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Home » ColumnsChinese factor links MR and Mussaveni
There was a common factor that glued together the friendly ties between President Mahinda Rajapaksa and his Ugandan counterpart Yoveri Museveni. Both countries maintain close ties with China. Days ahead of President Rajapaksa’s visit to that country, China built and handed over a twin-block 11 storied building complex for use as the President’s office. Those days [...]
From failed revolutionary to state missionary
My Dear Wimal, I thought of writing to you when I heard that you were thinking of leaving the Cabinet because you did not agree with some of the policies that are being adopted by the Blues. I thought I must quickly inform you not take such hasty decisions. From what I heard you say [...]
Storm clouds still loom over CHOGM
India goes public with strong warning to Rajapaksa govt over moves to cancel NPC polls Britain also puts Lanka on notice while US envoy gets full briefing from TNA; Indian-American takes Blake’s place The UPFA Government’s course correction over issues listed in the US resolution at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva continues to [...]
Sri Lanka retreats into the dark ages
As lights are dimmed over Sri Lanka following prohibitively crushing electricity hikes, the enveloping darkness is menacingly symbolic of the crisis which our society is facing. This is even as the politically privileged siphon off massive amounts of money for useless extravaganzas, including an airport in the deep South to which overseas airlines are reportedly [...]
Vigilance and prudence in management of external finances vital
For better and for worse, the trends in external trade observed in the first two months have been strengthened in the third month of this year. The import statistics have been for the better, while the export statistics continued to be unfavourable. The first quarter’s trade outturn though hopeful, is fragile and vulnerable. Prudent fiscal [...]
Northern election, reconciliation and the need to extend the middle ground
From the sidelines The Northern Provincial Council election expected to be held in September is likely to be one of the most closely watched Sri Lankan elections in recent history, both locally and internationally. It will allow Tamils to elect representatives in the province where they form a majority, for the first time. The move [...]