Mincing no words, the Indian high commission to Sri Lanka on Saturday gave an earful to Chinese envoy to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, pointing to his recent remarks as "violation of basic diplomatic etiquette" which "may be a personal trait or reflecting a larger national attitude". The Chinese ambassador had written in 'Sri Lankan Guardian' and said that Sri Lanka "overcome aggression from its northern neighbour 17 times" in an apparent taunt to New Delhi.

The Indian high commission in a series of tweets stated that it had noted the remarks. The high commission further added that Zhenhong's view of "Sri Lanka's northern neighbour may be coloured by how his own country behaves,"

China, which is the northern neighbour of India has taken a series of aggressive actions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, including the infamous Galwan incident. In the 2020 Galwan incident, India lost 20 of its soldiers while China also lost four of its soldiers but the figure remains doubtful given Beijing's track record on transparency.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/argentina-shows-interest-in-indias-tejas-fighter-aircraft-wants-to-trade-in-local-currencies-too-510664">Argentina shows interest in India's Tejas fighter aircraft; wants to trade in local currencies too</a>

The Chinese envoy had written the article on "One-China Principle to Yuan Wang 5”, calling on countries to abide by the principle and how the spy vessel that recently docked in Hambantota port was for "scientific research".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
➡️We have noted the remarks of the Chinese Ambassador. His violation of basic diplomatic etiquette may be a personal trait or reflecting a larger national attitude.(1/3)
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1563559042077048839?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

India and the US had pointed out security concerns to Colombo over the visit of the spy vessel. The vessel was still allowed to dock by Sri Lanka, despite several flip-flops that included withdrawing permission at one time, only to grant it back later.&nbsp;

Interestingly, remarks of the Indian mission highlighted that "opaqueness and debt-driven agendas are now a major challenge, especially for smaller nations. Recent developments are a caution."&nbsp;

China-led "debt trap" is something that has been a worry in the region and the world, and countries from Central Asia to South Asia have suffered from it. The "debt trap" is mega infrastructure projects that have been built by Chinese loans but lead to enormous debt which has impacted the economies of many countries.

Read more:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/outgoing-vietnam-envoy-pham-sanh-chau-emphasises-on-strong-defense-ties-with-india-510653">&nbsp;Outgoing Vietnam envoy Pham Sanh Chau emphasises on strong defense ties with India</a>

The current economic turmoil in Sri Lanka has also been attributed to Chinese actions. In 2017, Sri Lanka signed a deal on the Hambantota port, under which a Chinese state-run company, a 99-year lease of the area raising concerns. The statement said, " Sri Lanka needs support, not unwanted pressure or unnecessary controversies to serve another country’s agenda."

While Chinese envoys globally have been indulging in undiplomatic behaviour, also known as "wolf warrior diplomacy", this is the first time in the region at a Chinese ambassador has publicly indulged in such uncouth behaviour against India.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Mincing no words, the Indian high commission to Sri Lanka on Saturday gave an earful to Chinese envoy to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, pointing to his recent remarks as "violation of basic diplomatic etiquette" which "may be a personal trait or reflecting a larger national attitude".

Mincing no words, the Indian high commission to Sri Lanka on Saturday gave an earful to Chinese envoy to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong, pointing to his recent remarks as "violation of basic diplomatic etiquette" which "may be a personal trait or reflecting a larger national attitude". The Chinese ambassador had written in 'Sri Lankan Guardian' and said that Sri Lanka "overcome aggression from its northern neighbour 17 times" in an apparent taunt to New Delhi. The Indian high commission in a series of tweets stated that it had noted the remarks. The high commission further added that Zhenhong's view of "Sri Lanka's northern neighbour may be coloured by how his own country behaves," China, which is the northern neighbour of India has taken a series of aggressive actions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, including the infamous Galwan incident. In the 2020 Galwan incident, India lost 20 of its soldiers while China also lost four of its soldiers but the figure remains doubtful given Beijing's track record on transparency. Read more: Argentina shows interest in India's Tejas fighter aircraft; wants to trade in local currencies too The Chinese envoy had written the article on "One-China Principle to Yuan Wang 5”, calling on countries to abide by the principle and how the spy vessel that recently docked in Hambantota port was for "scientific research". ➡️We have noted the remarks of the Chinese Ambassador. His violation of basic diplomatic etiquette may be a personal trait or reflecting a larger national attitude.(1/3) — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) August 27, 2022 × India and the US had pointed out security concerns to Colombo over the visit of the spy vessel. The vessel was still allowed to dock by Sri Lanka, despite several flip-flops that included withdrawing permission at one time, only to grant it back later. Interestingly, remarks of the Indian mission highlighted that "opaqueness and debt-driven agendas are now a major challenge, especially for smaller nations. Recent developments are a caution." China-led "debt trap" is something that has been a worry in the region and the world, and countries from Central Asia to South Asia have suffered from it. The "debt trap" is mega infrastructure projects that have been built by Chinese loans but lead to enormous debt which has impacted the economies of many countries. Read more: Outgoing Vietnam envoy Pham Sanh Chau emphasises on strong defense ties with India The current economic turmoil in Sri Lanka has also been attributed to Chinese actions. In 2017, Sri Lanka signed a deal on the Hambantota port, under which a Chinese state-run company, a 99-year lease of the area raising concerns. The statement said, " Sri Lanka needs support, not unwanted pressure or unnecessary controversies to serve another country’s agenda." While Chinese envoys globally have been indulging in undiplomatic behaviour, also known as "wolf warrior diplomacy", this is the first time in the region at a Chinese ambassador has publicly indulged in such uncouth behaviour against India. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Reflective of larger national attitude', Indian mission gives an earful to Chinese envoy to Colombo

Sri Lanka's ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is expected to arrive in Thailand's capital on Thursday after fleeing to Singapore on the 14th July via Maldives. Now, fresh protests in Colombo have erupted against the government. Protesters demand fresh elections and release of jailed agitators.

Reports: Sri Lanka's ousted President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to land in Thailand

Over 1,000 precious artefacts, including rare antiques of&nbsp;high values, have reportedly been stolen from Sri Lanka’s Presidential Palace and Prime Minister’s official residence at Temple Trees after the protesters had raided these premises earlier this month.

Colombo Page news outlet, quoting police sources, said that special investigation teams have been formed to trace the rare artefacts that have gone missing.

However, even before they could begin the investigation, the probe officers have already hit a roadblock.

The Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology has failed to make a detailed record of the antiques and different artefacts at the Presidential Palace, even though it has been gazetted as a place of archaeological importance, the report said.

Speaking to the Sunday Lankadeepa newspaper, a senior official of the Department of Archaeology said that even though there is an estimation that over 1,000 artefacts have been stolen, it would be difficult to get specific and clear information about the exact number of antiques.

Scores of anti-government protesters had stormed the residences of former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe on July 9 and occupied their premises as a way of expressing their discontent over the mismanagement of the economic affairs.

Shortly after taking oath, Wickremesinghe vowed to crack down on protesters, asserting that he will not allow another government building like the Presidential Palace or the Prime Minister’s private residence to be occupied.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/499296" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka: Protesters protest outside secretariat as parl elects Wickremsinghe</a>

The 73-year-old leader has granted sweeping powers to Sri Lanka’s armed forces and the police to take whatever action necessary to prevent people from storming public facilities and obstructing Parliament.

“Don’t obstruct the parliamentarians and the parliament from carrying out their duty,” he said this week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/node/499433" hreflang="en">Ranil Wickremesinghe sworn in as 8th President of Sri Lanka</a>

Following this, the Sri Lankan security forces attacked a site of anti-government protesters at Galle Face early Friday where several government offices are located. At least nine persons were injured.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Over 1,000 precious artefacts, including rare antiques of high values, have reportedly been stolen from Sri Lanka’s Presidential Palace and Prime Minister’s official residence at Temple Trees after the protesters had raided these premises earlier this month.

Over 1,000 precious artefacts, including rare antiques of high values, have reportedly been stolen from Sri Lanka’s Presidential Palace and Prime Minister’s official residence at Temple Trees after the protesters had raided these premises earlier this month. Colombo Page news outlet, quoting police sources, said that special investigation teams have been formed to trace the rare artefacts that have gone missing. However, even before they could begin the investigation, the probe officers have already hit a roadblock. The Sri Lankan Department of Archaeology has failed to make a detailed record of the antiques and different artefacts at the Presidential Palace, even though it has been gazetted as a place of archaeological importance, the report said. Speaking to the Sunday Lankadeepa newspaper, a senior official of the Department of Archaeology said that even though there is an estimation that over 1,000 artefacts have been stolen, it would be difficult to get specific and clear information about the exact number of antiques. Scores of anti-government protesters had stormed the residences of former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa and incumbent President Ranil Wickremesinghe on July 9 and occupied their premises as a way of expressing their discontent over the mismanagement of the economic affairs. Shortly after taking oath, Wickremesinghe vowed to crack down on protesters, asserting that he will not allow another government building like the Presidential Palace or the Prime Minister’s private residence to be occupied. Also read | Sri Lanka: Protesters protest outside secretariat as parl elects Wickremsinghe The 73-year-old leader has granted sweeping powers to Sri Lanka’s armed forces and the police to take whatever action necessary to prevent people from storming public facilities and obstructing Parliament. “Don’t obstruct the parliamentarians and the parliament from carrying out their duty,” he said this week. Also read | Ranil Wickremesinghe sworn in as 8th President of Sri Lanka Following this, the Sri Lankan security forces attacked a site of anti-government protesters at Galle Face early Friday where several government offices are located. At least nine persons were injured. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka: Over 1,000 precious artefacts ‘stolen’ after protesters stormed Presidential Palace, PM house

Sri Lankan armed forces raided a camp set up by anti-government protesters in the capital Colombo, media reported on Friday (July 22). This comes a day after Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the new president of the crisis-hit country.

Sri Lankan armed forces raided a camp set up by anti-government protesters in the capital Colombo, media reported on Friday (July 22). This comes a day after Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the new president of the crisis-hit country. As per a report by BBC, security forces raided the main anti-government protest camp in the country's capital and started pulling down tents. Images and videos posted on social media also suggest the same as they show armed forces marching towards tents. Amnesty International South Asia tweeted: "We're receiving reports of 'Gotagogama,' the peaceful protest site in Colombo, Sri Lanka being attacked by the Police and the Military in the early hours of Friday after surrounding it and arresting demonstrators." Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. BREAKING: Troops are storming the protest village at Galle Face in Colombo https://t.co/B1YpuldSZ7 — Maddie Klett (@maddieklett) July 22, 2022 × A tense situation was reported at the main protest site in Colombo (Near Gota Go Gama). The soldiers who stormed in have removed the tents.#lka #SriLankaProtests #SriLanka pic.twitter.com/bjcR98mNuE — Pagetamil (@Pagetamil) July 22, 2022 × Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis. On Wednesday, the country's lawmakers voted elected Ranil Wickremesinghe as the new president. In the South Asian nation, people have suffered through months of food and fuel shortages, lengthy blackouts and galloping inflation as the nation ran out of foreign currency to import vital goods. Former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled abroad last week after his palace was stormed by hundreds of angry protesters demanding that he take responsibility for acute shortages of medicines, food and fuel. Now, people hope that Ranil's experience in government will help pull the country out of a crippling economic and political crisis. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lankan security forces demolish main anti-government protest camp: Report

It has been 50 days since the protests first began in front of the Presidential secretariat at Galle Face greens, an oceanside urban park in Colombo raising the slogan ‘Gota Go Gama.’

To mark the 50th day of the protest a march from Liberty Junction in Kollupitiya to Galle Face started at 2 pm. As per the police, the government has issued an order barring the entry of&nbsp;protesters on several roads and state institutions in the fort area.

People from all walks of life including doctors, and lawyers&nbsp;among others&nbsp;gathered at Galle Face to join the protest.

Sri Lankan protesters have been&nbsp;demanding the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Rajapaksa administration amid deepening economic crisis in the country. Earlier this month Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa had resigned amid mass protests.

Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis with the country’s inflation rate reaching 33.8 per cent&nbsp;in April 2022, while it still awaits funding from the International Monetary Fund. Till then Sri Lanka intends to depend more upon India’s help, with India having provided aid close to $3 billion to Sri Lanka since the crisis began.

The protests have been going on 24/7 since it began on April 9, despite bad weather conditions. On May 9, the protests turned violent after government supporters attacked peaceful-anti government protestors&nbsp;resulting in human rights violations by the government.

(With inputs from Agencies)

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media;="></iframe>

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">&nbsp; &nbsp; </a>

It has been 50 days since the protests first began in front of the Presidential secretariat at Galle Face greens, an oceanside urban park in Colombo raising the slogan ‘Gota Go Gama.

It has been 50 days since the protests first began in front of the Presidential secretariat at Galle Face greens, an oceanside urban park in Colombo raising the slogan ‘Gota Go Gama.’ To mark the 50th day of the protest a march from Liberty Junction in Kollupitiya to Galle Face started at 2 pm. As per the police, the government has issued an order barring the entry of protesters on several roads and state institutions in the fort area. People from all walks of life including doctors, and lawyers among others gathered at Galle Face to join the protest. Sri Lankan protesters have been demanding the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and the Rajapaksa administration amid deepening economic crisis in the country. Earlier this month Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa had resigned amid mass protests. Sri Lanka is facing its worst economic crisis with the country’s inflation rate reaching 33.8 per cent in April 2022, while it still awaits funding from the International Monetary Fund. Till then Sri Lanka intends to depend more upon India’s help, with India having provided aid close to $3 billion to Sri Lanka since the crisis began. The protests have been going on 24/7 since it began on April 9, despite bad weather conditions. On May 9, the protests turned violent after government supporters attacked peaceful-anti government protestors resulting in human rights violations by the government. (With inputs from Agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lankan demonstrators mark 50th day of Galle Face protests

Sri Lanka continues to reel under economic and political turmoil as massive protests have rocked the island nation. Sri Lanka has lifted its nationwide curfew for 12 hours.

Sri Lanka crisis: Citizens hit streets in Colombo with gas cylinders

The situation in Sri Lanka continue to deteriorate as the authorities have deployed armed troops in Colombo following clashes between the pro-government supporters and the protestors.

According to AFP, two people including a MP from the ruling party&nbsp;Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party (SLPP) died while 139 people were injured in the violence.&nbsp;Amarakeerthi Athukorala, a SLPP lawmaker, took his own life with his revolver after firing on the protestors, a police official told AFP.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/victory-day-parade-absolutely-unacceptable-threat-russia-defending-motherland-in-ukraine-says-putin-477528" hreflang="en">Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin</a>

The protestors, who were present outside the residences of both the President and the Prime Minister of the country, were part of the ‘Week of Protests’ that was planned by trade unions as they ask the leaders to step down following Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis.

The protests were interrupted as supporters of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa attacked them on Monday and according to footages shown on local television channel Sirasa, they were carrying clubs and iron bars which were used to destroy the tents which housed the protestors.

The TV footage also showed that government lawmaker Sanath Nishantha was also among the attackers, and he took part in the destruction of property and also in the resulting attacks.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/no-end-to-political-turmoil-in-sri-lanka-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-under-pressure-to-resign-477482">WATCH | No end to political turmoil in Sri Lanka, PM under pressure to resign</a>

There are reports doing the rounds that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa is all set to announce his resignation from the position. Newswire reported that the move is expected to be announced amidst the growing unrest but there was no update on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

The report further said that the decision was most likely taken after several rounds of discussions between the SLPP and its political allies.

WATCH |&nbsp;Cabinet spokesperson says PM Mahinda Rajapaksa agreed to step down

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-cabinet-spokesperson-says-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-agreed-to-step-down-477553/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The situation in Sri Lanka continue to deteriorate as the authorities have deployed armed troops in Colombo following clashes between the pro-government supporters and the protestors.

The situation in Sri Lanka continue to deteriorate as the authorities have deployed armed troops in Colombo following clashes between the pro-government supporters and the protestors. According to AFP, two people including a MP from the ruling party Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna party (SLPP) died while 139 people were injured in the violence. Amarakeerthi Athukorala, a SLPP lawmaker, took his own life with his revolver after firing on the protestors, a police official told AFP. Also read | Victory Day Parade: Russia defending motherland in Ukraine, says Putin The protestors, who were present outside the residences of both the President and the Prime Minister of the country, were part of the ‘Week of Protests’ that was planned by trade unions as they ask the leaders to step down following Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis. The protests were interrupted as supporters of Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa attacked them on Monday and according to footages shown on local television channel Sirasa, they were carrying clubs and iron bars which were used to destroy the tents which housed the protestors. The TV footage also showed that government lawmaker Sanath Nishantha was also among the attackers, and he took part in the destruction of property and also in the resulting attacks. Also read | WATCH | No end to political turmoil in Sri Lanka, PM under pressure to resign There are reports doing the rounds that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa is all set to announce his resignation from the position. Newswire reported that the move is expected to be announced amidst the growing unrest but there was no update on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The report further said that the decision was most likely taken after several rounds of discussions between the SLPP and its political allies. WATCH | Cabinet spokesperson says PM Mahinda Rajapaksa agreed to step down

Two killed and 139 injured as government supporters attack protesters in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka plans to replace its current "unrealistic" budget and is in talks with the World Bank to extend its support by $300 million to $700 million, the country's finance minister said on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka Crisis: Colombo to replace 'unrealistic' budget, in talks to extend World Bank aid

Sri Lanka announced on Tuesday that it would be defaulting on all of its external debt of $51 billion, after running out of foreign exchange for imports. Colombo called the move a "last resort."

Sri Lanka announces defaults on $51 bn external debt

India is a role model of religious harmony in the world, said Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama during his address in a virtual event on 'Maha Satipatthana Sutta' for Theravada Sangha held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

He said that when he came to exile in India as a refugee the practice of non-violence and religious harmony he found in Indian is "excellent".&nbsp;

During the event, he spoke to around 600 monks from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand. He addressed the event from his residence in Dharamsala, which is in the north Indian state, Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-city-srinagar-freezes-at-minus-6-degrees-hit-by-a-severe-cold-wave-437850">Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave</a>

The organiser of the event, the Sri Lankan Tibetan Buddhist Brotherhood Society aims to raise awareness of the common Buddhist heritage of the Sri Lankan and Tibetan people.&nbsp;

During his address, Dalai Lama hailed the religious tradition of India and also lauded the teachings and practice of non-violence in the country.&nbsp;

He said, "The Indian religious tradition teaches non-violence, not harming others. In India, the practice of non-violence - Ahimsa and Karuna have been practised for over 3,000 years."

"So, in India different religious traditions of the world such as Islam, Christianity, Jew and Judaism and so forth live together. India is an example, role model for religious harmony in the world. Since I came to exile in India as a refugee the practice of non-violence and religious harmony I found to be excellent in India," he said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/afghanistan-connectivity-discussed-during-meet-between-eam-jaishankar-tajik-fm-437998">Afghanistan, connectivity discussed during meet between EAM Jaishankar, Tajik FM</a>

In his address, the Dalai Lama said, "Buddha himself has given us the freedom to analyse his own teaching and not take it on the face value, literally. So, in the Nalanda tradition therefore there is great emphasis on checking the teachings of the Buddha himself."

"So, the more you analyse through rational approach, the teachings of Buddha, the greater the certainty you gain. It's not like the more you do analyses of teaching you lose the track of your analyses and just stick to the faith alone. It's not like that. So, what we need is to develop faith in the teachings of the Buddha," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India is a role model of religious harmony in the world, said Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama during his address in a virtual event on 'Maha Satipatthana Sutta' for Theravada Sangha held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

India is a role model of religious harmony in the world, said Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama during his address in a virtual event on 'Maha Satipatthana Sutta' for Theravada Sangha held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. He said that when he came to exile in India as a refugee the practice of non-violence and religious harmony he found in Indian is "excellent". During the event, he spoke to around 600 monks from Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand. He addressed the event from his residence in Dharamsala, which is in the north Indian state, Himachal Pradesh. ALSO READ | Indian city Srinagar freezes at minus 6 degrees; hit by a severe cold wave The organiser of the event, the Sri Lankan Tibetan Buddhist Brotherhood Society aims to raise awareness of the common Buddhist heritage of the Sri Lankan and Tibetan people. During his address, Dalai Lama hailed the religious tradition of India and also lauded the teachings and practice of non-violence in the country. He said, "The Indian religious tradition teaches non-violence, not harming others. In India, the practice of non-violence - Ahimsa and Karuna have been practised for over 3,000 years." "So, in India different religious traditions of the world such as Islam, Christianity, Jew and Judaism and so forth live together. India is an example, role model for religious harmony in the world. Since I came to exile in India as a refugee the practice of non-violence and religious harmony I found to be excellent in India," he said. ALSO READ | Afghanistan, connectivity discussed during meet between EAM Jaishankar, Tajik FM In his address, the Dalai Lama said, "Buddha himself has given us the freedom to analyse his own teaching and not take it on the face value, literally. So, in the Nalanda tradition therefore there is great emphasis on checking the teachings of the Buddha himself." "So, the more you analyse through rational approach, the teachings of Buddha, the greater the certainty you gain. It's not like the more you do analyses of teaching you lose the track of your analyses and just stick to the faith alone. It's not like that. So, what we need is to develop faith in the teachings of the Buddha," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India an example and role model for religious harmony, says Dalai Lama

The remains of the Sri Lankan national Priyantha Kumara, who was brutally tortured and lynched in Pakistan's Sialkot have been handed over to the family after a second post-mortem at the national hospital in Colombo.

Remains of Sri Lankan lynching victim handed over to family

The remains of a Sri Lankan man, who was brutally tortured to death and set ablaze in Pakistan, were sent to Colombo from Lahore airport on Monday.

The Sri Lankan embassy officials had gone to the hospital to escort Priyantha Kumara's body to the airport and laid flowers over it.

Priyantha's last rites will be performed upon the arrival of his body in Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, 26 suspects arrested in connection with the lynching of the Sri Lankan factory manager have been remanded into police custody, according to local media.

The police presented the suspects before an anti-terrorism court earlier in the day and requested their remand for interrogation.

The court granted police granted 15-day remand for interrogation and ordered the investigation officer to present them on December 12.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
سری لنکن شہری پریانتھا کماراکی میت لاہور سے سری لنکا روانہ: پریانتھا کمارا کی میت کو سرکاری اعزاز کے ساتھ روانہ کیا گیا 
وزیراعلی عثمان بزدار کی ہدایت پر صوبائی وزیر اعجاز عالم نے پریانتھا کمارا کی میت کو روانہ کیا <a href="https://t.co/qfwUHFF1h8">pic.twitter.com/qfwUHFF1h8</a>
— CM Punjab (Updates) (@CMPunjabPK) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMPunjabPK/status/1467773043032350720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Meanwhile, seven more prime suspects in the lynching of 49-year-old Kumara have been arrested by Pakistan’s Punjab Police, taking the total number of arrests to 131.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/murders-happen-after-a-mob-lynched-a-sri-lankan-man-pakistan-defence-minister-justified-it-434528">Also read | 'Murders happen': After a mob lynched a Sri Lankan man, Pakistan defence minister justified it</a>

Over the past three days, the police have arrested scores. The suspects included the individual allegedly involved in planning the attack as well as others who waged violence and incited others.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/all-bones-broken-whole-body-burnt-chilling-details-of-brutalities-faced-by-lankan-man-emerges-434547">All bones broken, whole body burnt: Chilling details of brutalities faced by Lankan man emerges</a>

On December 3, a frenzied mob, some supporters of Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) lynched Kumara to death and then burnt his body in public over blasphemy accusations in Sialkot region.

According to Geo News, the cause of death in Diyawadana's post-mortem report was skull and jaw fractures.

All of his essential organs were impacted, including his liver, stomach, and one of his kidneys, while torture scars were apparent all over his body and his spinal cord was broken three times, according to the report.

According to the post-mortem examination, 99 per cent of the Sri Lankan national's body was charred, and all of his bones were fractured except for one foot.

(With inputs from agencies)

The remains of a Sri Lankan man, who was brutally tortured to death and set ablaze in Pakistan, were sent to Colombo from Lahore airport on Monday. The Sri Lankan embassy officials had gone to the hospital to escort Priyantha Kumara's body to the airport and laid flowers over it.

The remains of a Sri Lankan man, who was brutally tortured to death and set ablaze in Pakistan, were sent to Colombo from Lahore airport on Monday. The Sri Lankan embassy officials had gone to the hospital to escort Priyantha Kumara's body to the airport and laid flowers over it. Priyantha's last rites will be performed upon the arrival of his body in Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, 26 suspects arrested in connection with the lynching of the Sri Lankan factory manager have been remanded into police custody, according to local media. The police presented the suspects before an anti-terrorism court earlier in the day and requested their remand for interrogation. The court granted police granted 15-day remand for interrogation and ordered the investigation officer to present them on December 12. سری لنکن شہری پریانتھا کماراکی میت لاہور سے سری لنکا روانہ: پریانتھا کمارا کی میت کو سرکاری اعزاز کے ساتھ روانہ کیا گیا وزیراعلی عثمان بزدار کی ہدایت پر صوبائی وزیر اعجاز عالم نے پریانتھا کمارا کی میت کو روانہ کیا pic.twitter.com/qfwUHFF1h8 — CM Punjab (Updates) (@CMPunjabPK) December 6, 2021 × Meanwhile, seven more prime suspects in the lynching of 49-year-old Kumara have been arrested by Pakistan’s Punjab Police, taking the total number of arrests to 131. Also read | 'Murders happen': After a mob lynched a Sri Lankan man, Pakistan defence minister justified it Over the past three days, the police have arrested scores. The suspects included the individual allegedly involved in planning the attack as well as others who waged violence and incited others. Also read | All bones broken, whole body burnt: Chilling details of brutalities faced by Lankan man emerges On December 3, a frenzied mob, some supporters of Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) lynched Kumara to death and then burnt his body in public over blasphemy accusations in Sialkot region. According to Geo News, the cause of death in Diyawadana's post-mortem report was skull and jaw fractures. All of his essential organs were impacted, including his liver, stomach, and one of his kidneys, while torture scars were apparent all over his body and his spinal cord was broken three times, according to the report. According to the post-mortem examination, 99 per cent of the Sri Lankan national's body was charred, and all of his bones were fractured except for one foot. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan mob lynching: Remains of Lankan man sent to Colombo for last rites

The Sri-Lanka China friendship is on the rocks. Colombo has suspended a $42 million fertilizer deal with China due to 'bacteria contamination'. Beijing has responding by black-listing the People's Bank of Sri Lanka. Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Why has China black-listed a Sri Lankan bank?

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Saturday began his four-day visit to Sri Lanka during which he will meet the top leadership, including President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and review the bilateral ties between India and the island nation.

Shringla arrived today at the invitation of his Lankan counterpart Jayanath Colombage, the foreign ministry said on Saturday.

The visit will contribute towards the long-standing multi-faceted relations and enhance bilateral partnership between the two countries, the ministry said in a press release.

Shringla will also visit the central district of Kandy, eastern port district of Trincomalee and the northern city of Jaffna.

This is his first Lanka visit after assuming the position of foreign secretary in January last year.

The visit of Shringla will provide an opportunity to review bilateral ties, progress of ongoing bilateral projects and ongoing cooperation to tackle Covid related disruptions, the Indian High Commission here said on Friday.

His visit came days after Ahmedabad-headquartered Indian multinational conglomerate Adani Group entered into an agreement with Lanka government owned Port Authority to develop the Colombo Port's West International Container Terminal.

The USD 700 million Build-Operate-Transfer deal is the largest foreign investment ever in the port sector of the island nation, the Lankan government has said.

Announcing Shringla's visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said Lanka occupies a central place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Shringla's visit signifies the importance both the countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest.

His visit is taking place at a time when Lanka is reeling under economic hardships and he is likely to assess whether India could extend any assistance to the island nation to tide over the situation.

It is learnt that matters relating to the building of the western container terminal at the Colombo port are also likely to figure during the foreign secretary's visit to the neighbouring country.

In his talks in Colombo, Sringla is also expected to reiterate India's views on the long-pending Tamil issue.

India has been consistently calling upon Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to protect the interests of the Tamil community and preserve the island nation's character as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society.

The Tamil community in Sri Lanka has been demanding the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution that provides for devolution of power to it. The 13th amendment was brought in after the Indo-Sri Lankan agreement of 1987.&nbsp;

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Saturday began his four-day visit to Sri Lanka during which he will meet the top leadership, including President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and review the bilateral ties between India and the island nation.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Saturday began his four-day visit to Sri Lanka during which he will meet the top leadership, including President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, and review the bilateral ties between India and the island nation. Shringla arrived today at the invitation of his Lankan counterpart Jayanath Colombage, the foreign ministry said on Saturday. The visit will contribute towards the long-standing multi-faceted relations and enhance bilateral partnership between the two countries, the ministry said in a press release. Shringla will also visit the central district of Kandy, eastern port district of Trincomalee and the northern city of Jaffna. This is his first Lanka visit after assuming the position of foreign secretary in January last year. The visit of Shringla will provide an opportunity to review bilateral ties, progress of ongoing bilateral projects and ongoing cooperation to tackle Covid related disruptions, the Indian High Commission here said on Friday. His visit came days after Ahmedabad-headquartered Indian multinational conglomerate Adani Group entered into an agreement with Lanka government owned Port Authority to develop the Colombo Port's West International Container Terminal. The USD 700 million Build-Operate-Transfer deal is the largest foreign investment ever in the port sector of the island nation, the Lankan government has said. Announcing Shringla's visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday said Lanka occupies a central place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Shringla's visit signifies the importance both the countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest. His visit is taking place at a time when Lanka is reeling under economic hardships and he is likely to assess whether India could extend any assistance to the island nation to tide over the situation. It is learnt that matters relating to the building of the western container terminal at the Colombo port are also likely to figure during the foreign secretary's visit to the neighbouring country. In his talks in Colombo, Sringla is also expected to reiterate India's views on the long-pending Tamil issue. India has been consistently calling upon Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments to protect the interests of the Tamil community and preserve the island nation's character as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. The Tamil community in Sri Lanka has been demanding the implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution that provides for devolution of power to it. The 13th amendment was brought in after the Indo-Sri Lankan agreement of 1987.

Foreign Secretary Shringla begins 4-day visit to Sri Lanka

It will be a humdinger of a clash in Colombo after Sri Lanka secured a spine chiller to win the second T20I by four wickets. The series decider is currently between a young Indian unit and a floated Sri Lankan team.&nbsp;

After India handled four debutants in their playing XI on Wednesday and posted an unobtrusive 132 for 5 in their 20 overs, the hosts rushed home with two balls to save and had Dhananjaya de Silva's 34-ball 40 to thank for the series-evening out win.&nbsp;

The series decider or the third T20I will be played today at a similar venue – R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-olympics-2020-archer-atanu-das-cruises-into-next-round-after-beating-yu-cheng-dang-6-4-401323" hreflang="en">Tokyo Olympics 2020: Archer Atanu Das cruises into next round after beating Yu-Cheng Dang 6-4</a>

<h2>Pitch Report&nbsp;</h2>

The surface at the R Premadasa Stadium has progressively eased back down all through the series, and we're probably going to see another slow and sultry playing surface for the third T20I. More slow balls should turn out to be extremely successful after the ball loses its shine, with spinners liable to get some turn.&nbsp;

<h2>Sri Lanka&nbsp;</h2>

Having enrolled a necessary T20I win, Sri Lanka should adhere to the same team that they played for the second T20I. They'll trust that their batsmen can keep their levelheadedness when it is important the most and backing their bowlers, who have done a very great job all through the series.&nbsp;

Wanindu Hasaranga has scalped 29 T20I wickets at an economy of 6.82, and he has scored 178 runs with the bat. He is in splendid form.&nbsp;

Akila Dhananjaya will be a player to look out for from Sri Lanka. He has scalped nine T20I wickets at this venue at an economy of 7.7.&nbsp;

<h2>India&nbsp;</h2>

With Navdeep Saini experiencing a shoulder injury last evening, one of the net bowlers is probably going to highlight today.&nbsp;

Shikhar Dhawan and Sanju Samson will see to utilize their experience as the senior batsmen in the side, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devdutt Padikkal need to take their chances.&nbsp;

India will trust that their debutants' nerves would have settled and that they can create a more guaranteed execution in the third T20I that will be the series decider.

It will be a humdinger of a clash in Colombo after Sri Lanka secured a spine chiller to win the second T20I by four wickets. The series decider is currently between a young Indian unit and a floated Sri Lankan team.

It will be a humdinger of a clash in Colombo after Sri Lanka secured a spine chiller to win the second T20I by four wickets. The series decider is currently between a young Indian unit and a floated Sri Lankan team. After India handled four debutants in their playing XI on Wednesday and posted an unobtrusive 132 for 5 in their 20 overs, the hosts rushed home with two balls to save and had Dhananjaya de Silva's 34-ball 40 to thank for the series-evening out win. The series decider or the third T20I will be played today at a similar venue – R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo. ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics 2020: Archer Atanu Das cruises into next round after beating Yu-Cheng Dang 6-4 Pitch Report The surface at the R Premadasa Stadium has progressively eased back down all through the series, and we're probably going to see another slow and sultry playing surface for the third T20I. More slow balls should turn out to be extremely successful after the ball loses its shine, with spinners liable to get some turn. Sri Lanka Having enrolled a necessary T20I win, Sri Lanka should adhere to the same team that they played for the second T20I. They'll trust that their batsmen can keep their levelheadedness when it is important the most and backing their bowlers, who have done a very great job all through the series. Wanindu Hasaranga has scalped 29 T20I wickets at an economy of 6.82, and he has scored 178 runs with the bat. He is in splendid form. Akila Dhananjaya will be a player to look out for from Sri Lanka. He has scalped nine T20I wickets at this venue at an economy of 7.7. India With Navdeep Saini experiencing a shoulder injury last evening, one of the net bowlers is probably going to highlight today. Shikhar Dhawan and Sanju Samson will see to utilize their experience as the senior batsmen in the side, while Ruturaj Gaikwad and Devdutt Padikkal need to take their chances. India will trust that their debutants' nerves would have settled and that they can create a more guaranteed execution in the third T20I that will be the series decider.

Cricket: Preview, 3rd T20I - India takes on Sri Lanka in the series decider

In Pics: Covid-hit Team India battles as Lankan Lions win T20I encounter

Sri Lanka needs to pay back at least $2.5 billion worth of debt in the next 12 months. Does Colombo have the cash to cover its payments? A report claims Sri Lanka is "banking on" a $1 billion loan from India. Will it be enough?

Gravitas: Is Sri Lanka struggling to keep up with its debt payments?

A 10 kiloliter&nbsp;mid-sea oil spill has been reported from a Portuguese flagged container ship MV Devon, off India’s eastern coast.

The spill location is about 450kms south-east of Chennai and it occurred while the vessel was transiting the region, during its voyage from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Haldia, West Bengal.

However, the vessel is stable and is continuing its voyage and is expected to reach its destination by late hours of Friday (June 18th).&nbsp;

The Indian Coast Guard(ICG) received the information on the oil spill from Maritime rescue and Coordination Center (MRCC) Colombo in the late hours of Wednesday(June 16th).

Further investigation revealed that MV Devon vessel developed an underwater crack in the left side fuel tank containing about 120 kiloliters of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO).&nbsp;

As a result of this crack 10KL of oil had spilled into sea, but the crew had taken preventive action by transferring the remaining oil into another tank.&nbsp;

The vessel is carrying 10,795 tonnes of general cargo in 382 containers and manned by 17 crew of mixed nationality. ICG is in continuous contact with MV Devon and her master has reported that the vessel is stable.

ICG pollution response team at Chennai has been alerted and kept on standby. In addition, ICG ships and&nbsp;aircraft deployed at sea are also put on alert in pollution response configuration.&nbsp;

It may be recalled that&nbsp;ICG ships and&nbsp;aircraft in a coordinated operation with Sri Lanka deployed vessels had successfully undertaken a major firefighting operation last month onboard MV X-Press Pearl off Colombo, thereby averting a major environmental disaster.

That vessel, now partially sunk off Colombo, is under the supervision of Sri Lankan authorities and efforts are in hand for its salvage.

A 10 kiloliter mid-sea oil spill has been reported from a Portuguese flagged container ship MV Devon, off India’s eastern coast. The spill location is about 450kms south-east of Chennai and it occurred while the vessel was transiting the region, during its voyage from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Haldia, West Bengal.

A 10 kiloliter mid-sea oil spill has been reported from a Portuguese flagged container ship MV Devon, off India’s eastern coast. The spill location is about 450kms south-east of Chennai and it occurred while the vessel was transiting the region, during its voyage from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Haldia, West Bengal. However, the vessel is stable and is continuing its voyage and is expected to reach its destination by late hours of Friday (June 18th). The Indian Coast Guard(ICG) received the information on the oil spill from Maritime rescue and Coordination Center (MRCC) Colombo in the late hours of Wednesday(June 16th). Further investigation revealed that MV Devon vessel developed an underwater crack in the left side fuel tank containing about 120 kiloliters of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO). As a result of this crack 10KL of oil had spilled into sea, but the crew had taken preventive action by transferring the remaining oil into another tank. The vessel is carrying 10,795 tonnes of general cargo in 382 containers and manned by 17 crew of mixed nationality. ICG is in continuous contact with MV Devon and her master has reported that the vessel is stable. ICG pollution response team at Chennai has been alerted and kept on standby. In addition, ICG ships and aircraft deployed at sea are also put on alert in pollution response configuration. It may be recalled that ICG ships and aircraft in a coordinated operation with Sri Lanka deployed vessels had successfully undertaken a major firefighting operation last month onboard MV X-Press Pearl off Colombo, thereby averting a major environmental disaster. That vessel, now partially sunk off Colombo, is under the supervision of Sri Lankan authorities and efforts are in hand for its salvage.

Minor oil spill 450kms off Chennai; monitoring situation closely, assets on standby, says ICG

Beijing-backed Colombo port city project has raised eyebrows in Delhi with India hoping that Sri Lanka remains mindful of security in the maritime domain. Last month, the Sri Lankan Parliament approved bills for the establishment of 2 SEZs — Colombo port city and Colombo port city economic commission projects.&nbsp;

"We expect Sri Lanka will remain mindful of our excellent bilateral cooperation, including for mutual security in our shared environment, which includes the maritime domain,"&nbsp;Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi at a virtual weekly presser.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-extends-support-to-freedom-of-navigation-in-the-south-china-sea-391827" hreflang="en">India's defence minister Rajnath Singh extends support to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea</a>

The project is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which has been criticised by major democratic countries for causing debt crisis in countries that have partnered with Beijing for it. According to Chinese state media, it is the largest project by China in Sri Lanka with a total value of the project at $1.4 billion.

The spokesperson said that "we have been closely following recent developments from our security perspective" when it comes to the port project pointing out that New Delhi has "noted the concerns that have been raised in Sri Lanka regarding several aspects of the framework for the Colombo Port City."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-to-address-asean-defence-ministers-meeting-plus-tomorrow-391714" hreflang="en">Defence minister Rajnath Singh to address ASEAN defence ministers meeting plus tomorrow</a>

This&nbsp;development comes even as Sri Lanka walked out from the triparty pact with India and Japan for the development of the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT). Instead, Colombo gave up the underdeveloped western container terminal inviting Indian companies.

Meanwhile, High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay on Thursday met a five-member Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation, led by Member of Parliament R. Sampanthan.

An Indian mission release said during the meet, the High commissioner "reiterated India's support for devolution within the framework of a united Sri Lanka on the basis of full implementation of the 13A" which would be in "line with Tamil aspirations for equality, justice, peace and&nbsp;reconciliation and would strengthen Sri Lanka."

The 13th amendment of the Sri Lanka constitution is an outcome of the 1987 Indo-Sri Lanka accord signed between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J.R. Jayewardene that aims at devolution of powers to the provinces and to protect the rights of Tamil minorities in the country.&nbsp;

During the envoy's meet with Tamil parties, the focus was also on the development of the North and East of Sri Lanka and improving connectivity between the two countries in the post-Covid period. India has been involved in housing projects in that part of the country.

Beijing-backed Colombo port city project has raised eyebrows in Delhi with India hoping that Sri Lanka remains mindful of security in the maritime domain. Last month, the Sri Lankan Parliament approved bills for the establishment of 2 SEZs — Colombo port city and Colombo port city economic commission projects.

Beijing-backed Colombo port city project has raised eyebrows in Delhi with India hoping that Sri Lanka remains mindful of security in the maritime domain. Last month, the Sri Lankan Parliament approved bills for the establishment of 2 SEZs — Colombo port city and Colombo port city economic commission projects. "We expect Sri Lanka will remain mindful of our excellent bilateral cooperation, including for mutual security in our shared environment, which includes the maritime domain," Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi at a virtual weekly presser. Also read | India's defence minister Rajnath Singh extends support to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea The project is part of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which has been criticised by major democratic countries for causing debt crisis in countries that have partnered with Beijing for it. According to Chinese state media, it is the largest project by China in Sri Lanka with a total value of the project at $1.4 billion. The spokesperson said that "we have been closely following recent developments from our security perspective" when it comes to the port project pointing out that New Delhi has "noted the concerns that have been raised in Sri Lanka regarding several aspects of the framework for the Colombo Port City." Also read | Defence minister Rajnath Singh to address ASEAN defence ministers meeting plus tomorrow This development comes even as Sri Lanka walked out from the triparty pact with India and Japan for the development of the strategic East Container Terminal (ECT). Instead, Colombo gave up the underdeveloped western container terminal inviting Indian companies. Meanwhile, High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay on Thursday met a five-member Tamil National Alliance (TNA) delegation, led by Member of Parliament R. Sampanthan. An Indian mission release said during the meet, the High commissioner "reiterated India's support for devolution within the framework of a united Sri Lanka on the basis of full implementation of the 13A" which would be in "line with Tamil aspirations for equality, justice, peace and reconciliation and would strengthen Sri Lanka." The 13th amendment of the Sri Lanka constitution is an outcome of the 1987 Indo-Sri Lanka accord signed between Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and Sri Lankan President J.R. Jayewardene that aims at devolution of powers to the provinces and to protect the rights of Tamil minorities in the country. During the envoy's meet with Tamil parties, the focus was also on the development of the North and East of Sri Lanka and improving connectivity between the two countries in the post-Covid period. India has been involved in housing projects in that part of the country.

Colombo port project: India hopes Sri Lanka remains 'mindful' of maritime security

The dramatic recent fire on a container ship off Sri Lanka highlighted the risks involved in the island nation's ambitions to become one of the world's busiest maritime transport hubs.

The MV X-Press Pearl burned for 13 days, releasing tonnes of chemicals and plastics. The sinking ship's nearly 300 tonnes of fuel oil may now leak into the Indian Ocean.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-cargo-ship-sinking-sri-lanka-faces-one-of-its-worst-environmental-disasters-in-decades-389108">With cargo ship sinking, Sri Lanka faces one of its worst environmental disasters in decades</a>

How important is Sri Lanka?&nbsp;

Thanks to its geographical location, around 200 container ships and oil tankers sail past every day on the busy routes between Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

But Sri Lanka is also the biggest so-called transhipment hub in South Asia, meaning that&nbsp;some of the world's biggest ships dock in Sri Lanka to load and unload containers.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ships-of-woes-when-ship-disasters-hit-global-headlines-389497">Ships of woes: When ship disasters hit global headlines</a>

Colombo, four days by ship from Singapore and four and a half to Dubai, is the only port between those two places deep enough to handle ships with more than 18,000 containers.

What are its plans?&nbsp;

Colombo Port now hopes to double its annual handling capacity of 7.2 million containers in four years.

"We are strategically located and we are strategically important," Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) chairman Daya Ratnayake told AFP.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/floods-and-mudslides-kill-4-another-7-missing-in-sri-lanka-389637">Floods and mudslides kill 4, another 7 missing in Sri Lanka</a>

"But, we have a serious problem here, the problem is (lack of) capacity."

India is developing a deep-water port at Vizhinjam on its southwest tip and is planning another in the Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, both of which may steal some of Colombo's trade.

What do other countries think?&nbsp;

Two-thirds of the transhipment cargo going through Sri Lanka is goods going from or to India, and New Delhi has traditionally seen Colombo as an ally.

However, since a big chunk of what passes through the Indian Ocean is Chinese-made, Beijing has also shown a keen interest in developing Sri Lanka as a key link on its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-braces-for-oil-spill-from-sunken-ship-here-is-what-we-know-389485">Sri Lanka braces for oil spill from sunken ship: Here is what we know</a>

Since 2014, Colombo Port has been home to a $500-million Chinese-run deep sea terminal. To pacify New Delhi, Sri Lanka this year allowed India to build another new terminal right next door.

"This is how we are balancing," Ratnayake said. "We as a country must take all this competition to our advantage."

What else is China doing?&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has also built a second deep-sea port at Hambantota on its southern tip, even closer to the ships steaming between the Malacca Strait and the Suez Canal.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-colombo-port-city-china-sees-a-potential-overseas-colony-in-sri-lanka-386108">With Colombo port city, China sees a potential overseas colony in Sri Lanka</a>

After Sri Lanka failed to service its debts to build the port, Hambantota has since 2017 been leased to China, alarming Western countries as well as India.

China wants Hambantota one day to resemble Shanghai and aims to develop it as a container port able to service and refuel monster container ships 400 metres (1,300 feet) long.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-sinks-deeper-into-chinas-grasp-seeks-22-billion-from-beijing-as-reserves-shrink-366221">Sri Lanka sinks deeper into China's grasp, seeks $2.2 billion from Beijing as reserves shrink</a>

Currently the port does a lucrative business as a transhipment centre for hundreds of thousands of cars every year made in India and South Korea on their way elsewhere.

What about the environment?

Plastic pellets that escaped the MV X-Press Pearl have blanketed beaches in Sri Lanka. Fishing in the area has been suspended, hitting the local economy hard.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-faces-marine-disaster-as-waves-of-plastic-from-burning-ship-wash-ashore-388259">Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore</a>

Hemantha Withanage from the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) has petitioned the Supreme Court to force the government to get ready for more disasters as the ports get busier.

"We don't have the equipment and the skills to deal with another catastrophe like this," Withanage told AFP.&nbsp;

The dramatic recent fire on a container ship off Sri Lanka highlighted the risks involved in the island nation's ambitions to become one of the world's busiest maritime transport hubs.

The dramatic recent fire on a container ship off Sri Lanka highlighted the risks involved in the island nation's ambitions to become one of the world's busiest maritime transport hubs. The MV X-Press Pearl burned for 13 days, releasing tonnes of chemicals and plastics. The sinking ship's nearly 300 tonnes of fuel oil may now leak into the Indian Ocean. Also Read | With cargo ship sinking, Sri Lanka faces one of its worst environmental disasters in decades How important is Sri Lanka? Thanks to its geographical location, around 200 container ships and oil tankers sail past every day on the busy routes between Asia, the Middle East and Europe. But Sri Lanka is also the biggest so-called transhipment hub in South Asia, meaning that some of the world's biggest ships dock in Sri Lanka to load and unload containers. Also Read | Ships of woes: When ship disasters hit global headlines Colombo, four days by ship from Singapore and four and a half to Dubai, is the only port between those two places deep enough to handle ships with more than 18,000 containers. What are its plans? Colombo Port now hopes to double its annual handling capacity of 7.2 million containers in four years. "We are strategically located and we are strategically important," Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) chairman Daya Ratnayake told AFP. Also Read | Floods and mudslides kill 4, another 7 missing in Sri Lanka "But, we have a serious problem here, the problem is (lack of) capacity." India is developing a deep-water port at Vizhinjam on its southwest tip and is planning another in the Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal, both of which may steal some of Colombo's trade. What do other countries think? Two-thirds of the transhipment cargo going through Sri Lanka is goods going from or to India, and New Delhi has traditionally seen Colombo as an ally. However, since a big chunk of what passes through the Indian Ocean is Chinese-made, Beijing has also shown a keen interest in developing Sri Lanka as a key link on its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Also Read | Sri Lanka braces for oil spill from sunken ship: Here is what we know Since 2014, Colombo Port has been home to a $500-million Chinese-run deep sea terminal. To pacify New Delhi, Sri Lanka this year allowed India to build another new terminal right next door. "This is how we are balancing," Ratnayake said. "We as a country must take all this competition to our advantage." What else is China doing? Sri Lanka has also built a second deep-sea port at Hambantota on its southern tip, even closer to the ships steaming between the Malacca Strait and the Suez Canal. Also Read | With Colombo port city, China sees a potential overseas colony in Sri Lanka After Sri Lanka failed to service its debts to build the port, Hambantota has since 2017 been leased to China, alarming Western countries as well as India. China wants Hambantota one day to resemble Shanghai and aims to develop it as a container port able to service and refuel monster container ships 400 metres (1,300 feet) long. Also Read | Sri Lanka sinks deeper into China's grasp, seeks $2.2 billion from Beijing as reserves shrink Currently the port does a lucrative business as a transhipment centre for hundreds of thousands of cars every year made in India and South Korea on their way elsewhere. What about the environment? Plastic pellets that escaped the MV X-Press Pearl have blanketed beaches in Sri Lanka. Fishing in the area has been suspended, hitting the local economy hard. Also Read | Sri Lanka faces marine disaster as waves of plastic from burning ship wash ashore Hemantha Withanage from the Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) has petitioned the Supreme Court to force the government to get ready for more disasters as the ports get busier. "We don't have the equipment and the skills to deal with another catastrophe like this," Withanage told AFP.

Small Sri Lanka harbours big maritime ambitions

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk. Foreign experts have been deployed to help Sri Lanka contain a potential oil leak. An Indian coastguard vessel is also in the area with equipment&nbsp;to deal with a possible oil slick.

What is the ship's condition now?

The ship's stern is now on the sea bed and the bow is slowly sinking.

Choppy seas and poor visibility prevented navy divers from checking the hull for a second day Friday, Sri Lanka Navy spokesperson Indika de Silva told AFP.

He said a team reached the sinking vessel and made a cursory inspection on Thursday, but could not carry out their mission because of poor visibility.

<img alt="Sri Lanka ship fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b597157-3bf0-45aa-94bb-14b4f5a5ec5e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9B93UN.jpg" />

Representatives from the International Tankers Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) and Oil Spill Response (OSR) were onshore monitoring the MV X-Press Pearl, X-Press Feeders said.

"They continue to coordinate with MEPA (Marine Environment Protection Authority) and the Sri Lankan navy on an established plan to deal with any possible spill of oil and other pollutants," the company said.

Its chief executive, Shmuel Yoskovitz, apologised to Sri Lanka for the disaster, which saw the ship burn for 13 days and inundated the island's beaches with huge amounts of plastic pellets.

"I'd like to express my deep regrets and apologies to the Sri Lankan people for the harm this incident has caused to the livelihood and to the environment of Sri Lanka," Yoskovitz told Channel News Asia.

Photos | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ship-with-chemicals-plastics-onboard-sinks-off-sri-lanka-389060#burned-for-13-days-389050">Ship with chemicals &amp; plastics onboard sinks off Sri Lanka</a>

The ship contains 350 tonnes of fuel oil.

Sri Lanka's Harbour Master Nirmal Silva said on Thursday that no oil had leaked so far.

"Looking at the way the ship burnt, expert opinion is that bunker oil may have burnt out, but we are preparing for the worst-case scenario," Silva said.

The fire on the ship broke out on May 20. Sri Lankan Navy and Indian coastguard battled the flames for over 10 days.

'Worst environmental disaster'

In addition to fuel oil, the ship is containing "dangerous cargo" including acids and lead ingots. The cargo is also releasing microplastic granules into the water and this has already has begun to affect the environment.

<img alt="Sri Lanka ship fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2abc6dc1-f535-41ab-8c75-3e85ef514028" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AW8JC.jpg" />

In case oil leaks from the ship into the sea, it may constitute what has been called the worst such environmental disaster.

However, experts fear that damage to the environment may already have taken place.

Charitha Pattiaratchi, a professor of coastal oceanography at the University of Western Australia, said the plastic pellets, that are expected to travel as far as Indonesia and Somalia, could act as a breeding ground for bacteria, putting marine life at risk.

Sri Lankan fishermen impacted

Fishermen in Sri Lanka expressed helplessness on Friday as they reconciled with the fishing ban in effect on Sri Lanka's western coast. Fishing activity has been prohibitted along 50 km of Sri Lanka's western coast. The ban has been in effect since May 22.

<img alt="Sri Lanka Fishermen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ce2ddbd-22d6-449c-aba9-ce22173ded4a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_9AZ2NM.jpg" />

"We're told not to go to sea: that has caused a lot of problems," said 67-year-old fisherman Antony Sebastian. He was quoted by Reuters.

"Fishermen are very helpless. We can't do our work because of this ship for more than a week now. We are just hanging around at home."

Nirashan Fernando, a 44-year-old fisherman, said some boats had been able to evade the navy, that has been turning back those still trying to work, but the outlook wasn't good.

"A few of those who went to sea found that the catch has reduced," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk.

Sri Lanka is bracing for an oil spill and what can be a major environmental disaster off Colombo coast as burnt-out container ship MV X-Press Pearl remains partially sunk. Foreign experts have been deployed to help Sri Lanka contain a potential oil leak. An Indian coastguard vessel is also in the area with equipment to deal with a possible oil slick. What is the ship's condition now? The ship's stern is now on the sea bed and the bow is slowly sinking. Choppy seas and poor visibility prevented navy divers from checking the hull for a second day Friday, Sri Lanka Navy spokesperson Indika de Silva told AFP. He said a team reached the sinking vessel and made a cursory inspection on Thursday, but could not carry out their mission because of poor visibility. Representatives from the International Tankers Owners Pollution Federation (ITOPF) and Oil Spill Response (OSR) were onshore monitoring the MV X-Press Pearl, X-Press Feeders said. "They continue to coordinate with MEPA (Marine Environment Protection Authority) and the Sri Lankan navy on an established plan to deal with any possible spill of oil and other pollutants," the company said. Its chief executive, Shmuel Yoskovitz, apologised to Sri Lanka for the disaster, which saw the ship burn for 13 days and inundated the island's beaches with huge amounts of plastic pellets. "I'd like to express my deep regrets and apologies to the Sri Lankan people for the harm this incident has caused to the livelihood and to the environment of Sri Lanka," Yoskovitz told Channel News Asia. Photos | Ship with chemicals & plastics onboard sinks off Sri Lanka The ship contains 350 tonnes of fuel oil. Sri Lanka's Harbour Master Nirmal Silva said on Thursday that no oil had leaked so far. "Looking at the way the ship burnt, expert opinion is that bunker oil may have burnt out, but we are preparing for the worst-case scenario," Silva said. The fire on the ship broke out on May 20. Sri Lankan Navy and Indian coastguard battled the flames for over 10 days. 'Worst environmental disaster' In addition to fuel oil, the ship is containing "dangerous cargo" including acids and lead ingots. The cargo is also releasing microplastic granules into the water and this has already has begun to affect the environment. In case oil leaks from the ship into the sea, it may constitute what has been called the worst such environmental disaster. However, experts fear that damage to the environment may already have taken place. Charitha Pattiaratchi, a professor of coastal oceanography at the University of Western Australia, said the plastic pellets, that are expected to travel as far as Indonesia and Somalia, could act as a breeding ground for bacteria, putting marine life at risk. Sri Lankan fishermen impacted Fishermen in Sri Lanka expressed helplessness on Friday as they reconciled with the fishing ban in effect on Sri Lanka's western coast. Fishing activity has been prohibitted along 50 km of Sri Lanka's western coast. The ban has been in effect since May 22. "We're told not to go to sea: that has caused a lot of problems," said 67-year-old fisherman Antony Sebastian. He was quoted by Reuters. "Fishermen are very helpless. We can't do our work because of this ship for more than a week now. We are just hanging around at home." Nirashan Fernando, a 44-year-old fisherman, said some boats had been able to evade the navy, that has been turning back those still trying to work, but the outlook wasn't good. "A few of those who went to sea found that the catch has reduced," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka braces for oil spill from sunken ship: Here is what we know

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday said that two of its offshore patrol vessels Vaibhav and Vajra are fighting the intense fire on-board the container ship MV X-Press Pearl which is currently ablaze off the coast of Colombo.

In addition, ICGS Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response (PR) vessel has also been despatched to augment the efforts and respond to a potential&nbsp;oil spill.&nbsp;Based on the aerial survey by Dornier aircraft on Wednesday, no oil spill has been spotted so far.

<img alt="fire" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f2dd0b4e-fe82-4ae9-ad80-17827b760ad2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oof%20%282%29_3.jpg" />

The distressed vessel MV X-Press Pearl was carrying 1,486 containers with nitric acid and other hazardous chemicals that come within the purview of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The extreme fire, along with the damage caused to containers and prevailing inclement weather has resulted in the vessel tilting to starboard (towards the right side of the vessel), which has led to containers falling overboard. Concerted joint efforts are in progress by two ICG Ships and four tugs of Sri Lankan authorities to douse the fire.&nbsp;

In addition, ICG formations at Kochi, Chennai and Tuticorin are on standby for immediate assistance towards pollution response. Continuous coordination is being maintained between ICG, Sri Lankan Coast Guard and other Sri Lankan authorities for augmenting the overall response operations towards containing the fire onboard MV X-Press Pearl.

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday said that two of its offshore patrol vessels Vaibhav and Vajra are fighting the intense fire on-board the container ship MV X-Press Pearl which is currently ablaze off the coast of Colombo.

The Indian Coast Guard on Wednesday said that two of its offshore patrol vessels Vaibhav and Vajra are fighting the intense fire on-board the container ship MV X-Press Pearl which is currently ablaze off the coast of Colombo. In addition, ICGS Samudra Prahari, a specialised Pollution Response (PR) vessel has also been despatched to augment the efforts and respond to a potential oil spill. Based on the aerial survey by Dornier aircraft on Wednesday, no oil spill has been spotted so far. The distressed vessel MV X-Press Pearl was carrying 1,486 containers with nitric acid and other hazardous chemicals that come within the purview of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code. The extreme fire, along with the damage caused to containers and prevailing inclement weather has resulted in the vessel tilting to starboard (towards the right side of the vessel), which has led to containers falling overboard. Concerted joint efforts are in progress by two ICG Ships and four tugs of Sri Lankan authorities to douse the fire. In addition, ICG formations at Kochi, Chennai and Tuticorin are on standby for immediate assistance towards pollution response. Continuous coordination is being maintained between ICG, Sri Lankan Coast Guard and other Sri Lankan authorities for augmenting the overall response operations towards containing the fire onboard MV X-Press Pearl.

Colombo ship fire: No oil spill reported so far with intense firefighting underway, says ICG

A 9-year-old girl in Sri Lanka died after she was beaten up during a ritual that is believed to drive away evil spirits.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the small town of Delgoda on the outskirts of Colombo.

According to police, the mother of the victim thought that she had been possessed by a demon. The mother took her daughter to an exorcist. The woman began hitting the girl with a cane.

The girl lost consciousness and was taken to a hospital where she was declared dead. Authorities are waiting for an autopsy report.

Police Spokesman, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Ajith Rohana said that "the mother had suspected that the daughter had been possessed by a supernatural existence causing illness. The mother took the child to a neighbouring house to perform the shamanic ritual. The particular neighbourhood lady provided a treatment using some oil. Then it was reported that she then proceeded to attack the child using canes to rid her of the demon being. After being attacked by canes the young girl fell unconscious and was taken to the Biyagama hospital last night, where the doctors reported her passing."

The victim's mother and the woman who performed the exorcism have been arrested. The woman who performed the ritual is known in the area for offering such services.&nbsp;

Police have urged people to be careful as they suspect that there may have been more victims.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 9-year-old girl in Sri Lanka died after she was beaten up during a ritual that is believed to drive away evil spirits. The incident took place in the small town of Delgoda on the outskirts of Colombo.

A 9-year-old girl in Sri Lanka died after she was beaten up during a ritual that is believed to drive away evil spirits. The incident took place in the small town of Delgoda on the outskirts of Colombo. According to police, the mother of the victim thought that she had been possessed by a demon. The mother took her daughter to an exorcist. The woman began hitting the girl with a cane. The girl lost consciousness and was taken to a hospital where she was declared dead. Authorities are waiting for an autopsy report. Police Spokesman, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Ajith Rohana said that "the mother had suspected that the daughter had been possessed by a supernatural existence causing illness. The mother took the child to a neighbouring house to perform the shamanic ritual. The particular neighbourhood lady provided a treatment using some oil. Then it was reported that she then proceeded to attack the child using canes to rid her of the demon being. After being attacked by canes the young girl fell unconscious and was taken to the Biyagama hospital last night, where the doctors reported her passing." The victim's mother and the woman who performed the exorcism have been arrested. The woman who performed the ritual is known in the area for offering such services. Police have urged people to be careful as they suspect that there may have been more victims. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka: 9-year-old girl beaten to death in brutal exorcism ritual

What is Imran Khan doing in Sri Lanka? Did he take his own plane? Is he going to speak in Lanka's parliament? How should India see this visit? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: What is Imran Khan doing in Sri Lanka?

Has Sri Lanka scrapped another deal with India? Colombo has decided to re-acquire 99 oil tanks that were leased to Indian Oil. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka says there is no truth to these reports. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Has Sri Lanka scrapped another deal with India?

The United Nations has called Sri Lanka's enforced cremations a violation of Human Rights. Since March 2020, Colombo has forced Muslims to cremate their loved ones lost to the Wuhan Virus. WION's Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Sri Lanka accused of Human Rights violation

Every holiday season thousands of children rush to Portugal's largest indoor shopping mall in Lisbon to sit on Santa's lap and ask for gifts, but coronavirus changed Father Christmas' plans this year.

Father Christmas greets Portuguese children online

Prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa was not keen to meet US State Secretary Mike Pompeo, minister Wimal Weerawansa has said

WION Dispatch: Mahinda Rajapaksa was not keen to meet US State Secretary Pompeo

Sri Lanka is building a new city on the land reclaimed from the Indian Ocean. Once completed it is expected to be an international business hub much like Dubai & Singapore. Watch the report to know more.

Sri Lanka: Port city Colombo expected to be an international financial hub

Ships and aircraft from Sri Lanka and India on Tuesday battled to contain a re-ignited fire on board a giant oil tanker.

Your Story: Oil tanker in Sri Lankan waters catches fire again

A sudden power cut plunged Sri Lanka into crisis as technicians said the failure was due to a technical issue in the Kerawalapitiya Sub Power Station, located on the outskirts of Colombo. Sri Lanka's Power Minister Dullas Alahapperuma has appointed a high-level committee to investigate a nationwide power outage that plunged the country into darkness for over seven hours on August 18.

Sri Lanka power crisis | Chinese built power plant shuts down

colombo

Colombo, News on Colombo, stories on Colombo, articles on Colombo, Colombo stories at Wion, Colombo news, Colombo latest news