Business
India assures continued support for SL at Creditors’ Committee along with Japan and Paris Club
by Sanath Nanayakkare
India will continue to play a constructive role as a Co-Chair of the Creditors Committee along with Japan and the Paris Club, Vinod K Jacob, Indian Deputy High Commissioner (DHC) said in Colombo recently.
He said so at the Inauguration of the Construction, Power and Energy Expo 2023 in Colombo on 7 July 2023.
“The past three years have demonstrated the close links between the people of India and Sri Lanka. In line with the Neighbourhood First policy of the Government of India, the Indian High Commission has steadfastly supported the economic and social ministries of Sri Lanka as they navigated the challenges of the Covid pandemic, the economic crisis and the political upheavals during this period,” DHC said.
Speaking further he noted: “India’s financial and humanitarian support worth USD 4 billion is far in excess of the total anticipated Extended Fund Facility of the IMF. We were the first creditor nation in January this year to convey the financing assurances needed to kick start the IMF process. India will continue to play a constructive role as a Co-Chair of the Creditors Committee along with Japan and the Paris Club.”
“Resumption of Chennai-Jaffna flights is yet another step in bringing the people of the two countries closer. Ferry services between the two countries will bolster this further. Connectivity is a force multiplier in this context. This will complement the flagship development cooperation partnership which has given such useful public goods like the Suwaseriya 1990 Ambulance, Indian Housing Project, the reconstruction of schools and construction of hospitals and other socio-economic projects.”
” I am particularly encouraged by the enthusiastic participation of Indian companies in this Expo, which by the latest count amounts to nearly 50. This testifies to the robust economic and commercial links between India and Sri Lanka.”
“The successful visit of External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to Sri Lanka in January this year opened up avenues for further cooperation through investment in infrastructure, manufacturing and promoting connectivity. India was Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner in 2022. Sri Lanka’s exports to India have also grown. Use of Rupees for trade settlement is further helping Sri Lanka’s economy. These are concrete steps to help Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and growth.”
“I am glad to note that India was once again the largest source of tourists for Sri Lanka last year with over 100,000 tourists and is continuing to top the chart so to say this year as well. Around one in every five to six tourists in Sri Lanka is an Indian.”
“Recent developments in India-Sri Lanka ties have strengthened our friendship and all-round cooperation. At the same time, the two countries also remain vigilant to address common challenges, especially in maritime security domain.”
“I hope the participants in the Expo will keep this background in mind and strive to further deepen India-Sri Lanka friendship which is currently at its highest point in the past 75 years. We have reached this stage because the people, the business circles and Government of India have resolved to strongly stand by Sri Lanka in the current juncture.”
Business
Cabinet approves submission of the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the proposal forwarded by the President in his office as the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development to submit the Report on the Annual Economic Analysis of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 to the Parliament.
As per section 80 (3) of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka Act No. 16 of 2023, the Minister in – charge of the subject of Finance shall submit a report on the economic situation which prevailed within the particular financial year, within four months after completion of each financial year. Accordingly, the report in relation to the financial review of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka for the year 2024 has been submitted to the President. The report has envisaged macro economic trends of Sri Lanka, situation of the financial system, as well as the major developments and a review of the policies of Central Bank of Sri Lanka.
[DGI]
Gigalingua Lanka, a premier German language institute, officially launched in Colombo with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Felix Neumann, German ambassador to Sri Lanka. This marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan professionals, especially nurses, looking to expand their careers in Germany’s thriving healthcare sector.
In collaboration with its strategic partner Global Care Solutions (Pvt) Ltd – a renowned company in the foreign recruitment industry – Gigalingua Lanka offers a unique pathway for Sri Lankan nurses and apprentices to master the German language and pursue rewarding career opportunities in Germany.
Dr. Felix Neumann, the Chief Guest at the event, expressed his support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of language education as a bridge to global career prospects. In his speech, Dr. Neumann noted, “German language is not only a means of communication, it is a gateway to global career opportunities.” He commended Gigalingua Lanka for providing valuable opportunities for Sri Lankans and addressing the critical demand for skilled workers, especially in the nursing sector in Germany.
Gigalingua Lanka is the first private institute in Sri Lanka to offer comprehensive German language training up to the B2 level, and conduct TELC exam. The institution also provides language training for apprentices, allowing them to undertake the Apprenticeship Program and contribute to the growing labor market in Germany. The collaboration between Gigalingua Lanka and Global Care Solutions is designed to meet Germany’s growing need for skilled workers, particularly in the healthcare sector.
The event was attended by a number of prominent figures, including Dr. Felix Neumann , Arthur Senanayake (chairman of IWS Holdings), Eran Wickramaratne – former MP, Chandra Schaffter – ( Founder of Janashakthi Insurance ), Dhammika Attygalle (Director Upali Group of Companies and President Automobile Association of Ceylon) Former Wing Commander Buwaneka Abeysuriya (Ex- chairman Janatha Estates Development Board).
Chairman of Global Care Solutions, Thomas Michael Kriwat, who is also chairman of the Mercmarine Group of Companies in Germany, highlighted the significance of the new training center. He said, “We are bringing world-class German occupational language training to Colombo, offering a structured, career-focused pathway for Sri Lankan professionals. By introducing TELC (The European Language Certificates) as an officially certified German language test authority, we are increasing accessibility for students seeking internationally recognized qualifications.”
At the thanksgiving speech, Dr. Rajan Sara, Managing Director of Global Care Solutions and Director of Gigalingua Lanka, outlined the critical need for foreign nurses in Germany. “Germany is facing a significant shortage of nurses, estimated to need an additional 150,000 by 2025. This is exacerbated by an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. Over 47,000 vacancies in the healthcare sector remain unfilled, making it an ideal time for Sri Lankan nurses to seize this opportunity,” Dr. Sara explained. (Gigalingua Lanka)
In keeping with its vision to consistently evolve and address accelerated business growth needs, Brown & Company PLC recently unveiled its new state-of-the-art manufacturing and warehouse facility in Katunayake. Strategically located within minutes of the Bandaranaike International Airport and the nation’s rapidly evolving highway network, the space is positioned to significantly enhance Browns’ logistical capabilities. The hub will enable seamless access to key markets across the island, further solidifying the Company’s principal role in a cross-section of industries.
The inaugural event of the Browns Group Industrial Park was attended by Ishara Nanayakkara, Chairman, Brown & Company PLC and Deputy Chairman, LOLC Holdings PLC and Kapila Jayawardene, Group Managing Director/CEO, LOLC Holdings PLC along with key officials from the Browns and LOLC Group.
Maintaining public trust is a fundamental responsibility of the Police Department – President
Submission of gazette notifications for the concurrence of the Parliament.
Cabinet approval to prepare new Act for securing the rights of plant species
-
Business2 days agoColombo Coffee wins coveted management awards
-
Features3 days agoStarlink in the Global South
-
Business4 days agoDaraz Sri Lanka ushers in the New Year with 4.4 Avurudu Wasi Pro Max – Sri Lanka’s biggest online Avurudu sale
-
Business5 days agoStrengthening SDG integration into provincial planning and development process
-
Business4 days agoNew SL Sovereign Bonds win foreign investor confidence
-
Sports6 days agoTo play or not to play is Richmond’s decision
-
Features3 days agoModi’s Sri Lanka Sojourn
-
Sports5 days agoNew Zealand under 85kg rugby team set for historic tour of Sri Lanka