Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting in Colombo today with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, describing the discussions as highly productive and reaffirming the close partnership between the two countries.

Singh conveyed the greetings of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and extended congratulations on the completion of two years of President Dissanayake’s government. 

He emphasized that as “civilized twins, close neighbors, and maritime partners,” India and Sri Lanka remain committed to working together for the development of their nations and the well‑being of their people.

The Defence Minister noted that both sides had also reaffirmed their resolve to cooperate on matters of security, safety, peace, and prosperity across the region. 

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Sri Lanka yesterday, marking the start of a three‑day official visit that will run until September 10. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today handed over the “Navodayapuram” Housing Project to 50 families from Poonagala, Kabaragala who lost their homes in the 2023 landslide and had been living in unsafe conditions for nearly three and a half years. 

The project, constructed with the active contribution of the Sri Lanka Army Corps of Engineers, was hailed as a significant initiative to improve the living standards of the Malayagam community.

Speaking at the ceremony, the President emphasized that the people of Malayagam are equal citizens of Sri Lanka and must enjoy their full rights and dignity. 

He said it would be unjust to allow future generations to inherit the same hardships endured for centuries, and pledged that his Government is committed to ensuring a better quality of life for all citizens who contribute to the nation’s economy.

The President recalled that the Cabinet had recently decided to remove obstacles faced by Sri Lankans who fled the country during the war and are currently living in India, enabling them to return home. 

He also noted that housing construction projects have been given priority in the forthcoming Budget, and that future agreements with plantation companies will include provisions safeguarding the rights of the Malayagam community.

Highlighting the importance of environmental protection, President Dissanayake stressed the need to safeguard the Central Highlands, describing them as the “heart of the country.” 

He announced that legislation would be presented to Parliament by the end of this year or early next year to establish a Central Highlands Protection Authority with comprehensive powers, consolidating the responsibilities of all institutions tasked with protecting the region. 

He invited all citizens to join in the national responsibility of restoring and preserving the Highlands for future generations.

The President commended the Navodayapuram project as a milestone in uplifting the Malayagam community and expressed gratitude to all who contributed to its implementation, particularly acknowledging the Sri Lanka Army Corps of Engineers for their commendable role throughout the construction process. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced that the Central Highlands Conservation Authority Act will be presented to Parliament either at the end of this year or at the beginning of next year, granting the new Authority full powers to protect the fragile ecosystem. 

He made the remarks while attending the ceremony to hand over the “Navodaya Housing Project” to families who lost their homes in the 2023 landslide at Punagala Kabaragala Mountain in Bandarawela.

The President said the Authority will be established with assistance from the Asian Development Bank. 

He cautioned that while it may take decades for the Central Highlands to return to their original state, immediate steps must be taken to halt the ongoing destruction.

Describing the Central Highlands as the heart of Sri Lanka, the President warned that they are being visibly destroyed, with mountain collapses, spring failures, and river blockages already evident. 

He stressed that once the Act is passed, all powers will be vested in the Central Highlands Conservation Authority to safeguard the region. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today extended greetings to Muslims in Sri Lanka and worldwide on the occasion of Mawlid‑un‑Nabi, the commemoration of the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The President described the celebration as “not merely a festival but a profound spiritual occasion, expected to inspire the creation of an equal society.” 

He highlighted the Prophet’s vision of patience, compassion, and sacrifice, which over 23 years laid the foundation for a society built on peace, brotherhood, purity, trustworthiness, and justice.

Rejecting divisions based on race, caste, color, or lineage, the Prophet taught that “true greatness is measured only by noble virtues such as truthfulness, humility, and compassion,” the President noted. He said this vision continues to guide Sri Lanka’s aspiration for a country ruled by law, fairness, equality, and coexistence.

The President also linked the Prophet’s teachings to contemporary challenges, stressing that Islam rejects substances that corrupt inner purity and social morality. 

He said the Prophet’s example provides strength to initiatives such as the government’s national campaign against narcotics, which he described as a menace threatening the motherland.

“As we journey toward a new era that values love over hatred and brotherhood over division, I firmly believe the light of the Prophet’s unparalleled sacrifice and humanity will illuminate that path,” Dissanayake said, inviting citizens to embody the Prophet’s vision, dedication, and righteous effort in their lives.

He concluded by wishing Sri Lankan and global Muslim devotees a meaningful Mawlid‑un‑Nabi celebration. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed the security forces to accelerate the release and return of lands in the Northern and Eastern Provinces that were taken over during the conflict but are no longer required for security purposes.

The directive was issued during a discussion at the Parliamentary Complex on Thursday (20) on expediting the return of private lands acquired for military camps, as well as State lands previously used by local communities.

The President stressed that national security remains paramount, noting that decisions on where military camps and other installations are required must be made by the Tri‑Forces, Police, and relevant security authorities. 

He called for a final determination on which lands can be released and which must be retained.

Emphasising a people‑centred approach, President Dissanayake urged officials to release the maximum possible extent of land to the public and to ensure livelihood opportunities accompany the return of lands.

He further directed the Secretary to the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation to introduce projects incorporating modern agricultural technologies aimed at boosting productivity and creating sustainable livelihoods. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has formally requested the Presidential Media Division to release the unedited full video recording of its discussion with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held on August 12.

In a letter dated August 14, the BASL noted that only a partial recording of the meeting has been provided so far. 

The association pointed out that the video contains only the initial portion of the discussion, with some sections where the audio is unclear.

Accordingly, the BASL has asked for the complete recording, including all interventions, observations, responses, and the final remarks delivered by its delegation. 

The association also requested that the video be supplied in the best possible audio and visual quality.

The letter, signed by BASL Administrative Secretary Surani Samarasekara, was sent to the Presidential Office. (Newswire)

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Mahanayake Thera of the Malwatta Chapter of the Siyam Nikaya in Sri Lanka, Most Venerable Thibbatuwawe Sri Sumangala Mahanayake Thera, has said that the President has not responded to a letter sent by the Mahanayake Theras regarding the proposed extension of judges’ retirement age.

Speaking during a meeting with representatives of a human rights organisation in Kandy, the Thera said that, from ancient times, the Maha Sangha had advised rulers, both verbally and in writing, on matters of national importance.

“In other situations in the past, a reply was sent acknowledging receipt. But on this matter, we have not received a reply as of now. We have not even been informed whether the letter was received,” he said.

At the same meeting, the organisation’s Executive Director, Subhashana Subbavikrama, said that in many countries, judges’ tenure extends beyond the age of 60 and that extending the retirement age in Sri Lanka would therefore not pose a problem. (Newswire)

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has expressed hope that the government will reconsider the proposed constitutional amendment to extend the retirement age of judges following discussions with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting at the Presidential Secretariat, BASL President Rajeev Amarasuriya said the Association explained in detail the reasons behind the legal community’s opposition to the proposed amendment.

He said the BASL delegation included President’s Counsel, former BASL presidents, academics and other legal experts, including Prof. Savitri Goonesekere and Lal Wijenayake.

Amarasuriya said the President also explained his position and views during what he described as a good and frank discussion.

The BASL’s final request was that a change of this nature should only be made following a broad expert consultation involving not only the legal profession but also academics, researchers and others who have studied the issue.

He stressed that the BASL’s position was not directed against any individual and should not be viewed as a confrontation.

“This is not a fight against anyone,” he said, adding that both sides had presented their respective views during the meeting.

Amarasuriya said the BASL hoped the discussion would lead to a wider consultation and eventually allow the proposed amendment to be reconsidered before a final decision is reached.

Responding to questions over personal attacks directed at judges amid the controversy, Amarasuriya said the BASL did not support personal criticism or attacks against anyone.

Asked whether the two sides had reached an agreement, he said no such conclusion had been reached, but expressed optimism following the talks.

Amarasuriya noted that amending the Constitution was within the government’s powers, while the BASL also had the right to express its opposition if it believed such a move was wrong.

He said the BASL expected the President, as a mature political leader who had long advocated for the rule of law and judicial independence, to carefully consider the concerns raised.

“I hope that after today’s discussion, this will move in a positive direction,” Amarasuriya said. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with a senior delegation from China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC), led by Zhang Bingnan, at the Presidential Secretariat on Tuesday (11) to review ongoing projects and explore future investment opportunities centered on Colombo Port City.

The Chinese representatives highlighted that the President’s forward‑looking programmes and policies have become a key driver in attracting foreign investment. 

They expressed confidence in the Government’s current programme of work, noting that it has encouraged CCCC to consider further significant investments in Sri Lanka.

Delegates also conveyed interest in expanding into renewable energy, trade and logistics, and digital services, stressing Sri Lanka’s potential to position itself as a regional hub in these sectors. 

They assured that 90% of the workforce for their projects would be sourced locally, creating substantial employment opportunities for Sri Lankans.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Labour and Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning Anil Jayantha Fernando, Chief of Staff to the President Prabath Chandrakeerthi, Senior Economic Adviser Duminda Hulangamuwa, Senior Additional Secretary Roshan Gamage, Chairman of the Colombo Port City Economic Commission Harsha Amarasekera PC, and senior officials from CCCC and its subsidiaries including CHEC. (Newswire)

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A special discussion is scheduled to take place tomorrow (12) between President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and the Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) on the government’s proposal to raise the retirement age of judges. 

The Presidential Secretariat announced that the meeting will be held at 1.00 pm tomorrow. 

The talks come in the wake of the government’s proposal to extend the  retirement age of judges.

The Government gazetted the Judicature (Amendment) Bill on August 7, which seeks to amend the Judicature Act, No. 2 of 1978. The Bill proposes to increase the maximum number of High Court Judges from 110 to 120, while raising the retirement age of High Court Judges from 61 to 63 years. 

It also stipulates that the retirement age of all other judges and magistrates will be fixed at 62 years, notwithstanding existing provisions under the Public and Judicial Officers (Retirement) Ordinance.  

The BASL has already expressed strong opposition to the government’s move. At a special general meeting held on July 29, BASL members unanimously rejected the proposal to extend the retirement age of Supreme Court judges, warning that it posed a serious threat to judicial independence. 

The Cabinet had approved the measure on July 27 despite objections from the BASL, the Judicial Service Association, several President’s Counsel, and political parties. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has underscored that new scientific research must deliver tangible benefits to citizens while strengthening Sri Lanka’s economy, warning that only nations that harness the transformative power of research and development (R&D) will thrive in the future.

Speaking at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (05) during a review of the Ministry of Science and Technology’s 2026 projects and proposals for the 2027 Budget, the President said R&D has been the foundation of the world’s most prosperous economies, reshaping how human needs are met. 

He called for an effective mechanism to provide the public with accessible data and information that can improve daily livelihoods and incomes.

The President proposed establishing a dedicated unit under the Ministry of Science and Technology to coordinate funding allocations for research activities across institutions under multiple ministries.

The meeting reviewed the financial progress of projects carried out by 14 institutions under the Ministry, with both domestic and foreign assistance. 

Highlights included:

• National Engineering Research and Development Centre projects on elephant fence construction and low‑cost, eco‑friendly building technologies.
• Efforts to overcome challenges in commercialising scientific innovations, with contributions from the NIRDC programme.
• Collaborative research on cinnamon‑based products with the University of Ruhuna, alongside Ayurvedic product development.
• National Science Foundation projects, where procurement hurdles have slowed university partnerships.
• Work by the National Science Commission on a policy for the Ministry of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development, and progress toward a national intellectual property policy.

Looking ahead, officials announced that a scientific roadmap for disaster preparedness will be launched in October, while a technology exchange programme among BIMSTEC states is being planned.

Other initiatives discussed included:

• An AI‑powered thermal imaging system by the Arthur C. Clarke Institute to prevent train–elephant collisions.
• Research in emerging fields such as Astro‑Tourism and disaster management.
• Agricultural R&D projects focusing on cashew, paddy, and tea cultivation.

President Dissanayake stressed the importance of coordinating research across ministries, including agriculture, to ensure innovations are effectively commercialised and directly improve people’s lives. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka and India today exchanged agreements on INR‑denominated Lines of Credit worth USD 350 million, forming part of the USD 450 million reconstruction package extended by India in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

The agreements were signed following a meeting between visiting Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo.

According to the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka, the agreements will support reconstruction, infrastructure development, and procurement requirements arising from the cyclone’s impact.

During the discussions, both sides also reviewed key bilateral projects, including India‑assisted development initiatives in Sri Lanka, and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on issues of mutual interest. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake today met representatives of six Tamil and Muslim political parties at the Presidential Secretariat, where wide‑ranging discussions were held on constitutional reform, Provincial Council elections, and land and housing issues affecting communities in the North, East, and central highlands.

According to the President’s Office, party representatives raised concerns about the need for a complete constitutional amendment, challenges surrounding the conduct of Provincial Council elections, and land disputes faced by the Northern, Eastern, and plantation communities. The President noted that a Delimitation Commission has already been appointed and said he expects to engage in further dialogue on the issues.

Attention also turned to the government’s proposal for a new constitution. M.A. Sumanthiran, General Secretary of the Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), stressed that constitutional reform must be approached through broad social dialogue rather than rushed measures, warning against repeating past experiences where constitutions were introduced by one side alone.

President Dissanayake reiterated the government’s position that constitutional reform is essential and that the executive presidency must be abolished. However, he emphasized that more important than immediate amendments is the creation of a new people’s consensus, urging dialogue to build unity across communities. He said the foundation for a country where all act together as Sri Lankans has already been established under the present government, noting the absence of ethnic conflict in recent times and stressing the need for governance accountable to Parliament.

On plantation community issues, V. Radhakrishnan of the Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA) welcomed the government’s proposal to grant legal ownership of 10 perches of land to estate workers and staff, a measure previously blocked by company opposition. 

The President added that landslides reported even in uninhabited highland areas highlight the need for sustainable solutions, and said a separate authority has already been established to address such challenges. He further noted that agreements with plantation companies must be renewed before 2042, with new provisions expected to grant legal land ownership to plantation people.

Housing projects under Indian assistance were also discussed. Jeevan Thondaman of the Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC) pointed out practical difficulties faced by residents in paying utility bills despite receiving house ownership. He said proposals have been made to integrate the Thondaman Foundation and Nevida Foundation to provide economic relief. The President added that larger allocations will be made in the 2027 Budget for the Ministry of Plantation and Community Infrastructure.

The President said steps are being taken to resolve land issues in the North and Central Highlands, stressing that land must belong to the people, and noted that commissions have already been appointed to address these matters. He also announced plans to build 13,000 houses for war‑displaced people under two phases in the 2027 and 2028 Budgets, while disaster‑affected families will receive temporary housing and rent allowances until permanent homes are completed.

MPs expressed views on the Provincial Council electoral system and delimitation work, while the President highlighted problems caused by institutions such as the Department of Archaeology, Forest Conservation Department, and Mahaweli Authority continuing to operate under outdated policies, which have created difficulties for Northern and Eastern communities.

President Dissanayake thanked the alliance for coming together to discuss issues of Tamil‑speaking people and urged that attention be directed to common public concerns to avoid divisions in society.

Those present included representatives of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC), Ceylon Workers’ Congress (CWC), Democratic Tamil National Alliance (DTNA), Ilankai Tamil Arasu Kachchi (ITAK), Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC), and Tamil Progressive Alliance (TPA). (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Wednesday (22) directed officials to take maximum measures to safeguard Sri Lanka’s rapidly developing Northern and Eastern coastlines, stressing that projects must be implemented in harmony with environmental priorities and the livelihoods of local communities. 

He further instructed that the strongest possible legal action be taken against unauthorized coastal constructions, noting that such activities cause significant damage. A steering committee will be appointed to oversee and monitor these efforts.

The President made these remarks during the 2027 Pre‑Budget Discussion of the Ministry of Environment at the Presidential Secretariat, where he reviewed the progress of projects implemented under the 2026 budget and discussed proposals for the upcoming year. 

The meeting examined projects carried out under the theme “A Thriving Nation – A Beautiful Life, A Sustainable Biosphere – A Green Life”, which had a total allocation of Rs. 19,719 million. 

Institutions reviewed included the Central Environmental Authority, Department of Wildlife Conservation, Forest Department, Department of Coast Conservation, and the Marine Environment Protection Authority.

The President also instructed that an expert committee be appointed to examine measures to prevent coastal erosion along the Oluvil coastline and submit its report promptly. 

He paid particular attention to the slow progress of projects aimed at mitigating the human–elephant conflict, warning that delays pose a direct threat to human lives. He emphasized that elephant fences must be located and extended based on the need to protect people rather than simply demarcating wildlife zones.

Highlighting the importance of rural livelihoods, the President directed officials to complete all projects within the stipulated timeframe and fully utilize the budget allocations by carrying out construction and implementation activities before the end of the year.

The meeting also reviewed progress under the Clean Sri Lanka programme, including water source conservation, the Clean Coastline Project, the Coastal Recreation Parks Development Project, and accessibility improvements for persons with disabilities at the Sinharaja and Kanneliya forests.

Minister of Environment Dr. Dammika Patabendi announced that the Ministry is formulating a high‑quality carbon emissions policy expected to create broader investment opportunities.

Secretary K.R. Uduwawala noted that inadequate planning in securing foreign‑funded projects has led to overlapping allocations across ministries, and said a permanent committee will be established to coordinate future projects.

Attention was also drawn to upgrading holiday bungalows managed by the Departments of Wildlife Conservation and Forest Conservation with modern technology to improve public facilities. 

The meeting further focused on developing floriculture as an industry and enhancing the National Botanic Gardens to promote biodiversity conservation. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake chaired a pre‑budget discussion at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (20), focusing on the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs. 

The meeting reviewed the progress of projects implemented under the 2026 budget and examined proposals for the upcoming 2027 allocations.

Officials presented updates on recurrent and capital expenditures carried out by the Sri Lanka Women’s Bureau, the National Commission on Women, the National Secretariat for Early Childhood Development, the Department of Probation and Child Care Services, and the National Child Protection Authority.

The President also evaluated the progress of key programs, including institutional care and guardianship, living allowances for street children, nutritional food allowances for pregnant mothers, morning meals for preschool children, and the ‘Guru Abhimani’ allowance scheme for preschool teachers. 

He stressed that the nutritional food allowance for pregnant mothers must be implemented under strict supervision to ensure its intended goal of improving maternal nutrition, rather than becoming another cash‑grant project.

Progress of the monthly allowance program for children orphaned by Cyclone Ditwah was also reviewed, with the President emphasizing the need for swift disbursement to affected children. 

Discussions further covered the child protection program under the National Child Protection Authority, aimed at identifying and rescuing vulnerable children. 

The President highlighted the importance of a proper data system, noting that 2027 budget allocations would be based on accurate data. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake chaired a high‑level discussion at the Presidential Secretariat this morning to examine solutions to the problems currently facing Sri Lanka’s prison system.

The meeting brought together senior officials from relevant ministries and the Department of Prisons, who presented proposals and ideas that were reviewed in detail. 

Discussions also focused on expanding prison facilities and exploring alternative measures to ease existing challenges.

Among those present were Minister of Justice Harshana Nanayakkara, Minister of Public Security Ananda Wijepala, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Sampath Thuiyakontha, Secretary to the Ministry of Justice Ayesha Jinaseena, and Commissioner General of Prisons Prasad Hemantha Kumara. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has instructed officials to promptly resolve outstanding issues relating to the proposed contributory pension scheme for Sri Lankan migrant workers and ensure its inclusion in this year’s Budget proposals.

Highlighting that overseas workers remain one of the country’s largest sources of foreign exchange earnings, the President stressed the need for a structured and sustainable pension scheme to safeguard their future. He called for swift action to implement the initiative without delay.

The directive was issued while chairing a review of projects implemented under the 2026 budget allocations and the 2027 pre‑budget discussion of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, held at the Presidential Secretariat today (16).

Beyond migrant worker welfare, the President also addressed several other areas:

• Tourism funding: Financial allocations for tourism development projects are to be transferred directly to District Secretaries, enabling faster implementation through coordination between District Development Committees and Tourism Committees.
• Integrated development: Programmes proposed by the Road Development Authority around Sigiriya, Galewela and Trincomalee will be jointly implemented with the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Archaeology to save time and resources.
• Procurement reforms: Officials were instructed to adopt the new procurement framework introduced by the Ministry of Finance, allowing activities to commence from the first week of January each year, with separate interventions for specialised projects such as tourism construction.
• Tourism promotion: Upcoming programmes include the Asian Broadcasters’ Conference, alongside digitalisation initiatives with the Ministry of Digital Affairs to enhance consular services.
• Asset reporting: The President noted that no comprehensive report on assets and lands under the Ministry of Tourism had been prepared previously and directed officials to expedite its completion.
• Workforce training: With the tourism sector expected to require around 800,000 workers by 2030, plans are underway to expand training programmes through hotel schools to meet future demand. (Newswire)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Father Emir of Qatar.

In his message on ‘X’, the President noted that Sheikh Hamad’s visionary leadership and service to Qatar will be remembered. 

On behalf of the Government and people of Sri Lanka, he extended heartfelt condolences to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Royal Family, and the people of Qatar.

“May his soul rest in peace,” the President stated.

Father Emir Sheikh Hamad bin ⁠Khalifa Al Thani, the architect of Qatar’s remarkable transformation into an ultra-wealthy modern nation with global influence, has been laid to rest in Doha following his death at the age of 74.

Sheikh Hamad’s death was announced on Sunday morning, and his simple funeral ceremony was held after the daily evening prayer at sunset at the Imam Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab Mosque in the capital. (Newswire/ Al Jazeera)

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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has pledged to elevate Sri Lanka’s healthcare system to internationally recognised standards, stressing that the Government is ready to allocate the necessary funding to achieve this goal. 

Addressing a pre‑Budget discussion on the Ministry of Health at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday (08), the President said reforms must go beyond incremental changes, with greater emphasis on strengthening primary healthcare, modernising hospital technology, and ensuring efficient, standardised services accessible to all citizens. 

The meeting reviewed the progress of projects implemented under the 2026 Budget allocations and discussed proposals for the 2027 Budget. 

Progress of the programme to establish ‘Arogya Suwa Seva Centres’ to strengthen primary healthcare was reviewed during the discussion, and the President instructed officials to place greater emphasis on further strengthening primary healthcare services. 

The meeting also reviewed, sector by sector, the progress of projects implemented under the Ministry of Health and Mass Media using 2026 Budget allocations, while funding requirements for 2027 were also discussed.

The President further instructed officials to submit, without delay, scientifically based strategic proposals aimed at improving the quality of Sri Lanka’s healthcare service. 

Special attention was also paid to the technological transformation required within the hospital system. The President pointed out that establishing advanced technological facilities accessible to people across the country would significantly enhance the quality of healthcare services. 

He noted that this would enable the State hospital system to provide efficient and standardised healthcare services while reducing the high costs incurred by the public when seeking treatment from the private sector. 

Discussions also focused on strengthening the Suwa Seriya ambulance service and ensuring that hospitals procure only internationally compliant, fully equipped high-technology ambulances instead of conventional vans. 

It was revealed that the current Government has recommenced 26 large-scale healthcare construction projects that had been suspended midway due to the previous governments halting capital expenditure. These include the five-storey building complex at the Monaragala District Hospital and Emergency Treatment Units at the Trincomalee, Ampara and Chilaw hospitals. In total, work is now under way on 48 healthcare construction projects. 

The meeting also discussed technological solutions to address issues related to pharmaceutical procurement to ensure an uninterrupted supply of medicines to hospitals, expanding the Ministry of Health’s facilities for testing the quality of medicines, and programmes implemented with the support of organisations such as UNDP and UNICEF. 

Progress on digital healthcare initiatives was also reviewed, including the Patient Health App, telemedicine services and the establishment of a National Electronic Health Record system, enabling patients’ medical records to be accessed from any hospital. 

It was also decided to conduct a comprehensive review of the healthcare workforce, address issues faced by newly appointed doctors during the review process, and discuss recruitment-related issues concerning healthcare personnel with the Ministry of Finance. 

The meeting further reviewed progress in providing physical resources to the Government Film Unit, journalist training programmes and the establishment of school media societies. Attention was also given to a proposal to establish a dedicated media operations centre to facilitate the exchange of information between the Government and all journalists. 

The President also stressed the need to modernise the Department of Posts and the Government Printing Department by moving away from outdated systems and adopting modern technology. (Newswire)

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