August 8, 2016 Reading Time: 2 minutes
Thailand votes for a new constitution. Image credit - anekoho / Depositphotos
Reading Time: 2 min read
Muslim World League hosts international conference in Sri Lanka
An international conference, themed ‘Muslims and the Prospects for Coexistence’, has been organized by the Secretary General of the Muslim World League in Saudi Arabia and the Chairman and Board of Management of the Sri Lanka Islamic Center.
The conference will be held from 11-12 August at the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. President Maithripala Sirisena has been invited to be the chief guest, and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, the guest of honour.
Japan provides waste trucks to Colombo Municipal Council
The government of Japan has provided the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) with 12 waste collection trucks, at a ceremony attended by the Chief Minister of the Western Province, Isura Devapriya, and the Ambassador of Japan, Kenichi Suganuma.
The project was facilitated by the Society for Promotion of Japanese Diplomacy, in support of efforts made by the Solid Waste Management Division of the CMC to upgrade waste management services.
India funds cultural centre in Jaffna
Construction of a cultural centre, enabled by an Indian grant of LKR 1.7 billion, has begun in Jaffna.
The Ministry of Prison Reforms, Rehabilitation, Resettlement and Hindu Religious Affairs, has stated that the cultural centre will provide social infrastructure for the people of Jaffna, and rejuvenate Jaffna’s cultural heritage.
Thailand votes for new constitution
Over 60% of Thai citizens have voted in favour of a new constitution, drafted by the ruling junta.
The draft constitution proposes a transition period, of at least five years to civilian rule. It also envisages the appointment of a 250 member senate, which would include commanders of the army and other security services. If passed, this would be the country’s 20th constitution.
São Tomé and Príncipe votes for president
The President of São Tomé and Príncipe, Manuel Pinto da Costa, has withdrawn his presidential candidacy, alleging fraud in the first round of polling which was held on 17 July.
The withdrawal has resulted in the only remaining candidate, former Prime Minister Evaristo Carvalho, being elected as head of state.
Russia holds International Army Games
The 2016 International Army Games are being held in Russia and Kazakhstan from 30 July-13 August. Hosting the games are perceived as improving Russia’s military and diplomatic ties with other countries.
Over 3000 personnel from 19 countries, including Kazakhstan, Iran, China, India, and Greece, will compete in 23 events.
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