Sunday, December 29, 2013

China the Cultural Pride In the Far East By Srimal Fernando ( Published By Daily Mirror )

China the Cultural   Pride In the Far East  
By Srimal Fernando

 30th Monday December 2013 

Daily Mirror _impulse section Page 2 

http://dailymirrorepaper.newspaperdirect.com/epaper/viewer.aspx

Raising the "Five-star Red Flag of the Peoples Republic of China and singing of the national anthem “March of the Volunteers at sunrise each morning at the Tiananmen Square is one of the proudest moments of celebration for the people of China. Every year since 1949 the National Day of China is commemorated on October 1st in a patriotic spirit by more than a billion people throughout the country. When we remember the recent history of China the legacy of the charismatic revolutionist Mao Zedong’s name comes to our mind.



The founding father of modern China Chairman Mao was surly one of the greatest worthy legends to be classed with the other heroes of Asia. China was Mao Zedong   cultural home land. After 1949 the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) began to consolidate their control and Mao’s reforms appeared to be encouraging. Noteworthy policy expansion launched during Mao’s post-China era was the First Five year plan, the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. When China’s Cultural Revolution was getting under way the country exploded its first H- Bomb in the late 60s and launched the Dong Fang Hong satellite in 1970. Following the death of Chairman Mao in 1976, his remains draped in the CCP flag was displayed inside a chamber at a Mausoleum known as the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. 

Today more than thirty years after the death of Mao, the country as a global superpower enjoys unparallel prosperity. Chinese culture from the ancient times to the most recent times   has been one of the most impressive and has been changed with the changing character of people. China also posses an enormous cultural richness with uncountable attractions to see and offers an unmatched experience to the travelers. As the most populous city of China, Beijing the cosmopolitan capital of the country that has the finest skylines  in the world  is a place of importance for centuries. Some of the  breath taking attractions  visitors can   see  around Beijing  are  Tiananmen Square  situated in the heart of the city , Forbidden  City ,  the  Great Wall of China stretching  from  Shanhaiguan in the east, to  Lop Lake  in the West. A visit to China  would remain  incomplete if the  6300 kilometer Yangtz River , Lhasa or “The Land of the gods” in Tibetan, Terra cotta  Army  and the  Great Mosque in Xian did not appear in the itinerary. Even in Shanghai has many  beautiful  historic sites  that are well worth a visit.  One can enjoy the beautiful charm of the landscape in the   highlands of Guilin. Zhangiiajje is another attractive place to see most of the Silk Road that has history more than two thousand years. Apart from that ,  the country is gifted with many other spectacular UNESCO world heritage sites.

Modern China is a proud heritage of a rich culture that has influenced many sportsman, writers, and composers, creative and performing artist. Chinese success in the Olympics in the past twenty years   reveal passionate efforts the country puts into developing varied physical activities. Chinese are always striving for excellence in acrobatic gymnastics and rhythmic gymnastics. Over the years Chinese cinema has won praise globally. Besides sports, cinema and performing arts the country has given the world some of its greatest musicians and dancers.  China the cultural   pride in the Far East    is a   unique country filled with fun, happiness and adventure.


Source; Daily Mirror 


Thursday, December 19, 2013

Memorial Service Honoring the Life Of Nelson Mandela held in Colombo By Srimal Fernando I thediplomaticsociety


Memorial Service Honoring the Life Of Nelson Mandela held in Colombo
By Srimal Fernando, Global Editor
Geoffrey  Doidge ,Carol Doidge .Hon .Ranil Wickremesinghe Leader of the Opposition in the Sri Lankan parliament. Hon Nimal Siripala de Silva MP Sri Lanka's Cabinet Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources
(r-l) Geoffrey  Doidge, Carol Doidge, Hon .Ranil Wickremesinghe Leader of the Opposition in the Sri Lankan parliament, Hon Nimal Siripala de Silva MP Sri Lanka’s Cabinet Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources
 Memorial services to honor, mourn and celebrate the life, leadership and the enduring legacy of President Nelson Mandela was held in Colombo on 14th December 2013. The South African High Commission and the National Christian Council of Sri Lanka invited Sri Lankan compatriots and friends of South Africa to celebrate the life of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela at a service of thanksgiving at the Cathedral of Christ, the Living Saviour in Colombo. The memorial service was held this morning with many  people bowing their heads or clasped hands with loved ones at the Cathedral .
In his honor South African High Commissioner, Mr Geoff Q.M Doidge offered a heartfelt tribute to celebrate Madiba’s extraordinary life and his contribution to all of humanity. The thanksgiving mass was a moment of sadness celebrated by prayers and hymns.
 Mr Michael Thekiso
Mr Michael Thekiso
A gospel choir sang “Great is thy faithfulness, O God my father”. The first message was read by Ven Dr Ittapane Dhammalankara Mahanayaka Thero .The bible reading was by Mr Michael Thekiso. Rev W. P Ebenezer Joseph, General Secretary National Christian Council of Sri Lanka sermon was followed by a special song performed by Ms Kgomotoso Mamaila.  Rt Rev Dhiloraj Canagasabey the Bishop of Colombo Church of Ceylon  offered the prayers of Benediction. Hon Ranil Wickremesinghe Leader of the Opposition in the Sri Lankan parliament, Hon Nimal Siripala de Silva MP Sri Lanka’s Cabinet Minister of Irrigation and Water Resources, religious leaders representing various ethnicities, diplomats, the media, civil society and many distinguished guests attended the  memorial service in honour of Nelson Mandela.
H.E  Wu Jianghao Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Sri Lanka signing the Condolence Book
H.E  Wu Jianghao Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka signing the Condolence Book
The memorial service closed with the singing of the South African National anthem by Ms Kgomotoso Mamaila. The Book of Condolences remained open at the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour.
Source :  Foreign Exchange  Diplomatic Society
Africa Edition
http://www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za/index.php/home/16-home/859-tributes-to-nelson-mandela

TRIBUTES TO NELSON MANDELA ( Interview with South African High Commissioner) -thediplomaticsociety


 South African High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Geoffrey Doidge Reflects on the Enduring Legacy of Nelson Mandela
President Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka at the lying in state of Nelson Mandela
President Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka at the Union Buildings in Pretoria paying his respects to the Late President Nelson Mandela
Tributes to Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the former President of South Africa abounded following his passing on 5th December 2013. His death has prompted public grief on an unprecedented global scale, with many countries declaring a period of mourning for this icon of freedom, justice and reconciliation. Paying tribute to the life of Nelson Mandela High Commissioner Geoffrey Doidge of South Africa speaks to Srimal Fernando, Global Editor of The Diplomatic Society.
South African High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Geoffrey Doidge High Commissioner Geoffrey Doidge of South Africa
It is very difficult for us to grasp what Mandela went through in his life and what must have gone through his mind. He was extraordinary in almost anything that he did. He had enormous faith in humanity and is an example of the human spirit that can overcome all the odds.
I don’t think any of us realize the vision that came out of his leadership and strength. He certainly knew where the end goal was. There was no time for pettiness and cheap politicking in his life.  He was a very constructive person, he utilized every single moment in his life to guide us and to provide leadership for South Africa from a very troubled past to drawing up one of the most democratic constitutions in the world. This has far reaching implications, I think, far further than many of us South Africans realize.
Mandela was the embodiment of the values that could create a better world. He was a peacemaker, incorruptible and he was not swayed by emotion. On being released from imprisonment after so many years he did not seek revenge, he rose above the emotions, positively influencing and convincing people in what needs to be achieved. He was a man of conviction and he conveyed it with authority and confidence. Forgiveness, understanding and being able to reach out to people are some of his the strongest points. He did not circumb to short sightedness or showing any bitterness or negativity.
So as we pay tribute to Nelson Mandela and celebrate his life, we are in mourning at the loss of our leader, our father. Our condolences are expressed to the Mandela family who so willingly shared him with the nation and the world. We take for granted their sacrifice for the benefit of us all. We owe them a great deal of gratitude and thank them.
Mandela’s passing has left mixed feelings of deep sadness, profound gratitude, joyous celebration and anxious anticipation for the future of South Africa.   
As Deputy Chief Whip of the African National Congress (ANC), the ruling majority, in the South African Parliament my seat was directly behind President Mandela. This is an experience I will cherish. He always found time to be in parliament attentively listening to the debates. I have personally taken him as a mentor in my life. I have modelled all my work on the values he imparted to us.
Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to President Mahinda Rajapaksa of Sri Lanka who attended the Memorial service in South Africa. We thank countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives and Nepal for their responsiveness to the passing of President Mandela. We also appreciate the day of commemoration in Sri Lanka and for the messages of condolences that we received from the countries across the region.
Source :  Foreign Exchange  Diplomatic Society
Source  : http://www.thediplomaticsociety.co.za/index.php/home/16-home/859-tributes-to-nelson-mandela


Tuesday, December 3, 2013

MAS Holdings changing lives in post conflict Killinochchi I Srimal Fernando I thediplomaticsociety.asia









MAS Holdings changing lives in post conflict Killinochchi


By Srimal Fernando, Global Editor 
    
In many developing countries in Asia, the apparel industry is the largest employer in manufacturing. Given the enormous export potential of Sri Lanka, the apparel industry sector grew from a cottage industry to machine-operated large factories during the past twenty years. Today the apparel industry in the country is the second largest export commodity group with over US$4 billion (Estimates 2013) in exports annually.  

MAS Holdings, one of Sri Lanka’s largest apparel conglomerates, founded by Mahesh Amalean, Ajay Amalean and Sharad Amalean with more than 28 factories and design studios, employs over 58,000 people across five countries. The Sri Lankan apparel giant MAS Holdings  has established two massive factories in  Killinochchi  in the  former war-torn  district in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka.  
The MAS Holdings large garment factory “Vaanavil” at Ariviyal Nagar is built on the side of the newly constructed Colombo – Kilinochchi rail road that links the North and South of Sri Lanka. The MAS Active (Pvt) Ltd started its operations in Killinochchi in mid last year, three year after the Sri Lankan conflict ended.  In September 2013  the “ Vaanavil”  factory  was  opened  with nearly 450 employees  and will expand up to 1800  employees by the end of 2015.  90 percent of “Vaanavil” factory workers are women from Killinochchi. In addition, thirty employees with technical skills are from the South of the country.
The Global Editor for Foreign Exchange Diplomatic Society (FETDS),  on a visit to the Killinochchi “Vaanavil” factory operated  under MAS Active (Pvt) Ltd met Ms Shyamali Liyanage, Manager Human Resources and Administration.  Ms Liyanage,  a NDT  graduate  from the University of  Moratuwa in Textile Clothing  Engineering,  has been working  with  MAS Holdings  at various locations in Sri Lanka for  more than ten years.  In an  exclusive interview with the  Global Editor, Ms Liyanage said, “Most of  the  girls in the age group of 18 to 30  years  who are working here were affected  by the conflict. Among the total workforce there are some ex combatants too.”
“Some of the girls are the sole earners and have started to rebuild their lives.  “They have started to construct their own houses and help their other family members,” said the Manager for Human Resources at MAS Active “Vaanavil” factory.
Taking the  lessons  from the other MAS holdings factories located  in Sri Lanka and in other countries  MAS Active “ Vaanavil”   factory  promotes workplace ethics through its “ Go Beyond Program”  to empower  women . The various projects and activities  implemented by the “ Vaanavil”   factory located in Killinochchi  has provided further means of fostering understanding and will pave the way to  achieve higher standards of  sustainable development for the people of Kilinochchi in a post conflict situation.
Source


Ho Chi Minh statue unveiled in Colombo I Srimal Fernando I thediplomaticsociety.asia






Ho Chi Minh statue unveiled in Colombo
By Srimal Fernando, Global Editor
Sri Lankan President and Deputy Prime Minister of Vietnam unveils Ho Chi Minh statue in Colombo 
    
More than 40 years after the Vietnam war ended,  the  late President of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh, a strident campaigner for  Vietnam  re -unification and  a symbol of hope  and  admiration,  was honored with a statue  at a special ceremony in Sri Lanka.  
His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka
Standing side-by-side His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka and Hon Pham Bhinh  Minh,  Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam led the statue unveiling ceremony of the late  leader of Vietnam in front of Colombo Public Library on 25th November 2013.
Ho Chi Minh was the first Vietnamese to be honored with a statue in Sri Lanka. Specially invited distinguished guests, diplomats, members of civil society and local and foreign media witnessed the special statue unveiling ceremony. Following the unveiling of the statue many flowers were spread out in front of the Ho Chi Minh statue in Colombo. The momentous occasion was followed by a cultural programmes by Sri Lankan and Vietnamese performers.
Ambassador of Vietnam
    
In a moving speech, President of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa reflected on the courage and principles of the late President of Vietnam Ho Chi Minh. Hon. Pham Bhinh Minh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam thanked the Sri Lankan President and the Sri Lankan Government for honoring the late President of Vietnam and remembered about the long history of diplomatic friendship between Vietnam and Sri Lanka. H.E. Ton  Sinh  Thanh,  the Vietnamese Ambassador to  Sri Lanka and His Worship the Mayor of  Colombo  A. J  Muzammil, were among the others who delivered the speeches.
Ambassador of Russia
    
The impressive replica of Ho Chi Minh was sculptured in Vietnam and the artistic efforts, beautification and landscaping in front of Colombo Public Library for the Ho Chi Minh statue unveiling ceremony was carried out under the guidance of architect Ms. Mindika Chandrasekera. The Vietnam Embassy in Colombo played a significant role in supporting the statue project. This replica of  Ho Chi Minh in front of the  Public Library will  bear in mind the sacrifices and contributions  made by the late President of Vietnam  and the people of Vietnam for the cause of  re-unification of their country. 
Asia Edition 

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Culturally Colorful South Africa the Land of Rainbows By Srimal Fernando I Daily Mirror I Impulse



Culturally Colorful South Africa the Land of Rainbows

Monday , 25th November 2013
By Srimal Fernando


South Africans call their beloved nation   the “Land of Rainbows”. This great homeland of the South Africans is a magnificent landscape in Africa to visit for its contrasts, high cultural interest and for its spectacular natural atmosphere. In history, its size South Africa is a world of its own. As one of the populous countries in Africa, this county plays an important role in politics, socio- cultural and in commerce throughout the continent contributing towards prosperity. The cultural aspect of South Africa is one that comes with a great story with its ancient history and strong traditions.

The country knows the lessons of its past all too well. One of the towering figures of the twentieth century the anti –apartheid revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela credited for molding the great nation was elected as the first black President of South Africa.  The iconic leader is often referred to by his clan    as “ Madiba,” or “Father” had endured 26 years of imprisonment in his fight to end apartheid. He   won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 for his efforts to introduce democracy to South Africa and has become a worldwide symbol of hope and endurance. Thus in a space of little more than a decade after “ Madiba,”  became President ,  Jacob Zuma was elected as the President of South Africa  in 2009. “God Bless Africa” ( Nikosi Sikelel iAfrika ) and the “Call Of South Africa”  (Die Stem van Suid-Afrika )  hybrid song  combining   new English  lyrics  was the noteworthy inspirational  national anthem adopted by  the countryman  since 1997 . The true spirit of the country's culture is reflected in the South African  flag .Today twenty years after the  fully representative multicultural  elections   were held in South Africa ,it is a  cradle of democracy and continues to  foster greater  understanding among its 53 million population. 

The cosmopolitan cities such as  Johannesburg ,Cape Town ,Bloemfontein ,   Pretoria  with full of traffic and crowds and  changing sky lines  are   occupied by various corporate entities. Western  styles have become increasingly popular in big cities  .Latest fashion are put on display in numerous specialty shops in Cape Town , Durban and in Johannesburg .The country provides some of the best-value tourist vacations in Africa .The country  possesses an enormous beautiful and historic sites with uncountable  attractions to see and offers an unmatched experience to the travelers. As one of the populous places the coastal towns of Hermanus, Cape Town, Knysna and Durban are unique scenic destinations that offer the visitors an exhausting list of attractions. The other noteworthy historical sights visitors can   see in this charming country are   Robben Island , Soweto ,Wild Coast .The two  million hectares Kruger National Park with sixteen ecosystems, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve,Garden Route are  arguably some of the picturesque tourist destinations in the country. Cape Town ,Cape Peninsula  , Cape Winelands  and Garden Route are some of the prominent places of attractions that appeal to many visitors from all parts of the world.

South Africans are excellent sportsman . The most popular spectator sports in South Africa today are Soccer, Rugby and Cricket . South African national Rugby team “The Springboks,”    and the Cricket team   has had the privilege and honour of being at the forefront in the Global sporting arena. The music, art, literature and cultural practices of the country have provoked attention and admiration throughout the world. Film industry in South Africa has seen the production of internationally recognized movies and the rise of actors, actresses and writers. Afrikaans music is currently one of the most popular and best selling industries in the South African music scene. The contrasting influences of the African, European and Asian heritages create a variety of influences throughout the music, dance, arts and crafts of South Africa.

Source Daily Mirror 

Today's Special 

Culturally Colorful South Africa the Land of Rainbows


 

Thursday, November 21, 2013

" War to Peace - the Role of the Sri Lankan Security Forces in the Development process in Killinochchi "Exclusive Interview with Major General Udaya Perera I thediplomaticsociety

 
War to Peace - the Role of the Sri Lankan Security Forces in the Development process in Killinochchi 
Major General Udaya PereraExclusive  Interview with Major General Udaya Perera.
In an exclusive interview Srimal Fernando, Global Editor for Foreign Exchange Diplomatic Society (FETDS), was pleased to interview Major General Udaya Perera, Commander, Security Force Headquarters, Killinochchi in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. The experienced veteran Sri Lankan army general with high academic credentials and years of  military experience during the three decade old conflict and after was a also the diplomat representing Sri Lanka as a  Deputy High Commissioner to Malaysia. The Global Editor, in a face to face engagement with the Major General at his Headquarters in Killinochchi finds out about his military experience, the way forward towards reconciliation, the   collaboration provided by the Security forces to the conflict affected people of Killinochchi district, post conflict development, state of civil-military relations and issues, overview about the Harmony Centre and the greatest hopes for peace and harmony.  

Srimal Fernando  (SF)  :  Major General Udaya Perera you have been with the Sri Lankan Army for a long time. As an experienced veteran Sri Lankan army general with years of experience in pre and post conflict period can you briefly tell us about your background?
Major General (MG)  :  I joined the army with the conflict. Initially I joined the Sri Lankan army in 1981 to Kotelawala Defense Academy (KDA), and transferred myself to the Sri Lankan Military Academy. As soon as I passed it was a conflict. In June 1983 I passed out and with the precipitating ambush on 23rd July 1983 in Jaffna where everything changed. Basically I am an infantry officer. From that day onwards I have been leading troops. As an officer I started from Ampara joined an infantry called Vijayabahu Regiment. With the Vijayabahu Regiment with Rajarata Rifles the Gajaba Regiment (GR) was formed.  I served in the Gajaba Regiment (GR) and participated in all the military operations. If I talk about the milestones I commanded the Gajaba Regiment (GR) in Jaffna. Took part in Riviresa I,II, III  and then I proceeded to staff College, Batalanda. From there I went to Kotelawala Defense Academy (KDA), as a Commanding Officer. From there I went for my second staff posting to Wellington in India.  At Second Staff College I obtained a Masters in Strategic studies from University of Madras. After returning to Sri Lanka I was a teacher at Defense Services College Sri Lanka. After that I commanded the Elite air mobile Brigade in Jaffna. After commanding the air mobile brigade I proceeded to United States to do a counter terrorism degree.  I was in Washington DC at the National Defense University. Then I came back as a Brigadier General Staff for a very short period in Vavuniya  Wanni Security Forces Head Quarters. I then went to the Army Head Quarters as Director Training again for a very short period. Then I took the most crucial job as Director Military Operations in August 2006 that went on till 19th April 2009. This was the period we started the “Humanitarian Operation”.  The role of Director Operation is a very crucial and most of the strategic level planning and implementation took off from here. It was centrally planned and coordinated from Colombo. Then I was offered a Diplomatic posting in Malaysia. I was the first wing officer to get an appointment as a Deputy High Commissioner.
There also I had a very crucial role because the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) was very active. After Velupillai Prabhakaran died the person who took over the reigns was Kumaran Pathmanathan. The LTTE network was very strong. Firstly dismantling the entire network and secondly winning the hearts and the minds of the diaspora was my priority.  Even today except for few Tamils of Sri Lankan origin of the Malaysian diaspora supports the Government efforts in rehabilitation and in reconstruction. They are a very influential wealthy lot. After completing my assignment in June 2011 I proceeded to Army War College in USA. There also I became the President of the union leading 79 nations.  Obtained my second Masters there too.  I was awarded a Alumina special life time award for the performance and leadership. Then I came to Kilinochchi and took over the Killinochchi command. This is briefly my military life.
SF :  “The Sri Lankan conflict prevailed for nearly three decades.  It was proved to be an extremely sobering experience which caused so much suffering for the people of the country. In 2009, Sri Lanka Government was able to achieve victory over terrorism that had changed the countries’ socio and economic conditions for many years”.
To avoid repeating this cycle of conflict what should be the non-military strategy that should be adopted and the way forward towards reconciliation?
 MG : When we talk about the way forward for a  small developing country like Sri Lanka, any strategy should be a  Government strategy. The Government machinery including the military has a role. Every segment of the Government has a role in the overall strategy. In that strategy to achieve economic development while trying everything possible to achieve economic prosperity the political issues that are put forward by the various segments of the society should be taken cared of and resolved.
Why I say the main thing is economics, my diplomatic experience in Malaysia has shown that the economic prosperity can resolve many issues. Even in Malaysia the original Malaysians called Bumi Puthra are considered to get more privileges than other segments of the society. But still all of them work together because of economic prosperity. See how to achieve prosperity through whole of government strategy that is a national strategy. In a third world country such as Sri lanka  the military   is very professional and is a fully volunteered citizen’s army. These types of armies are responsible to be  a part of the development process. Not like the western armies. Western armies are trained to wage war in their countries and in other countries. Our army is trained to prevent wars because it is a citizen’s army. Therefore this army has a great responsibility in the development process.
SF  “During the post conflict period in Sri Lanka displaced persons began to leave the Internally Displaced Camps (IDP) for areas closer to their original homes in the North and Eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. However, upon return the people were faced with various problems including lack of basic services, missed educational and economic opportunities, social and psychological problems.”
What level of cooperation or collaboration towards the conflict affected people of the Killinochchi  district has been  provided  by the Security forces  in the  past four years ?
MG  : Now if you take Kilinochchi it is the place where most crucial battles took place. We fought a “hybrid terrorist organization”. If I further explain why it is a hybrid terrorist organization, this is a terrorist organization that had three wings; land, sea going force and a very rudimentary air force. The LTTE strategy was a hybrid strategy. Whenever they wanted, whenever the conditions and the environment demanded they used terrorist tactics.  That’s terrorism.  Whenever the conditions demanded they used insurgency and whenever the conditions demanded and the situation demanded they used conventional war. They used all these three very effectively. When we liberated the Eastern Province it was insurgency and terrorism. When it comes to the Northern sector this was a conventional fortified defense with layers and layers. If we penetrate one line there was another line. When we penetrate that particular defense line there is another one.  They learned tactics from India too, which is “Ditch Cumban” defense style. If you take Kilinochchi it was like a fortress because it was LTTE headquarters. In a conventional arrangement they could defend this place. They called it an “impregnable” defense line that was so strong.   So you can imagine for us to come and penetrate the defense of that nature we also had to use lot of fire power and conventional tactics here in Kilinochchi. For our advantage they have taken the civilians out of Kilinochchi town periphery. So it was a tough battle. It was a high intensity battle with a high rate of attrition. Both sides used conventional tactics and ultimately we were able to liberate Kilinochchi.  Now you can imagine what happens to a township  when it goes through a high intensity battle. So it was a ghost city and all the buildings were vertically destroyed due to collateral damage and also due to the damage done by LTTE to put up defenses.
We took out a ghost town without buildings or people.  So 133,000 people with 50,000 children got displaced.  Because the terrorist also took these people with them. Every man, women and child today you see in Kilinochchi are resettled. So the Military played an active role in resettling them. Firstly we had to demine the area and demining is not an easy task. Because the terrorist which used conventional tactics laying of mines are concerned are not conventional mines. In conventional mines you have about 35 grams of explosives in an anti personal mine. But they have used 125 grams of explosives. It was the First challenge. Secondly when conventional armies lay mines they have a plan . It is easy to detect mines in the laying of mines in the sketch. When Terrorist groups lay mines they do not have a plan.  However within a very short period we were able to demine the entire area. The entire area means the area which is required to resettle people. We demined the area as early as possible.  The military took the lead and did it. In order to resettle we had to reconstruct all the houses and then give food and water. We had to clean all the wells.  Even the toilets were destroyed. I think this is the only army in the world that went to the extent of washing toilets of the civilians. In order to reconstruct them the army took the lead in reconstructing and providing shelter. 44,000  families  were to be resettled and next 12,000  carders  surrendered to the army. Out of that 3000 are from Kilinochchi.  Through the national efforts there again the army took the lead. These carders were rehabilitated and they were re integrated to the society. The Army being an entity that has the  capacity, capabilities than other arms  of the government took a lead in the reconciliation purpose. I am happy to say even reconciliation work has been very very successful in Kilinochchi. There is a huge  debate  because one school of thought  says that  reconciliation is not working  and the other  is saying reconciliation is very effective  process  as far as the Northern area is concerned.  I can prove reconciliation has worked out in Kilinochchi.  Because in 2012 we launched a recruitment drive to take women to the army. In that drive 100 Tamil girls joined the army and few are ex combatants.  This is highly good proof Sri Lankas reconciliation is working. I rather call the  6 R process. First R when constituting the government rule in the LTTE controlled areas was the first task. Second R is reconstruction. The third R is resettlement the fourth R is Rehabilitation. The fifth  R is Reintegration  and the sixth R is Reconciliation. So in this 6 R process the army not only has given the fullest support to the government but has taken the lead role. Now if you take Kilinochchi it is a brand new Kilinochchi. It was not the Kilinochchi that was there before 1983. Not the Kilinochchi that was there during the conflict. The New Kilinochchi is an effort of the Sri Lankan Government.
4  SF  :  “Post conflict development is the significant task of transition from war to peace and economic development.  In this process Government has to consider several things including re-establishment of democracy, decentralisation, managing the development processes, building government capacities in conflict areas, Youth development, reintegration, reconciliation, rehabilitation, Government policy reforms and liberalisation if necessary”.

From the above mentioned facts can you briefly tell us what significant task Killinochchi Security forces  and the Sri Lankan  Government  was able to achieve in the post conflict period in the  Killinochchi district ?

MG : Whatever you have pronounced we have achieved in various degrees. I will first talk about democracy.  If you count the number of elections that were held after the conflict ended, there are many. We had the Presidential Election. Then we had the Pradeshiya Sabha (PS) elections. Then we had the Provincial Council Elections. We also had the General Elections before the Provincial Council Elections. See the number of elections that were held in the war-torn city after the conflict ended. Out of this the major step the government was to hold the Provincial Council elections after fully stabilizing the area.  The First Example of achievement for decentralizing was holding the Provincial Council Elections. After holding the Provincial Council Elections a provincial governance was established and they have started their activities.
Then building government capacities is even during the war though we called it uncontrolled areas even those days. Government tentacles were here in the form of Government agents, divisional secretaries, Grama Seva  Niladaries, Government doctors, teachers you name it all those government servants  were paid right through out the conflict period. It was part of the Government strategy.  So you have some hold in uncontrolled areas in order to defeat terrorist theory running a counter state.  The capacities which were there may have been nullified to a certain extent by the LTTE due to their tactics. But still they were there. After the conflict it was a matter of giving them their proper place and giving them to do what they want. Capacity building is concerned this area runs the same way as other areas of the country is run by the government. Government is working to its fullest capacity. 
There is a vision on youth also. Youth development process starts from rehabilitation. Rehabilitation is done for the Ex carders. So for them vocational training for the youth, education for the children was a part of rehabilitation. As far as other youth are concerned unemployment being an issue the government has taken many steps. Vocational training to improve their skills and also the civil society has come in a big way in order to improve areas like sports, cultural activities, etc.  The army with its capacity is carrying out vocational training in a big way.  The army through its harmony Centers in Kilinochchi is conducting many programmes for the development or capacity building. One major thing our women’s battalion does is empowering the women. It has been very successful. The empowering programme is done specially because there are many widows. They have become a very vulnerable lot. Therefore we take great efforts to empower these women through various programmes   
SF  What  is the state of civil-military relations in the Killinochchi District ? What are the key civil-military issues that need to be address in the same area?
MG  : In a post conflict scenario as I told you earlier the capacity the military  has  got is not there with any other Government institute. Therefore to my understanding the role of the military in development work we have to maintain a very close relationship with the citizens. The Civil -military relations are of two parts. The first part  is the  relationship we have with the bureaucracy and the government officials to carry out development work and to support the 5 R Government plan. Here what we do is we support the civilian establishment to achieve civilian goals.
Now in the second part of civil military relations that is the relationship with the community. In a post conflict scenario many government institutes were dis-functioning and the military had to fill that vacuum.  After filling that vacuum the community expected the military to perform their task continuously due to confidence they got with the military. When we want to reduce certain camps from a certain area the request comes from the community not to remove the camps. Because they have got so inter dependable. The Community has got used to the military camps for all their needs. Military will praise them with both hands for the community and won the hearts and minds of the community. For Example whenever a person is sick she goes to the military before going to the civilian doctor. Whenever there is a need of transporting an expected mother they go to the military camp and request. Whenever a child doesn’t have a pen or pencil due to poverty they go to the military without   fear and ask for pen or pencil. So this is the relationship we have with the community.

SF :Can you give us a brief overview about the Harmony Centre in Killinochchi ?  
MG : The Harmony Center was basically established by the army. Our approach to achieving this goal was through an array of projects. What we expect through these projects firstly to empower the community. Secondly to link the Northern Community with the Southern community. One good example is the scholarship programme under the education project for 33 ,340 school going children  in Kilinochchi. Our desire is to provide scholarships to all these children and establish a link with the South through this scholarship. If I explain further already we have linked 2500 Southern families through the foster parent scholarship scheme with 2500 students or school going children from Kilinochchi. We also have linked Kilinochchi schools with some schools in the south. So likewise we have other projects  like agriculture, women empowerment, employment  for the unemployed, culture, sports and many other activities. We also use information as a tool of harmony to improve the quality of life of Kilinochchi people. Harmony theater in the Harmony center provides an opportunity for the people to watch films of high quality. 40 centers were established to provide 24 x 7 television coverage.

SF  : What are your greatest hopes for peace and harmony among all people of Sri Lanka?
 
MG : The greatest hope is to achieve permanent peace. Vulnerable peace that we enjoy toady should be converted to eternal peace. Why I said vulnerable peace there are certain segments in the international community who are still carrying the LTTE flag and the Ideology instigating local politicians to continue the separatist ideology by funding and facilitating it through various ways and means.  Organisations such as TGTE, BTF , TCC , WTF and head quarter groups are striving hard to revive the LTTE in order to establish a separate state. Therefore this is a threat to peace and security in Sri Lanka. I hope the International community will understand the security threats pose for destabilizing the country like Sri Lanka to take steps and actions against that instigates terrorism in Sri Lanka which shall be a threat to global peace and security.

SF  :Thank you Major General Udaya Perera  for giving us this opportunity to have this interview with you.
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Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting in Sri Lanka 2013 I thediplomaticsociety




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Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting in Sri Lanka 2013



Chief Guest of the Commonwealth Youth Forum (CYF) President Mahinda Rajapaksa arrives for the inauguration ceremony at Magam Ruhunupura International Convention Centre in Hambantota, Sri Lanka, Sunday, November10, 2013
Photograph  Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2013)
The Royal Bandu Dance troupe performs a fusion of traditional Sinhalese and Tamil dances at the inauguration ceremony of the Commonwealth People’s Forum (CPF) in Galle, Sri Lanka
Photograph  Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2013)
President Jacob Zuma of South Africa will lead a South African delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) that will be held in Colombo, Sri Lanka, from 15-17 November 2013.
CHOGM 2013 is taking place against the prominent international focus on the 2015 target date for achieving the Millennium Development Goals and a number of initiatives examining the Post-2015 global development agenda.  Due to a large number of small, developing and vulnerable states amongst its membership, the Commonwealth has a special interest in both the MDGs and the Post-2015 Development Agenda. This interest is reflected in the theme and focus of CHOGM 2013: “Growth with Equity: Inclusive Development”.
The theme for CHOGM 2013, developed by the host country, emphasises the importance of equity in economic development and that inclusive development should provide opportunities to all members of society.
Discussions at the meeting will cover a number of global issues affecting Commonwealth members including: the global financial crisis; attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs); development of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); the Post-2015 Development Agenda; access to employment; youth unemployment; education; entrepreneurship; international trade and investment; the Doha Development Agenda of the WTO; and climate change financing.
Since the CHOGM held in Perth in 2011, the Commonwealth has made significant progress in the reform of the organisation as called for by the Heads of Government. Most of the recommendations by the Eminent Persons Group (EPG) in their report “A Commonwealth of the People: Time for Urgent Reform”, including the strengthening of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) and the adoption of a Charter, were formally approved.
The Charter of the Commonwealth, a codification of the values and principles of the Organisation is a ground-breaking development for the Organisation and was signed by Queen Elizabeth II, as Head of the Commonwealth, on 11 March 2013.
GCIS South Africa

Source :  Foreign Exchange  Diplomatic Society