The High Commission of Sri Lanka regrets that, once again, Channel 4 chose not to share the video footage or any of the other material upon which it purports to have relied, prior to broadcast. This denied the High Commission of Sri Lanka and the Government of Sri Lanka the rightful opportunity to address any concerns raised. This appears to be a continuation of the approach adopted by Channel 4 in its broadcast last year. That broadcast was severely criticised by many including the Sunday Times UK, which described the commentary to the broadcast as “intemperate and partisan” and rightly pointed out that most of the footage which was used was unattributed and uncorroborated.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka regrets Channel 4’s continuing hostile and biased editorial position with regard to its reporting on Sri Lanka. Channel 4 chooses to focus its attention on a number of highly spurious and uncorroborated allegations and seeks -entirely falsely- to implicate members of the Sri Lankan government and senior military figures.

The High Commission categorically rejects the malicious allegations made by ITN Productions and Channel 4. Indeed, we note that much of the footage shown in last night’s broadcast is highly repetitious, having simply been recycled from Channel 4’s previous and discredited broadcast last year. The timing of this programme is nothing more than a cynical and concerted attempt to assist in gathering support for a resolution calling for action on Sri Lanka, tabled at the ongoing 19th Session of the Human Rights Council. As with their previous pattern of behaviour, Channel 4's airing of this biased, deeply misleading video at this time is not coincidental but is strategically driven and clearly motivated by collateral political considerations.

The country is finally moving on following nearly three decades of conflict inflicted on it by the LTTE, which it should be remembered was outlawed as a terrorist organization by many countries including India, the UK, the United States and the European Union. Regrettably, Channel 4 has apparently chosen to ignore the many positive post-conflict developments now taking place in the country. This approach inevitably gives Channel 4 viewers a very distorted and unbalanced view of Sri Lanka and only serves to harm the ongoing and comprehensive reconciliation process between all communities in Sri Lanka, in the post-conflict era.

High Commission of Sri Lanka
London

15 March 2012

A special inter-faith ceremony was held at the Lambeth Palace in London to mark the Diamond Jubilee of HM Queen Elizabeth11 on 15 Feb 2012.Ven.Bogoda Seelawimala Thera the Chief incumbent of the London Buddhist Vihara , headed the Buddhist delegation.He presented a small stupa to the Queen . The picture shows the chief monk describing the features of the stupa to the Queen as Archbishop Dr. Rowan Williems , Ajahn Amarao the Abbot of the Amaravathi Monastarary and Dr Desmond Biddulph, the President of the Buddhist Society look on.This silver stupa was imbedded with valuble Srilankan gems was donated by Mr. Kosala Ratnayaka of Kandy.

The High Commission of Sri Lanka

London

(From L to R) Mr. Jonathan Webber MBE, Director International Trade, Birmingham Chamber of Commerce,Mr. Nasir Awan, President , Institute of Asian Businesses,Dr. Chris Nonis H.E the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka, Mrs. Sonali Wijeratne, Minister (Commercial) Sri Lanka High Commission,Mr. Jerry Blackett, Chief Executive Officer , Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

The Sri Lanka High Commission , London UK organized a targeted programme of promoting Expo 2012 with lead Organizations in Birmingham and London on 15/16 Feb. 2012 in support of the visit of the UK Trade Mission to Colombo for Expo 2012.

Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka visited the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and addressed the members of that Chamber and a well represented gathering of the West Midlands Chambers of Commerce and the Institute of Asian Business of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce. He emphasised the overall positive economic indices of the country, the burgeoning opportunities arising in the wake of the economic developmental potential unleashed in the areas of the North and the East of Sri Lanka in the aftermath of the restoration of peace and normalcy. In addition to the progress made in reconstruction programme, he also took the opportunity to highlight the comprehensive ongoing reconciliation programmes undertaken.

British Lords and MPs join High Commissioner Dr.Chris Nonis in proposing a toast at Sri Lanka Independence Day Reception in London.

(from L – R) James Wharton, MP; Hon Lord King; Baroness Greengross; Sir Peter Heap; Baroness Flather; Hon. Lord Dholakia; H.E. Dr Chris Nonis, Sri Lanka High Commissioner; Hon Lord Rogan; Hon Lord McNair; Hon. Lord Lumbo; Mr  Charles Gray, Marshal to HM the Queen ; Sir Francis Richards

High Commissioner for Sri Lanka to the UK, Dr Chris Nonis called on Britain to replenish the tremendous reservoir of goodwill it has with Sri Lanka, stemming from the antecedent history between the two countries. He articulated that both our countries have a rich and varied plurality of economic, cultural, and linguistic traditions, and we should draw more deeply on the strength of our shared heritage, harness our collective strengths, and leverage on our commonalities.

He was addressing a large gathering of the British polity including Members of the House of Lords, Members of the House of Commons, London-based High Commissioners and Ambassadors, as well as senior officers from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office the Commonwealth Secretariat, International Institutions and well-wishers at a reception held at the Sri Lanka High Commission in London to celebrate the 64th Anniversary of Independence of Sri Lanka.

Dr Chris Nonis proposed a toast to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in her Diamond Jubilee year, and the people of Britain.

Mr. Charles Gray KCMG, Marshal to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, in proposing a toast to the President and people of Sri Lanka, reiterated the longstanding connections we have between the two countries, and congratulated the country on the peace and calm that now prevails in the country after so many years of difficulty. He reiterated the close working relationship Britain has with the new High Commissioner, and expressed confidence that the friendship and understanding would continue for the years to come.

Inaugural APSL Research Symposium (APSL-RS 2011) was held on Saturday 19th November 2011 at the Resource Centre, 356 Holloway Road, London. APSL-RS 2011 provided a platform for UK based Sri Lankan Researchers at all levels to come together, share their knowledge and start effective collaborations. It was also an exciting opportunity for the delegates to learn about cutting-edge research and technologies.

Since its launch, APSL-RS 2011 attracted significant interest from Sri Lankan Researchers around the UK. Following a comprehensive review process, 14 Papers were selected for oral presentations and posters giving attention to social and commercial benefits of the research projects.

During his welcome speech APSL President, Mr. Rohan de Alwis mentioned numerous projects and events organised by APSL for the Sri Lankan professional community in the UK and emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship and R&D projects developing into commercial products and services.

Chief Guest, His Excellency Dr. Chris Nonis, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to the UK, shared his research experience in the UK as a young doctor and emphasised the importance of undertaking research which has significant potential to deliver social and commercial benefits in the future.

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Attention of the Sri Lanka High Commission in London has been drawn to the recent news item published in pro-LTTE media and some sections of the Sri Lankan media that a LTTE front organization has been able to get a stamp released by Royal Mail, the postal authority in the UK, with a photograph of LTTE leader, late Velupillai Prabakaran.

The High Commission immediately contacted the Royal Mail. The Royal Mail has explained that in the UK, an individual can personalize their mail by combining a Royal Mail stamp with a photograph of an individual through their “Smiler Service”.

Upon receipt of Sri Lanka’s concerns in this regard given that the LTTE is a proscribed organization in the UK, the Royal Mail has investigated the matter immediately and confirmed to us that they promptly cancelled an account set up by the individual. Royal Mail has further stated that a small number of these “Smiler Stamps” had been posted to the customer, but all further orders have been cancelled forthwith.

Royal Mail has apologized for any distress caused in this regard.

Sri Lanka High Commission
13, Hyde Park Gardens
London W2 2LU

12 January 2012

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system is now in operation, with effect from 01st January 2012.

However, the ETA is not a pre-condition to board a flight/vessel to Sri Lanka.

Bona-fide tourists who arrive in Sri Lanka without an ETA reference number would be issued visas on arrival upon payment of the relevant ETA processing fee.

High Commission of Sri Lanka
London

5th January 2012

Mr Geoffrey Van Orden MBE MEP

Chairman of the Friends of Sri Lanka Group in the European Parliament

Following a recent visit to Sri Lanka, the Chairman of the European Parliament's informal 'Friends of Sri Lanka' Group has called for supportive engagement with Sri Lanka as it recovers from 30 years of conflict.

Conservative MEP and Defence Spokesman Geoffrey Van Orden has just returned from Sri Lanka where he met the President and senior Ministers, as well as MPs from a range of government and opposition political parties including the Tamil National Alliance. He met the Northern and Eastern Regional Governors, and on his visit to the former conflict areas in the North and East of the country, the Bishop of Jaffna, military commanders and many local people. He also visited the Detention Camp at Boosa and a post-Tsunami village at Weligama.

The Sri Lanka High Commission in London celebrated Deepavali festival on 20th November 2011 at the High Commission premises with the participation of a large number of the Sri Lankan Diaspora.

The event commenced with the lighting of traditional oil lamp. Hindu religious observances were conducted by Sivasri Ramanatha kurukkal who blessed His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa, all Sri Lankans, High Commissioner and the staff.

His Excellency Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka welcoming the gathering said Deepavali known as the “Festival of Light” brings hope and optimism to all mankind. He further said that the Sri Lankan Hindus are celebrating this festival with the dawn of peace after the eradication of terrorism which affected all communities. The High Commissioner further said that he would like all Sri Lankans living in the United Kingdom to consider the High Commission as their home and said that its doors are open for all races and religions. He reminisced about his visit to Jaffna when he was six years old with his parents. He recalled his vivid memories of visiting the Nallur Festival, Kayts, sand dunes and a moonlit picnic with fishermen. Dr Nonis mentioned about his recent visit to Jaffna earlier this year and the investments made in Jaffna which will create employment opportunities for the youth. He invited the Diaspora to join the post conflict development efforts and to invest and be partners of Sri Lanka’s Renaissance.

Sri Lanka High Commission in London organized a Pirith Chanting Ceremony followed by an Almsgiving to Maha Sangha on 18th & 19th November respectively, in association with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau - London Office, Sri Lanka Freedom Party UK Branch and East London Branch, The British - Sri Lanka Forum and Sri Lanka Mahajana Party London Branch , to invoke blessings on H.E. Mahinda Rajapaksa on his 66th birthday and to mark the first anniversary of the second term of office of the President.

These events were held at the premises of the High Commission, under the patronage of H.E. Dr Chris Nonis, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka to the U.K.

Sri Lanka’s new High Commissioner to Great Britain Dr Chris Nonis recently presented his credentials to the Queen Elizabeth II. A doctor by profession, Dr Nonis was the Chairman of the Mackwoods Group of Companies at the time of accepting the post of High Commissioner.

Dr Nonis who went to Buckingham Palace with four other Sri Lankan diplomats by traditional horse and carriage provided by the Palace had a lengthy and very cordial discussion with Her Majesty the Queen. At the outset Dr Nonis presented the compliments of His Excellency Mahinda Rajapaksa to the Queen and mentioned that Sri Lanka is looking forward to welcoming Her Majesty at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting scheduled to be held in Sri Lanka in the year 2013. Her Majesty recalled fondly her three previous visits to Sri Lanka and specially her visit to Nuwara Eliya. The Queen praised the progress of youth and educational projects implemented under the Commonwealth, and commended the work of Dr Chris Nonis for the Commonwealth as the Deputy Chairman of the Royal Commonwealth Society.

A reception was held at the High Commission to receive the High Commissioner where Parliamentarians from the House of Lords, House of Commons, senior officials of the British Foreign and Commonwealth office, High Commissioners and Ambassadors from the Diplomatic Corps based in London and many other VIPs attended. The High Commission had been decorated elegantly and guests were entertained by the Commonwealth Youth Orchestra and live opera.

His Excellency Dr Chris Nonis , High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the United Kingdom planted a tree on the 15th November at 9.00 a.m, to mark the National Tree Planting Programme at the premises where the official residence is being constructed.

Deputy High Commissioner and members of staff of the High Commission were also present.

The National Chamber of Commerce of Sri Lanka (NCCSL) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka High Commission in London recently launched a web based information gathering system to help Sri Lankan students to find placement/employment opportunities in Sri Lankan blue chip companies. The launch took place at the High Commission. His Excellency Dr Chris Nonis, High Commissioner welcomed the Sri Lankan students who attended the launch and outlined the conducive macro economic environment that is developing in Sri Lanka. He also outlined the importance of international exposure, and the value these graduates would bring to the domestic economy especially during Sri Lanka’s economic ascendancy. The ever expanding private sector has created many opportunities locally and abroad. It is vital that Sri Lankan educated youth join the main stream of development efforts and new business ventures and engage in rewarding and exciting careers which are appropriate to their educational qualifications and aspirations. Read more...

Dr. Mohan Kaul, Director General, Commonwealth Business Council handing over "Sri Lanka Investment Guide 2012"
to H.E. Dr. Chris Nonis

The Sri Lanka High Commission, London, in partnership with the Commonwealth Business Council, held a reception under the theme of "Expanding Pan-Commonwealth Trade”, and the opportunities which will ensue during the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) meeting, which will be held in Sri Lanka in 2013.

The reception was attended by a wide representation from the Commonwealth High Commissions in London as well as members of the Commonwealth Business Council, the Commonwealth Secretariat, the British business community, and other Commonwealth organizations.

H.E. Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka, who addressed the gathering said that Sri Lanka today represents one of the most compelling destinations for investment in the Commonwealth. Following 28 years of conflict Sri Lanka achieved peace in 2009, and moreover, has also achieved the political stability which ensures consistency in policy. The post-conflict era has ushered in an extremely conducive macroeconomic environment and there is concomitant progress in developing the infrastructure of the country, particularly in the previously conflict-affected areas. Moreover, Sri Lanka is finally embarked on a comprehensive Reconciliation program, as it builds a pluralistic and inclusive society, in which all our communities can reap the dividends of peace.

The Sri Lanka High Commission in London organised the screening of Sri Lanka’s documentary titled “Lies Agreed Upon”, which directly challenges the assertions contained in the Channel 4 video, at the Attlee Suite, Portcullis House, at the British Parliament on 12th October, 2011.

The screening of the documentary, proved extremely popular and was followed by a dialogue with Hon. Prof. Rajiva Wijesinha, MP, and Sir Peter Heap, KCMG, Chairman, Friends of Sri Lanka. H.E. Dr. Chris Nonis, High Commissioner for Sri Lanka in the UK introduced the documentary and chaired the panel discussion. This was the first time the government’s response to Channel 4 film “Sri Lanka’s Killing Fields” was screened in the UK to an audience consisting of British Parliamentarians , representatives from Academia, some media representatives including from Channel 4, and a cross-section of the Sri Lankan Diaspora.