Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last night declared that no one can stop his government from signing the controversial Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) with India.
Ranil
“We have the majority in Parliament and we are going ahead with this agreement, and no one can stop us,” he told reporters on Saturday while touring Hambantota to inspect the airport, port, the convention centre and hospital.
The Prime Minister said that his government has launched a series of initiatives in an effort to generate 1 million new jobs for the youth.
“There are people shouting, and demanding us to not sign the agreement with India, who is shouting? The Government Medical Officers Association (GMOA). They are going on strike, but when they strike it doesn’t affect the government, it only affects the people,” he said.
Wickremesinghe also termed those opposing the agreement as ‘traitors’.
He also added that the GMOA had put up a bogus agreement on their website claiming it to be the agreement they government plans to sign with India. “This is a bogus document,” he added.
Amarasiri / February 21, 2016
Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe ,
RE: No One Can Stop Us From Signing ECTA With India: Ranil
“Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe last night declared that no one can stop his government from signing the controversial Economic and Technical Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) with India.”
However, you need to be transparent and disclose everything.
Have you disclose everything.
Have the Sri Lanka Economists and Professional, who are not bribed looked at it independently?
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Kalupahana / February 21, 2016
Sri Lanka needs to have a NON ALIGNED FOREIGN POLICY between India and China and the West.
It is very naive of Ranil to think that this agreement with India will be result in job creation in Lanka. India is using an Economic CARROT which is really a stick to control Sri Lanka because of its fear of China and the Chinese Colombo Port project which will be an environmental and financial disaster for Colombo residents and Lankan citizens if it goes ahead.
Ranil like Dr. Harsha sees India through rosy glasses. India has messed around with Nepal with an ‘open border’ which has economically DE-DEVELOPED Nepal and made it a peripheral province of India.
This is due to India’s fear of China, Nepal has become a colony. India will do the same in Lanka – given a chance. India has a history of messing up its neighbours.
One does not need to be a Sinhala nationalist to recognize this about India’s engagement with its neighbours!
Ironically, the LTTE kept India at bay and Sinhala nationalists should be thankful to VP for this!
India used economic arguments to force the open border with Nepal and look as the electricity, energy problems, never mind the political and economic problems of Nepal as a result of this..
Sri Lanka should remember that GOOD FENCES MAKE GOOD NEIGBOURS in the case of India. Britain in the EU is another example of engagement with neighbours at an arms length.
The agreement should be very carefully studied and NOT HASTILY aceeded to because India is in a hurry to tie Sri Lanka to it because of fear of Chinese influence and Colombo port project.
Lanka should refuse the Trojan Horse gifts that both India and China offer where they will cause ruin of local people and environment.
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Silva / February 21, 2016
Yes NO ONE CAN STOP RANIL…!
He is now performing the role of Mervyn Silva.
What else can you expect from a person:
– who used convicted criminals like GONAWALA SUNIL to do day to day politics.
– Who used torture chambers to crush dissenting citizens, with no regard to Rule of Law.
– Who when in power used his political influence to get a coconut plucker of his electorate appointed as the minister of education of the all important Western provincial council
It seems Ranil is now finding it extremely difficult to resist showing his true colours.
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Jagath Fernando / February 21, 2016
We are used to a welfare culture and subsistence living from the time we are born. We have never been taught to be competitive and productive. We have a small population and being competitive was not in our DNA.
Our professionals such as doctors, engineers, lawyers, accountants and IT guys have had it very easy for decades due to non competition. Look at our garments industry. They are world class since they compete with global suppliers and competition has taken them to a different level. Nike or Levis will pull out as soon as we falter on quality or timeliness. Why can’t our other industries be like this? Why can’t our professionals take a clue from this?
Best news for 2016 is the trade Agreement with India.
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SF / February 21, 2016
[Edited out]
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
SF
“[Edited out]”
Thanks for keeping it brief.
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Jim softy / February 21, 2016
I think there is a point in what you say.
Even professionals in Sri lanka abuse the situation. therefore, there should be competition for them.
Open the professionaljobs for competition.
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Native Vedda / February 22, 2016
Jim softy
“I think”
Since when?
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Old Codger / February 22, 2016
NV,
Give poor Jimmy a chance. He seems to be improving himself of late
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
“No One Can Stop Us From Signing ECTA With India: Ranil”
Why do the stupid nationalists, crooks, mudhalalies who enjoy a captive market, .. economic illiterates, moda Marxists, ……. politicise this important economic policy?
Then of course, the state has the responsibility to provide for the transitional costs, in terms of capital, training, re-training, unemployment benefit, market, language learning, relocation, subsidy, …. .
These agreements should shake and stir the complacency of politicians, mudhalalies, workers, teachers, universities, civil service, …….. Too long they have had good time at the expense of ordinary people.
For once let them start earning a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work.
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Ben Hurling / February 21, 2016
Native,
Damn good point.
However, recently I looked up the word “STUPID” in the Oxford dictionary. A photo of a cross section of “The Sri Lankan Electorate” came up.
Against that political backdrop, Ranil and The Gang are going about this in a rather arrogant, amateur manner. It is bound to backfire. It already has in a way.
Yahapalanaya must make the case to the people first. They have not so far. Honestly, I have not understood this agreement myself yet.
They are rushing this exactly the same way former dictator passed the abominable 18th amendment. In a real hurry. Through the backdoor.
Ironically, Coconut Thieves Group is politically exploiting this to the max. Despite their track record putting Sri Lanka on China’s doormat. For discounted sale.
RW must resist the urge from his genes to force these things down Sri Lanka’s throat. Rather mount a campaign to take on the opposition to this in a transparent way. And defeat it.
The only thing he is doing right now is burning the political capital “Yahapalanaya” has in the country rather wastefully. By calling people traitors etc.
Cheers!
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Jim softy / February 21, 2016
Ranil wickramsinghe’s only luck is Mahinda Rajapakse is the opposition and Ranil four more years to go.
After that he will be history and he will be only cursed the just way right now JRJ is cursed even in his grave.
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Upul / February 21, 2016
Mr. Prime Minister,
Knock off your false indignation and publish the agreement you claim to have negotiated before signing it and lets see if you really believe in democracy.
After all if this is good for me, I want to know about it, BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.
Please don’t insult my intelligence with the “trust me” bull shit because, you have a bunch of rogues working with you. You know that and WE ALL KNOW THAT.
Don’t look for scape goats to distract.
Print the agreement in the government media for all to see and let us see who the liar is. Either way, I want to know the truth. From you, or someone else.
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thrishu / February 21, 2016
RW’s done deal with VP betrayed the nation and nearly ended up with separation. Hope RW would not do the same here; the right thing to do PM is to publish the terms of the deal so that the public can see what you are up to behind closed curtains. We are also suspicious of your done deal with Rajapaksha on the dawn of 9th Jan 15.
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
thrishu
“RW’s done deal with VP betrayed the nation and nearly ended up with separation.”
The deal RW did with VP was out in the open and led to the break up of LTTE and eventual defeat. The deal was transparent while MR’s deal with VP was covert which benefitted him two elections. And he escaped scot-free though there were issues such as election irregularities, money laundering and dealing with terrorists.
Once in a while, you should revisit history.
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punchinilame / February 21, 2016
If the economic conditions prevailing are to be uplifted, the PM is
marching in the correct direction. The voice of the JVP is loudest, as
they can only thrive on “poor”, conditions continuing to effect citizens. An economic Change, similar to 8th January `15, is much sought after, whether it be China, US, or Indian input.
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Sama / February 21, 2016
These the kind of agreements should be studied properly before being signed, since the lanken unemployed graduate problem also to be resolved soon. And the fact, signing would be not be problems with some restrictions as the germans do it with newly added EU countries (Bulgaria or economically fallen Greece).
As always has been so far those who make billas will enjoy so long everything specailly the main idea of the agreement being kept away – however awareness programs with the professionals / but not Rajpakshe intoxicated ones (they are the most virulent in this countr)and also the people, is what that the rulers have to do now.
It will be not easy to bring any good steps to the country so long so called paranoid led society groups would be disagreeing there.. but it is worth fighting to the end, opening to world but not betraying own folks is not unheathy for a better future.
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K.A Sumanasekera / February 21, 2016
Take that..
Batalanda turned Batista…
Heheheheheheheheee…
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Naveen / February 21, 2016
Don’t question what I do. If you do you’re a traitor. Sound familiar?
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Lion / February 21, 2016
Sir we are sure that you dont do any thing which harms this country. So Go ahead with your plans.
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kumaran / February 21, 2016
Hon. Prime Minister, many support you but remember you serve at our pleasure: abstain from sounding so arrogant. MR was also like that.
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nimal fernando / February 21, 2016
I support Ranil to the hilt, not due to any party politics but because SL has to modernise and he is the only current SL politician who has even an inkling how to do it – sometimes a very foolish one at that. But us Lankan beggars can’t be choosers; he’s all we got!
Sure, he should read research by think-tanks, consultancy-services etc but more importantly first he should learn to think for himself! Taking one’s thinking beyond think-tanks, universities, research-papers, books …… real-world, man on the street, practical thinking. This was Singapore’s Lee Kuwan Yew’s strength. He was no democrat but one can argue that the end justified the means.
Ranil has a DUTY to give a plausible explanation to the SL citizens on whose behalf he is signing this agreement – at the behest of India I am sure (is this India’s pound of flesh for bringing this government in to power?) How getting down Indian IT personnel is going to create jobs – Ranil wants to create a million jobs – for the Lankan youth? Not cockamamie our cultural-similarity Kawum-Appa, Buddha came from India talk but a real-world practical explenation with facts and figures!
If people can get over their bugaboos about JVP’s stupid violent past history and focus on just what he is saying, so far the only person who has given a practical real-world explanation with fact and figures is Anura Kumara Dissanayake. And I can’t dispute his logic.
Anura Disanayake Speaks at No ”ETCA” – Seminar on 18.02.2016
His point is that, the best Indian IT personnel will go to the USA, UK, Europe or Australia. The second tier will remain in India. As there is no real incentive for anyone to come to SL other than to find a job (a job they are unable to find in India) – for God’s sake leave aside Indians, I know vast number of Lankans who don’t want to come to SL – we will end up with the lowest tier of people who can’t find work in the West or in India.
Can anyone explain with facts and figure how this is going to create jobs for Lankans? Please, no platitudes; a logical, real-world, practical explanation that we all can comprehend.
If Ranil doesn’t offer a (it’s time for you to walk the talk, Lichchavi democrat) we have to assume that this is crammed down our throats (like the 13th amendment) not for Sri Lanka’s but India’s benifit.
I am yet to see India doing a good deed out of the goodness of her heart that benefits any of her neighbours. “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it”.
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Saman / February 21, 2016
Therein lies the problem, “I support Ranil to the hilt” even at the cost of destroying our future. Please take a look at what has happened to Nepal. History repeats itself because of idiots like yourself who live in lala land. Ranil has no inkling of anything. Name one substantial thing he has done in modernising the nation.
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Old Codger / February 21, 2016
One thing? The Biyagama FTZ.It works, unlike the shamelessly named Mahinda Rajapaksa Mattala International Airport.
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nimal fernando / February 22, 2016
Saman,
“Please take a look at what has happened to Nepal.”
This is precisely my point and I’ve written it as forcefully as anyone all over the place. Mr Einstein, if you don’t comprehend what’s written, it aint my problemo.
“I support Ranil to the hilt” even at the cost of destroying our future.”
This is what I wrote,
“I support Ranil to the hilt, not due to any party politics but because SL has to modernise and he is the only current SL politician who has even an inkling how to do it – sometimes a very foolish one at that. But us Lankan beggars can’t be choosers; he’s all we got!”
Comprehendo?
” Ranil has no inkling of anything. Name one substantial thing he has done in modernising the nation.”
So, the great intellectual powerhouse you are, who do you think we should entrust our future to? Mahinda, Basil, Gota, Wimal, BBS, Mervin Silva ……. ? Pray, please do us all patriots a favour and just name one? Just one!
If all you have is hatred of Ranil because of your love of Mahinda or some other pol and all you can do is just hurl trite clichés to say Ranil is no good, can’t help you, buddy. If you want to play partisan politics leave me well out of it; I crossed that bridge a million miles ago.
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Old Codger / February 21, 2016
Nimal F,
“His point is that, the best Indian IT personnel will go to the USA, UK, Europe or Australia. The second tier will remain in India. As there is no real incentive for anyone to come to SL other than to find a job (a job they are unable to find in India) – for God’s sake leave aside Indians, I know vast number of Lankans who don’t want to come to SL – we will end up with the lowest tier of people who can’t find work in the West or in India.”
This argument might look so good but it simply doesn’t work with a field like IT. Unlike even doctors, IT is very performance-based. Ability matters more than fancy degrees. Remember both Bill Gates and Steve Jobs were dropouts.
We are not talking about experts in Word ,Excel or even Photoshop.
An IT person HAS to be able to write software in one or many languages for devices ranging from smartphones to supercomputers. NO one whe cannot perform will last more than a few days. There is no such thing as a cheap IT specialist, Indian or otherwise.
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nimal fernando / February 22, 2016
Old Codger,
All what you say is well and good but,
My problem is this, and it’s a very simple one. How did this agreement originate?
Did the SL business community go to the government and say, we have a dearth of IT specialists, please draft some framework/agreement to get them down from India. I suspect not. I don’t think it originated in SL but in the bowels of some Indian governmental “department” and is now foisted on us. That’s what I am wary of. I just do not trust India. And my mistrust of India can be well justified by her past history.
According to Ranil’s talk it looks like a done deal. There is no one single rational explanation put out by anyone of the government – with facts and figures – to show the citizens how this is going to create jobs for Lankans. Can you elaborate how this is going to create jobs? Unfortunately all the platitudes, trite clichés about “globalization” wheeled out now to justify it is not much dissimilar to first taking Sarath Fonseka into custody and then going around for weeks looking for something to pin on him.
Ranil got a mandate to create a million jobs but now he can’t twist it to say he got a mandate to sign this agreement without demonstrating to the country how this agreement is going to create jobs. Mahinda got even a bigger mandate but not to do most of the things he did. Increasingly Ranil is looking like a desperate man on whom India is tightening the screws.
We were all critical of Mahinda for building the Mattala airport without proper passenger-movements/demographic studies and our misgivings are well justified now. All what Harsha and Ranil et al are saying is trust us, we know best. That’s not good enough; where are the proper facts and figures? If the government doesn’t have them then they are as clueless as we are. Can this be done like Mattala on a hope and a prayer?
You can’t throw in all the trite clichés about globalisation, productivity, competitiveness …….. without tying them down to how those are going to create jobs for Lankans.
Please can someone in very simple language explain how this agreement is going to create jobs for Lankans?
Old Codger can you do it; or at least make an attempt?
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Old Codger / February 22, 2016
Nimal F,
I can name at least 3 Indian funded companies which are thriving and employing Sri Lankans with Indian managers:
Kelani Tyres, Lanka Ashok Leyland, and parts of the Steel Corporation.
The Tyre corp was a lame duck with ancient polluting technology . Now it exports tyres. The secret is in management.The Indians laid off all the politically appointed freeloaders, reduced benefits and put competent people in, with new technology.
WE don’t have such deep pockets or managers with backbone to do the same.
I think Sri lankan Airlines and the Railways too should be sold cheap to the Tatas.
“Did the SL business community go to the government and say, we have a dearth of IT specialists, please draft some framework/agreement to get them down from India. “
The so-called SL business community would be the last to do it.The IT businesses already have Indian specialists working for them.They are NOT cheap. I know that Indian technicians are put up in 5-star hotels when they come down to repair high-tech CNC machines.
When Kellogg set up the Nylon6 plant in the 80’s they had to set up a training school for specialist welders, fabricators etc, because these skills simply did not exist here then. Sri Lankans had not seen even PTFE thread-seal till then.The plant was ultimately scrapped, but the trainees went to work on the Mahaweli,Dockyard, and many went for lucrative ME jobs.
Our dockyard workers too can learn from the Indians.
Being paranoid about India is pointless. We have no option but to play along while tweaking things as far as possible.
Remember, we owe our freedom not to Anagarika Dharmapala, but to Gandhi, Nehru and the thousands who gave their lives to get the Brits out. If they really wanted to occupy us, they would have done it 50 years ago.
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dhammika herath / February 21, 2016
Did i hear these words before, from someone elses mouth not so long ago?
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vezel / February 21, 2016
Dear RW,
Why not show at least a draft Agreement to the people of the country????
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anonymous / February 21, 2016
Because, 99% of the population are busy trying to find money for their next meal, bills, children’s needs, health-care, intoxicants,………, not to mention the bribes.
It is OK for some who can fly to Singapore for a check-up when asked to appear before the FCID. That 1% will read and object if something that will not benefit them included.
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words / February 21, 2016
Ranil is just being Ranil. . The next thing to be shoved down our throat will be a new constituition with federalism.
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
words
“The next thing to be shoved down our throat will be a new constituition with federalism.”
There is a consultation process where you can raise your fear, concerns and provide some ideas.
There are two things that need to be shoved are Mahawamsa and the 1978 constitution, not down your throat but up in your rear end. Probably you will enjoy the sensation.
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words / February 21, 2016
Nope.. only the likes of “men” like Ranil enjoy that sensation :)
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
words
“Nope.. only the likes of “men” like Ranil enjoy that sensation :)”
You will enjoy the sensation not because you are gay but because you a masochist, who enjoys pain, irrespective of which cavity Mahawansa & the present constitution are being shoved off.
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words / February 21, 2016
Ah.. you are one of those???
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
words
“Ah.. you are one of those???”
If I were one of those masochists I would have agreed with you in the first place.
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Old Codger / February 21, 2016
And what is bad about federalism? Will you need avisa to visit Jaffna?
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Jagath Fernando / February 21, 2016
Best news for 2016.
As a professional at least now I am forced to get my act together and be competitive and productive.
We have never been taught to be competitive other than in a few sectors such as garments where quality and pricing and timeliness is everything. When you cannot do that every buyer will drop you with very little notice.
It is time for our doctors, engineers, accountants and IT guys get competitive and productive.
Our companies such as Damro and MAS Amante and Timex Avirate will do well with this agreement in India. It will also give opportunities for others to prosper as long as they are competitive and productive.
Unfortunately from the time we are born, we are used to a welfare and subsistence living and hence this is a challenge.
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Rationalist / February 21, 2016
“No One Can Stop Us From Signing ECTA With India: Ranil”
Big Australian Companies, who do not know the level of Indian Capability, are Out-Sourcing jobs to India, as a measure of Cutting Costs.
Mr Prime Minister, you should speak to the people in Australia, who have lost their Jobs to Indian Companies. These Indian Companies employ people who are incapable of carrying out Projects at the level of Expertise Required.
Please take look at this UTube Video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCecQrh8AZo
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justice / February 21, 2016
Rationalist,
What is portrayed in the video – relieving oneself in places, NOT in toilets – happened in our villages a few decades ago.
The Heath Department donated concrete toilet covers for pit latrines plus Rs 50/= to each family in the villages, to households, through Medical Officers of Health, construction and actual use were verified by Public Health Inspectors.
This vastly improved sanitation in villages and the idea of using latrines became popular.
Now, gastro-intestinal disease – bacterial and parasitic (“worms”) are rare.
We too had people called sanitary labourers in towns, paid by local authorities who emptied bucket latrines – but these are a rare breed now.
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Rationalist / February 21, 2016
Justice, I am old enough to remember a time in Sri Lanka, (Ceylon at the Time), when there were ‘Coolies’, who used to come daily to empty The buckets in our lavatories. There was a bucket of sawdust beside the ‘commode’ to cover the smells, and discourage flies.
What I was trying to Point Out is, that this is happening in India TODAY. Our people are more advanced now.
Any Economic Co-operation with India at present, is all for the benefit of India, and not in the Best Interests of Sri Lanka.
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Native Vedda / February 21, 2016
Rationalist
I know you will never stop taking a dig at Indian people while you are scared s**t about Hindians.
Now tell us is it the Indians that clean toilets and lavatories in this island at present?
I suppose most of the people who go to medieval middle east kingdoms are working in top research organisations, banking and high finance, university professors, …. professionals and none of them clean toilets.
“Any Economic Co-operation with India at present, is all for the benefit of India, and not in the Best Interests of Sri Lanka.”
Thanks for demonstrating your ignorance.
The obligation is mutual/reciprocal.
If you are clever as you think and imply why don’t you send your experts, entrepreneurs, corporate giants, top engineers, doctors …….. to set up stalls in India?
Demand a share of top jobs for the qualified people of this island in Indian state and non-state institutions, such as DRDO, ISRO, …. Tata Institute of Fundamental Studies, ….. .. ?
Stop moaning, start thinking, demand whatever we are entitled to in India as a right under the proposed agreement and not as charity, ………… try and see beyond your nose, which I know is difficult for a little islander like you.
In fact, Champika Ranawake should run Indian nuclear programme, space programme, ….. . And you should assist him.
Many in this island benefited from India, from the days of Tagore to training programmes provided to armed forces, and more.
You should remove your head from bucket toilets.
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justice / February 21, 2016
Also see how India’s midday meal program has benefitted school children immensely.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f227UYDJ7EU
We can do likewise.
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Old Codger / February 22, 2016
Rationalist,
You seem highly enamoured of Australian “high” standards vis-a-vis Indian ones. Has Australia sent an orbiter to Mars? No, Australia just has better toilets!!!
Many migrants to Australia cannot remember the racist white Australia policy of not so long ago.
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Rationalist / February 22, 2016
Old Codger; do you think that sending an Orbiter to Mars is Development?
I beg to differ. Development means ensuring that all Citizens have equal access to Recognition, Education and Employment.
Your Statement:-
“Many migrants to Australia cannot remember the racist white Australia policy of not so long ago.”
Old Codger, You seem to want to live in the Past.
Most Australians have forgotten “the racist white Australia policy” and are now actively calling for the resettlement of Asylum Seekers in Australia.
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Old Codger / February 23, 2016
Rationalist:
“Old Codger; do you think that sending an Orbiter to Mars is Development? I beg to differ. Development means ensuring that all Citizens have equal access to Recognition, Education and Employment.”
When the US was first sending rockets into space, Blacks were using separate drinking fountains, schools, buses, etc. Was that development in your opinion? Stop being selectively racist.
The past is very useful for understanding what goes on today.
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Native Vedda / February 23, 2016
Rationalist
“I beg to differ. Development means ensuring that all Citizens have equal access to Recognition, Education and Employment.”
One cannot ensure citizens have equal access to all things that you mention, but can strive to provide equitable access to most things.
“Old Codger; do you think that sending an Orbiter to Mars is Development?”
Please read the NASA Spin off for information which I hope would enlighten you:
https://spinoff.nasa.gov/
Spinoff2016/pdf/Spinoff2016.pdf
Why these projects are urgently needed to cross one’s own ignorance threshold or ignorance barrier is amply explained in this publication, and how those projects benefited citizens of the world in considerable ways, health, communication, wealth and employment creation, …… material science, …..
ISRO created a material (Carbon Carbon)for its rockets, sturdy, light weight, fire resistant …. Now the material is being used to manufacture false legs for disabled, polio victims, mostly poor at an affordable price.
You say you are a rationalist, if this is true my gosh what about a person who is not a rationalist.
Please do some research before start knocking the keyboard. The Universe is moving fast. You will be left behind, I also want you to have equitable access to science, logic, information, …. and all the good things in life.
Your age shouldn’t prevent you from learning.
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Shan / February 21, 2016
Power has gone to his head and behaving like a dictator. He is not even the leader of the country (actually My3 does not want to be the leader). He is trying to bulldoze his way no matter what.
He has to disclose what is in that agreement and tell how that helps to make his 10 million job instead of attacking everybody who is against it and again attacking media (Derana) for giving protesters air time.
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Banjiappu / February 21, 2016
May I remind you please that we the people wanted President to be away from direct ruling – as had been the case with Meeharaka Rajapakshe and Prez MY3 was asked to be the president but letting parliamentary potlics be run by a PM- empowering the parliment, not had been similar to his successor who worked as a big brother of Zimbabwian Mugabe ?This is where the professionals have to bring therapies, I do believe, lankens are born idiots (average), they just loose their memories even not compared to Alzheimer patients of early stages. This is sadly the truth about lanken ilks you represent.
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Shan / February 22, 2016
Can you translate please.
This is not about MR. Blaming everything on him will not fix anything. He at least finished the war. What Ranil did?
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Patriot / February 21, 2016
This guy has lost it big time. May be as Dr. Padeniya of GMOA said he may need medical attention.
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words / February 21, 2016
If you oppose ANYTHING this government does, you are either a racist or a traitor.. unbelievable ..
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Jeremy / February 21, 2016
Is that what you call an Inconvenient Truth or just another mouthful of crap in support of the past bunch of thieves?
In any event it seems like a Convenient Lie!
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words / February 21, 2016
Don’t defend his actions and arrogance just for the sake of doing so.. our country deserves better than that..he is turning out to be an awful leader in every way!.the day he appointed a crook like RK as Finance Minister he made it clear that it was going to be his way..and he didn’t give a hoot about what others thought. His dictatorial tendencies makes MR look like a harmless kitten!
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Jeremy / February 21, 2016
@ words:
You should practice what you preach when you say “Don’t defend his actions and arrogance just for the sake of doing so”.
I wasn’t “defending HIS actions”, I was referring to your statement, “If you oppose ANYTHING this government does, you are either a racist or a traitor.. unbelievable .. “
If you cast your mind back to the statements made by MR & Co like “if you are not with us you are a traitor” and other such BS that you defended with all your editorial might, you may just know what I mean.
If, as you say, Ranil makes MR look like a “harmless kitten”, then you are either bonkers or an indefatigable apologist for a proven bunch of criminals.
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Native Vedda / February 22, 2016
words
“If you oppose ANYTHING this government does, you are either a racist or a traitor.. unbelievable ..”
I can’t confirm whether you are a traitor or not but what I confirm is that you are MR’s b***s carrying racist.
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Antany Peter / February 21, 2016
Why do we need closed door agreement, if India is bringing money to set up companies and factories to create jobs in Sri Lanka? I have the feeling that India is closing in by this agreement. Sri Lanka will lose its bargaining power with China; if India gets too close. This is not a good idea at all.
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Old Codger / February 21, 2016
For your information, Lanka Ashok Leyland and Kelani Tyres are among Indian investments in SriLanka. All without ECTA.
Damro, Keells and Amante are doing bloody well in India. Munchee came a cropper in India and still whines about it
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CountryFirst / February 21, 2016
NOW WE KNOW WHY RANIL IS NOT ELECTABLE!!
Reminds me of the very same UNP arrogance in the infamous words of Lalith Athulathmudali when he stated at the Parliamentary debate on the 13th Amendment…
“WE are Parliament and WE are Supreme”!!
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mr appuhamy / February 21, 2016
Mr. PM,
Your arrogancy shows the true colours of a democrat. You do not have a majority in parliament but you and president bought MPs by inflating the
Portfolios. Shame on you not revealing the true document to the public. You also act like another MR.
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Senthil / February 21, 2016
Nimal Fernando,
One of the Singhalese persons wrote fact or sense- hats up. There is no point is saying that we are going to become another sighapoor without changing our people’s mentality. I am sure you are someone living in the west, most probably UK or US – I do not like Europe. Even after the long costly war, our local people did not learn any lesson or politicians did not allow them to learn. Indi is a very poor country than us socially and standard of living. Water or electricity or knowledge flow from high towards low – Wander what is going to flow towards us from India – Good luck kavung modias.
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N.Wimaladasa / February 21, 2016
UNP-Ranil..W… has to realized that Sri Lankan is not his private property to be surrender Nation Economic Sovereignty to Indian big bourgeoisies vital interest.
Ours is sovereignty country and democratic nation, UNP have NOT given any mandate for such proposed agreement to rectify by to be that UNP leadership to be remain in power by vital interest Indian and as well as ruin our nation by dictatorship governance.
Well, that UNP-Ranil W…. seems to be violate WTO -World Trade Organization rules, when those proposed rules threaten to undermine Sri lanakn Republic domestic labour laws and environment standards that hamper sound economic development.
1 UNP should create the national space needed to protect social programs and regulations.
2 Renew domestic social contracts and pursue locally tailored growth policies.
3 Public should be bargaining about policy space rather than market access. Such a reorientation would benefit of our nation building.
In effects of this proposed agreement with India by UNP initiative would be one-sided recast into expanding Indian economy power house-Island that will undermined development and social safeguards of peoples of Sri Lankan .
Our challenge today is to render the existing openness sustainability and consistent with by UNP leadership of Neo-colonial goals.
He (Ranil.W…) about expanding the manoeuvrings room for Indian capital and businessmen in Sri lanakn market against domestic objectives.
As nation that applies such safeguard would be satisfy a key procedural requirement by people of Island.It would need to demonstrate that UNP has to it followed Democratic procedures in reaching the determination that the safeguard measure of Trade agreement with India is in majority public interest.
UNP leader has to follow guide rules as below;
A) The criteria might included transparency ,accountability inclusiveness and evident -based deliberations.
B) This hurdle would replace the current proposed agreement serious injury test ,which focuses largely on domestic companies, institutions and financial profitability.
UNP-Ranil W,… has to know WTO panel would still have jurisdiction ,but on procedural rather than substantive grounds.
WTO has see flowing moves;
1 domestic requirement were fulfil.
2 views of all relevant parties
3 the consumers and public interest groups
4 importers and exporters
5 civil society organizations
6 sufficiently represented ?
I advice all who are interest in this proposed trade agreement with Indian has looking to other side of WTO rule has been violated by UNP-Ranil W,,, ‘good governed and rule of law’ undermined WTO guided lines of New Globalization of world Trade.
UNP-Ranil.w. democracy is part and parcel of hipcoracy
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Udana Wijerathne / February 21, 2016
Where is the agreement? Are you a dictator? We know that you can remember things like an old Elephant and plan for revenge after 20 years.Did a Sri Lankan Software Engineer give you a buggy software 20 years back may be written in Pascal.
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Gune / February 21, 2016
This is a classic case of bad communication. The people have the right to know what this government is entering into with India. I believe RW to be more knowledgable than MR in such matters. Whilst MR sold Sril Lanka on a platter to the Cinese for the benefit of his family fortunes, RW is trying to get the best deal for SL through this agreement. The people never thought MR was wrong as such agreements with China came with visible and immediate benefits with the long term impact shrouded in secrecy. WWe might lose some because our economy is in tatters and we don’t have the population of India neither do we have a prosperous economy to ensure the agreement is in our favour. The government should enlighten the public about this agreement highlight the benefits to the people. Right now the people are misled by opposing politicians who are distorting the facts confusing the people.
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SLEA / February 21, 2016
Opening 1,000,000 jobs from ETCA. A lie. They have not indicated a kind of companies that they are going to start. If so ne need ETCA since the relevent option is provided in BOI. so, it a clear evidence that this is not an economically viable agreement, but paying back offering the country on a political reason.
How he can do it only being a prime minister who has a five year contract.
Voters please talk to your heart ….
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JULAMPITIYE AMARAYA / February 21, 2016
Mr Prime minister .
HOW DARE YOU SAY LIKE THAT????????????.
“We have the majority in Parliament and we are going ahead with this agreement, and no one can stop us,”.
you cant say like that, as you like and SRi Lanka Is not your Dowry like ancestral MANEL waththa.
You do not know the Indians, who they are.
you should know that Indian government is not run by politicians but by Indian bureaucrats and businessmen.
they much shrewd than you think.
Do not forget that, Who are you?.
You are representing the people of sri lanka and answerable to us, All Sri lankans.
Your predecessors also tried that and Failed miserably.
So Try To Understand the Mindset of Sri lankans.
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Sanjaya / February 21, 2016
Why SL politicians always do opposite for their own people?
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Leelawathie / February 21, 2016
This has not done yet, so why to draw such conclusions ?
Not many would agree if that is that harmful.. so guys, pleease be patient. Just loose your nerves for nothing can only harm your health. Meeharaka destroyed the nation and couutnry wealth telling something palatable. Even toda not the least
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thondamanny / February 21, 2016
No One Can Stop (Us) OR ME From Signing ECTA With India: Ranil
Which is which ?
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Peter Ratna / February 21, 2016
We should remind the Hon gentleman what happened to him when he behaved like this last:
Act 1:
He signed the CFA with the LTTE without consulting the President or the armed forces.
On the very day that the CFA was signed, President Bandaranayake came out attacking the agreement expressing her “dismay and shock” and called the CFA an “undemocratic act of Prime Minister”.
The opposition of the country strongly opposed the CFA and continuously criticized and protested against it.
Act 2:
The LTTE continuously violated the CFA in great many occasions. In August 2007 the SLMM agreed that the LTTE had violated the CFA, a total of 3830 occasions, while the government of Sri Lanka had violated the CFA in only 351 occasions.
It was later claimed by Karuna Amman that the LTTE dragged the peace talks to smuggle weapons and ammunition including aircraft.
Sri Lankan businessmen trying to establish new ventures in Jaffna were rudely shocked to know that they were not welcomed and turned away. The Seylan Bank branch opening was a good example.
There were furniture dealers trying to open new stores in Jaffna as furniture was a hot item there. They returned no sooner they landed there. The LTTE did not want anyone from the south to do business there.
Act 3:
President Chandrika Kumaratunga sacked three cabinet ministers and took over the ministries using her constitutional powers ending the uneasy coalition between her and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, while he was out of the country. Addressing the nation, she claimed that this decision was taken in the interest of national security.
Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna also decided to ally with the PA to defeat Ranil Wickremesinghe’s government, which they claimed as a threat to the country’s sovereignity. Consequently, President Chandrika Kumaratunga dissolved Parliament on 7 February 2004, thus effectively ending Ranil Wickremesinghe’s regime.
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Point of View / February 22, 2016
We are still suffering from Chandrika’s folly……
1. Ending the coalition with RW in 2004
2. Appointing a crook as the PM
3. GL Peiris
4. Sarath Silva
No wonder JRJ called her a school girl !
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Kapila Perera / February 21, 2016
History repeats. His uncle JRJ behave the same way. To stay in power betraying the country.
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