinary steps in relation to the findings of the report.

He said it was shameful that the Attorney General’s Department had done nothing regarding the attacks. “We are witnessing the actions of certain politicians and high-ranking officials of these departments and the government, who seem more interested in political manoeuvring than in fulfilling their duties,” he said,

adding that the Church was ready to expose the politicisation of some higher ups in the AG’s Department.

During the last election campaign, the government had promised to ensure thorough investigations into the Easter Sunday attacks, appoint a special prosecutor and set up an office for that purpose. However, Cardinal Ranjith pointed out that this promise had also not been fulfilled.

He reiterated that despite being presented with a policy statement from the NPP, which outlined their commitment to investigating the attacks, the government had not initiated any fundamental steps in this regard. “This is something that deeply concerns us,” he said.

By Sujeewa Thathsara ✍️

Jaipur, June 13 (IANS) In a significant step towards enhancing military cooperation between India and Sri Lanka, Lieutenant General BKGM Lasantha Rodrigo, Commander of the Sri Lanka Army, is on a two-day official visit to the Sapta Shakti Command headquartered in Jaipur from June 12 to 13.

Upon his arrival, Lt Gen Rodrigo was accorded a warm and ceremonial welcome by Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the South Western Command.

The visit underlined the deep-rooted defence ties and mutual respect shared between the two neighbouring nations.

During his stay, Lt Gen Rodrigo held comprehensive discussions with Lt Gen Manjinder Singh and other senior officers of the South Western Command.

The dialogue focused on a wide range of strategic and operational issues, including regional security dynamics, joint training programs, capability enhancement, and the sharing of best practices. These discussions aimed to foster greater interoperability and understanding between the two armies.

A highlight of the visit was a dynamic display of military equipment and a live combat demonstration centered on counter-terrorism operations. The demonstration showcased the Indian Armys tactical acumen, operational readiness, and technological capabilities in dealing with modern security threats.

In addition to the military engagements, Lt Gen Rodrigo also explored Rajasthan s rich cultural and martial heritage. He visited key military landmarks and heritage sites, gaining insights into Indias historical military traditions and the valour of its armed forces.

Officials emphasized that the visit reflects the enduring commitment of India and Sri Lanka to deepen their defence cooperation. Rooted in decades of shared history and mutual trust, the partnership aims to promote regional peace, stability, and a collaborative approach to emerging security challenges.

This high-level military engagement is expected to further strengthen the camaraderie between the two armies, enhance capacity-building efforts, and expand avenues for future military exchanges and joint initiatives.