Emirates arranges Autism Familiarisation Flight and Travel Rehearsal for 30 families

Furthering Dubai’s commitment to accessible travel and to raise awareness of autism, Emirates invited 30 UAE families with neurodiverse children to have a real check in experience and familiarisation flight on the 24 April, in Terminal 3 Dubai International Airport (DXB). The initiative was designed to help the children practice and alleviate anxieties before travelling, as well as providing a unique opportunity for Emirates to collaborate with key partners, and garner insights for improving accessible travel. Emirates hosted Her Excellency Hessa BuHumaid, Director General of the Community Development Authority of Dubai, as well as 30 neurodiverse children aged between 8 and 12 years old from Dubai Autism Centre, Safe Centre for Autism, Rashid Centre for People of Determination and the New England Centre Children Clinic to attend the flight, including their caregivers. Emirates also invited a neurodiverse child with Angelman Syndrome to join the experience, a condition which can cause delayed development, problems with speech and balance, intellectual disability and seizures. The group were joined by Adil Al Ghaith – SVP Emirates Commercial Operations in the Gulf, Middle East & Central Asia, and Mostafa Karam – SVP – Emirates Customer Affairs & Service Audit. The group used the Autism Friendly Route through Dubai International Airport which includes access to priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security and boarding. Specially trained Emirates check in staff and cabin crew were on hand to support throughout the journey. EK2605 departed DXB at 11:20am and landed again at 12:20pm, giving children a real-life experience of a flight including inflight service, announcements from the cabin crew and Captain, and the sounds and sights of a real take-off and landing. According to a study by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) only 13% of families with neurodiverse children surveyed take family vacations because they cite the experience of the airport and flight as too stressful and triggering for the children’s sensory sensitivities. However, 93% of families surveyed said they would take more trips if there were more autism-certified options available and support in place. The aim of the Emirates travel rehearsal initiative is to help customers with autism and sensory disorders and their families to prepare for travel, through a guided tour of the airport and aircraft cabin environment, as well as providing comprehensive training and understanding of neurodiversity to all Emirates team members. More Emirates initiatives are planned in the future, with a view to supporting neurodiverse needs and Dubai’s commitment to People of Determination. At the event, members of IBCCES were tasked to provide insights and notes on the inflight experience for neurodiverse customers. Emirates and IBCCES are working together to develop an official Autism-friendly inflight certification, which could be eventually used by other airlines. This certification will complement Emirates’ recent achievements, where all Dubai Check In facilities – Emirates City Check-In & Travel Store in DIFC, Emirates Cruise Check In – Port Rashid, Emirates Cruise Check In – Dubai Harbour and Emirates City Check-In Ajman and Emirates’ dedicated hub in Terminal 3 DXB were awarded the Certified Autism Center™ Designation. This also builds on the recent recognition of Dubai International Airport as the first international airport to earn the designation from IBCCES, as well as aligning with the Department of Economy and Tourism’s vision of becoming the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Middle East. By working together – Emirates, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism, and Dubai Airports in collaboration with the General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs, Dubai Police and Dubai Customs, are making travel more inclusive and accessible for all, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to becoming a leading destination for travellers with diverse needs and aligning with Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, under the theme ‘Family: The Foundation of Our Nation’. Emirates and partners support neurodivergent passengers and People of Determination in many ways: Emirates Employee Training More than 29,000 cabin crew and ground staff globally have completed Emirates ‘Introduction to Autism and Hidden Disabilities’ training. The online course was first launched in 2022 and covers a range of topics from the UAE National Policy for People of Determination, recognising autism, practical tips on how to assist passengers with hidden disabilities, responding with empathy, and information on the official support systems to help passengers in the airport. Before Travel Information in advance Emirates supports passengers with hidden disabilities by providing as much information in advance as possible, so that families can plan, rehearse, and be reassured about their upcoming travel. Passengers can check the Accessible Travel page on Emirates.com for information and contact their Emirates local office with queries. Free Seat Selection and Bulkhead Seat for autistic passengers and companions Passengers who declare a hidden disability will be facilitated as much as possible in the complimentary selection of suitable seats, for example the bulkhead seats at the front and middle of the aircraft for both the autistic passenger and their companion. This can be requested via Emirates local office. Book with ‘DPNA code’ for extra support A DPNA is an airline industry code for special service request (SSR) for a ‘passenger with intellectual or developmental disability.’ The DPNA code can be applied to a booking made in person, via telephone or travel agent and is applied once the hidden disability is declared, so that the passenger will be supported throughout their journey with assistance from trained staff.  Study the ‘Autism Friendly Guide’ to Dubai International Airport Emirates has collaborated with Dubai International Airport on a comprehensive pre-travel planning tool for passengers with hidden disabilities. The Autism Friendly Guide to Dubai International Airport provides a step-by-step explanation and images of every part of the journey through the airport to boarding, and details what services are available. Pre-order meals Some passengers may need a special meal onboard if they have a sensory sensitivity. This can be ordered a minimum of 24 hours in advance on www.Emirates.com or on the Emirates app. There are options to order gluten free meals, bland meals, vegetarian and diabetic meals. For Kids Meals, families who are travelling with an autistic passenger may contact the Emirates local office with their request in advance. Pre plan what to watch on ice via Emirates app Download the Emirates app, and before a flight passengers can spend time planning and pre-selecting their favourite movies, TV shows or music playlists. Once the passenger has boarded, their personally curated playlist can be synced immediately to ice, saving time and enabling them to settle into the flight quicker with the comfort of their familiar content. Arrival to airport Complimentary parking for 2 hours People of Determination receive complimentary parking in all terminals in Dubai International Airport for 2 hours. People of Determination taxis can also be booked via Dubai Taxi on their toll-free number 80088088. Collect the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a globally recognised symbol for hidden disabilities. Emirates and Dubai International Airport staff with Sunflower pins are easily identifiable and specially trained to assist travellers with hidden disabilities. Passengers are encouraged to declare their hidden disability to these staff and collect a Sunflower Lanyard to wear, allowing for support throughout the airport journey. The sunflower lanyard can be collected from the information desk in Departures, Terminal 3 and from easily identifiable collection points in Terminals 1 and 2. Autism Friendly Route The Autism Friendly Route through Dubai International Airport ensures that People of Determination journey through the airport with a dedicated route. It includes access to priority lanes for check-in, passport control, security and boarding; and can be availed when wearing the sunflower lanyard. Specially trained staff equipped to support People of Determination will be easily identifiable wearing sunflower pins, allowing for increased visibility, communication and support throughout the airport journey. Priority boarding or board last if preferred People who have declared their hidden disabilities to Emirates staff will be facilitated in boarding the aircraft first if they choose, or last if this more convenient. Emirates Inflight Experience Families with children are seated together Emirates makes every effort to seat families with children together, and passengers who have declared their hidden disability will be seated beside their companion or guardian. Noise cancelling earphones Passengers with an aural sensory need in First and Business Class will have access to noise‑cancelling headphones to block out ambient cabin sounds. Light Sensitivity If the customer, child or family member informs Emirates cabin crew about a light sensitivity, cabin crew can turn off the passenger’s individual light, close the window blind after take-off, and explain that the cabin lights will be dimmed as soon as the meal services are completed. Get busy with puzzles in Fly with Me magazine Young children onboard who need a screen break or distraction can request a copy of the Emirates ‘Fly with Me’ activity pack, with its own pack of non-toxic colouring pencils, featuring kid-friendly world maps, puzzles, drawing tutorials, colouring pages, educational activities about Dubai and protecting the environment.  Choose preferred entertainment on ice Passengers enjoying an Emirates flight can pass the time in a world class entertainment library with more than 6,500 channels of on demand entertainment, over 1,900 movies and 1,500 hours of TV, as well as music, podcasts and audiobooks across 40 languages. Ice also has up to 100 video games, which can be played by two players in different seats if the game is a multiplayer game.

Elephant House Sausages Takes Legendary Sri Lankan Taste to Australia

Keells Food Products PLC, is delighted to announce the launch of Elephant House range of Sausages to the vibrant culinary landscape of Australia through an esteemed partnership with Millennium Imports Pty Ltd, a leading importer and distributor of premium food products. This Partnership is a first for both Elephant House, the iconic Sri Lankan household brand renowned for its premium products and unparalleled taste and Millennium Imports Pty Ltd as this range is being fully manufactured in Australia with 95% of the raw materials being sources from the continent itself. Since its establishment in 1966, Elephant House Food has been delighting consumers with its diverse range of meat products, embodying the essence of Sri Lankan culinary heritage. The Legendary Elephant house hot dog along with the succulent mustard sauce have become a mainstay in any Sri Lankan pallet over the decades and this partnership with Millennium Imports will bring the beloved Elephant House taste to both the Sri Lankan community and the broader Australian market, fostering a legendary culinary experience that transcends borders. Commenting on this launch Pathum Jayawardena, Director, Millennium Imports stated “Elephant House Sausages are not just products; they are a celebration of heritage, tradition, and culinary excellence. With each bite, consumers are invited to indulge in the rich history and unparalleled quality that Elephant House represents. We are excited to Partner and introduce these exquisite flavours to the Australian market, and we are already exploring opportunities to expand our offerings with new varieties in the near future,” Over the decades, Elephant House has stood as a beacon of Sri Lankan culinary excellence, offering premium products that embody legendary, original, indulgent, and premium qualities. With an unwavering commitment to maintaining the unchanged recipe since its inception, Elephant House has become a name, cherished by young and old alike. “Our partnership with Millennium Imports Pty Ltd marks a significant milestone in our journey to share the taste of Sri Lanka with the world,” shared Viranga Wickramaratne, Chief Executive Officer of Keells Food Products PLC. “We are confident that Elephant House Sausages will resonate with Australian consumers, delivering an authentic taste experience that reflects the essence of our beloved brand.” With the objective of bringing the iconic taste of Elephant House to Australian tables, enriching palates and celebrations with flavours that have delighted consumers for decades, Elephant House Sausages made their debut in Australia via a tasting session with the chief guest being Michael Sukkar MP, Federal Member for Deakin, Shadow Minister for Social Services, National Disability Insurance Scheme, Housing & Homelessness Jason Wood MP, Federal Member for La Trobe, Shadow Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Community Safety & Migrant Services and Sandith Samarasinghe Sri Lankan Counsel General in Melbourne. Now consumers can look forward to a culinary adventure unlike any other, with Elephant House products being made available at all key Australian cities in the near future as well as being an integral part within the sizable Sri Lankan Origin community in Australia.

ProClime plans to deploy $150 million investment in Indian & Sri Lankan carbon projects

ProClime Services Pvt Ltd, a start-up focused on the climate sector, aims to invest about $150 million in carbon projects across sectors in India and Sri Lanka over the next 12-18 months. The Chennai-headquartered company intends to unveil at least three carbon projects monthly until September in both countries. ProClime has identified 18 sectors for the development of carbon projects in India and Sri Lanka.

$150 million fund

“We have secured a $150 million fund from various investors worldwide. We will start deploying the funds towards carbon projects this month, announcing three projects per month. These projects span nature conservation, sustainable agriculture, and biodiversity, among others. We are also actively pursuing government projects. Post-September, our focus will shift to project execution,” Kavin Kumar Kandasamy, CEO of ProClime, told businessline on the sidelines of a conference in Chennai. The company is set to commission a microgrid project in Jangaon District, Telangana, on Thursday. The project aims to provide energy to approximately 250 families, schools, etc. ProClime has three major business segments. Firstly, carbon projects, where the company designs, develops, implements and invests in carbon projects. These projects normally take six months to a year to develop and there are 200 types of carbon projects.

carbon trading

The second area is carbon trading, where ProClime helps non-climate companies offset their emissions by buying carbon credits from climate firms. “In these projects, not owned or commissioned by us, where people lack carbon portfolio management expertise, we act as portfolio managers, offering complete solutions and making investments if needed to ensure a market for carbon credits until they are liquidated,” he explained. The third area is climate investments, where the company funds projects that cut carbon emissions, like renewable energy initiatives and energy-efficient building upgrades. It also provides advisory services, which encompass all three areas. ProClime company, which employs about 40 people, has been providing necessary inputs to the Climate Change Mission of the Tamil Nadu government, while it is also working with several other state governments in the country.

TN Projects

The company has already committed ₹450 crore investment in Tamil Nadu to develop carbon projects in Tamil Nadu. Kandasamy said Tamil Nau is ahead of other states in executing carbon projects with clear policies and associated initiatives. Some of the major initiatives of the states include the Green Tamil Nadu mission to increase the green cover, wetland mission, and coastal restoration mission and it has an overarching project – Climate Change Mission. Setting up of Tamil Nadu Green Climate Fund, which is a listed fund, and Tamil Nadu Green Climate Company, a catalyst company are unique initiatives of the State. Tamil Nadu is also the first state in the country to have district-level committees that are in charge of climate monitoring. It is the first state to have a full greenhouse gas inventory. No other state has it,” he added.

CB releases its inaugural Annual Economic Review and Financial Statements and Operations of the Central Bank for the Year 2023

Ceylon Chamber Welcomes National Digital Economy Strategy

The Ceylon Chamber recognizes the Digital Economy as a key enabler for Sri Lanka’s economic growth acceleration. The National Digital Economy Strategy 2030 recently published by the Ministry of Technology provides a roadmap to unlock the benefits of the digital economy. The strategy focuses on the improvement of the digital infrastructure, implementation of the Digital ID, improving cybersecurity legislation, connected digital government and enhancing digital skills for government and industry. These policy areas have been advocated by the Chamber in the past most notably on the swift implementation of the Digital ID. The Chamber was involved in the consultation process for the drafting of the strategy with representation in the High-Level Officers Committee coordinated by the Secretary to the Prime Minister and provided further input and guidance through the Digital Economy committee of the Chamber. With the strategy document now open for public and stakeholder review, it is an ideal opportunity for further engagement to strengthen the strategy and plan of action. As with most strategies, the important aspect is the implementation of the policy. The strategy document outlines the institutional framework for implementation and a proposed plan of action. It is vital that is implemented with ownership from government and collaboration with industry stakeholders.

Sri Lanka makes waves at the Roadshow held in Turkey for the first time ever

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau conducted a roadshow in Turkey on the 18^th April 2024 which was the first roadshow organized from SLTPB in Turkey, in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Mission in Turkey and the National Carrier that has direct connectivity from Istanbul which operates five flights per week. The Turkish airline is scheduled to carry daily flights from October 2024 onwards.  Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau organized this event to create awareness in timely manner and showcasing the importance of the market in the international travel forum as the first initiative. Sri Lanka impressed the Turkish travel trade and media community by showcasing it’s galore of holiday opportunities, its culture with various videos and cultural dance performances to make the Turkish travelers to consider about having a different experience in a different destination at the roadshow held in Istanbul, Turkey on the 18^th April 2024, at the Intercontinental Hotel Turkey. There were 19 Sri Lankan travel industry participants representing travel companies and hotels registered with SLTPB for the event. They included  Aitken Spence Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Walkers Tours (Pvt) Ltd, Ceylon Roots / LOLC Holdings PLC, Jetwing Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Exotic Holidays International (Pvt) Ltd, Hayleys Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Golden Isle (Pvt) Ltd, Ceylon Empire Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Bernard Tours (Pvt) Ltd, Fly A World Consultant and Tourism (Pvt) Ltd, Oreta Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Resfeber Holidays (Pvt) Ltd, Sunway Holidays /Sunway International (Pvt) Ltd, Shimron Holidays (Pvt) Ltd, Ayubowan Tours and Travels (Pvt) Ltd, Apuru (Pvt) Ltd, Trancso Travel (Pvt) Ltd, , Ceylon My Dream (Pvt) Ltd, Esna Holidays (Pvt) Ltd. The welcome speech was made by Mr. Dushan Wickramasuriya , while the country presentation was done by H.E Hasanthi Urugodawatte Dissanayake , Sri Lankan Ambassador to Turkey. Mr. Chalaka Gajabahu , Chairman , Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau , briefed the audience with a detailed introduction of the New concepts & Strategies initiated by Sri Lanka Tourism to be implemented as a tactical measure to increase the influx of tourists. Ms. Sasika Jayaweera, Assistant Director responsible for the Turkish Market, made the vote of thanks.  Mr. Aydin Osu , designated Honorary Consul General of Sri Lanka in Istanbul , also  graced the event with his participation . Furthermore, Turkish Airline supported Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau for the success of this event by providing the assistance and offering sponsorships. Also, the station Manager of the Turkish Airline Mr. Cumhur Boyaraz addressed the crowd and did a presentation by being the National Carrier of Turkey and how they will contribute to increase the numbers to Sri Lanka. A Networking session was held with local travel industry partners and Turkish Travel Agents for more productive sessions to share their demand and suppliers and also introducing their individual products to the travel agents and media who were presented at the event. In parallel with the trade networking session, Sri Lanka Tourism also conducted a media briefing for the media personals who were presented at the event which is vital in order to take the message that the island is safe, secure and fully equipped to offering the travel experience. Also, it was a great opportunity have the presence of TURSAB the travel association of Turkey and Jazeera Airlines, a Kuwaiti airline that has daily flights to Sri Lanka from Turkey along with the major tour operators who are currently supporting Sri Lanka. Turkey, as one of the most notable countries in Mediterranean Europe has good potential as a top source market for Sri Lanka as it has the capability of attracting tourists towards its local attractions, given the necessary promotion.  

Sinopec to conduct feasibility study for new refinery in Sri Lanka

The company is expected to complete a feasibility study for a plant at the Hambantota port by June.

Chinese energy giant Sinopec is advancing its global strategy as it seeks to establish its first fully controlled overseas refinery in Sri Lanka, reported Reuters.

The company is expected to complete a feasibility study by June for a plant at the Hambantota port, following approval from Colombo last November, industry sources told the news agency. This move, which is a major change in Sinopec’s foreign strategy, is perceived as a reaction to China’s slowing increase in demand. The proposed investment, estimated at $4.5bn by Sri Lankan officials, would be the country’s largest-ever foreign investment. While the initiative is commercially driven, it also places Sinopec in competition with India, which is promoting a rival plan to build a fuel products pipeline to Sri Lanka. State-owned Indian Oil Corporation is currently the second-largest fuel supplier to Sri Lanka, following government-owned Ceylon Petroleum. Sinopec’s investment in Sri Lanka, along with another project in Saudi Arabia, is part of a broader effort to leverage the company’s expertise and financial resources for global expansion. This comes as oil demand in China approaches its peak amidst economic slowdown and the rise of electric vehicles. The company’s international investment strategy has evolved following a decline in Chinese oil and gas investments abroad, which dropped to $344m in 2023 from a record $31bn in 2012, the report said, citing London Stock Exchange Group data. In negotiations with Colombo, Sinopec is seeking greater access to the import-reliant Sri Lankan market, a critical factor for its final investment decision. Sri Lanka, facing a foreign exchange crisis, desires a refinery that would satisfy 20% of its domestic fuel needs and allow for exports to generate hard currency. However, Sinopec believes focusing on domestic sales could be more profitable. The company is considering constructing either a 160,000 barrels per day (bpd) refinery or two phased 100,000bpd plants, primarily producing gasoline and diesel. Sinopec has been requesting more accommodating conditions for the project’s domestic marketing share for several months now, but Colombo has not agreed. Sinopec declined to comment and requests for comments from India’s foreign ministry and Indian Oil Corporation did not elicit a response, the publication said. Sri Lanka’s power and energy minister, Kanchana Wijesekera, has indicated that the government is maintaining its stipulation for the refinery’s output and expects Sinopec to sign an investment agreement by June. Sinopec’s Hambantota project is a top priority, alongside a significant investment in expanding a refinery into a petrochemical complex at Saudi Arabia’s Yanbu port, in partnership with Saudi Aramco. – www.offshore-technology.com

ITC Ratnadipa – A Magnificent Icon of Responsible Luxury Launched In Colombo

The 352-room hotel, with ITC Hotels’ world-acclaimed cuisines will be a jewel in Colombo’s skyline. ITC Limited’s wholly owned subsidiary WelcomHotels Lanka (Private) Limited has launched ITC Ratnadipa, a jewel in Colombo’s skyline that promises to enrich the tourism and hospitality landscape of Sri Lanka. This flagship hospitality icon of ITC Hotels was inaugurated today by the President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, His Excellency Ranil Wickremesinghe in the presence of Hon’ble Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Dinesh Gunewardena, His Excellency Santosh Jha, Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and Mr Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and Managing Director, ITC Ltd, India. This luxury destination draws inspiration from the national flower of Sri Lanka, the floating water lily, which is a recurrent motif across the hotel. ITC Ratnadipa or “Island of Gems” offers 352 guest rooms, suites and service apartments, each adorned with private balconies with breath taking waterfront views. This landmark complex situated along the shores of the Indian Ocean on one side and Beira Lake on the other, comprises two stellar towers that stand gracefully together presenting impeccable hospitality at both ITC Ratnadipa Hotel and the luxurious Sapphire Residences. Connecting the two towers at a height of 100 meters, is the first of its kind, state of the art ‘Ahasa’ sky bridge, an architectural marvel. Commenting on the launch of ITC Ratnadipa, Mr. Sanjiv Puri, Chairman and Manging Director of ITC Ltd. said, “ITC is one of India’s foremost multi-business conglomerates with businesses in Consumer Goods, Hotels, Paperboards & Packaging, Agri Business and Information Technology. The Company has over the years, built iconic properties across India that are inspired by the ITC Hotels’ philosophy of being rooted to the soil and reflect the unique architecture, vibrant culture and grandeur of the region. These world-class hotels offer globally renowned signature cuisines, best-in-class services and have pioneered an ethos of Responsible Luxury. Today, it gives us immense pride to announce the launch of the magnificent ITC Ratnadipa in Colombo. Embodying the rich architectural and cultural history of Sri Lanka, this flagship hotel will create extraordinary luxury hospitality experiences for discerning business and leisure travellers. The globally acknowledged cuisines of ITC Hotels will also find a pride of place in ITC Ratnadipa through a repertoire of fine dining experiences. ITC Hotels’ commitment to promote local cuisine through its initiative –‘Local Love’ has led its renowned chefs to draw inspiration from Sri Lanka’s ancient culinary traditions & indigenous foods. ITC is a global exemplar in sustainability, and it is a matter of immense pride that the first 12 properties in the world to be LEED Zero Carbon and the first 4 to be LEED Zero Water certified are all ITC Hotels. The Company’s sustainability credentials are also embodied in this signature project which has been designed to meet US Green Building Council LEED Platinum certification standards, with globally benchmarked environmental practices”. ITC Ratnadipa is meticulously designed to showcase the beauty and rich culture of Sri Lanka, seamlessly blending contemporary elegance with timeless charm. The sprawling property symbolises the traditions of the island nation through its architectural design, culinary marvels and artistic expression. Work of Sri Lankan art maestros, including that of Sanjaya Seneviratne, Prasad Hettiarachchi to Laki Senanayake, Dominic Sansoni and more, adorns ITC Ratnadipa’s public areas. Complementing its exquisite accommodations, ITC Ratnadipa shall present 9 signature dining destinations that offer a repertoire of local, national and global cuisine. The globally-acclaimed dining selections feature Peshawri- an award-winning restaurant brand that brings alive the robust flavours of the North-West Frontier. Avartana, counted amongst Asia’s best restaurants, offers a sophisticated interpretation of cuisine mosaics. ITC Ratnadipa will also house the Indian Ocean Pavilion, an enchanting offering with stunning views of the Indian Ocean along with the finest buffet selection. Other cuisine brands include Yi Jing, featuring time-honoured recipes from across the diverse regions of China, the soon to open Islander that would offer the bold flavours celebrating the rich bounty of the sea, Silvertips, that celebrates Sri Lanka’s popular high tea culture, as well as Jala Anganaya, a blissful oasis featuring tropical fresh juices and healthy bites. Ahasa, a one of its kind ‘sky bridge’ bar and lounge, promises to become the city’s preferred destination. This engineering masterpiece offers 360-degree panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for sundowners, with breath taking scenery extending far into the horizon. ITC Hotels’ make a special effort to integrate local culinary cuisine & indigenous foods. Accordingly, significant efforts have been made to develop local vendors in Sri Lanka for integral culinary products, contributing to our tenets of Responsible Sourcing and lowering our Carbon Footprint. Recognising Sri Lanka’s immense tourism potential, ITC Ratnadipa aims to be a fulcrum to attract MICE and inbound tourism in Sri Lanka.  ITC Rantadipa’s extensive modern banqueting facilities spread over 40000 sq ft together with its delectable cuisines will contribute meaningfully to this mission. The state-of-the-art banquets and event spaces are perfect for hosting corporate gatherings, weddings, and social celebrations. The facilities include the stunning Sangam Ballroom, with 15,000 sq. ft. of pillarless banqueting space along with the Panorama Deck – the dazzling outdoor wedding venue. Besides unparalleled hospitality experiences, the project also offers best-in-class luxury residencies for discerning consumers. Introducing the concept of Sky Mansions to South Asia, the Sapphire Residences, Colombo is an exquisite collection of the most luxurious and spacious apartments and penthouses, in the city’s most scenic oceanfront location, adjacent to ITC Ratnadipa. With its uninterrupted 180 degree panoramic views over the Indian Ocean these iconic luxury apartments in Colombo offer a delightful view of the ocean. The helipad would be another highlight at the complex. Be it for business or leisure, the helipad at ITC Ratnadipa shall provide access to private landing facilities. Carrying the legacy of ITC Hotels in pioneering Responsible Luxury, ITC Ratnadipa has been designed with globally benchmarked environmental dimensions endorsing a climate smart approach. From the inception of the project through construction and ongoing operations, sustainability is at the core of ITC Ratnadipa. Initiatives include enhanced focus on energy and water efficiency, sustainable site development, the use of eco-friendly materials ensuring indoor environmental quality, among others. ITC Ratnadipa marks the addition of the 16^th Luxury Collection Hotel in ITC Hotels portfolio. The Luxury Collection, one of Marriott International’s leading global brands, is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. ITC Ratnadipa also marks the entry of any of Marriott International’s luxury brands in Sri Lanka. The Luxury Collection hotels are a part of Marriott Bonvoy, the world’s largest hotel loyalty program.

President Declares Open “Nihonbashi” Japanese Restaurant at Port City

President Ranil Wickremesinghe inaugurated the “Nihonbashi” Japanese Restaurant situated within the premises of Colombo Port City. The first of its kind, “Nihonbashi” was originally established in 1995 at Galle Face terrace by renowned chef Darshana Munidasa, and has since been a prominent destination for both local and international patrons seeking authentic Japanese cuisine over the past 29 years. During the opening ceremony, the President took a tour of the restaurant, engaging in friendly conversation with the attendees. Notable figures such as Mr. Sagala Ratnayaka, the President’s Senior Adviser on National Security, and Chief of Staff to the President, were also present to mark the occasion.

Japan Provides US$ 3 Million Through FAO to Strengthen Inland Fisheries and Improve Rural Livelihoods in Sri Lanka

The Japanese Government has provided a grant of US$3 million through the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to strengthen inland fisheries and improve rural livelihoods in partnership with the Ministry of Fisheries. The US$ 3 million initiative will bolster food and nutritional security and fortify resilience by establishing four community operated mini hatcheries in Batticaloa, Mullaitivu, Anuradhapura and Monaragala districts, upgrade four NAQDA Aquaculture Development Centres and one community operated mini fish breeding centre to increase breeding and rearing capacity, enhance fingerling stocks in selected reservoirs, develop broodstock for breeding units and promote cage culture for seed rearing among fisher communities. The one-year project will also provide 3 live fish transportation trucks to NAQDA to transport fingerlings, integrate digital technology to inland fisheries, and enhance the technical capacities of officers and fishers in the production, management, processing and value addition of inland fisheries. In his speech, Ambassador Mizukoshi stressed “Japan and Sri Lanka, both island nations, share a deep-rooted appreciation for the importance of fisheries in our economies and cultures. Recognizing this shared significance, Japan has been steadfast in its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s fisheries development, particularly in the maritime domain, since 2023. With the initiation of this new project alongside our continued efforts, Japan is committed to strengthening Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector, thereby improving food security and livelihoods.” “Sri Lanka’s inland fisheries sector has historically been supported by the government, contributing significantly to the nation’s economy,” remarked Hon. Douglas Devananda, Minister of Fisheries. “However, recent financial challenges have left the sector deprived of necessary resources, exacerbating hardships among inland fishing communities and rural populations. This project is a pivotal step towards revitalizing the sector and ensuring sustainable benefits for all stakeholders involved.” The project aims to directly support approximately 3,000 inland fishers, 40 farmers engaged in mini hatchery operations, and 20 farmers specializing in fish feed preparation. Moreover, it is expected to have a positive ripple effect on indirect beneficiaries, including family members, consumers, producers of dry fish, and stakeholders in research and academia. “Partnerships like these demonstrate the impact of collective action in driving sustainable development. At the United Nations, we are committed to fostering collaborations that empower communities and reinforce crucial sectors like inland fisheries. Through this project, we’re not just promoting food security and rural livelihoods; we’re also laying the groundwork for a resilient future for Sri Lanka’s rural communities,” said Mr. Marc-André Franche, UN Resident Coordinator for Sri Lanka. “The significance of increasing inland fish production and ensuring the sustainability of the inland fisheries industry cannot be overstated,” stated Mr Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka. “This project is not merely about enhancing food security; it’s about uplifting livelihoods and fortifying the resilience of rural communities, particularly inland fisherfolk. The development of self-sustained culture-based fisheries in selected reservoirs is not just necessary; it’s imperative for the betterment of these communities.” FAO remains steadfast in its commitment to the successful implementation of this project, aiming to create lasting positive impacts on food security, livelihoods, and resilience in Sri Lanka’s rural communities.   Image Caption : H.E. MIZUKOSHI Hideaki, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Hon. Douglas Devananda, Minister of Fisheries, Hon. Piyal Nishantha de Silva, State Minister of Fisheries, Mr Marc-André Franche, UN Resident Coordinator Sri Lanka, Mr Vimlendra Sharan, FAO Representative for Sri Lanka, and Ms K. N. Kumari Somaratna, Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries, at the official project document signing ceremony at the UN Compound, Sri Lanka