The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has been named the Best SME Bank in Sri Lanka for 2025 by Global Finance, marking its third consecutive win. The selection recognized the bank’s effective initiatives for SMEs. Concurrently, activists demand immediate action on recommendations from the Easter Commission, while Indian PM Modi’s upcoming visit aims to strengthen bilateral ties. COPE investigates procurement irregularities concerning the import of medicines, highlighting accountability in public health decisions.
The Commercial Bank of Ceylon has been recognized as the Best SME Bank in Sri Lanka for 2025, according to Global Finance. This esteemed title marks the bank’s third consecutive year receiving this prestigious accolade. Global Finance stated that their selection process involved both objective and subjective criteria, highlighting the banks and financial service providers adept at meeting the specialized needs of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
In addition to Commercial Bank, other prominent institutions such as Bank of America, Lloyds Bank, and Commerzbank were acknowledged as the best SME banks in their respective countries. The announcement reflects a commitment to excellence in assisting SMEs across diverse regions in effectively enhancing their services and accessibility.
Commercial Bank has experienced significant growth within its SME portfolio, contributing positively to its overall advances. This expansion is supported by various innovative products and services tailored specifically for the SME sector, which ensure a more diversified offering for businesses.
Recent initiatives by Commercial Bank aimed at facilitating SMEs include the launch of Commercial Bank LEAP GlobalLinker and the ComBank Trade Club, both designed to support businesses in accessing global markets. The LEAP GlobalLinker, powered by an international business enabling platform, has successfully onboarded over 13,000 customers and created 700 e-stores, further amplifying business reach and opportunities on a global scale.
In political news, activists are urging President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to implement recommendations from the Special Presidential Commission regarding the 2019 Easter Sunday terrorist attacks. Lawyer Manoj Nanayakkara emphasized the need for immediate action, noting that nearly six years have passed since the tragedy.
Nanayakkara criticized Ven. Galagodatte Gnanasara Thero for not reporting potential leads on the attacks to law enforcement, highlighting the serious implications of withholding information about such a grievous incident. Rev. Fr. Julian Patrick Perera also participated in the press conference addressing the call for justice.
Additionally, the Sri Lankan foreign ministry confirmed the formal announcement of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Sri Lanka for a three-day bilateral meeting with President Dissanayake and Prime Minister Amarasuriya. During this visit, Modi will pay homage to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree in Anuradhapura and inaugurate projects facilitated by India.
Furthermore, the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE) revealed concerning information regarding the approval of a private company, Savorite, in importing medicines without proper evaluation from the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA). The committee’s findings critique the actions of past health officials, leading to serious discussions about accountability and the procurement process of essential medicines.
COEP chair Dr. Nishantha Samaraweera expressed the need for a thorough report detailing the officials involved in these decisions. Moving forward, the committee intends to take necessary actions to address these discrepancies in the medicinal supply chain.
In conclusion, this article outlines the recent accolades achieved by the Commercial Bank, the ongoing political efforts regarding justice for the Easter Sunday attacks, strategic international relations demonstrated by Prime Minister Modi’s visit, and the critical investigations surrounding public health supply protocols. All these elements emphasize the pressing need for accountability and support for both SMEs and public safety initiatives in Sri Lanka.
In summary, the Commercial Bank of Ceylon has distinguished itself as Sri Lanka’s premier SME bank for the third consecutive year, playing a significant role in the growth and support of small and medium-sized enterprises through innovative initiatives. Concurrently, advocacy for justice concerning the Easter Sunday attacks continues, urging the government to act on critical recommendations. Additionally, the bilateral relations with India are strengthened through PM Modi’s forthcoming visit, while serious concerns regarding the procurement of medicines are being scrutinized by COPE. These developments reflect a dynamic interplay of financial, political, and healthcare considerations in Sri Lanka.
Original Source: island.lk
