President Mahinda Rajapaksa yesterday paid a surprise visit to Kandy and walked along the sidewalk of the Kandy Lake leisurely to inspect shortcomings in the historical and sacred city. He met businessmen, general public, children, devotees to Dalada Maligawa and foreigners and had friendly discussions with them during his walk. Here the President chats to a group of devotees who had come to pay homage at the Sri Dalada Maligawa. Picture by Nalin Hewapathirana

Maldivian President Mohammed Nasheed yesterday honoured thousands of service personnel who laid down their lives for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka by placing a floral tribute at the War Memorial at the Diyathalawa Military Academy. Army Commander Lt. General Jagath Jayasuriya was also present.
Picture by Thushara Fernando

Maintaining peace, security in the region:

Lankan Forces playing pivotal role - Maldivian President

The Maldivian President Mohammed Nasheed said the Security Forces of Sri Lanka have a pivotal role to play in maintaining security and peace in the Asian region. He was of the view that the Sri Lankan Forces cannot a rest even after ruthless terrorism was eradicated in the country. The Maldivian President was speaking as the chief guest at the passing out of 194 Cadet Officers including a Maldivian at the Diyathalawa Military Academy yesterday.

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Only 1.9 m attend Dhamma schools - PM

Social deterioration can only be reversed by promoting religious and spiritual well being. Public support is essential for the government to undertake this task, Prime Minister D M Jayaratne said. He said that even though many point the finger at the government over the murders and robberies in the country, the government can do little to control these incidents without public support.

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‘Thane’ no threat

The cyclone ‘Thane’ is most unlikely to hit Sri Lanka directly according to its latest position, Meteorology Department Duty Forecaster P G Yasaratne told the Daily News yesterday. He said that the cyclone was 800 km away from Trincomalee towards the Northeast by yesterday noon and it was heading towards the Eastern Coast of India.

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