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Japanese Ambassador Hideaki attends opening of Kebitigollewa solar power plant funded by Tokyo
Japanese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Mizukoshi Hideaki on Wednesday (7) attended the opening ceremony of the Kebitigollewa Solar Power Plant, the first project under the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM). Among those present on the occasion were Dr. Sulakshana Jayawardena, Secretary to the Ministry of Power & Energy and Shibata Tatsuhiro, President of Shibata Corporation Co., Ltd and Manjula Perera, Managing Director of Windforce PLC.
In his address, the Ambassador highlighted the significance of the Kebitigollewa Solar Power Plant as a major achievement in the bilateral cooperation between Japan and Sri Lanka. The solar plant, which is the first project under the JCM in Sri Lanka, represents a pivotal step in advancing renewable energy and underscores the commitment of both nations to sustainable development.
Established through a Memorandum of Cooperation in October 2022, the JCM supports projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote low-carbon technologies. The successful completion of this solar power plant by Shibata Corporation and Windforce PLC, exemplifies the positive impact of the JCM framework. The plant will deliver clean, sustainable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and contribute to Sri Lanka’s energy security and environmental objectives. Additionally, it will create local employment opportunities, including for women, thereby supporting community development.
The JCM not only addresses environmental challenges but also plays a crucial role in promoting Japanese investment in Sri Lanka. By facilitating the transfer of advanced technologies and expertise, the JCM strengthens economic ties and fosters mutual growth. This project serves as a model for future collaborations, demonstrating how sustainable initiatives can drive both environmental and economic benefits.
While reiterating the importance of the JCM, the Ambassador also noted Japan’s continued support in the power sector through Yen Loan projects, including the ongoing transmission line construction. These projects utilize Japan’s low-loss transmission technology to reduce CO2 emissions and enhance the efficiency of Sri Lanka’s power supply system. The decision to resume the Yen Loans on July 24th further underscores Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s energy infrastructure.
The Embassy of Japan in Sri Lanka expresses its sincere gratitude to all parties involved in this project. This achievement marks a promising beginning for further joint initiatives under the JCM, supporting Sri Lanka in its renewable energy goals and fostering a greener future.
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Russian Embassy, Russian House, unveil plaque at Public Library in honour of 80th anniversary of victory day
The Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka and the Russian House in Colombo unveiled a plaque at the public library Colombo today (29th April) in honour of the 80th anniversary of victory day.
Victory Day is celebrated on the 9th of May, the day Nazi Germany was defeated in World War II. It is an important date in the Russian calendar and an integral part of Russian culture.
The plaque was jointly unveiled by the Ambassador of the Russian Federation in Sri Lanka Lenav Dzhagaryan and Ms Maria Popova Counsellor of the Russian Embassy in Sri Lanka and Director of the Russian House in Colombo
News
Ministerial committee appointed to review and further enhance ‘State Commercial Enterprises Management draft bill’
It has been recognized that the state enterprises should be re – structured and maintained with proper administration with the assistance of local or foreign investments without being a continuous burden to the General Treasury and the country’s economy. Therefore, it is the policy of the new government to introduce an efficient and accountable mechanism in the regard. An initial draft named “State Commercial Enterprises Management Draft Bill” has been already prepared to introduce a new legal framework required for maintaining after performing necessary restructuring and with proper management of government owned business companies. Thereon, it will be possible to totally free the state entrepreneurship establishments from political influences and appoint professionals with proficiency for its board of directors.
Accordingly, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the proposal furnished by the President in his capacity as the Minister of Finance, Plan Implementation and Economic Development to grant policy approval of the Cabinet of Ministers for the said initial draft and appoint a special committee with the following composition to submit appropriate proposals for further enhancing after reviewing the initial draft:
• Hon. (Dr.) Anil Jayantha Fernando, Minister of Labour and the Deputy Minister of Economic Development – (Chairman)
• Hon. Sunil Handunneththi Minister of Industries and Entrepreneurship
• Hon. Wasantha Samarasinghe Minister of Trade, Commerce, Food Security and Co – operative Development
• Hon. (Dr.) Harshana Sooriyapperuma Deputy Minister of Finance Plan Implementation
The Cabinet of Ministers granted approval to the proposal submitted by the Minister of Justice and National Integration to appoint Thilak Nandana Hettiarachchi, a special grade officer in Sri Lanka Administrative Service who served in the post of Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Buddha Shasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, to the post of Commissioner General of Official Languages with immediate effect.
Russian Embassy, Russian House, unveil plaque at Public Library in honour of 80th anniversary of victory day
Ministerial committee appointed to review and further enhance ‘State Commercial Enterprises Management draft bill’
Thilak Nandana Hettiarachchi appointed Commissioner General of Official Languages
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