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Lanka and India strengthen economic ties with energy, development, and trade agreements
Lanka and India have signed a series of agreements aimed at strengthening their economic ties. Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe recently visited New Delhi for an official visit, his first since taking office. During his visit, President Wickremesinghe held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the two leaders unveiled agreements on technology, renewable energy, and greater connectivity between the two countries.
The agreements signed between Sri Lanka and India highlight the growing economic relationship between the two neighboring countries. One of the key areas of focus is technology, with both countries aiming to enhance their cooperation in this field. The agreements also focus on renewable energy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable development and clean energy sources. Additionally, the two countries aim to improve connectivity to facilitate trade and promote economic growth.
The visit of President Wickremesinghe to India underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthen bilateral relations. The signing of these agreements signifies a deeper engagement between Sri Lanka and India, highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation and collaboration.
In recent years, Sri Lanka and India have witnessed an increase in trade and investment between the two countries. India has become one of Sri Lanka’s largest trading partners, while Sri Lanka is an important market for Indian products. Enhancing bilateral trade is beneficial for both countries as it boosts economic growth and provides opportunities for businesses.
Furthermore, the agreements signed between Sri Lanka and India have the potential to drive innovation and technology advancements. The exchange of knowledge and expertise in technology sectors can result in increased productivity and competitiveness. This collaboration can also lead to the development of new industries and the creation of job opportunities.
Moreover, the focus on renewable energy is crucial in addressing the environmental challenges faced by both countries. With the increasing demand for energy, sustainable and clean sources of power are vital for the long-term development and growth. The agreements signed aim to promote the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change impacts.
Improved connectivity between Sri Lanka and India is also a significant aspect of the agreements. Enhancing transportation and connectivity infrastructure can facilitate trade and investment, making it easier for businesses to operate. This increased connectivity can also stimulate tourism, leading to economic benefits for both countries.
Overall, the signing of the energy, development, and trade agreements between Sri Lanka and India marks a significant milestone in their bilateral relations. The agreements reflect the commitment of both countries to strengthen economic ties and foster mutual development. By focusing on technology, renewable energy, and connectivity, Sri Lanka and India are paving the way for future cooperation and prosperity. (energyportal.eu)
The U.S. Embassy in Colombo welcomed the U.S. Sports Envoys to Sri Lanka, former National Basketball Association (NBA) and Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) players Stephen Howard and Astou Ndiaye, from June 8 through 14.
The Public Diplomacy section of the U.S. Embassy said that it would launch a weeklong basketball program intended to harness the unifying power of sports, made possible through collaboration with Foundation of Goodness and IImpact Hoop Lab.
While in Sri Lanka, Howard and Ndiaye, both retired professional basketball players, will conduct a weeklong program, Hoops for Hope: Bridging Borders through Basketball. The Sports Envoys will lead basketball clinics and exhibition matches and engage in leadership sessions in Colombo and Southern Province for youth aged 14-18 from Northern, Uva, Eastern and Western Provinces, offering skills and leadership training both on and off the court. The U.S. Envoys will also share their expertise with the Sri Lanka Basketball Federation, national coaches, and players, furthering the development of basketball in the country. Beyond the clinics, they will collaborate with Sri Lankan schoolchildren to take part in a community service project in the Colombo area.
“We are so proud to welcome Stephen and Astou as our Sports Envoys to Sri Lanka, to build on the strong people-to-people connections between the United States and Sri Lanka,” said U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung. “The lessons that will be shared by our Sports Envoys – communication, teamwork, resilience, inclusion, and conflict resolution – are essential for leadership development, community building, equality, and peace. The U.S. Sports Envoy program is a testament to our belief that sports can be a powerful tool in promoting peace and unity.”
SJB Colombo District MP Mujibur Rahuman in parliament demanded to know from the government the reasons for CEB suspending the leave of all its employees until further notice from Thursday.
MP Rahuman said that the CEB has got an acting General Manager anew and the latter yesterday morning issued a circular suspending leave of all CEB employees with immediate effect until further notice.
“We demand that Minister Kanchana Wijesekera should explain this to the House. This circular was issued while this debate on the new Electricity Amendment Bill was pending. There are many who oppose this Bill. The Minister must tell parliament the reason for the urge to cancel the leave of CEB employees,” the MP said.However, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abeywardena prevented Minister Wijesekera responding to the query and said that the matter raised by MP Rahuman was not relevant.
The Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM) successfully concluded the 8th Annual CIPM Symposium, which took place on 31st May 2024. Themed “Nurturing the Human Element—Redefining HRM in a Rapidly Changing World,” the symposium underscored the pivotal role of human resource management (HRM) in today’s dynamic global landscape. Since its inception in 1959, CIPM has been dedicated to advancing the HR profession through education, professional development, and advocacy, solidifying its position as Sri Lanka’s leading professional body for HRM.
Ken Vijayakumar, the President of the CIPM, graced the occasion as the chief guest. The symposium commenced with the welcome address by the Chairperson, Prof. Arosha Adikaram, followed by the Web Launch of the Symposium Proceedings and Abstract Book by the CIPM President. The event featured distinguished addresses, including a speech by Chief Guest Ken Vijayakumar, President of CIPM, and an address by Guest of Honor Shakthi Ranatunga, Chief Operating Officer of MAS Holdings Pvt. Ltd., Sri Lanka.
The symposium also featured an inspiring keynote address by Prof. Mario Fernando, Professor of Management and Director of the Centre for Cross Cultural Management (CCCM) at the University of Wollongong, Australia.
Vote of Thanks of the inauguration session was delivered by Dr. Dillanjani Weeratunga, Symposium Co-chair.
The symposium served as a comprehensive platform for researchers to present their findings across a wide range of critical topics in HRM. These included Cultural Diversity and Inclusion, Talent Development and Retention, Ethical Leadership and Corporate Social Responsibility, Adapting to Technological Advancements, Mental Health and Well-being at Work, Global Workforce Challenges, Employee Empowerment, and Reskilling and Upskilling.
The plenary session was led by Prof. Wasantha Rajapakse. Certificates were awarded to the best paper presenters during the valedictory session, followed by a vote of thanks delivered by Kamani Perera, Manager of Research and Development.
The annual symposium of CIPM was a truly inclusive event, attracting a diverse audience that spanned undergraduates, graduates, working professionals, research scholars and lecturers. This widespread interest highlights the symposium’s significance in the field of HRM, offering a unique opportunity for everyone to network and learn from scholarly brains.The CIPM International Research Symposium was sponsored by Hambantota International Port, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT), E B Creasy & Co. PLC, and Print Xcel Company.
US sports envoys to Lanka to champion youth development
Rahuman questions sudden cancellation of leave of CEB employees
