Masking the politics: Sri Lanka gears up for parliamentary elections amid pandemic

China is not just Pakistan's lifeline, but Nepal's guide, mentor and creditor too. It is not set to be Iran's biggest investor too with a 400 million dollars new deal.&nbsp;

And now China is tightening its grip on Sri Lanka by pushing India and its allies out.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-india-sri-lanka-hold-talks-on-colombos-debt-repayment-309753">Covid-19: India, Sri Lanka hold talks on Colombo's debt repayment</a>

Take a look at China's encirclement strategy. How China is building ports and infrastructure around the Indian subcontinent.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is a key part of this strategy. The country had to give up the Hambantota Port to China on a 99 year lease. With this port, Colombo has given Beijing a strategic foothold along a critical, commercial and military waterway.&nbsp;

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A report that came out 10 days ago suggest Sri Lanka is rethinking of a port deal with India.&nbsp;

The deal was signed between India, Japan and Sri Lanka in 2019 and allowed India and Japan to develop a new east container terminal.

As per the agreement, Sri Lanka has the majority, 51 per cent stake at the deal, but still President Gotabaya Rajapaksa wants to shelve it.&nbsp;

Apparently, the workers at the Colombo port want the deal scrapped, a reason that looks silly.

A closer look at the issue declutters the situation. Sri Lanka is flush with Chinese funds and 12 per cent of its debts are owed to Beijing.&nbsp;

This means China dictates terms and that explains the situation itself.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa seems to be distancing himself from the grants and funds offered by the Quad nations.&nbsp;

In June, a Japan-funded rail project was shelved. Sri Lankan officials urged the president to refuse a $480 million grant from the US, however, final decision is yet to be taken.&nbsp;

And now India's role in the Colombo port is under a shadow.

These developments benefit only one party, and that's China.&nbsp;

Beijing is securing its strong foothold in Sri Lanka and wants to drive others out.&nbsp;

Also, China is meddling in Lankan politics too. General elections are due in the island nation and reports suggest Chinese are cultivating a "wide swathe of political allies". Representatives from China are meeting leading political parties.&nbsp;

Some of these meetings are happening behind closed doors, others are out in open.&nbsp;

A picture was clicked last year, which has an interesting composition. All leading political parties in Sri Lanka and the members of the Communist Party are present in a single frame.&nbsp;

This means that China is investing in all political players. So, it doesn't matter who gets elected on the upcoming elections, but China will be the winner.&nbsp;

Six days ago, China's state wire agency said the Chinese embassy donated masks to the election commission of Sri Lanka

The press release went on to describe how China "supports" Sri Lankan local, and central governments, enterprises, organisations and individuals.&nbsp;

In March, Colombo sought a loan of $500 million from China to fight the Wuhan virus and Beijing was quick to write the cheque and draw Colombo deeper in its trap of debt.&nbsp;

China is not just Pakistan's lifeline, but Nepal's guide, mentor and creditor too. It is not set to be Iran's biggest investor too with a 400 million dollars new deal.

China is not just Pakistan's lifeline, but Nepal's guide, mentor and creditor too. It is not set to be Iran's biggest investor too with a 400 million dollars new deal. And now China is tightening its grip on Sri Lanka by pushing India and its allies out. Also read | Covid-19: India, Sri Lanka hold talks on Colombo's debt repayment Take a look at China's encirclement strategy. How China is building ports and infrastructure around the Indian subcontinent. Sri Lanka is a key part of this strategy. The country had to give up the Hambantota Port to China on a 99 year lease. With this port, Colombo has given Beijing a strategic foothold along a critical, commercial and military waterway. A report that came out 10 days ago suggest Sri Lanka is rethinking of a port deal with India. The deal was signed between India, Japan and Sri Lanka in 2019 and allowed India and Japan to develop a new east container terminal. As per the agreement, Sri Lanka has the majority, 51 per cent stake at the deal, but still President Gotabaya Rajapaksa wants to shelve it. Apparently, the workers at the Colombo port want the deal scrapped, a reason that looks silly. A closer look at the issue declutters the situation. Sri Lanka is flush with Chinese funds and 12 per cent of its debts are owed to Beijing. This means China dictates terms and that explains the situation itself. Rajapaksa seems to be distancing himself from the grants and funds offered by the Quad nations. In June, a Japan-funded rail project was shelved. Sri Lankan officials urged the president to refuse a $480 million grant from the US, however, final decision is yet to be taken. And now India's role in the Colombo port is under a shadow. These developments benefit only one party, and that's China. Beijing is securing its strong foothold in Sri Lanka and wants to drive others out. Also, China is meddling in Lankan politics too. General elections are due in the island nation and reports suggest Chinese are cultivating a "wide swathe of political allies". Representatives from China are meeting leading political parties. Some of these meetings are happening behind closed doors, others are out in open. A picture was clicked last year, which has an interesting composition. All leading political parties in Sri Lanka and the members of the Communist Party are present in a single frame. This means that China is investing in all political players. So, it doesn't matter who gets elected on the upcoming elections, but China will be the winner. Six days ago, China's state wire agency said the Chinese embassy donated masks to the election commission of Sri Lanka The press release went on to describe how China "supports" Sri Lankan local, and central governments, enterprises, organisations and individuals. In March, Colombo sought a loan of $500 million from China to fight the Wuhan virus and Beijing was quick to write the cheque and draw Colombo deeper in its trap of debt.

China's debt trap: Is India out of the Colombo Port deal?

Sri Lanka's ruling party Sunday cancelled all rallies ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections and delayed the international airport's reopening over a surge in virus cases, reported news agency AFP.

Sri Lanka's ruling party Sunday cancelled all rallies ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections and delayed the international airport's reopening over a surge in virus cases, reported news agency AFP. The South Asian country of 21 million lifted its coronavirus lockdown in late June after declaring there was no longer any community spread of the virus. But a surge in cases last week, including an outbreak at a drug rehabilitation centre last week that saw 253 patients test positive in a single night. "All public meetings where the president and the prime minister were due to attend today, tomorrow and the day after have been cancelled," President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party said in a statement. Rajapaksa's brother Mahinda is the country's prime minister. The party said all their candidates were also told to call off upcoming public gatherings ahead of the August 5 poll. Aviation Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said Sunday the international airport, which authorities had planned to reopen on August 1, would remain closed. "We have decided in the interest of safety and well-being of our citizens to put off the reopening of airports," he said. A repatriation programme that has brought home some 12,000 Sri Lankans from overseas so far would also be suspended, Ranatunga added. The elections were to be held on April 25, but were postponed twice before being rescheduled for August. The country has reported 2,605 cases with 11 deaths so far.

Sri Lanka cancels election rallies over surge in new virus cases

Sri Lanka's top election official has expressed concern over the delay in enforcing the COVID-19 health guidelines for the August 5 parliamentary elections, warning that candidates and supporters were defying measures to contain the spread of the disease which could endanger public safety.

Mahinda Deshapriya, Chairman of the National Election Commission, said that the health guidelines for conducting the elections were announced on June 2 but they have not been legalised through a gazette notification.

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The guidelines have been sent by the health authorities to the Attorney General's Department, which would give a nod for them to be gazetted.

What we see now is candidates and their supporters campaigning shoulder to shoulder, they do not keep the required one metre distancing, they do not even wear face masks,&nbsp;Deshapriya said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-says-sri-lanka-and-maldives-eliminate-measles-rubella-311616">WHO says Sri Lanka and Maldives eliminate measles, rubella</a>

The health guidelines require wearing face masks, frequent hand washing and maintaining one-metre distance. The number of people at poll campaign gatherings has also been reduced to a bare minimum.

The parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled for August 5 and the campaigning has been at a very low scale due to the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous elections.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called for snap polls on April 25. However, the election commission in mid-April postponed the elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation.

The commission last month informed the apex court that the polls cannot be held on June 20 because of the coronavirus pandemic and the new date was decided following a unanimous decision reached between the members of the commission.

The election commission held several mock polls to put into practice health guidelines and on Monday extended the poll time by one hour in view of the pandemic.

There are over 16 million eligible voters in the country. The August 5 poll will elect a 225-member Parliament for a five-year term.

Deshapriya's comments came as Sri Lanka recorded its highest spike for a single day on Friday. As many as 300 cases were reported from a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts from the north central region of the country.

Sri Lanka has reported 2,454 COVID-19 cases with 11 deaths.

Sri Lanka's top election official has expressed concern over the delay in enforcing the COVID-19 health guidelines for the August 5 parliamentary elections, warning that candidates and supporters were defying measures to contain the spread of the disease which could endanger public safety.

Sri Lanka's top election official has expressed concern over the delay in enforcing the COVID-19 health guidelines for the August 5 parliamentary elections, warning that candidates and supporters were defying measures to contain the spread of the disease which could endanger public safety. Mahinda Deshapriya, Chairman of the National Election Commission, said that the health guidelines for conducting the elections were announced on June 2 but they have not been legalised through a gazette notification. Also read: Sri Lanka turns quarantine centre into hospital as virus spikes The guidelines have been sent by the health authorities to the Attorney General's Department, which would give a nod for them to be gazetted. What we see now is candidates and their supporters campaigning shoulder to shoulder, they do not keep the required one metre distancing, they do not even wear face masks, Deshapriya said. Also read: WHO says Sri Lanka and Maldives eliminate measles, rubella The health guidelines require wearing face masks, frequent hand washing and maintaining one-metre distance. The number of people at poll campaign gatherings has also been reduced to a bare minimum. The parliamentary elections in the country are scheduled for August 5 and the campaigning has been at a very low scale due to the COVID-19 pandemic compared to previous elections. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called for snap polls on April 25. However, the election commission in mid-April postponed the elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation. The commission last month informed the apex court that the polls cannot be held on June 20 because of the coronavirus pandemic and the new date was decided following a unanimous decision reached between the members of the commission. The election commission held several mock polls to put into practice health guidelines and on Monday extended the poll time by one hour in view of the pandemic. There are over 16 million eligible voters in the country. The August 5 poll will elect a 225-member Parliament for a five-year term. Deshapriya's comments came as Sri Lanka recorded its highest spike for a single day on Friday. As many as 300 cases were reported from a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts from the north central region of the country. Sri Lanka has reported 2,454 COVID-19 cases with 11 deaths.

Lanka's election chief concerned over delay in enforcing COVID-19 health guidelines for polls

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has instructed&nbsp;heads of all state institutions, including corporations and statutory boards as well as members of the director boards, not to support any political party or engage in political activity at the upcoming parliamentary election.&nbsp;

If the head of any state institution, director board member or any other official wishes to support a political party or engage in any political activity, the President insisted that they should first resign from their post, the President's Media Division (PMD) said today.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/sri-lanka-holds-mock-poll-to-test-covid-19-guidelines-for-parliamentary-election-304008" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka holds mock poll to test COVID-19 guidelines for parliamentary election</a>

The PMD added that President Rajapaksa never expects heads of state&nbsp;institutions or any other government official to engage in politics on behalf of the government. Their task is to ensure that their institution works efficiently, is free of corruption, disciplined and is profitable. State institutions run on public funds. Therefore, they should not be a burden to the people, he stressed.&nbsp;

Accordingly, the President insisted that physical resources such as vehicles and equipment belonging to ministries, departments, corporations, statutory boards or financial resources belonging to them should not be used for political activities of any party during the upcoming parliamentary election.&nbsp;

Stern legal action will be taken against any official who is found to have disregarded these instructions, the PMD stressed.&nbsp;

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has instructed heads of all state institutions, including corporations and statutory boards as well as members of the director boards, not to support any political party or engage in political activity at the upcoming parliamentary election.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has instructed heads of all state institutions, including corporations and statutory boards as well as members of the director boards, not to support any political party or engage in political activity at the upcoming parliamentary election. If the head of any state institution, director board member or any other official wishes to support a political party or engage in any political activity, the President insisted that they should first resign from their post, the President's Media Division (PMD) said today. Also read: Sri Lanka holds mock poll to test COVID-19 guidelines for parliamentary election The PMD added that President Rajapaksa never expects heads of state institutions or any other government official to engage in politics on behalf of the government. Their task is to ensure that their institution works efficiently, is free of corruption, disciplined and is profitable. State institutions run on public funds. Therefore, they should not be a burden to the people, he stressed. Accordingly, the President insisted that physical resources such as vehicles and equipment belonging to ministries, departments, corporations, statutory boards or financial resources belonging to them should not be used for political activities of any party during the upcoming parliamentary election. Stern legal action will be taken against any official who is found to have disregarded these instructions, the PMD stressed.

Sri Lankan President tells state officials not to get involved in political campaigning

Of the 548 active coronavirus cases in Sri Lanka, 327 of them are Navy personnel, officials said on Tuesday.

The virus has killed eight people with 752 positive cases in the island nation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/one-prisoner-dies-in-sri-lanka-after-several-attempt-breakout-296363" hreflang="en">One prisoner dies in Sri Lanka after several attempt breakout</a>

Army chief General Shavendra Silva, who heads the island-nation's COVID-19 prevention mechanism, on Tuesday said, "There were 33 new positive cases found at midnight (Monday), 31 of them are our gallant sailors who are linked to the Welisara camp. The two others are their contacts."

The COVID-19 infection is suspected to have spread in the Welisara Camp near capital Colombo when officers came in contact with drug addicts infected by the virus during a raid. The sailors had gone home on leave, spreading the virus further.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-250000-die-of-coronavirus-worldwide-confirmed-recoveries-near-12-lakh-296685">Over 250,000 die of coronavirus worldwide; confirmed recoveries near 12 lakh</a>

Silva said 752 positive cases were reported in the country since its first positive case in mid-March, of which 194 patients had been discharged from hospitals after complete recovery.

The Army chief said 1,008 relatives of Navy sailors are presently in quarantine.

The virus death rose to eight on Monday after a 72-year-old woman in northwestern Kurunegala region died of the disease. The woman was related to one of the infected sailors.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday spoke at an online summit of the Non Aligned Movement (NAM), a forum of around 120 developing countries.

Gotabaya said of all the PCR test only 3 per cent gave positive results and that the virus' mortality rate in Sri Lanka was less than 1 per cent.

The president said he intends to ease restriction to revive economic activities, while enforcing health guidelines.

The coronavirus, which first surfaced in China's Wuhan city in November last, has claimed over 250,000 lives and infected 3.5 million people across the world.&nbsp;

Of the 548 active coronavirus cases in Sri Lanka, 327 of them are Navy personnel, officials said on Tuesday. The virus has killed eight people with 752 positive cases in the island nation.

Of the 548 active coronavirus cases in Sri Lanka, 327 of them are Navy personnel, officials said on Tuesday. The virus has killed eight people with 752 positive cases in the island nation. Also read: One prisoner dies in Sri Lanka after several attempt breakout Army chief General Shavendra Silva, who heads the island-nation's COVID-19 prevention mechanism, on Tuesday said, "There were 33 new positive cases found at midnight (Monday), 31 of them are our gallant sailors who are linked to the Welisara camp. The two others are their contacts." The COVID-19 infection is suspected to have spread in the Welisara Camp near capital Colombo when officers came in contact with drug addicts infected by the virus during a raid. The sailors had gone home on leave, spreading the virus further. Also read: Over 250,000 die of coronavirus worldwide; confirmed recoveries near 12 lakh Silva said 752 positive cases were reported in the country since its first positive case in mid-March, of which 194 patients had been discharged from hospitals after complete recovery. The Army chief said 1,008 relatives of Navy sailors are presently in quarantine. The virus death rose to eight on Monday after a 72-year-old woman in northwestern Kurunegala region died of the disease. The woman was related to one of the infected sailors. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday spoke at an online summit of the Non Aligned Movement (NAM), a forum of around 120 developing countries. Gotabaya said of all the PCR test only 3 per cent gave positive results and that the virus' mortality rate in Sri Lanka was less than 1 per cent. The president said he intends to ease restriction to revive economic activities, while enforcing health guidelines. The coronavirus, which first surfaced in China's Wuhan city in November last, has claimed over 250,000 lives and infected 3.5 million people across the world.

Sri Lanka registers over 750 coronavirus cases, most from Naval facility

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday&nbsp;extended the nationwide lockdown in the coronavirus high risk zones of the country till May 11.

This includes capital district of Colombo&nbsp;and three other high risk zones for COVID-19 whose lockdown was due to be lifted on May 4.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-under-control-says-sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-rajapaksa-as-sailors-test-positive-295853" hreflang="en">Coronavirus under control, says Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as sailors test positive</a>

According to&nbsp;the statement issued from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office, ''steps are underway to bring life and institutions back to normalcy from May 11."&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has recorded 690 confirmed COVID 19 cases with 7 deaths so far.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-tech/novel-coronavirus-may-spread-for-at-least-another-18-months-says-study-296079" hreflang="en">Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study</a>

All essential services in these areas are to be re-opened by opening the state and private institutions while adhering to health guidelines.

Anil Jasinghe, the country's top health official, said they have taken control of preventing the COVID-19 from spreading in the western province to a large extent. He said efforts are underway to double the current daily PCR test capacity.

 
Sri Lanka has registered a major fall in tourist arrivals due to the coronavirus outbreak, with an over 70 per cent decline in footfalls in March compared to the same period last year.

The island nation stopped all passenger flights and ship services on March 18 in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Till then in March, 71,370 international tourists visited Sri Lanka, according to Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority's Tourist Arrivals Report for March 2020.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday extended the nationwide lockdown in the coronavirus high risk zones of the country till May 11. This includes capital district of Colombo and three other high risk zones for COVID-19 whose lockdown was due to be lifted on May 4.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday extended the nationwide lockdown in the coronavirus high risk zones of the country till May 11. This includes capital district of Colombo and three other high risk zones for COVID-19 whose lockdown was due to be lifted on May 4. Also read: Coronavirus under control, says Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa as sailors test positive According to the statement issued from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's office, ''steps are underway to bring life and institutions back to normalcy from May 11." Sri Lanka has recorded 690 confirmed COVID 19 cases with 7 deaths so far. Also read: Novel coronavirus may spread for at least another 18 months, says study All essential services in these areas are to be re-opened by opening the state and private institutions while adhering to health guidelines. Anil Jasinghe, the country's top health official, said they have taken control of preventing the COVID-19 from spreading in the western province to a large extent. He said efforts are underway to double the current daily PCR test capacity. Sri Lanka has registered a major fall in tourist arrivals due to the coronavirus outbreak, with an over 70 per cent decline in footfalls in March compared to the same period last year. The island nation stopped all passenger flights and ship services on March 18 in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak. Till then in March, 71,370 international tourists visited Sri Lanka, according to Sri Lanka Tourist Development Authority's Tourist Arrivals Report for March 2020.

Sri Lanka extends coronavirus lockdown in risk zones till May 11

Sri Lankan opposition parties on Monday urged President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to reconvene&nbsp;the dissolved parliament while pledging cooperation to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a joint statement signed by Party Leaders of the Opposition, including United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Leader Rauff Hakeem and Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Rishad Bathiudeen noted that against the backdrop of a public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the steps taken by Governments to control it, a range of new challenges have emerged in Sri Lanka as well.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sewage-new-way-to-deduct-prevalence-of-covid-19-by-scientists-295127">Sewage: New way to deduct prevalence of Covid-19 by scientists</a>

"Getting appropriate and new legislation passed in order to meet the public health crisis and obtaining parliamentary sanction to the utilization of monies from the consolidated fund are some such important and urgent functions of parliament," the statement asserted.

It urged the president to use&nbsp;his discretionary powers under Article 70 (7) of the Constitution in order to tackle the challenges faced by the counrty due to coronavirus and ''respond positively to this offer of responsible cooperation by us at this critical time and revoke the proclamation dated 2 March 2020 dissolving parliament so that all of us can jointly fight to eradicate this virus."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/curb-coronavirus-root-cause-or-bear-worse-pandemics-say-worlds-leading-scientists-295122" hreflang="en">Curb coronavirus' root cause or bear worse pandemics, say top scientists</a>

President Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called a snap election on April 25 to elect a new 225-member house.

The joint statement&nbsp;also noted that if further spreading of the pandemic is not decisively halted in the coming few weeks, the country will face the risk of the prevailing public health crisis being compounded by crisis situations in the economic, social, and political spheres too.

The statement followed Rajapaksa's assertion made at a meeting with the powerful Buddhist clergy on April 25 where the president told the monks that he would not at any cost recall the dissolved parliament.

However, the election commission last week postponed the parliamentary elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation.

The new date clashed with the constitutional imperative that the new parliament has to meet within three months since its dissolution, that is,&nbsp;June 2.

The opposition argues that Rajapaksa has no power to draw public finances after April 30, the date up to which the dismissed parliament had approved expenditure. Therefore, the action to recall parliament would allow the governance proper and lawful in compliance with the constitution.

&nbsp;

Sri Lankan opposition parties on Monday urged President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to reconvene the dissolved parliament while pledging cooperation to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lankan opposition parties on Monday urged President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to reconvene the dissolved parliament while pledging cooperation to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic. In a joint statement signed by Party Leaders of the Opposition, including United National Party (UNP) Leader Ranil Wickremesinghe, Leader of the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) R. Sampanthan, Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) Leader Rauff Hakeem and Leader of the All Ceylon Makkal Congress (ACMC) Rishad Bathiudeen noted that against the backdrop of a public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the steps taken by Governments to control it, a range of new challenges have emerged in Sri Lanka as well. Sewage: New way to deduct prevalence of Covid-19 by scientists "Getting appropriate and new legislation passed in order to meet the public health crisis and obtaining parliamentary sanction to the utilization of monies from the consolidated fund are some such important and urgent functions of parliament," the statement asserted. It urged the president to use his discretionary powers under Article 70 (7) of the Constitution in order to tackle the challenges faced by the counrty due to coronavirus and ''respond positively to this offer of responsible cooperation by us at this critical time and revoke the proclamation dated 2 March 2020 dissolving parliament so that all of us can jointly fight to eradicate this virus." Also read: Curb coronavirus' root cause or bear worse pandemics, say top scientists President Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved the Parliament, six months ahead of schedule, and called a snap election on April 25 to elect a new 225-member house. The joint statement also noted that if further spreading of the pandemic is not decisively halted in the coming few weeks, the country will face the risk of the prevailing public health crisis being compounded by crisis situations in the economic, social, and political spheres too. The statement followed Rajapaksa's assertion made at a meeting with the powerful Buddhist clergy on April 25 where the president told the monks that he would not at any cost recall the dissolved parliament. However, the election commission last week postponed the parliamentary elections by nearly two months to June 20 due to the coronavirus outbreak in the island nation. The new date clashed with the constitutional imperative that the new parliament has to meet within three months since its dissolution, that is, June 2. The opposition argues that Rajapaksa has no power to draw public finances after April 30, the date up to which the dismissed parliament had approved expenditure. Therefore, the action to recall parliament would allow the governance proper and lawful in compliance with the constitution.

Sri Lankan opposition leaders request Rajapaksa to reconvene dissolved parliament

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Sri Lankan President declared island-wide curfew in the country under the preventive measures. The curfew is declared from 6 pm today (March 20) till 6 am of March 23.

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Island-wide Curfew declared from 6pm today (20) till 6am Monday (23) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/covid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#covid</a>-19 <a href="https://t.co/eBlhVxhmMW">pic.twitter.com/eBlhVxhmMW</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1240856602250379266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sri Lanka has 53 cases of the virus. Earlier, the country closed its international airports and placed Puttalam, Chilaw and Negombo police divisions and Ja-Ela and Wattala areas under the police curfew.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-delays-parliamentary-elections-due-to-coronavirus-outbreak-287345">Sri Lanka delays parliamentary elections due to coronavirus outbreak</a>

During the curfew, only public transport and essential services are permitted to pass through the affected areas.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the country also postponed its parliamentary elections until further orders.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/coronavirus-cases-climb-to-43-in-sri-lanka-no-lockdown-says-president-gotabaya-rajapaksa-287155"> Coronavirus cases climb to 43 in Sri Lanka; no lockdown, says President Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>

"Even if the WHO says Sri Lanka is free of this virus tomorrow, we will not be able to conduct the election on April 25," election chief Mahinda Deshapriya said.

"Whether we can have the vote in May, June or July will depend on how quickly the virus can be tackled."

Globally, there are almost 219,000 reported cases of coronavirus and over 8,900 deaths.

&nbsp;

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Sri Lankan President declared island-wide curfew in the country under the preventive measures. The curfew is declared from 6 pm today (March 20) till 6 am of March 23.

In the wake of rapidly spreading coronavirus, Sri Lankan President declared island-wide curfew in the country under the preventive measures. The curfew is declared from 6 pm today (March 20) till 6 am of March 23. Island-wide Curfew declared from 6pm today (20) till 6am Monday (23) #coronavirus #covid-19 pic.twitter.com/eBlhVxhmMW — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) March 20, 2020 × Sri Lanka has 53 cases of the virus. Earlier, the country closed its international airports and placed Puttalam, Chilaw and Negombo police divisions and Ja-Ela and Wattala areas under the police curfew. Also read: Sri Lanka delays parliamentary elections due to coronavirus outbreak During the curfew, only public transport and essential services are permitted to pass through the affected areas. On Thursday, the country also postponed its parliamentary elections until further orders. Also read: Coronavirus cases climb to 43 in Sri Lanka; no lockdown, says President Gotabaya Rajapaksa "Even if the WHO says Sri Lanka is free of this virus tomorrow, we will not be able to conduct the election on April 25," election chief Mahinda Deshapriya said. "Whether we can have the vote in May, June or July will depend on how quickly the virus can be tackled." Globally, there are almost 219,000 reported cases of coronavirus and over 8,900 deaths.

Sri Lanka President declares curfew amid coronavirus outbreak

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wise-initiative-by-pm-modi-to-call-saarc-conference-on-coronavirus-outbreak-nepal-286778">Wise initiative by PM Modi to call SAARC conference on coronavirus outbreak: Nepal</a>

"I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVID19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend the fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity," Rajapaksa tweeted.

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I thank PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> for his initiative to combat <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID%E3%83%BC19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVIDー19</a> with cooperation among <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARCNations?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARCNations</a>.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a> will extend fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1239363147271565313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Participants from all eight SAARC nations India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Bhutan held a video conference to exchange their views and share experiences in fighting the pandemic that has killed more than 6000 people globally.

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The conference witnessed Prime Minister Modi proposing the creation of a COVID-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund.

During the conference, Rajapaksa had recommended that SAARC leaders work together to help the economy tide over the difficult period.

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"He (Rajapaksa) also recommended the establishment of a SAARC ministerial-level group to share best practices and coordinate regional matters on combating COVID-19," as per a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conducting the "fruitful and constructive" video conference with leaders of the SAARC nations and promised his country`s "fullest support" to combat the coronavirus pandemic. Also read: Wise initiative by PM Modi to call SAARC conference on coronavirus outbreak: Nepal "I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVID19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend the fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity," Rajapaksa tweeted. I thank PM @narendramodi for his initiative to combat #COVIDー19 with cooperation among #SAARCNations.The discussion was fruitful and constructive with many great ideas being shared and initiated. #LKA will extend fullest support and thank the member nations for their solidarity — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) March 16, 2020 × Participants from all eight SAARC nations India, Pakistan, Nepal, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Bhutan held a video conference to exchange their views and share experiences in fighting the pandemic that has killed more than 6000 people globally. × The conference witnessed Prime Minister Modi proposing the creation of a COVID-19 emergency fund based on voluntary contributions from all the countries, with India making an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund. During the conference, Rajapaksa had recommended that SAARC leaders work together to help the economy tide over the difficult period. × "He (Rajapaksa) also recommended the establishment of a SAARC ministerial-level group to share best practices and coordinate regional matters on combating COVID-19," as per a statement by the Ministry of External Affairs.

Sri Lankan president thanks PM Modi for SAARC conference; promises Colombo's support to combat COVID-19

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines &amp; basic goods".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-must-act-succeed-together-pm-modi-at-saarc-conference-286516">'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference</a>

He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibusolih</a> 
 
Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/DzAGWYbYc2">pic.twitter.com/DzAGWYbYc2</a>
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Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks.&nbsp;

"I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'I propose we create a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Covid19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Covid19</a> emergency fund... India can start with a contribution of 10m USD..... Any of us can use the fund', says PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> 
 
Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/aJTDjkA1Z9">pic.twitter.com/aJTDjkA1Z9</a>
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Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'All <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> countries need to collaborate to fight this pandemic...We need to share our collective capacity, expertise, and resources', says Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh 
 
Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a> <a href="https://t.co/nJ4fb7LPM1">pic.twitter.com/nJ4fb7LPM1</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1239162054696566785?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19.&nbsp;

"Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'Our collective wisdom will help us in fighting the virus,' says Prime Minister of Nepal <a href="https://twitter.com/PM_Nepal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PM_Nepal</a> 
 
Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/iSR65rv97J">https://t.co/iSR65rv97J</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sltnr8kooL">pic.twitter.com/Sltnr8kooL</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1239163407422521345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences.&nbsp;

Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAARC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAARC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> conference | 'We should learn from and disseminate the experience of SAARC observer states, especially China', says <a href="https://twitter.com/zfrmrza?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@zfrmrza</a>, State Minister of Health, Pakistan 
 
Watch live here: <a href="https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN">https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronaviruspandemic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronaviruspandemic</a> <a href="https://t.co/U43cY2fXDa">pic.twitter.com/U43cY2fXDa</a>
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He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".&nbsp;

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods".

As the global concerns over novel coronavirus are rising, SAARC nations agreed on taking collective measures to tackle the outbreak. Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani said," the closing of borders will result in a significant problem of availability of food, medicines & basic goods". Also read: 'We must act, succeed together': PM Modi at SAARC conference He also proposed a common framework for telemedicine to combat the coronavirus outbreak. Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih thanked India and PM Narendra Modi for helping the country with the assistance. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should ensure that SAARC countries exchange information... We also need to target affected countries with economic relief', says President of Maldives, @ibusolih Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/DzAGWYbYc2 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa highlighted that the country's economy took a "serious blow"', especially the tourism sector because of the outbreak after it was recovering from last year's terrorist attacks. "I strongly recommend SAARC leaders to formulate mechanism to assist our economies to tide over difficult period," Rajapaksa said. PM Narendra Modi later proposed of SAARC nations setting up a COVID-19 emergency fund. He said that India could begin with contribution of 10 million USD. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'I propose we create a #Covid19 emergency fund... India can start with a contribution of 10m USD..... Any of us can use the fund', says PM @narendramodi Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/aJTDjkA1Z9 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Rajapaksa proposed setting-up of a ministerial-level group among SAARC nations to tackle the outbreak. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina acknowledged India and PM Narendra Modi's help in rescuing 23 Bangladeshi students from China's Wuhan. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'All #SAARC countries need to collaborate to fight this pandemic...We need to share our collective capacity, expertise, and resources', says Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN pic.twitter.com/nJ4fb7LPM1 — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × She called for continued dialogue between experts and officials on follow-up actions regarding COVID-19. "Our collective efforts will help us devise a sound and robust strategy for SAARC region to fight coronavirus," Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli said. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'Our collective wisdom will help us in fighting the virus,' says Prime Minister of Nepal @PM_Nepal Watch live here: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J #coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/Sltnr8kooL — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × Praising PM Modi's "excellent leadership" for bringing SAARC nations together, Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering said that at a time when the world is fighting one common disease, it is important to leave behind our differences. Pakistan PM's Special Assistant on Health Zafar Mirza raised Kashmir issue on the conference and said that all restrictions imposed on the state to be lifted for dealing with the coronavirus outbreak. #SAARC #coronavirus conference | 'We should learn from and disseminate the experience of SAARC observer states, especially China', says @zfrmrza, State Minister of Health, Pakistan Watch live here: https://t.co/OxEFGlw7aN#coronaviruspandemic pic.twitter.com/U43cY2fXDa — WION (@WIONews) March 15, 2020 × He also said, "no nation can afford to be unresponsive to the situation in wake of coronavirus outbreak".

Collective response needed to tackle coronavirus outbreak: SAARC leaders 

Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has invited foreign observers to monitor the upcoming parliamentary polls in the island nation.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved Parliament six months ahead of its schedule and called a snap election on April 25.

The earlier Parliament was appointed on September 1, 2015.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-elections-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-signs-nomination-papers-to-contest-polls-285617">Sri Lanka elections: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa signs nomination papers to contest polls&nbsp;</a>

Rajapaksa sacked the House after the minimum term of four-and-a-half years necessary to dissolve it.

Rajapaksa, who was elected to office in November last year, had said he cannot work freely because his powers had been reduced. He also faced restrictions as the opposition commanded a majority in the 225-member House.

According to National Election Commission member S Ratnajeevan H Hoole, the organisation has invited observers from the European Union (EU), Commonwealth countries and the NGO, Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), to monitor the upcoming parliamentary election, the Daily Mirror reported on Thursday.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-calls-snap-parliamentary-polls-on-april-25-283840">Sri Lanka calls snap parliamentary polls on April 25</a>

The observers will be deployed across the country.

They will submit their observations and recommendations after the conclusion of the polls.

The observers will carry out a comprehensive election assessment, focusing on the legal framework, electoral administration, voter registration, campaigning, the conduct of the media, including social media, voting, counting and tallying, and the transmission of results.

Watch: 

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Local election monitors are also likely to invite their own foreign observers, the Colombo Gazette reported.

Over 16.2 million voters are eligible to exercise their franchise. The new Parliament will meet on May 14.

President Rajapaksa, who named his elder brother and former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa as the prime minister of the caretaker cabinet in December, earlier said he wanted two-thirds seats in the 225-member assembly.

Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has invited foreign observers to monitor the upcoming parliamentary polls in the island nation. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved Parliament six months ahead of its schedule and called a snap election on April 25.

Sri Lanka's National Election Commission has invited foreign observers to monitor the upcoming parliamentary polls in the island nation. President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on March 2 dissolved Parliament six months ahead of its schedule and called a snap election on April 25. The earlier Parliament was appointed on September 1, 2015. Also read: Sri Lanka elections: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa signs nomination papers to contest polls Rajapaksa sacked the House after the minimum term of four-and-a-half years necessary to dissolve it. Rajapaksa, who was elected to office in November last year, had said he cannot work freely because his powers had been reduced. He also faced restrictions as the opposition commanded a majority in the 225-member House. According to National Election Commission member S Ratnajeevan H Hoole, the organisation has invited observers from the European Union (EU), Commonwealth countries and the NGO, Asian Network for Free Elections (ANFREL), to monitor the upcoming parliamentary election, the Daily Mirror reported on Thursday. Also see: Sri Lanka calls snap parliamentary polls on April 25 The observers will be deployed across the country. They will submit their observations and recommendations after the conclusion of the polls. The observers will carry out a comprehensive election assessment, focusing on the legal framework, electoral administration, voter registration, campaigning, the conduct of the media, including social media, voting, counting and tallying, and the transmission of results. Watch: × Local election monitors are also likely to invite their own foreign observers, the Colombo Gazette reported. Over 16.2 million voters are eligible to exercise their franchise. The new Parliament will meet on May 14. President Rajapaksa, who named his elder brother and former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa as the prime minister of the caretaker cabinet in December, earlier said he wanted two-thirds seats in the 225-member assembly.

Sri Lanka: EC invites foreign observers to monitor parliamentary polls on April 25

It's been three months since Gotabaya Rajapaksa took power in Sri Lanka. His election victory last year was clear and definitive that marked the return of one of the most dominant political dynasties in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Gotabaya Rajapaksa appointed his brother and former President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as the Prime Minister. The idea of a snap Parliamentary election should not come as a surprise.

Soon after his election, the Sri Lankan President had declared his intentions to call for snap polls. This seems to be a step toward consolidating more power. 
 
WATCH: Rajapaksas eye majority in Sri Lankan Parliament

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In 2015, the Sri Lankan parliament had passed a historic amendment which is called - '19A'. The law diluted many powers of the President's office.

To push their legislative agenda, the Rajapaksas need a majority in Parliament. They would contest the snap election from a position of strength.

The Rajapaksas command strong support from the majority Buddhist Sinhalese. India and the world will keep an eye on the political developments in Sri Lanka.

There will be a close watch on whether the Rajapaksas display any streak of authoritarianism, because under Mahinda Rajapaksa, Parliament had abolished the term limits for the Presidency.

The last government brought back the term limits, strengthened the office of the Prime Minister and introduced a Right to Information Act.

The same politicians, who now find themselves in the opposition, face the formidable Rajapaksas. The United National Party of the former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is struggling with an internal power struggle.

So far, the Rajapaksas are strong favourites to secure a supermajority - one that would give them sweeping powers to govern Sri Lanka. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world) 
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It's been three months since Gotabaya Rajapaksa took power in Sri Lanka. His election victory last year was clear and definitive that marked the return of one of the most dominant political dynasties in Sri Lanka.

It's been three months since Gotabaya Rajapaksa took power in Sri Lanka. His election victory last year was clear and definitive that marked the return of one of the most dominant political dynasties in Sri Lanka. Gotabaya Rajapaksa appointed his brother and former President, Mahinda Rajapaksa, as the Prime Minister. The idea of a snap Parliamentary election should not come as a surprise. Soon after his election, the Sri Lankan President had declared his intentions to call for snap polls. This seems to be a step toward consolidating more power. WATCH: Rajapaksas eye majority in Sri Lankan Parliament × In 2015, the Sri Lankan parliament had passed a historic amendment which is called - '19A'. The law diluted many powers of the President's office. To push their legislative agenda, the Rajapaksas need a majority in Parliament. They would contest the snap election from a position of strength. The Rajapaksas command strong support from the majority Buddhist Sinhalese. India and the world will keep an eye on the political developments in Sri Lanka. There will be a close watch on whether the Rajapaksas display any streak of authoritarianism, because under Mahinda Rajapaksa, Parliament had abolished the term limits for the Presidency. The last government brought back the term limits, strengthened the office of the Prime Minister and introduced a Right to Information Act. The same politicians, who now find themselves in the opposition, face the formidable Rajapaksas. The United National Party of the former Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe is struggling with an internal power struggle. So far, the Rajapaksas are strong favourites to secure a supermajority - one that would give them sweeping powers to govern Sri Lanka. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Sri Lanka - snap election a move to secure more power?

The Rajapaksas could trigger a snap parliamentary poll by dissolving the parliament. They are the front-runners for the election in April.

WION Edit: Rajapaksas eye majority in Sri Lankan Parliament

A report has claimed that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa could dissolve the Sri Lankan Parliament. The move will trigger a snap parliamentary election. Take a look at our report.

Gravitas: Rajapaksa could dissolve the Sri Lankan Parliament

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports.

He is expected to exercise his constitutional power to sack the assembly when it completes four-and-a-half out of its five-year term.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-offers-tax-cuts-subsidies-to-revive-jinxed-airport-283402">Sri Lanka offers tax cuts, subsidies to revive jinxed airport</a>

"The Gazette Extraordinary will be issued announcing the dissolution of the present parliament at the end of the completion of four-and-a-half years in terms of the provisions of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution," media sources claimed.

Gotabaya has publicly declared that he wants a two-third majority in the parliament.

This would empower him to make sweeping changes to the country and the constitution.

Rajapaksa, 70, won a landslide at November presidential polls and appointed his older brother and former president Mahinda as prime minister in a move that saw the family consolidate their hold on power.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/france-asks-sri-lanka-to-honour-un-pledges-on-rights-283191">France asks Sri Lanka to honour UN pledges on rights</a>

A general election is most likely in the final week of April if the 225-member national assembly is dissolved by Monday as widely expected.

Gotabaya's brother Mahinda, who had been president twice and prime minister thrice, is expected to lead the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP, or People's Front) party to a comfortable victory as per experts.

Prime Minister Rajapaksa announced last month that the country was withdrawing from a UN resolution investigating alleged war crimes in 2009, a move that was seen as boosting his popularity with the Sinhalese majority.

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports.

Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is set to dissolve parliament shortly and call snap a legislative election six months ahead of schedule, according to media reports. He is expected to exercise his constitutional power to sack the assembly when it completes four-and-a-half out of its five-year term. Also read: Sri Lanka offers tax cuts, subsidies to revive jinxed airport "The Gazette Extraordinary will be issued announcing the dissolution of the present parliament at the end of the completion of four-and-a-half years in terms of the provisions of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution," media sources claimed. Gotabaya has publicly declared that he wants a two-third majority in the parliament. This would empower him to make sweeping changes to the country and the constitution. Rajapaksa, 70, won a landslide at November presidential polls and appointed his older brother and former president Mahinda as prime minister in a move that saw the family consolidate their hold on power. Also read: France asks Sri Lanka to honour UN pledges on rights A general election is most likely in the final week of April if the 225-member national assembly is dissolved by Monday as widely expected. Gotabaya's brother Mahinda, who had been president twice and prime minister thrice, is expected to lead the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP, or People's Front) party to a comfortable victory as per experts. Prime Minister Rajapaksa announced last month that the country was withdrawing from a UN resolution investigating alleged war crimes in 2009, a move that was seen as boosting his popularity with the Sinhalese majority.

Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa to dissolve parliament soon: Reports

Sri Lanka dropped the Tamil national anthem from its Independence day event - 3 years after it was introduced. Is the Gotabaya Rajapaksa government forcing the Sinhalese identity on Lankan Tamils? WION's Palki Sharma explains how the Sri Lankan govt's talk of national unity is mere lip-service.

Gravitas: Sri Lanka drops Tamil version of national anthem

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/change-of-regime-in-sri-lanka-implications-for-india-lanka-relations-263467">Sri Lanka</a> on Tuesday imposed visa restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting the island nation to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Health Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/dengue-kills-120-in-sri-lanka-affects-over-87000-others-268635">Pavithra Wanniarachchi</a> said that the decision was taken following talks held last night as a temporary measure to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in Sri Lanka, Colombo Gazette reported.

This comes a day after Colombo reported its first case of coronavirus, involving a 43-year-old Chinese woman, local media reported. 
The woman, who hails from the Chinese Province of Hubei, had arrived in Sri Lanka as a tourist on January 19, Sudath Samaraweera, the Chief Epidemiologist with the Ministry of Health, said.

A special committee appointed by the President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-rajapaksa-arrives-in-india-265098">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> to prevent the new coronavirus from spreading in Sri Lanka had proposed temporarily imposing visa restrictions on Chinese tourists.

The virus originated in Wuhan city of China in December and has since then spread to various cities around the world.

China has imposed quarantine and travel restrictions, affecting the movement of 56 million people in more than a dozen cities, amid fears that the transmission rate will accelerate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/paris-cancels-lunar-new-year-parade-due-to-chinas-viral-outbreak-276669">Lunar New Year</a>.

The death toll from coronavirus in China rose to 106, while 4,515 confirmed cases of the disease have been reported in 30 provincial-level regions by the end of Monday.

Sri Lanka on Tuesday imposed visa restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting the island nation to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said that the decision was taken following talks held last night as a temporary measure to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in Sri Lanka, Colombo Gazette reported.

Sri Lanka on Tuesday imposed visa restrictions on Chinese tourists visiting the island nation to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Health Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi said that the decision was taken following talks held last night as a temporary measure to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus in Sri Lanka, Colombo Gazette reported. This comes a day after Colombo reported its first case of coronavirus, involving a 43-year-old Chinese woman, local media reported. The woman, who hails from the Chinese Province of Hubei, had arrived in Sri Lanka as a tourist on January 19, Sudath Samaraweera, the Chief Epidemiologist with the Ministry of Health, said. A special committee appointed by the President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to prevent the new coronavirus from spreading in Sri Lanka had proposed temporarily imposing visa restrictions on Chinese tourists. The virus originated in Wuhan city of China in December and has since then spread to various cities around the world. China has imposed quarantine and travel restrictions, affecting the movement of 56 million people in more than a dozen cities, amid fears that the transmission rate will accelerate as hundreds of millions of Chinese travel for the Lunar New Year. The death toll from coronavirus in China rose to 106, while 4,515 confirmed cases of the disease have been reported in 30 provincial-level regions by the end of Monday.

Sri Lanka imposes visa restriction on Chinese tourists amid coronavirus outbreak

The Sri Lankan civil war was dubbed as genocide and humanitarian crisis at the time. Now, 11 years after the end of the bloody civil war, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa admits that the 20,000 people who went missing then are 'dead'.

Gravitas: Gotabaya Rajapaksa's Big Admission Of Sri Lankan Civil War

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo.

His office said that death certificates would be issued for the missing.

This came after more than hundreds of families of the missing have been attending rallies demanding the whereabouts of their lost loved ones.

Some posited the idea that their relatives were still alive but captured by the security forces, a claim the government has repeatedly denied. The family members of the deceased hold daily vigils to protest.

<h6><img alt="Rajapaksa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cab0f486-feb0-4ff2-9da0-9462bb3fe52d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/116889-untitled-design-25.jpg" /> 
Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa | Reuters 
&nbsp;</h6>

The war 
The Sri Lankan army and the Tamil Tiger rebels had been warring for 26 years until the inferno was extinguished in May 2009.

The war had made ethnic faultlines in the country visible, for the majority Buddhist Sinhalese wanted to fight the Tamil rebels demanding a separate state. According to the BBC, the war had taken the lives of 100,000 people and left more than 20,000 missing.

Majority of the missing people are Tamil.

At the time of the war, Rajapaksa was Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary and helped crush the rebel movement.&nbsp;

In the final stages of the war, the United Nations had thrown accusations of atrocities towards both sides.

The BBC reported that multiple accounts of Tamil forces being killed even after surrendering were spurring out. Even with mounting video evidence, the government denied partaking in any such activities.

Watch:&nbsp;Why are critics of the Rajapaksas living in fear

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-why-are-critics-of-the-rajapaksas-living-in-fear-265803/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If seen as an opponent to Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda, businessmen, journalists and activists were taken into custody during the war and never seen again.

However, the government continues to deny any role in the disappearance, with Rajapaksa telling the BBC that all war crime allegations against him were ''baseless''.

<h6><img alt="Rajapaksa brothers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14dcd2e8-fd9c-49e8-9929-8d144f8f8cb8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/116497-untitled-design.jpg" /> 
Rajapaksa brothers&nbsp;| Reuters</h6>

''Internal matter''? 
According to the government statement given to UN resident co-ordinator Hanaa Singer, all the missing were members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).

"President Rajapaksa outlined his plans to address the issue of missing persons. He explained that these missing persons are actually dead," the statement said.

"The families of the missing attest to it. However, they do not know what has become of them and so claim them to be missing," he said.

Death certificates are utterly important in Sri Lanka, where families cannot access property deeds, inheritances, and bank accounts without it. 
Even though the UN and other organisations have demanded the Lanka government to initiate a crimes tribunal to shed light on human rights abuses in the country, no such action has borne fruits. Sri Lanka has constantly referred to the issue as a ''internal matter'' that should be handled domestically.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-firmly-committed-to-saarc-gotabaya-rajapaksa-267154">Sri Lanka firmly committed to SAARC: Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa recently claimed that 20,000 people who had gone missing during the country's civil war are presumably dead. Rajapaksa made the remark in a meeting with a United Nations envoy in Colombo. His office said that death certificates would be issued for the missing. This came after more than hundreds of families of the missing have been attending rallies demanding the whereabouts of their lost loved ones. Some posited the idea that their relatives were still alive but captured by the security forces, a claim the government has repeatedly denied. The family members of the deceased hold daily vigils to protest. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa | Reuters The war The Sri Lankan army and the Tamil Tiger rebels had been warring for 26 years until the inferno was extinguished in May 2009. The war had made ethnic faultlines in the country visible, for the majority Buddhist Sinhalese wanted to fight the Tamil rebels demanding a separate state. According to the BBC, the war had taken the lives of 100,000 people and left more than 20,000 missing. Majority of the missing people are Tamil. At the time of the war, Rajapaksa was Sri Lanka's Defence Secretary and helped crush the rebel movement. In the final stages of the war, the United Nations had thrown accusations of atrocities towards both sides. The BBC reported that multiple accounts of Tamil forces being killed even after surrendering were spurring out. Even with mounting video evidence, the government denied partaking in any such activities. Watch: Why are critics of the Rajapaksas living in fear If seen as an opponent to Rajapaksa and his brother Mahinda, businessmen, journalists and activists were taken into custody during the war and never seen again. However, the government continues to deny any role in the disappearance, with Rajapaksa telling the BBC that all war crime allegations against him were ''baseless''. Rajapaksa brothers | Reuters ''Internal matter''? According to the government statement given to UN resident co-ordinator Hanaa Singer, all the missing were members of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). "President Rajapaksa outlined his plans to address the issue of missing persons. He explained that these missing persons are actually dead," the statement said. "The families of the missing attest to it. However, they do not know what has become of them and so claim them to be missing," he said. Death certificates are utterly important in Sri Lanka, where families cannot access property deeds, inheritances, and bank accounts without it. Even though the UN and other organisations have demanded the Lanka government to initiate a crimes tribunal to shed light on human rights abuses in the country, no such action has borne fruits. Sri Lanka has constantly referred to the issue as a ''internal matter'' that should be handled domestically. Also read: Sri Lanka firmly committed to SAARC: Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Thousands missing in ethnic civil war are dead: Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa

Sri Lanka and India vowed to strengthen military ties and widen maritime links with neighbours after security talks, the president's office said Sunday, as China's economic clout increases in the region.

China, a long-time regional rival of India, has been widening its footprint in the region, including building ports and expressways and upgrading airports in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

India's National Security Advisor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-meets-pm-modi-nsa-ajit-doval-on-the-sidelines-of-raisina-dialogue-2020-274482">Ajit Doval</a> met Saturday with recently elected Sri Lanka President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-firmly-committed-to-saarc-gotabaya-rajapaksa-267154">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> and discussed setting up a maritime research coordination centre, Rajapaksa's office said in a statement.

It did not give details of the proposed centre, but said other nations in the region should be included as observers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/change-of-regime-in-sri-lanka-implications-for-india-lanka-relations-263467">Change of regime in Sri Lanka: Implications for India-Lanka relations</a>

It said the two countries also discussed closer military and coastguard cooperation.

The meeting followed Rajapaksa's visit to New Delhi in late November for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who offered $450 million in aid to Sri Lanka after his landslide victory in the presidential election.

Local media reports said Rajapaksa will travel to China -- his second foreign visit since coming to power -- while his prime minister brother Mahinda will visit India on his first overseas trip.

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A very cordial discussion was held with National Security Advisor of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, Ajit Doval today. Strengthening of bilateral cooperation on national security, intelligence sharing, maritime security &amp; fostering of regional collaboration, were some of the key points of discussion. <a href="https://t.co/hRHeHbvww5">pic.twitter.com/hRHeHbvww5</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1218523898565873671?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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No exact dates have been announced, but official sources said it could happen within weeks.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has traditionally been allied to India, but China invested and loaned billions of dollars to the island nation during the decade-long reign of Rajapaksa's elder brother, Mahinda. Chinese investments grew under the previous Colombo government too.

China's foreign minister Wang Yi held talks with President Rajapaksa on Tuesday during a brief transit stop in Colombo and the two men discussed the president's impending Beijing visit.

"As Sri Lanka's strategic partner, China will continue to stand by Sri Lanka's interests," Rajapaksa's office quoted Wang as saying.

The visit will focus on technology, tourism and infrastructure as well as other areas, the president's office said last week. &nbsp;

Rajapaksa in December warned India and Western nations that Sri Lanka would be forced to seek more finance from China if they do not invest in the island.

Sri Lanka was forced to hand over the strategic Hambantota port south of Colombo to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease after the government at the time said it was unable to repay loans taken to build it

Sri Lanka and India vowed to strengthen military ties and widen maritime links with neighbours after security talks, the president's office said Sunday, as China's economic clout increases in the region.

Sri Lanka and India vowed to strengthen military ties and widen maritime links with neighbours after security talks, the president's office said Sunday, as China's economic clout increases in the region. China, a long-time regional rival of India, has been widening its footprint in the region, including building ports and expressways and upgrading airports in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Saturday with recently elected Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and discussed setting up a maritime research coordination centre, Rajapaksa's office said in a statement. It did not give details of the proposed centre, but said other nations in the region should be included as observers. Also read: Change of regime in Sri Lanka: Implications for India-Lanka relations It said the two countries also discussed closer military and coastguard cooperation. The meeting followed Rajapaksa's visit to New Delhi in late November for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who offered $450 million in aid to Sri Lanka after his landslide victory in the presidential election. Local media reports said Rajapaksa will travel to China -- his second foreign visit since coming to power -- while his prime minister brother Mahinda will visit India on his first overseas trip. A very cordial discussion was held with National Security Advisor of #India, Ajit Doval today. Strengthening of bilateral cooperation on national security, intelligence sharing, maritime security & fostering of regional collaboration, were some of the key points of discussion. pic.twitter.com/hRHeHbvww5 — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) January 18, 2020 × No exact dates have been announced, but official sources said it could happen within weeks. Sri Lanka has traditionally been allied to India, but China invested and loaned billions of dollars to the island nation during the decade-long reign of Rajapaksa's elder brother, Mahinda. Chinese investments grew under the previous Colombo government too. China's foreign minister Wang Yi held talks with President Rajapaksa on Tuesday during a brief transit stop in Colombo and the two men discussed the president's impending Beijing visit. "As Sri Lanka's strategic partner, China will continue to stand by Sri Lanka's interests," Rajapaksa's office quoted Wang as saying. The visit will focus on technology, tourism and infrastructure as well as other areas, the president's office said last week. Rajapaksa in December warned India and Western nations that Sri Lanka would be forced to seek more finance from China if they do not invest in the island. Sri Lanka was forced to hand over the strategic Hambantota port south of Colombo to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease after the government at the time said it was unable to repay loans taken to build it

India, Sri Lanka seek closer military ties as China clout grows

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa may have taken a jibe at India's handling of JNU violence in a social media post directed at S.L's student union representatives. If Gotabaya intended to poke fun at India, then it is both ironical & hypocritical. WION's Palki Sharma explains. #Gotabaya #Gravitas #SriLanka #JNU #JNUProtest

Gravitas: Did Gotabaya Rajapaksa take a jibe at India?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pm-modis-visit-to-sri-lanka-and-the-maldives-bolsters-long-term-maritime-strategy-for-india-225515">Sri Lanka </a>has for the first time named a military officer to head the country's main intelligence agency, which was blamed for failing to prevent Islamist extremist bombings in April that killed 259 people.

The head of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-high-commission-was-a-target-sri-lanka-parliament-report-on-easter-attacks-257773">State Intelligence Service</a> (SIS) was replaced by brigadier Suresh Sallay, a former head of military intelligence, official sources said Monday.

It is the first time that a military officer has filled the position, and the appointment comes three weeks after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-firmly-committed-to-saarc-gotabaya-rajapaksa-267154">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> was elected president promising better security.

Rajapaksa effectively ran the security forces when the military crushed Tamil separatist militants in 2009 to end Sri Lanka's bloody civil war. At the time his brother Mahinda Rajapaksa was president.

A local jihad group was blamed for the coordinated Easter Sunday attacks against three luxury hotels and three churches on April 21.

A committee of parliament which investigated lapses leading to the devastating bombings found much of the responsibility lay with the then head of the SIS, Senior Deputy Inspector General Nilantha Jayawardena.

He had been warned on April 4 by a foreign intelligence agency identified previously by officials as from India of a possible attack.

"This failure by the SIS has resulted in hundreds of deaths, many more injured and immeasurable devastation to Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans, and that must not be treated lightly," the parliamentary report said.

The then-president Maithripala Sirisena has long blamed police chief Pujith Jayasundara and ministry of defence secretary Hemasiri Fernando for lapses and initiated criminal prosecutions against them.

The parliamentary probe acknowledged that the then-police chief and the defence ministry secretary shouldered some of the blame, but added that the "greatest responsibility" lay with the SIS chief Jayawardena.

There are two other ongoing investigations into the attacks&nbsp;an independent panel headed by an Appeal Court judge and a probe set up by the police.

Sri Lanka has for the first time named a military officer to head the country's main intelligence agency, which was blamed for failing to prevent Islamist extremist bombings in April that killed 259 people.

Sri Lanka has for the first time named a military officer to head the country's main intelligence agency, which was blamed for failing to prevent Islamist extremist bombings in April that killed 259 people. The head of the State Intelligence Service (SIS) was replaced by brigadier Suresh Sallay, a former head of military intelligence, official sources said Monday. It is the first time that a military officer has filled the position, and the appointment comes three weeks after Gotabaya Rajapaksa was elected president promising better security. Rajapaksa effectively ran the security forces when the military crushed Tamil separatist militants in 2009 to end Sri Lanka's bloody civil war. At the time his brother Mahinda Rajapaksa was president. A local jihad group was blamed for the coordinated Easter Sunday attacks against three luxury hotels and three churches on April 21. A committee of parliament which investigated lapses leading to the devastating bombings found much of the responsibility lay with the then head of the SIS, Senior Deputy Inspector General Nilantha Jayawardena. He had been warned on April 4 by a foreign intelligence agency identified previously by officials as from India of a possible attack. "This failure by the SIS has resulted in hundreds of deaths, many more injured and immeasurable devastation to Sri Lanka and Sri Lankans, and that must not be treated lightly," the parliamentary report said. The then-president Maithripala Sirisena has long blamed police chief Pujith Jayasundara and ministry of defence secretary Hemasiri Fernando for lapses and initiated criminal prosecutions against them. The parliamentary probe acknowledged that the then-police chief and the defence ministry secretary shouldered some of the blame, but added that the "greatest responsibility" lay with the SIS chief Jayawardena. There are two other ongoing investigations into the attacks an independent panel headed by an Appeal Court judge and a probe set up by the police.

Sri Lanka shakes up intelligence agency after Easter attacks

Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-plans-saarc-foreign-ministers-informal-meet-on-un-general-assembly-sidelines-244249">SAARC</a>) Charter and its objectives and attributes of high importance to its purposes and principles which aims to promote peace, stability, amity, and progress in the region, country's President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/sri-lanka-gotabaya-rajapaksas-election-victory-sparks-fear-among-minorities-263657">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> said on Sunday.

In his message on the occasion of the SAARC Charter Day, as cited by Colombo Page, Rajapaksa called on the member nations to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of "our cooperative mechanisms, particularly on areas which are priorities to the people of our region."

SAARC is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of states in South Asia, including, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives.

Rajapaksa said that the region as a whole requires to forge new avenues of cooperation to steer the Organization to be more effective in addressing the emerging challenges.

"The Member States of SAARC are better positioned to provide the necessary safety networks to address major concerns such as security through forming effective alliances. The Region as a whole requires to forge new avenues of cooperation to steer the Organisation to be more effective in addressing the emerging challenges," Rajapaksa said.

"I take this opportunity to reiterate Sri Lanka's firm commitment to SAARC and its objectives and remain confident of the determination of the governments and peoples of our region towards fostering stronger cooperation that is essential for peace, stability and economic prosperity in our region," he added.

In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saarc-needs-greater-collaboration-to-act-against-terrorism-pm-narendra-modi-266951">Narendra Modi</a> had said that efforts for greater collaboration among SAARC member states have been repeatedly challenged with threats and acts of terror and such an environment impedes the shared objective of realising the regional body's full potential.

"SAARC has made progress, but more needs to be done. Our efforts for greater collaboration have repeatedly been challenged with threats and acts of terrorism. Such an environment impedes our shared objective of realising the full potential of SAARC," Prime Minister Modi said in a letter addressed to the SAARC Secretariat.

Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Charter and its objectives and attributes of high importance to its purposes and principles which aims to promote peace, stability, amity, and progress in the region, country's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said on Sunday.

Sri Lanka remains firmly committed to the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Charter and its objectives and attributes of high importance to its purposes and principles which aims to promote peace, stability, amity, and progress in the region, country's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said on Sunday. In his message on the occasion of the SAARC Charter Day, as cited by Colombo Page, Rajapaksa called on the member nations to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of "our cooperative mechanisms, particularly on areas which are priorities to the people of our region." SAARC is a regional intergovernmental organisation and geopolitical union of states in South Asia, including, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives. Rajapaksa said that the region as a whole requires to forge new avenues of cooperation to steer the Organization to be more effective in addressing the emerging challenges. "The Member States of SAARC are better positioned to provide the necessary safety networks to address major concerns such as security through forming effective alliances. The Region as a whole requires to forge new avenues of cooperation to steer the Organisation to be more effective in addressing the emerging challenges," Rajapaksa said. "I take this opportunity to reiterate Sri Lanka's firm commitment to SAARC and its objectives and remain confident of the determination of the governments and peoples of our region towards fostering stronger cooperation that is essential for peace, stability and economic prosperity in our region," he added. In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that efforts for greater collaboration among SAARC member states have been repeatedly challenged with threats and acts of terror and such an environment impedes the shared objective of realising the regional body's full potential. "SAARC has made progress, but more needs to be done. Our efforts for greater collaboration have repeatedly been challenged with threats and acts of terrorism. Such an environment impedes our shared objective of realising the full potential of SAARC," Prime Minister Modi said in a letter addressed to the SAARC Secretariat.

Sri Lanka firmly committed to SAARC: Gotabaya Rajapaksa

While taking oath, Gotabaya Rajapaksa promised to be an 'Everybody's President'. But recent events in Sri Lanka send a different kind of message.

WION Edit: Can the Rajapaksas unite Sri Lanka?

Are the Rajapaksas cracking down on critics? A Top Cop leading investigations against Sri Lanka's most powerful family has left the country. An official of the Swiss embassy was detained and harassed in Colombo.

Gravitas: Fears of an Impending crackdown in Sri Lanka

After concluding his three-day trip to India, newly-elected <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/respect-accorded-by-modi-government-revitalised-bond-between-india-and-sri-lanka-gotabaya-rajapaksa-265744">Sri Lankan president </a>met Pakistan's foreign minister on Monday where the later invited him for a visit to Pakistan.

Pakistan's foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi's visit to Sri Lanka comes a day after Sri Lankan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-take-belt-and-road-initiative-all-over-unless-other-countries-provide-alternative-warns-sri-lankas-gotabaya-rajapaksa-265560">Gotabaya Rajapaksa </a>wrapped up his three-day visit to India. Qureshi arrived in Colombo late Sunday night for a two-day trip.&nbsp;

"FM calls on the President of Sri Lanka. Bilateral issues, trade, investment and people to people contacts discussed. FM handed over a letter from President to President of Sri Lanka and invited him to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience," Pakistan's Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal tweeted.

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FM calls on the President of Sri Lanka. Bilateral issues, trade, investment and people to people contacts discussed. FM handed over a letter from President to President of Sri Lanka and invited him to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FMinsrilanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FMinsrilanka</a> <a href="https://t.co/nwNRc4KH7p">pic.twitter.com/nwNRc4KH7p</a>
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrMFaisal/status/1201413897166708736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Qureshi also held talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Dinesh Gunewardene, where he stressed that both nations have been supportive of each other in areas such as economy and peace efforts. The two leaders also discussed trade, investment and tourism, according to local reports.&nbsp;

During Rajapaksa's visit to&nbsp;India, the government had offered <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-work-together-with-india-says-sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-in-joint-statement-with-pm-modi-265215">financial assistance </a>of hundreds of millions of dollars to Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the country will credit give&nbsp;$400 million line of credit to improve its infrastructure and economy.

PM Modi also offered aid of $50 million to the island nation to strengthen its security and intelligence gathering, notably after the April 21 Easter attacks in which over 250 people were killed.&nbsp;

Rajapaksa termed the visit "successful", adding that the reception accorded by the Indian&nbsp;government will strengthen the "historic bond"&nbsp;between both the nations.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

After concluding his three-day trip to India, newly-elected Sri Lankan president met Pakistan's foreign minister on Monday where the later invited him for a visit to Pakistan.

After concluding his three-day trip to India, newly-elected Sri Lankan president met Pakistan's foreign minister on Monday where the later invited him for a visit to Pakistan. Pakistan's foreign minister Mahmood Qureshi's visit to Sri Lanka comes a day after Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa wrapped up his three-day visit to India. Qureshi arrived in Colombo late Sunday night for a two-day trip. "FM calls on the President of Sri Lanka. Bilateral issues, trade, investment and people to people contacts discussed. FM handed over a letter from President to President of Sri Lanka and invited him to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience," Pakistan's Foreign Office Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal tweeted. FM calls on the President of Sri Lanka. Bilateral issues, trade, investment and people to people contacts discussed. FM handed over a letter from President to President of Sri Lanka and invited him to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience. #FMinsrilanka pic.twitter.com/nwNRc4KH7p — Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) December 2, 2019 × Qureshi also held talks with his Sri Lankan counterpart Dinesh Gunewardene, where he stressed that both nations have been supportive of each other in areas such as economy and peace efforts. The two leaders also discussed trade, investment and tourism, according to local reports. During Rajapaksa's visit to India, the government had offered financial assistance of hundreds of millions of dollars to Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the country will credit give $400 million line of credit to improve its infrastructure and economy. PM Modi also offered aid of $50 million to the island nation to strengthen its security and intelligence gathering, notably after the April 21 Easter attacks in which over 250 people were killed. Rajapaksa termed the visit "successful", adding that the reception accorded by the Indian government will strengthen the "historic bond" between both the nations. (with inputs from agencies)

Pak foreign minister Qureshi meets newly-elected Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in Colombo

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-rajapaksa-meets-external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-265180">Sri&nbsp;Lanka</a>&nbsp;on Sunday raised doubts about claims by a Swiss embassy staff member that she was abducted and demanded access to the woman who has said she was forced to hand over sensitive information.

The alleged abduction came one day after a top&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;police officer sought asylum in Switzerland and the Swiss government has made an official protest.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's foreign ministry said however that Swiss ambassador Hanspeter Mock was briefed Sunday about the inquiry and told that the staff member's account did not add up.

"The ambassador was presented with clear evidence that the sequence of events and timeline of the alleged incident ... did not in any way correspond with the actual movements of the alleged victim on that date," said a ministry statement.

Police had interviewed witnesses and secured technical evidence, including Uber records, CCTV footage, telephone records and GPS data, it added.

The ministry insisted that the embassy employee be interviewed and also undergo a medical examination. The Swiss embassy has said the woman is suffering from "deteriorating health".

"The embassy has been requested to cooperate fully with the government of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;to establish the veracity of the claims relating to this alleged incident," said the statement.

"Given that the alleged victim had also claimed that she had sustained injuries during the alleged abduction, it was noted that she should be presented for a medical examination by a judicial medical officer in&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka."

The ministry statement came one day after the Swiss embassy gave first details of how the staffer was abducted on Monday and "seriously threatened".

"The employee was detained against their will in the street, forced to get into a car, seriously threatened at length by unidentified men and forced to disclose embassy-related information," the embassy had said on Saturday.

The Swiss government has said it "considers the incident to be very serious and an unacceptable attack on one of its diplomatic missions and its employees."

The ambassador has already protested to the&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan government.

The staffer was reportedly forced to open her mobile phone and reveal the names of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankans who had sought asylum in Switzerland.

The police officer who fled to Switzerland had been investigating several cases involving members of the Rajapaksa family who regained power after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-work-together-with-india-says-sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-in-joint-statement-with-pm-modi-265215">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> won a November 16 election.

The government this week alerted airport immigration authorities to stop any police officer leaving the country without permission.

Sri Lanka on Sunday raised doubts about claims by a Swiss embassy staff member that she was abducted and demanded access to the woman who has said she was forced to hand over sensitive information.

Sri Lanka on Sunday raised doubts about claims by a Swiss embassy staff member that she was abducted and demanded access to the woman who has said she was forced to hand over sensitive information. The alleged abduction came one day after a top Sri Lanka police officer sought asylum in Switzerland and the Swiss government has made an official protest. Sri Lanka's foreign ministry said however that Swiss ambassador Hanspeter Mock was briefed Sunday about the inquiry and told that the staff member's account did not add up. "The ambassador was presented with clear evidence that the sequence of events and timeline of the alleged incident ... did not in any way correspond with the actual movements of the alleged victim on that date," said a ministry statement. Police had interviewed witnesses and secured technical evidence, including Uber records, CCTV footage, telephone records and GPS data, it added. The ministry insisted that the embassy employee be interviewed and also undergo a medical examination. The Swiss embassy has said the woman is suffering from "deteriorating health". "The embassy has been requested to cooperate fully with the government of Sri Lanka to establish the veracity of the claims relating to this alleged incident," said the statement. "Given that the alleged victim had also claimed that she had sustained injuries during the alleged abduction, it was noted that she should be presented for a medical examination by a judicial medical officer in Sri Lanka." The ministry statement came one day after the Swiss embassy gave first details of how the staffer was abducted on Monday and "seriously threatened". "The employee was detained against their will in the street, forced to get into a car, seriously threatened at length by unidentified men and forced to disclose embassy-related information," the embassy had said on Saturday. The Swiss government has said it "considers the incident to be very serious and an unacceptable attack on one of its diplomatic missions and its employees." The ambassador has already protested to the Sri Lankan government. The staffer was reportedly forced to open her mobile phone and reveal the names of Sri Lankans who had sought asylum in Switzerland. The police officer who fled to Switzerland had been investigating several cases involving members of the Rajapaksa family who regained power after Gotabaya Rajapaksa won a November 16 election. The government this week alerted airport immigration authorities to stop any police officer leaving the country without permission.

Sri Lanka wrangles with Switzerland over embassy staffer abduction

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday said that he looks forward to "maintaining warm and mutually beneficial bilateral relations" with India in all aspects.

The newly elected president, who just concluded a "successful" <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-will-take-belt-and-road-initiative-all-over-unless-other-countries-provide-alternative-warns-sri-lankas-gotabaya-rajapaksa-265560">visit to India</a>, said that the "respect" accorded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government during his trip has helped in revitalizing the historical bond between Colombo and New Delhi." At the conclusion of a very successful visit to #India, the remarkable welcome, hospitality &amp; respect accorded by PM Narendra Modi &amp; govt has revitalized the historical bond btw #India &amp; #LKA. I look fwd to maintaining a warm &amp; mutually beneficial bilateral relations in all aspects," Rajapaksa tweeted, along with a two-minute video comprising highlights of his trip.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
At the conclusion of a very successful visit to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, the remarkable welcome, hospitality &amp; respect accorded by <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; Govt has revitalized the historical bond btw <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a>. I look fwd to maintaining a warm &amp; mutually beneficial bilateral relations in all aspects <a href="https://t.co/Ell8An0uTu">pic.twitter.com/Ell8An0uTu</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1201344703112761344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During his three day visit November 28-30, Rajapaksa held talks with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-work-together-with-india-says-sri-lanka-president-gotabaya-in-joint-statement-with-pm-modi-265215">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a>, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on a wide range of issues including security and development.

Rajapaksa was received by President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Modi and was accorded a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival at the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

India announced financial assistance of USD 400 million and USD 50 million to Sri Lanka for counter-terrorism.

Rajapaksa said that his country will work closely with India to ensure that the Indian Ocean "remains a zone of peace", and assured that he will take steps to release the Indian fishermen's boats which are in Sri Lanka's custody.

He also extended an invitation to Modi to visit the island nation at a mutually convenient time. India also took up the matter of Sri Lankan minority Tamil community with Rajapaksa.

Prime Minister Modi, during the joint statement, said, that he is confident the Sri Lankan government will pursue the process of reconciliation to meet the aspirations of equality, justice, peace and respect of Tamils.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday said that he looks forward to "maintaining warm and mutually beneficial bilateral relations" with India in all aspects.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Monday said that he looks forward to "maintaining warm and mutually beneficial bilateral relations" with India in all aspects. The newly elected president, who just concluded a "successful" visit to India, said that the "respect" accorded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government during his trip has helped in revitalizing the historical bond between Colombo and New Delhi." At the conclusion of a very successful visit to #India, the remarkable welcome, hospitality & respect accorded by PM Narendra Modi & govt has revitalized the historical bond btw #India & #LKA. I look fwd to maintaining a warm & mutually beneficial bilateral relations in all aspects," Rajapaksa tweeted, along with a two-minute video comprising highlights of his trip. At the conclusion of a very successful visit to #India, the remarkable welcome, hospitality & respect accorded by @narendramodi & Govt has revitalized the historical bond btw #India & #LKA. I look fwd to maintaining a warm & mutually beneficial bilateral relations in all aspects pic.twitter.com/Ell8An0uTu — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) December 2, 2019 × During his three day visit November 28-30, Rajapaksa held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on a wide range of issues including security and development. Rajapaksa was received by President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Modi and was accorded a ceremonial welcome upon his arrival at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. India announced financial assistance of USD 400 million and USD 50 million to Sri Lanka for counter-terrorism. Rajapaksa said that his country will work closely with India to ensure that the Indian Ocean "remains a zone of peace", and assured that he will take steps to release the Indian fishermen's boats which are in Sri Lanka's custody. He also extended an invitation to Modi to visit the island nation at a mutually convenient time. India also took up the matter of Sri Lankan minority Tamil community with Rajapaksa. Prime Minister Modi, during the joint statement, said, that he is confident the Sri Lankan government will pursue the process of reconciliation to meet the aspirations of equality, justice, peace and respect of Tamils.

Respect accorded by Modi government revitalised bond between India and Sri Lanka: Gotabaya Rajapaksa

Sri Lanka's new president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has warned India and Western nations that his country will be forced to seek finance from China again if they do not invest in the island.

Rajapaksa told the Hindu newspaper in an interview published Sunday that other Asian nations would also turn to China's giant Belt and Road infrastructure project without alternative help.

Sri Lanka has traditionally been allied to India but became close to China, securing about $7 billion in loans and investment, when Rajapaksa's brother Mahinda was president from 2005 to 2015.

"I want to tell India, Japan, Singapore and Australia and other countries to also come and invest in us," said the president, who was in India this weekend on his first foreign trip since winning a presidential election on November 16.

"They should tell their companies to invest in Sri Lanka and help us grow, because if they do not, then not only Sri Lanka, but countries all over Asia will have the same (problem).

"The Chinese will take the Belt and Road initiative all over unless other countries provide an alternative."

India has been at the forefront of nations wary of Belt and Road, fearing it will reinforce China's military and strategic clout in the Indian Ocean region that New Delhi considers its backyard.

China has alloted hundreds of billions of dollars on the network of ports, railways, roads and industrial parks spanning Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

India's foreign and defence ministers held talks with counterparts from Japan on Saturday in a bid to step up military cooperation.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa also confirmed that he wants to renegotiate the agreement with China about the strategic Hambantota port south of Colombo that serves the key shipping lanes between Europe and Asia.

"I believe that the Sri Lankan government must have control of all strategically important projects like Hambantota," he said in the interview.&nbsp;

"The next generation will curse our generation for giving away precious assets otherwise," he said.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka was forced to hand the port over to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease after the Sri Lankan government was unable to repay loans taken to build it.&nbsp;

India and some Western countries have raised concerns that nations who have taken Chinese loans under the Belt and Road initiative risk falling into a debt trap.

Rajapaksa said he was certain India's government under rightwing Prime Minister Narendra Modi would move past the apprehensions it had over ties between Sri Lanka and China.&nbsp;

"Some of their suspicions were due to our ties with China, but that was a misunderstanding. We had a purely commercial agreement with China," Rajapaksa said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's new president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has warned India and Western nations that his country will be forced to seek finance from China again if they do not invest in the island.

Sri Lanka's new president Gotabaya Rajapaksa has warned India and Western nations that his country will be forced to seek finance from China again if they do not invest in the island. Rajapaksa told the Hindu newspaper in an interview published Sunday that other Asian nations would also turn to China's giant Belt and Road infrastructure project without alternative help. Sri Lanka has traditionally been allied to India but became close to China, securing about $7 billion in loans and investment, when Rajapaksa's brother Mahinda was president from 2005 to 2015. "I want to tell India, Japan, Singapore and Australia and other countries to also come and invest in us," said the president, who was in India this weekend on his first foreign trip since winning a presidential election on November 16. "They should tell their companies to invest in Sri Lanka and help us grow, because if they do not, then not only Sri Lanka, but countries all over Asia will have the same (problem). "The Chinese will take the Belt and Road initiative all over unless other countries provide an alternative." India has been at the forefront of nations wary of Belt and Road, fearing it will reinforce China's military and strategic clout in the Indian Ocean region that New Delhi considers its backyard. China has alloted hundreds of billions of dollars on the network of ports, railways, roads and industrial parks spanning Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. India's foreign and defence ministers held talks with counterparts from Japan on Saturday in a bid to step up military cooperation. Gotabaya Rajapaksa also confirmed that he wants to renegotiate the agreement with China about the strategic Hambantota port south of Colombo that serves the key shipping lanes between Europe and Asia. "I believe that the Sri Lankan government must have control of all strategically important projects like Hambantota," he said in the interview. "The next generation will curse our generation for giving away precious assets otherwise," he said. Sri Lanka was forced to hand the port over to China in 2017 on a 99-year lease after the Sri Lankan government was unable to repay loans taken to build it. India and some Western countries have raised concerns that nations who have taken Chinese loans under the Belt and Road initiative risk falling into a debt trap. Rajapaksa said he was certain India's government under rightwing Prime Minister Narendra Modi would move past the apprehensions it had over ties between Sri Lanka and China. "Some of their suspicions were due to our ties with China, but that was a misunderstanding. We had a purely commercial agreement with China," Rajapaksa said.

China will take Belt and Road initiative all over unless other countries provide alternative: Sri Lanka's Rajapaksa