Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on Tuesday asked the International Monetary Fund to arrange a creditor meeting for $6 billion in loans to help keep the country afloat during its unprecedented economic crisis.

Months of daily blackouts, long queues for petrol and record inflation have made daily life a misery in the South Asian island nation of 22 million people.

The government has already defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-president-vows-to-finish-term-but-wont-run-for-re-election-485665">Sri Lanka's president vows to finish term, but won't run for re-election</a>

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the country needed $5 billion for its daily needs in the next six months, along with another billion to stabilise Sri Lanka's rapidly depreciating rupee.

"We call on the International Monetary Fund to hold a conference to help unite our lending partners," the premier told parliament.&nbsp;

He said a meeting under IMF auspices with China, Japan and India -- Sri Lanka's three biggest bilateral lenders -- would be a "great strength" in helping source more loans.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka is already in talks with the IMF for a bailout and has appointed international experts to help restructure its debt, about half of which is in international sovereign bonds.

Wickremesinghe again warned the country was heading for serious food shortages and said the United Nations had agreed to issue an urgent appeal on Thursday to raise humanitarian funds.

A disastrous ban on agricultural chemical imports, introduced by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last year, dramatically curtailed crop yields and led to protests by farmers.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-21st-amendment-to-constitution-to-be-submitted-to-cabinet-for-approval-on-monday-485240">Sri Lanka's 21st Amendment to Constitution to be submitted to cabinet for approval on Monday</a>

The policy was reversed months later, but Sri Lanka is now out of foreign currency to import fertiliser, pesticides and other much-needed farming chemicals.

Wickremesinghe became premier in May after his predecessor, Mahinda Rajapaksa, the elder brother of the president, stepped down after months of protests against the government's economic mismanagement.

At least nine people were killed and many more wounded in riots that followed an attack on peaceful demonstrators outside President Rajapaksa's office in Colombo last month.

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Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on Tuesday asked the International Monetary Fund to arrange a creditor meeting for $6 billion in loans to help keep the country afloat during its unprecedented economic crisis.

Cash-strapped Sri Lanka on Tuesday asked the International Monetary Fund to arrange a creditor meeting for $6 billion in loans to help keep the country afloat during its unprecedented economic crisis. Months of daily blackouts, long queues for petrol and record inflation have made daily life a misery in the South Asian island nation of 22 million people. The government has already defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt, and a critical shortage of foreign currency has left traders unable to import adequate supplies of food, fuel and other essential goods. Also read | Sri Lanka's president vows to finish term, but won't run for re-election Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the country needed $5 billion for its daily needs in the next six months, along with another billion to stabilise Sri Lanka's rapidly depreciating rupee. "We call on the International Monetary Fund to hold a conference to help unite our lending partners," the premier told parliament. He said a meeting under IMF auspices with China, Japan and India -- Sri Lanka's three biggest bilateral lenders -- would be a "great strength" in helping source more loans. Sri Lanka is already in talks with the IMF for a bailout and has appointed international experts to help restructure its debt, about half of which is in international sovereign bonds. Wickremesinghe again warned the country was heading for serious food shortages and said the United Nations had agreed to issue an urgent appeal on Thursday to raise humanitarian funds. A disastrous ban on agricultural chemical imports, introduced by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa last year, dramatically curtailed crop yields and led to protests by farmers. Also read | Sri Lanka's 21st Amendment to Constitution to be submitted to cabinet for approval on Monday The policy was reversed months later, but Sri Lanka is now out of foreign currency to import fertiliser, pesticides and other much-needed farming chemicals. Wickremesinghe became premier in May after his predecessor, Mahinda Rajapaksa, the elder brother of the president, stepped down after months of protests against the government's economic mismanagement. At least nine people were killed and many more wounded in riots that followed an attack on peaceful demonstrators outside President Rajapaksa's office in Colombo last month. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sri Lanka urgently seeks $6 billion to keep economy afloat

Sri Lanka crisis: Woman rickshaw driver has to queue 12 hours, or more, for fuel

Under political reforms to solve Sri Lanka's political crisis, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has invited the protesting youngsters to join governance.

Clipping the power of the president and strengthening those of parliamentarians, Wickremesinghe said ''The youth are calling for a change in the existing system.''

''They also want to know the current issues. Therefore, I propose to appoint four youth representatives to each of these 15 committees,'' according to Wickremesinghe.

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Sri Lanka, which has a population of 22 million, is experiencing the worst economic crisis since it gained independence from Britain in 1948.

Youngsters in Sri Lanka are protesting against the shortage of fuel, electricity, and other basic facilities and have been camped out outside the president’s office for more than 50 days.

Holding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his family responsible for the country's economic crisis, they want an overhaul of the system of governance and are demanding his resignation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lankan-police-fires-tear-gas-shells-at-students-during-anti-government-protests-483330" hreflang="en">Lankan police fires tear gas at students during anti-government protests</a>

Sri Lanka, which is on the brink of bankruptcy, has already defaulted on its foreign loans of nearly $7 billion with its remaining foreign currency reserves capable of purchasing only two weeks of needed imports.

Planning to appoint youngsters to the ''youth parliament'', Wickremesinghe said “The methodology used to choose these individuals can be decided by the youth organisations themselves.”&nbsp;

Although broader reforms such as reducing presidential powers would need the approval of the Supreme Court and a two-thirds parliamentary majority, setting up new broad-based parliamentary committees apparently can be done under the current constitution.

Seeking an economic bailout package from the International Monetary Fund, Sri Lankan officials have been mulling an economic reform plan.

(With inputs from agencies)

Watch WION's live TV here:

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Under political reforms to solve Sri Lanka's political crisis, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has invited the protesting youngsters to join governance. Clipping the power of the president and strengthening those of parliamentarians, Wickremesinghe said ''The youth are calling for a change in the existing system.

Under political reforms to solve Sri Lanka's political crisis, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has invited the protesting youngsters to join governance. Clipping the power of the president and strengthening those of parliamentarians, Wickremesinghe said ''The youth are calling for a change in the existing system.'' ''They also want to know the current issues. Therefore, I propose to appoint four youth representatives to each of these 15 committees,'' according to Wickremesinghe. Sri Lanka, which has a population of 22 million, is experiencing the worst economic crisis since it gained independence from Britain in 1948. Youngsters in Sri Lanka are protesting against the shortage of fuel, electricity, and other basic facilities and have been camped out outside the president’s office for more than 50 days. Holding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and his family responsible for the country's economic crisis, they want an overhaul of the system of governance and are demanding his resignation. Also read | Lankan police fires tear gas at students during anti-government protests Sri Lanka, which is on the brink of bankruptcy, has already defaulted on its foreign loans of nearly $7 billion with its remaining foreign currency reserves capable of purchasing only two weeks of needed imports. Planning to appoint youngsters to the ''youth parliament'', Wickremesinghe said “The methodology used to choose these individuals can be decided by the youth organisations themselves.” Although broader reforms such as reducing presidential powers would need the approval of the Supreme Court and a two-thirds parliamentary majority, setting up new broad-based parliamentary committees apparently can be done under the current constitution. Seeking an economic bailout package from the International Monetary Fund, Sri Lankan officials have been mulling an economic reform plan. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

'Youth are calling for a change': Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe invites protestors to join governance

Harin Fernando, a Member of Parliament representing the opposition, had recently joined Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s government and was sown in as the new Minister of Tourism and Lands, irking his party Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB).

He said had that he joined the government to help Wickremesinghe in uplifting Sri Lanka’s battered economy, but his party members viewed it as a sign of betrayal.

In an exclusive conversation with WION correspondent Dasuni Athauda, Fernando opened up on a range of issues—from his party members seeking his dismissal, to revealing why he joined the government.

He also blamed the brother of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa for the widespread violence that erupted on May 9 between the anti-government agitators and supporters of Mahinda.

Excerpts:

WION: Is the new govt unstable and can it run smoothly?

Fernando: It's a risk…a challenge, but we are working through these challenging times and doing our jobs. Like I am taking care of my department and trying to fix it, make the tourists visit Sri Lanka.

&nbsp;

WION: As of now, whom are you representing, the government or the opposition?

Fernando: I am still an opposition MP in the cabinet. I think (PM) Ranil's intentions are honest. I believe that this man is taking the challenge, and it is my duty is to support him. It's not about anyone’s personal interest, he is only trying to stabilise (the economy). I hope Sri Lankan people view it without any judgements.

&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp; Your party, SJB, is working to suspend you. Your political career is hanging&nbsp;in balance. What are your views?

Fernando: Well, it is. But what bothers me right now is not my personal (interest), it's quite common for a politician. But I think about my country. But I have to confess that in six months we might not have a country. So, I had to take this challenge. Tough times make a tough man. I wanted to take this challenge.

&nbsp;

WION: Days after assuming your responsibilities, you wanted the government to push for the 21st amendment of the Constitution (aimed at curbing the unfettered powers of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa). What made you made you raise this issue?

Fernando: I wanted to bring the 21st amendment and the 22nd amendment ( to ensure that no dual citizen can hold a position as a member of Parliament or be the President of Sri Lanka). I believe it will happen in stages. Even the protestors want it and sought a clear timeline. The bar association gave18. But what I am concerned about is the SJB refusing to support this.

I think more power should be given to the PM as he is responsible to the parliament. Whatever decision he makes, has to be endorsed in the parliament. This is the system we want in the country. 21st amendment should be the priority and the 22nd should be next.

We must set our timelines. Hence, I was very vocal. If they (government) delay it, I will be the first to come out. I joined with a good heart, faith, and intention

&nbsp;

WION:&nbsp;In the parliament, you said that the president is failing.&nbsp;However, you are working with him to overcome the crisis. Why?

Fernando: Correct. What matters to me right now is not my personal agenda. Sri Lanka is undergoing one of its worst crisis. If (PM) Ranil hadn’t taken the charge, I would have assumed the power by now. There are long power cuts and scarcity of fuel. I am being targeted because I joined the government, but I support the call for the ouster of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. I thought that it's better to fight with the dragon rather than stay out and talk about the dragon.

My whole purpose is to make sure that we are stable position, hence I took over the tourism department, which has performed worst. The tourism sector used to generate $5-6 billion in revenue, but now, it is barely generating $1 billion. We hardly can afford this and if this goes on, we will crash. That is why I left party politics and joined for what I believe in.

&nbsp;

WION: On May 9, the peaceful protests suddenly turned violent. What was the cause? Who do you think was behind this incident, as a leader of your party was also attacked?

Fernando: I was lucky that I was not attacked that day. I think it is former PM Mahinda Rajapaksa's fault. Any rational person wouldn’t have gone against these protesters. He is actually responsible for this violence. But I think that Mahinda wanted to show his brother… I believe something was brewing internally which got out of control.

People hate politicians and this is a time when the entire country should come together and call it the truth. I now believe that we have to go beyond and let the protest go, to keep the pressure on the president. But we all need to get together to fix the country because it's not looking good.

&nbsp;

WION: Do you think the protesters should call it quits now?

Fernando: Not really. I believe Sri Lankans are very nice people. But I feel that the politicians whose houses got attacked are filled with vengeance, and seeking revenge. They know the faces of those who attacked their houses. And it doesn't look good as many people are being arrested, which would not stop.

I fear the next parliament is going to be the worst parliament in Sri Lankan history. It's a dangerous sign.

But we have to come together. Ranil Wickremesinghe has proposed a brilliant idea to attract youngsters into politics, there will be oversight committees in the parliament headed by MPs in the parliament. They are trying to rope in three young representatives from the protest.

Harin Fernando, a Member of Parliament representing the opposition, had recently joined Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s government and was sown in as the new Minister of Tourism and Lands, irking his party Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB).

Harin Fernando, a Member of Parliament representing the opposition, had recently joined Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s government and was sown in as the new Minister of Tourism and Lands, irking his party Samagi Jana Balavegaya (SJB). He said had that he joined the government to help Wickremesinghe in uplifting Sri Lanka’s battered economy, but his party members viewed it as a sign of betrayal. In an exclusive conversation with WION correspondent Dasuni Athauda, Fernando opened up on a range of issues—from his party members seeking his dismissal, to revealing why he joined the government. He also blamed the brother of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa for the widespread violence that erupted on May 9 between the anti-government agitators and supporters of Mahinda. Excerpts: WION: Is the new govt unstable and can it run smoothly? Fernando: It's a risk…a challenge, but we are working through these challenging times and doing our jobs. Like I am taking care of my department and trying to fix it, make the tourists visit Sri Lanka. WION: As of now, whom are you representing, the government or the opposition? Fernando: I am still an opposition MP in the cabinet. I think (PM) Ranil's intentions are honest. I believe that this man is taking the challenge, and it is my duty is to support him. It's not about anyone’s personal interest, he is only trying to stabilise (the economy). I hope Sri Lankan people view it without any judgements. WION: Your party, SJB, is working to suspend you. Your political career is hanging in balance. What are your views? Fernando: Well, it is. But what bothers me right now is not my personal (interest), it's quite common for a politician. But I think about my country. But I have to confess that in six months we might not have a country. So, I had to take this challenge. Tough times make a tough man. I wanted to take this challenge. WION: Days after assuming your responsibilities, you wanted the government to push for the 21st amendment of the Constitution (aimed at curbing the unfettered powers of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa). What made you made you raise this issue? Fernando: I wanted to bring the 21st amendment and the 22nd amendment ( to ensure that no dual citizen can hold a position as a member of Parliament or be the President of Sri Lanka). I believe it will happen in stages. Even the protestors want it and sought a clear timeline. The bar association gave18. But what I am concerned about is the SJB refusing to support this. I think more power should be given to the PM as he is responsible to the parliament. Whatever decision he makes, has to be endorsed in the parliament. This is the system we want in the country. 21st amendment should be the priority and the 22nd should be next. We must set our timelines. Hence, I was very vocal. If they (government) delay it, I will be the first to come out. I joined with a good heart, faith, and intention WION: In the parliament, you said that the president is failing. However, you are working with him to overcome the crisis. Why? Fernando: Correct. What matters to me right now is not my personal agenda. Sri Lanka is undergoing one of its worst crisis. If (PM) Ranil hadn’t taken the charge, I would have assumed the power by now. There are long power cuts and scarcity of fuel. I am being targeted because I joined the government, but I support the call for the ouster of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. I thought that it's better to fight with the dragon rather than stay out and talk about the dragon. My whole purpose is to make sure that we are stable position, hence I took over the tourism department, which has performed worst. The tourism sector used to generate $5-6 billion in revenue, but now, it is barely generating $1 billion. We hardly can afford this and if this goes on, we will crash. That is why I left party politics and joined for what I believe in. WION: On May 9, the peaceful protests suddenly turned violent. What was the cause? Who do you think was behind this incident, as a leader of your party was also attacked? Fernando: I was lucky that I was not attacked that day. I think it is former PM Mahinda Rajapaksa's fault. Any rational person wouldn’t have gone against these protesters. He is actually responsible for this violence. But I think that Mahinda wanted to show his brother… I believe something was brewing internally which got out of control. People hate politicians and this is a time when the entire country should come together and call it the truth. I now believe that we have to go beyond and let the protest go, to keep the pressure on the president. But we all need to get together to fix the country because it's not looking good. WION: Do you think the protesters should call it quits now? Fernando: Not really. I believe Sri Lankans are very nice people. But I feel that the politicians whose houses got attacked are filled with vengeance, and seeking revenge. They know the faces of those who attacked their houses. And it doesn't look good as many people are being arrested, which would not stop. I fear the next parliament is going to be the worst parliament in Sri Lankan history. It's a dangerous sign. But we have to come together. Ranil Wickremesinghe has proposed a brilliant idea to attract youngsters into politics, there will be oversight committees in the parliament headed by MPs in the parliament. They are trying to rope in three young representatives from the protest.

Ex-PM Mahinda Rajapaksa responsible for May 9 violence, says Sri Lankan minister Harin Fernando to WION

Sri Lanka saw a major change in their cabinet as nine more ministers were added to an ‘all-party government’ to guide the nation through the ongoing economic crisis. The new appointments came in the aftermath of Ranil Wickremesinghe becoming the new prime minister of the country following the resignation of Mahinda Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe promised to put together a coalition cabinet featuring all major parties in order to combat the growing unrest and crisis gripping Sri Lanka.

The new cabinet has enjoyed good support from all parties in the country with two SJB (Samagi Jana Balawegaya) – the main opposition party – joining the new government and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party also pledging their support to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa after getting one cabinet seat.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-looking-to-construct-military-bases-in-pakistan-report-480699" hreflang="en">China looking to construct military outposts in Pakistan: Report</a>

According to local reports, Nimal Siripala De Silva Ports was appointed minister of Naval and Aviation Services, Susil Premajayantha as the minister of education, Keheliya Rambukwella as the health minister and Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe as the minister of Justice, Prison Affairs, Constitutional Reforms.

Harin Fernando became the minister of Tourism and Land while Ramesh Pathirana took oath as minister of Plantation Industries, Manusha Nanayakkara as the minister of Labour and Foreign Employment, Nalin Fernando as the minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security and Tiran Alles as the minister of Public Security.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vladimir-putins-daughter-katerina-tikhonova-has-been-living-zelensky-in-secret-report-480573">Vladimir Putin's daughter has been living with 'Zelensky' in secret: Report</a>

However, although major ministries like health and education were filled, the position of finance minister remains vacant. With the discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) still pending, the lack of a finance minister can cause further problems for the country’s economy.

However, Wickremesinghe’s office told AFP that the announcement will be made next week.

Sri Lanka is currently going through their worst economic crisis in history and with the government out of funds, the country has seen acute food and fuel shortages in the last few weeks. Even medicines are scarce in the country and the lack of import has affected the health system massively.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE -

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka saw a major change in their cabinet as nine more ministers were added to an ‘all-party government’ to guide the nation through the ongoing economic crisis.

Sri Lanka saw a major change in their cabinet as nine more ministers were added to an ‘all-party government’ to guide the nation through the ongoing economic crisis. The new appointments came in the aftermath of Ranil Wickremesinghe becoming the new prime minister of the country following the resignation of Mahinda Rajapaksa. Wickremesinghe promised to put together a coalition cabinet featuring all major parties in order to combat the growing unrest and crisis gripping Sri Lanka. The new cabinet has enjoyed good support from all parties in the country with two SJB (Samagi Jana Balawegaya) – the main opposition party – joining the new government and the Sri Lanka Freedom Party also pledging their support to President Gotabaya Rajapaksa after getting one cabinet seat. Also read | China looking to construct military outposts in Pakistan: Report According to local reports, Nimal Siripala De Silva Ports was appointed minister of Naval and Aviation Services, Susil Premajayantha as the minister of education, Keheliya Rambukwella as the health minister and Wijeyadasa Rajapakshe as the minister of Justice, Prison Affairs, Constitutional Reforms. Harin Fernando became the minister of Tourism and Land while Ramesh Pathirana took oath as minister of Plantation Industries, Manusha Nanayakkara as the minister of Labour and Foreign Employment, Nalin Fernando as the minister of Trade, Commerce, and Food Security and Tiran Alles as the minister of Public Security. Also read | Vladimir Putin's daughter has been living with 'Zelensky' in secret: Report However, although major ministries like health and education were filled, the position of finance minister remains vacant. With the discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) still pending, the lack of a finance minister can cause further problems for the country’s economy. However, Wickremesinghe’s office told AFP that the announcement will be made next week. Sri Lanka is currently going through their worst economic crisis in history and with the government out of funds, the country has seen acute food and fuel shortages in the last few weeks. Even medicines are scarce in the country and the lack of import has affected the health system massively. WATCH WION LIVE HERE - (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka appoints nine new cabinet members, finance minister yet to be announced

Shortly after taking over as the Prime Minister of crisis-hit Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday pledged to uplift the economy and said that the government won’t interfere in the protest against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

“I have taken on the challenge of uplifting the economy, and I must fulfill it,” the new PM said in his first remarks after taking over the post.

Throwing his weight behind the ‘GotaGoGama’ protest, the PM said, “Police would not do anything to them, and the struggle must continue.”

The United National Party leader also said he will show his majority in the Parliament and that no decision has been made as yet regarding the number of Cabinet Ministers.

When he was asked by the reporters how he will get the support as only one member from UNP is represented in the parliament, Wickremesinghe said, “(UK’s ex-PM) Churchill had only 4 members backing him in 1939, how did he become the PM? Because of the crisis. I have done the same.”

This is the sixth time Wickremesinghe has been appointed to the office. Notably, the 73-year-old has never finished a full term.

Wickremesinghe was sworn-in as the prime minister earlier on the day after his predecessor and brother of President Gotabaya, Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned following large-scale violence over the economic crisis.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka Crisis &amp; Chaos: Ranil Wickremesinghe takes oath as new PM

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So far, seven people have died and 231 people have been in Monday clashes.

The clashes took place between the government supporters and demonstrators demanding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's resignation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-crisis-un-deeply-troubled-by-escalating-violence-477844">LIVE | Sri Lanka crisis — PM Ranil Wickremesinghe pledges to uplift the economy</a>

Mobs set fire to a truck used by the security forces to block the main entrance to the prime minister's official Temple Trees residence, a key symbol of state power in the South Asian island.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sri-lankans-attempt-to-flee-as-economic-crisis-escalates-478361" hreflang="en">Sri Lankans attempt to flee as economic crisis escalates</a>

In response, the authorities were given shoot-at-sight orders wherever they detected nuisance.

Mahinda Rajapaksa, along with his wife and family, fled his official residence - Temple Trees - and took shelter at the naval base in Trincomalee.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Shortly after taking over as the Prime Minister of crisis-hit Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday pledged to uplift the economy and said that the government won’t interfere in the protest against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Shortly after taking over as the Prime Minister of crisis-hit Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe on Thursday pledged to uplift the economy and said that the government won’t interfere in the protest against President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. “I have taken on the challenge of uplifting the economy, and I must fulfill it,” the new PM said in his first remarks after taking over the post. Throwing his weight behind the ‘GotaGoGama’ protest, the PM said, “Police would not do anything to them, and the struggle must continue.” The United National Party leader also said he will show his majority in the Parliament and that no decision has been made as yet regarding the number of Cabinet Ministers. When he was asked by the reporters how he will get the support as only one member from UNP is represented in the parliament, Wickremesinghe said, “(UK’s ex-PM) Churchill had only 4 members backing him in 1939, how did he become the PM? Because of the crisis. I have done the same.” This is the sixth time Wickremesinghe has been appointed to the office. Notably, the 73-year-old has never finished a full term. Wickremesinghe was sworn-in as the prime minister earlier on the day after his predecessor and brother of President Gotabaya, Mahinda Rajapaksa, resigned following large-scale violence over the economic crisis. Watch | Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: Ranil Wickremesinghe takes oath as new PM So far, seven people have died and 231 people have been in Monday clashes. The clashes took place between the government supporters and demonstrators demanding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's resignation. Also read | LIVE | Sri Lanka crisis — PM Ranil Wickremesinghe pledges to uplift the economy Mobs set fire to a truck used by the security forces to block the main entrance to the prime minister's official Temple Trees residence, a key symbol of state power in the South Asian island. Also read | Sri Lankans attempt to flee as economic crisis escalates In response, the authorities were given shoot-at-sight orders wherever they detected nuisance. Mahinda Rajapaksa, along with his wife and family, fled his official residence - Temple Trees - and took shelter at the naval base in Trincomalee. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New SL PM Wickremesinghe says no interference in anti-prez protest, cabinet members yet to be decided

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and&nbsp;former US National Security Advisor John Bolton&nbsp;are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/globalsummit/dubai-2021">WION Global Summit: Fourth Edition, Dubai 2021 — click here for details</a>

The event will be aired live on the WION channel, as well as on its YouTube, Facebook and Twitter accounts, from 12.00 PM IST on Wednesday.

'Power Play in a Post-Pandemic World' is the theme of the fourth edition of the summit, which will have thought-provoking discussions in four sessions.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will be the chief guest at the event to be held at The Oberoi, Dubai, where world leaders, thinkers and influencers will engage in dialogue on the common challenges currently affecting the world.&nbsp; 
 
Pavan Kapoor, Indian Ambassador to UAE, will deliver the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, United Arab Emirates.

Panelists will focus their attention on issues at the intersections of global politics, economy, diplomacy and our daily lives in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The first session will focus on peace deals in West Asia. The discussion will touch upon several topics in the wake of the change of guard in the US and several nations formalising or normalising their diplomatic ties with Israel. Is the Abraham Accords a political win for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a foreign affairs victory for Donald Trump? What is the future of the annexation of West Bank? Does it amount to a betrayal for Palestine? In the context of a new administration at the White House led by Joe Biden, what's the future of West Asia? Will the US be returning to the talking table with Iran, considered the 'common enemy'? These are among the questions that will be discussed at this session.&nbsp;

The opening keynote address will be delivered by John Bolton. The dialogue partners for the session are Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem; Mustapha Noman, Former Deputy Foreign Minister, Yemen; Ibrahim Shukralla, Emirati Editor from Abu Dhabi and Jason D Greenblatt, Former White House Middle East envoy.

The second session, titled The Post-Pandemic World Order, will explore how COVID-19 &nbsp;exposed the failure of multilateral institutions as well as the lack of global leadership. A key question that will be asked is, who will be the post-pandemic global leader, or will it have several global leaders?

There will be discussions on how the pandemic diminished the credibility of the US, the worst-hit by the pandemic, and exposed its lack of interest in global leadership. The session will also examine how the pandemic was a double whammy for West Asia, as it led to the oil market slump.

There will be discussions on the fight against political Islam in Europe. Other questions on the table would be: Has the pandemic opened opportunities for new alliances? Will the world reset its ties with China post the pandemic? Will there be a shift in economic power? Will there be a push towards multilateralism or ultra-nationalism? Besides these burning questions, the parleys will also focus on India's role in the post-pandemic world.&nbsp;

Nakayama Yasuhide, &nbsp;State Minister of Defence, Japan, will deliver the keynote address for the second session. Also addressing it are Youssef Chahed, Former Prime Minister of Tunisia; Michael Tsai, Former Defence Minister, Taiwan; Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka; Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Health, Maldives; Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee GBS JP, Chinese politician, member of ExCo &amp; LegCo and founder of New People's Party.

The third session, on World Economy: The Price of the Pandemic, will focus on how the coronavirus brought about an economic downturn not seen since World War II. It will examine economic trends of 2021, by the end of which global GDP is expected to be 7.5% lower than it would have been without the pandemic.&nbsp;

At issue are joblessness and business shutdowns, with 15% of young, previously employed, people out of jobs. The panelists will address areas such as US unemployment, which is highest since the Great Depression, as well as the future of pandemic-hit sectors such as oil, tourism and aviation. It will discuss why China is not being held accountable, even as several countries are pushed into a recession by the pandemic.&nbsp;

Those addressing these issues would be Jacek Rostowski, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Poland; Ian Goldin, former Vice President of the World Bank; Alexander Downer, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Australia; and Alexander Dynkin, President, Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy.

The fourth and last session will explore the digital revolution that saw the world go online during the pandemic. While digital was always the future, the pandemic has accelerated the shift, with e-working and e-learning becoming common. At issue are questions like whether companies will move to permanent work from home, and whether it will take a toll on work-life balance. Are concerns about data security being addressed during this digital revolution? Is the world prepared for the move online?&nbsp;

Joining this session are Audrey Tang, Digital Minister, Taiwan; Maria Galindo, Advisor in International Digital Policy in Government of Catalonia; Kaimar Karu, Former Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology, Republic of Estonia; Jehudi Castro, Digital Advisor to the Colombian President and Former Vice-Minister of Digital Economy; Simon Lacey, Former VP, Huawei Technologies; and Gilles Babinet, Digital Champion at the European Commission for France.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and former US National Security Advisor John Bolton are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japan's State Minister of Defence Nakayama Yasuhide, former Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and former US National Security Advisor John Bolton are among leaders who will address WION's Global summit 2021, to be held on March 24 in Dubai. WION Global Summit: Fourth Edition, Dubai 2021 — click here for details The event will be aired live on the WION channel, as well as on its YouTube, Facebook and Twitter accounts, from 12.00 PM IST on Wednesday. 'Power Play in a Post-Pandemic World' is the theme of the fourth edition of the summit, which will have thought-provoking discussions in four sessions. Jaishankar will be the chief guest at the event to be held at The Oberoi, Dubai, where world leaders, thinkers and influencers will engage in dialogue on the common challenges currently affecting the world. Pavan Kapoor, Indian Ambassador to UAE, will deliver the welcome note on behalf of the host nation, United Arab Emirates. Panelists will focus their attention on issues at the intersections of global politics, economy, diplomacy and our daily lives in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first session will focus on peace deals in West Asia. The discussion will touch upon several topics in the wake of the change of guard in the US and several nations formalising or normalising their diplomatic ties with Israel. Is the Abraham Accords a political win for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and a foreign affairs victory for Donald Trump? What is the future of the annexation of West Bank? Does it amount to a betrayal for Palestine? In the context of a new administration at the White House led by Joe Biden, what's the future of West Asia? Will the US be returning to the talking table with Iran, considered the 'common enemy'? These are among the questions that will be discussed at this session. The opening keynote address will be delivered by John Bolton. The dialogue partners for the session are Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Deputy Mayor of Jerusalem; Mustapha Noman, Former Deputy Foreign Minister, Yemen; Ibrahim Shukralla, Emirati Editor from Abu Dhabi and Jason D Greenblatt, Former White House Middle East envoy. The second session, titled The Post-Pandemic World Order, will explore how COVID-19 exposed the failure of multilateral institutions as well as the lack of global leadership. A key question that will be asked is, who will be the post-pandemic global leader, or will it have several global leaders? There will be discussions on how the pandemic diminished the credibility of the US, the worst-hit by the pandemic, and exposed its lack of interest in global leadership. The session will also examine how the pandemic was a double whammy for West Asia, as it led to the oil market slump. There will be discussions on the fight against political Islam in Europe. Other questions on the table would be: Has the pandemic opened opportunities for new alliances? Will the world reset its ties with China post the pandemic? Will there be a shift in economic power? Will there be a push towards multilateralism or ultra-nationalism? Besides these burning questions, the parleys will also focus on India's role in the post-pandemic world. Nakayama Yasuhide, State Minister of Defence, Japan, will deliver the keynote address for the second session. Also addressing it are Youssef Chahed, Former Prime Minister of Tunisia; Michael Tsai, Former Defence Minister, Taiwan; Ranil Wickremesinghe, Former Prime Minister of Sri Lanka; Ahmed Naseem, Minister of Health, Maldives; Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee GBS JP, Chinese politician, member of ExCo & LegCo and founder of New People's Party. The third session, on World Economy: The Price of the Pandemic, will focus on how the coronavirus brought about an economic downturn not seen since World War II. It will examine economic trends of 2021, by the end of which global GDP is expected to be 7.5% lower than it would have been without the pandemic. At issue are joblessness and business shutdowns, with 15% of young, previously employed, people out of jobs. The panelists will address areas such as US unemployment, which is highest since the Great Depression, as well as the future of pandemic-hit sectors such as oil, tourism and aviation. It will discuss why China is not being held accountable, even as several countries are pushed into a recession by the pandemic. Those addressing these issues would be Jacek Rostowski, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of Poland; Ian Goldin, former Vice President of the World Bank; Alexander Downer, Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Australia; and Alexander Dynkin, President, Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy. The fourth and last session will explore the digital revolution that saw the world go online during the pandemic. While digital was always the future, the pandemic has accelerated the shift, with e-working and e-learning becoming common. At issue are questions like whether companies will move to permanent work from home, and whether it will take a toll on work-life balance. Are concerns about data security being addressed during this digital revolution? Is the world prepared for the move online? Joining this session are Audrey Tang, Digital Minister, Taiwan; Maria Galindo, Advisor in International Digital Policy in Government of Catalonia; Kaimar Karu, Former Minister of Foreign Trade and Information Technology, Republic of Estonia; Jehudi Castro, Digital Advisor to the Colombian President and Former Vice-Minister of Digital Economy; Simon Lacey, Former VP, Huawei Technologies; and Gilles Babinet, Digital Champion at the European Commission for France.

At WION Global Summit, leaders to deliberate on post-pandemic world order

Pearl Divers, a diving school on one of Sri Lanka`s most popular southern beaches, shut shop for two months after<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-tourism-fighting-back-from-easter-bombings-finance-minister-mangala-samaraweera-230886"> suicide bombers attacked churches</a> and hotels on the island on Easter Sunday, killing about 250 people. It had no customers as tourists cancelled holidays, and its manager Nuwan Harshana says he took two months leave and a pay cut.

Last week, he dusted off the diving equipment and boats, used to carry scuba enthusiasts off the shore of Unawatuna beach, in the hope that foreigners will start to trickle into the country again and the shop can slowly build back to the $800 a day in revenue it made before the attacks. 
But there is no sign of any quick upturn in his fortunes.

"Everything was good before April. Now that situation is finished ... there are no customers," said Harshana, who said he is worried about earning enough to look after his wife and two children, while also meeting his monthly loan payments.&nbsp;

The economy of Sri Lanka, a sun-drenched island in the Indian Ocean, depends heavily on the $4.4 billion tourism industry. Small businesses like Pearl Divers have been on the rise since the nation`s civil war ended in 2009 and tourists poured in.

But after the bombings in April, tourist arrivals slumped 70 per cent in May and 57 per cent in June from a year earlier. Many small businesses, that employ thousands, are now either forced to lay off staff or have them work for minimal pay.&nbsp;

This is already having a domino effect on the economy, further hitting consumer demand.&nbsp;

The government has introduced a series of measures to boost tourism, including lowering airport charges, cutting taxes on jet fuel and pushing hotels to offer discounts. It is planning to relax visa rules for residents of a number of countries.

It has also asked banks to lower lending rates and give loan moratoriums. But the relief is yet to reach many small businesses that make up the backbone of the economy.

"Clearly it took banks a bit of time to gear up for it ... As they had to work out the decision-making process," central bank governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy said on Thursday.&nbsp;

Dilum Ranjana, who owns a foot spa in the fort city of Galle in the south, said he had to fire three of seven employees and postpone plans to open a second branch because he was getting hardly any income in the past couple of months.

"It is not easy to get a loan, there is a lot of paperwork and bureaucracy," said Ranjana, who has monthly expenses of $2,300 in rent, bills and salaries. He said he has so far made $570 in July, a tenth of what he did last year.

"All my plans are lost, they are ruined," he said.&nbsp;

Rising Bad Loans

Tourism was the third largest and fastest growing source of foreign currency for Sri Lanka last year, and accounted for 4.9 percent of the country`s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018.

The government expects a shortfall of $800-900 million in tourism revenue this year, which will widen its current account deficit to 3per cent of GDP from the 2.3 per cent it had earlier expected, a top central bank official told Reuters.&nbsp; 
The central bank has also slashed its growth forecast for the year to 3per cent from 4 per cent earlier.

"The main concern is rising non-performing loans due to sluggish economic growth after the attacks," the official said.&nbsp;

When the diving business was booming, Harshana said he took a loan of $57,000 in 2017 to convert an old house into a no-frills hostel which earned him $114 a night from tourists in peak season. It is currently closed because he has no bookings.

After letting him postpone loan payments of $630 for both May and June, the bank is giving no such concession for July, he said.&nbsp;

"I have to manage with my savings but I don`t have much. People like us, we rise slowly but the fall is sudden," he said.

'They bombed us'

The island received 2.5 million foreign tourists last year and with Lonely Planet magazine endorsing it as 2019`s top destination, the government was hoping to draw in more than 3 million this year.

It now hopes to get around 2 million tourists, said Johanne Jayaratne, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority.

Airlines cancelled 41 weekly flights after the attacks and while carriers like Emirates have resumed their schedule, China Eastern, for instance, is still operating only four flights a week - half of what it used to.

G.W. Ramyasiri, a 57-year-old fisherman who poses for tourists while propped up on a pole in Kogalla lake near Galle, says the government is not providing enough help.

He says he used to make up to $20 in tips from tourists every day before the attacks, now he barely makes a dollar.

He said he has sold the family gold and may not be able to send his younger daughter to university.

"We need money, not loans. If tourists don`t come back, how will I repay the loan?" asked Ramyasiri. "They have actually bombed us and our livelihoods."

Pearl Divers, a diving school on one of Sri Lanka`s most popular southern beaches, shut shop for two months after suicide bombers attacked churches and hotels on the island on Easter Sunday, killing about 250 people.

Pearl Divers, a diving school on one of Sri Lanka`s most popular southern beaches, shut shop for two months after suicide bombers attacked churches and hotels on the island on Easter Sunday, killing about 250 people. It had no customers as tourists cancelled holidays, and its manager Nuwan Harshana says he took two months leave and a pay cut. Last week, he dusted off the diving equipment and boats, used to carry scuba enthusiasts off the shore of Unawatuna beach, in the hope that foreigners will start to trickle into the country again and the shop can slowly build back to the $800 a day in revenue it made before the attacks. But there is no sign of any quick upturn in his fortunes. "Everything was good before April. Now that situation is finished ... there are no customers," said Harshana, who said he is worried about earning enough to look after his wife and two children, while also meeting his monthly loan payments. The economy of Sri Lanka, a sun-drenched island in the Indian Ocean, depends heavily on the $4.4 billion tourism industry. Small businesses like Pearl Divers have been on the rise since the nation`s civil war ended in 2009 and tourists poured in. But after the bombings in April, tourist arrivals slumped 70 per cent in May and 57 per cent in June from a year earlier. Many small businesses, that employ thousands, are now either forced to lay off staff or have them work for minimal pay. This is already having a domino effect on the economy, further hitting consumer demand. The government has introduced a series of measures to boost tourism, including lowering airport charges, cutting taxes on jet fuel and pushing hotels to offer discounts. It is planning to relax visa rules for residents of a number of countries. It has also asked banks to lower lending rates and give loan moratoriums. But the relief is yet to reach many small businesses that make up the backbone of the economy. "Clearly it took banks a bit of time to gear up for it ... As they had to work out the decision-making process," central bank governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy said on Thursday. Dilum Ranjana, who owns a foot spa in the fort city of Galle in the south, said he had to fire three of seven employees and postpone plans to open a second branch because he was getting hardly any income in the past couple of months. "It is not easy to get a loan, there is a lot of paperwork and bureaucracy," said Ranjana, who has monthly expenses of $2,300 in rent, bills and salaries. He said he has so far made $570 in July, a tenth of what he did last year. "All my plans are lost, they are ruined," he said. Rising Bad Loans Tourism was the third largest and fastest growing source of foreign currency for Sri Lanka last year, and accounted for 4.9 percent of the country`s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018. The government expects a shortfall of $800-900 million in tourism revenue this year, which will widen its current account deficit to 3per cent of GDP from the 2.3 per cent it had earlier expected, a top central bank official told Reuters. The central bank has also slashed its growth forecast for the year to 3per cent from 4 per cent earlier. "The main concern is rising non-performing loans due to sluggish economic growth after the attacks," the official said. When the diving business was booming, Harshana said he took a loan of $57,000 in 2017 to convert an old house into a no-frills hostel which earned him $114 a night from tourists in peak season. It is currently closed because he has no bookings. After letting him postpone loan payments of $630 for both May and June, the bank is giving no such concession for July, he said. "I have to manage with my savings but I don`t have much. People like us, we rise slowly but the fall is sudden," he said. 'They bombed us' The island received 2.5 million foreign tourists last year and with Lonely Planet magazine endorsing it as 2019`s top destination, the government was hoping to draw in more than 3 million this year. It now hopes to get around 2 million tourists, said Johanne Jayaratne, chairman of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority. Airlines cancelled 41 weekly flights after the attacks and while carriers like Emirates have resumed their schedule, China Eastern, for instance, is still operating only four flights a week - half of what it used to. G.W. Ramyasiri, a 57-year-old fisherman who poses for tourists while propped up on a pole in Kogalla lake near Galle, says the government is not providing enough help. He says he used to make up to $20 in tips from tourists every day before the attacks, now he barely makes a dollar. He said he has sold the family gold and may not be able to send his younger daughter to university. "We need money, not loans. If tourists don`t come back, how will I repay the loan?" asked Ramyasiri. "They have actually bombed us and our livelihoods."

'They bombed our livelihoods': Sri Lanka's tourism firms struggle after attacks

Sri Lankan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-sri-lanka-bombings-212899">PM Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> on Tuesday confirmed at a press conference that India had offered specific intelligence about an impending attack.

India had warned Sri Lanka of jihadi threat, the PM said.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan PM said, "there has always been sharing of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-colombo-on-high-alert-following-reports-of-explosives-laden-van-212903">information between our two countries</a> with regard to terrorism. There was specific intelligence on this".

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Investigation are on and a number of people have been detained in the aftermath of the terror attack. Interpol has deployed a team while FBI has been assisting the government in the probe. The Lankan PM said all the people who have been arrested are Sri Lankans.

PM Ranil said, "The investigators are making good progress in identifying the culprits."

Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena briefed foreign envoys on the situation in the country.

At least ten&nbsp;Indians are among the more than 300 dead in Sunday's terror attack, the worst in the country.

Eight of the dead are from Karnataka, one from Hyderabad, one is still to be identified, and relatives of another Indian &nbsp;- Mr Chandrashaker - are still to contact the mission. All seven JD(S) member have been confirmed dead in the attack, and WION&nbsp;has learnt that the suicide bomber was sitting in the table next to them.&nbsp;

Many Indians have left the country and were facilitated by the Indian mission. Approximately 500 Indian expats are in the island nation.

Islamic State has taken responsibility for the attacks via the group's Amaq news agency.

Reacting to this PM Ranil said, "Security apparatus was of the view, &nbsp;there are foreign links, and some of the evidence points to that and when ISIS claimed it, we will be following it up on this claim."

State minister for defence Ruwan Wijewardene confirmed in Parliament earlier that Islamist group National Thowfeeth Jamath (NTJ) was&nbsp;responsible for the worst terror attack in the island nation.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe on Tuesday confirmed at a press conference that India had offered specific intelligence about an impending attack. India had warned Sri Lanka of jihadi threat, the PM said.

Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe on Tuesday confirmed at a press conference that India had offered specific intelligence about an impending attack. India had warned Sri Lanka of jihadi threat, the PM said. The Sri Lankan PM said, "there has always been sharing of information between our two countries with regard to terrorism. There was specific intelligence on this". × Investigation are on and a number of people have been detained in the aftermath of the terror attack. Interpol has deployed a team while FBI has been assisting the government in the probe. The Lankan PM said all the people who have been arrested are Sri Lankans. PM Ranil said, "The investigators are making good progress in identifying the culprits." Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena briefed foreign envoys on the situation in the country. At least ten Indians are among the more than 300 dead in Sunday's terror attack, the worst in the country. Eight of the dead are from Karnataka, one from Hyderabad, one is still to be identified, and relatives of another Indian - Mr Chandrashaker - are still to contact the mission. All seven JD(S) member have been confirmed dead in the attack, and WION has learnt that the suicide bomber was sitting in the table next to them. Many Indians have left the country and were facilitated by the Indian mission. Approximately 500 Indian expats are in the island nation. Islamic State has taken responsibility for the attacks via the group's Amaq news agency. Reacting to this PM Ranil said, "Security apparatus was of the view, there are foreign links, and some of the evidence points to that and when ISIS claimed it, we will be following it up on this claim." State minister for defence Ruwan Wijewardene confirmed in Parliament earlier that Islamist group National Thowfeeth Jamath (NTJ) was responsible for the worst terror attack in the island nation.

India had provided specific intelligence on attack: Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives.&nbsp;

During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance.

Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy".

Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership."

PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term.

Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations.

During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year.&nbsp;

India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million.&nbsp;

India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance. Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy". Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership." PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term. Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations. During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year. India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million. India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.

PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit to show solidarity with people: Foreign secretary 

Mobs slashed to death a&nbsp;man despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-nationwide-curfew-after-riots-218452">a nationwide curfew imposed Monday night</a> after communal riots spread to three districts north of the capital in a violent backlash against Easter suicide bombings.

The 45-year-old man died shortly after admission to a hospital in Puttalam district during the rioting which began Sunday in the area, a police official said.

"Mobs had attacked him with sharp weapons at his carpentry workshop," the official said. "This is the first death from the riots."

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the curfew was declared to prevent unidentified groups destabilising the country by orchestrating communal violence.

"At several places in the North-Western Province these groups created trouble, damaged property," Wickremesinghe said in a televised address to the nation.&nbsp;

"Police and security forces have contained the situation, but these (unidentified) groups are still trying to create trouble."

Wickremesinghe said the unrest would hinder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/latest-sri-lanka-arrest-throws-spotlight-on-wahhabism-in-eastern-hotbed-218004">investigations into the April 21 attacks</a> that targeted three Christian churches and three luxury hotels, killing 258 people and wounding nearly 500.

In a separate TV address, Police Chief Chandana Wickramaratne warned police will take stern action against rioters, and constables have been issued orders to use maximum force.

Residents in the North-Western Province were ordered to stay indoors after mobs torched dozens of&nbsp;shops, vehicles on Sunday and Monday.&nbsp;

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Later the curfew was extended to cover the entire country of 21 million people.

Police said there were sporadic incidents of mobs throwing stones and torching shops, motorcycles and cars. In the town of Hettipola, at least three shops were torched.

In the town of Minuwangoda, just north of Colombo, a&nbsp;hotel and a mosque were attacked by stone-hurling mobs armed with sticks.

"Several shops have been attacked," a senior police officer told AFP. "When mobs tried to attack mosques, we fired in the air and used tear gas to disperse them."

The officer added that "there are people trying to make political capital out of this situation."

PM warns against rumours

Earlier Monday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-blocks-some-social-media-platforms-after-mosque-attack-in-chilaw-218230">authorities banned Facebook, WhatsApp</a> and other social media platforms.

Platforms were similarly blocked after the Easter attacks.

The prime minister urged the public not to believe rumours and warned that civil unrest will stretch the already thinly deployed security forces.

"I appeal to all citizens to remain calm and not be swayed by false information," Wickremesinghe said on Twitter, which was not targeted in the social media blockade.

A state of emergency has been in place since the bombings -- which the Islamic State group claims to have helped -- and security forces have been given sweeping powers to detain suspects.

The latest wave of unrest started when a mob targeted shops in the town of Chilaw, 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of Colombo on Sunday in anger at a Facebook post by a shopkeeper.

"Don't laugh more, 1 day u will cry," he wrote, which local Christians took to be a warning of an impending attack.

The group smashed the man's shop and vandalised a nearby mosque prompting security forces to fire in the air to disperse the crowd, but the violence spread.

There had already been clashes last week between Christians and Muslims in Negombo, the town north of Colombo that was targeted by the suicide attackers.

The main body of Islamic clerics, the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU), said there was increased suspicion on&nbsp;Muslims after the Easter Sunday killings.

"We call upon the members of the communities to be more patient and guard your actions and avoid unnecessary postings or hosting on social media," the ACJU said.

Internet service providers said they have been instructed by the telecommunications regulator to block access to Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube and Instagram.

Schools reopen

The latest unrest came as Catholic churches resumed public Sunday masses for the first time since the bombings.

Dozens of people have been detained since the Easter attacks, and with security heightened students are only allowed into schools after checks for explosives.

But attendance has been extremely low, according to education authorities.

Mobs slashed to death a man despite a nationwide curfew imposed Monday night after communal riots spread to three districts north of the capital in a violent backlash against Easter suicide bombings.

Mobs slashed to death a man despite a nationwide curfew imposed Monday night after communal riots spread to three districts north of the capital in a violent backlash against Easter suicide bombings. The 45-year-old man died shortly after admission to a hospital in Puttalam district during the rioting which began Sunday in the area, a police official said. "Mobs had attacked him with sharp weapons at his carpentry workshop," the official said. "This is the first death from the riots." Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the curfew was declared to prevent unidentified groups destabilising the country by orchestrating communal violence. "At several places in the North-Western Province these groups created trouble, damaged property," Wickremesinghe said in a televised address to the nation. "Police and security forces have contained the situation, but these (unidentified) groups are still trying to create trouble." Wickremesinghe said the unrest would hinder investigations into the April 21 attacks that targeted three Christian churches and three luxury hotels, killing 258 people and wounding nearly 500. In a separate TV address, Police Chief Chandana Wickramaratne warned police will take stern action against rioters, and constables have been issued orders to use maximum force. Residents in the North-Western Province were ordered to stay indoors after mobs torched dozens of shops, vehicles on Sunday and Monday. × Later the curfew was extended to cover the entire country of 21 million people. Police said there were sporadic incidents of mobs throwing stones and torching shops, motorcycles and cars. In the town of Hettipola, at least three shops were torched. In the town of Minuwangoda, just north of Colombo, a hotel and a mosque were attacked by stone-hurling mobs armed with sticks. "Several shops have been attacked," a senior police officer told AFP. "When mobs tried to attack mosques, we fired in the air and used tear gas to disperse them." The officer added that "there are people trying to make political capital out of this situation." PM warns against rumours Earlier Monday, authorities banned Facebook, WhatsApp and other social media platforms. Platforms were similarly blocked after the Easter attacks. The prime minister urged the public not to believe rumours and warned that civil unrest will stretch the already thinly deployed security forces. "I appeal to all citizens to remain calm and not be swayed by false information," Wickremesinghe said on Twitter, which was not targeted in the social media blockade. A state of emergency has been in place since the bombings -- which the Islamic State group claims to have helped -- and security forces have been given sweeping powers to detain suspects. The latest wave of unrest started when a mob targeted shops in the town of Chilaw, 80 kilometres (50 miles) north of Colombo on Sunday in anger at a Facebook post by a shopkeeper. "Don't laugh more, 1 day u will cry," he wrote, which local Christians took to be a warning of an impending attack. The group smashed the man's shop and vandalised a nearby mosque prompting security forces to fire in the air to disperse the crowd, but the violence spread. There had already been clashes last week between Christians and Muslims in Negombo, the town north of Colombo that was targeted by the suicide attackers. The main body of Islamic clerics, the All Ceylon Jamiyyathul Ulama (ACJU), said there was increased suspicion on Muslims after the Easter Sunday killings. "We call upon the members of the communities to be more patient and guard your actions and avoid unnecessary postings or hosting on social media," the ACJU said. Internet service providers said they have been instructed by the telecommunications regulator to block access to Facebook, WhatsApp, YouTube and Instagram. Schools reopen The latest unrest came as Catholic churches resumed public Sunday masses for the first time since the bombings. Dozens of people have been detained since the Easter attacks, and with security heightened students are only allowed into schools after checks for explosives. But attendance has been extremely low, according to education authorities.

Sri Lanka: One person killed in mob attack despite nationwide curfew

Tourist arrivals in Colombo will fall by 50 per cent over the next two months following the Easter Sunday bombings that killed more than 250 people, Sri Lanka's Tourism Bureau Chairman Kishu Gomes said on Monday.

Tourist arrivals in areas outside Colombo will also go down by about 30 per cent following the bombings, he told reporters at a travel conference in Dubai.

SriLankan Airlines' chief executive Vipula Gunatilleka told Reuters at the conference that the carrier had a 10 per cent increase in cancellations last week and expects that number to go up.

Sri Lanka faces a likely collapse in tourism following Easter Sunday bomb attacks on churches and hotels, which would deal a severe blow to the island's economy and financial markets, and potentially force it to seek further IMF assistance.

Gomes said the tourism bureau was chasing a target of 2.5 million visitors in 2019.

"We will probably reach about 2 million," Gomes told reporters. "We are looking at providing some concessions to the industry for them to be able to maintain their viability for the next few months."

Gomes said confidence could return if the military is able to give assurances on security.

"If the military can come out over the next few days and make a strong statement with respect to a security that’s when we will obviously offer a bit of confidence and try and work against that anticipation."

Tourist arrivals in Colombo will fall by 50 per cent over the next two months following the Easter Sunday bombings that killed more than 250 people, Sri Lanka's Tourism Bureau Chairman Kishu Gomes said on Monday.

Tourist arrivals in Colombo will fall by 50 per cent over the next two months following the Easter Sunday bombings that killed more than 250 people, Sri Lanka's Tourism Bureau Chairman Kishu Gomes said on Monday. Tourist arrivals in areas outside Colombo will also go down by about 30 per cent following the bombings, he told reporters at a travel conference in Dubai. SriLankan Airlines' chief executive Vipula Gunatilleka told Reuters at the conference that the carrier had a 10 per cent increase in cancellations last week and expects that number to go up. Sri Lanka faces a likely collapse in tourism following Easter Sunday bomb attacks on churches and hotels, which would deal a severe blow to the island's economy and financial markets, and potentially force it to seek further IMF assistance. Gomes said the tourism bureau was chasing a target of 2.5 million visitors in 2019. "We will probably reach about 2 million," Gomes told reporters. "We are looking at providing some concessions to the industry for them to be able to maintain their viability for the next few months." Gomes said confidence could return if the military is able to give assurances on security. "If the military can come out over the next few days and make a strong statement with respect to a security that’s when we will obviously offer a bit of confidence and try and work against that anticipation."

Tourist arrivals in Colombo to drop by 50% after bombings: Sri Lanka tourism chief

A memo that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-blasts-pm-says-priority-is-to-ensure-terrorism-doesnt-lift-its-head-in-country-212406">warned of a potential attack </a>was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka, reports CNN.

The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka`s deputy inspector general of police.

Titled "Information of an Alleged Plan attack", the memo stated, "The State Intelligence service stated that information has been received regarding an alleged plan of suicidal attack by the leader of `Nations Thawahid Jaman Mohomad Saharan`."

"According to information of that statement, would like you to give special attention and inform your staff to provide special security measures to the areas covered by your division," it read.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/south-asia-unites-in-sri-lankas-hour-of-grief-212409">South Asia unites in Sri Lanka's hour of grief</a>

The warning was ignored and no action was taken.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has also acknowledged that there was prior information but he was not informed about it.

Demanding serious action as to why the warning was ignored, Sri Lankan Minister of Telecommunication, Harin Fernando, said, "Some intelligence officers were aware of this incident. There was a delay in action. What my father heard was also from an intelligence officer. Serious action needs to be taken as to why this warning was ignored."

At least 207 people were killed and hundreds of others suffered injuries in a series of eight explosions in churches and high-end hotels in Sri Lanka.

At least 30 people, among the deceased, are believed to be<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/3-indians-killed-in-sri-lanka-serial-blasts-ministry-of-external-affairs-212383"> foreigners</a>, according to Sri Lankan authorities.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks yet.

Several countries including India, Unites States and the United Kingdom have condemned the attacks.

Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Special Task Force raided a house in Colombo`s Orugodawatta in connection with the blasts.

Seven people were also arrested in relation to the attacks by the authorities earlier.

A memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka, reports CNN. The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka`s deputy inspector general of police.

A memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka, reports CNN. The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka`s deputy inspector general of police. Titled "Information of an Alleged Plan attack", the memo stated, "The State Intelligence service stated that information has been received regarding an alleged plan of suicidal attack by the leader of `Nations Thawahid Jaman Mohomad Saharan`." "According to information of that statement, would like you to give special attention and inform your staff to provide special security measures to the areas covered by your division," it read. Also read: South Asia unites in Sri Lanka's hour of grief The warning was ignored and no action was taken. Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has also acknowledged that there was prior information but he was not informed about it. Demanding serious action as to why the warning was ignored, Sri Lankan Minister of Telecommunication, Harin Fernando, said, "Some intelligence officers were aware of this incident. There was a delay in action. What my father heard was also from an intelligence officer. Serious action needs to be taken as to why this warning was ignored." At least 207 people were killed and hundreds of others suffered injuries in a series of eight explosions in churches and high-end hotels in Sri Lanka. At least 30 people, among the deceased, are believed to be foreigners, according to Sri Lankan authorities. No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks yet. Several countries including India, Unites States and the United Kingdom have condemned the attacks. Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan Special Task Force raided a house in Colombo`s Orugodawatta in connection with the blasts. Seven people were also arrested in relation to the attacks by the authorities earlier.

Sri Lanka: Memo circulated a day before had warned of attack

Easter Sunday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-says-local-militant-group-national-thowheed-jamath-behind-easter-sunday-blasts-212556">bomb blasts at three churches and four hotels</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sri-lanka-government-orders-new-curfew-after-attacks-212543">Sri Lanka</a> killed more than 200 people and wounded at least 450, police officials said, the first major attack on the Indian Ocean island since the end of a civil war 10 years ago.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-serial-blasts-president-maithripala-sirisena-to-announce-nationwide-emergency-from-midnight-212560">Politicians and religious leaders</a> were united in their shock and condemnation.

Here are some of their reactions.

Pope Francis

"I learned with sadness and pain of the news of the grave attacks, that precisely today, Easter, brought mourning and pain to churches and other places where people were gathered in Sri Lanka," he told tens of thousands of people in St. Peter's Square to hear his Easter Sunday message.

"I wish to express my affectionate closeness to the Christian community, hit while it was gathered in prayer, and to all the victims of such cruel violence."

World Jewish Congress president Ronald S. Lauder

"World Jewry - in fact, all civilized people - denounce this heinous outrage and appeal for zero tolerance of those who use terror to advance their objectives. This truly barbarous assault on peaceful worshippers on one of the holiest days in the Christian calendar serves as a painful reminder that the war against terror must be at the top of the international agenda and pursued relentlessly," he said in a statement.

Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, spiritual leader of the Church of England

"The will to power leads to the murder of innocents in Sri Lanka. The utterly despicable destruction that on this holiest of days seeks to challenge the reality of the risen Christ. To say that darkness will conquer, that our choice is surrender or death. Jesus chose to defy this darkness and he is risen indeed."

US President Donald Trump

"The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-revises-travel-advisory-for-sri-lanka-warns-terrorists-continue-plotting-attacks-212496">United States</a> offers heartfelt condolences to the great people of Sri Lanka. We stand ready to help!" he tweeted.

Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi

"Strongly condemn the horrific<a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eighth-blast-hits-sri-lankan-capital-city-colombo-death-toll-crosses-160-212267&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiG8tS7puPhAhWJr48KHWDaDUQQFggOMAM&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw1K06uI3GHI0kq8zp0nwaks"> blasts</a> in Sri Lanka. There is no place for such barbarism in our region. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-blasts-are-grim-reminder-of-most-serious-challenge-to-humanity-pm-modi-to-sri-lankan-president-pm-212293">India stands in solidarity</a> with the people of Sri Lanka. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured," he said on Twitter.

Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan

"Strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday resulting in precious lives lost and hundreds injured. My profound condolences go to our Sri Lankan brethren. Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka in their hour of grief," he tweeted.

Russian President Vladimir Putin

"Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena in connection with tragic consequences of terrorist acts," his English Twitter account said.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel

"It is shocking that people who had gathered to celebrate Easter were the deliberate target of vicious attacks," she wrote in a letter of condolence to Sri Lanka's president.

French President Emmanuel Macron

“Deep sorrow following the terrorist attacks against churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. We firmly condemn these heinous acts. All our solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka and our thoughts go out to all victims’ relatives on this Easter Day,” he said on Twitter.

British Prime Minister Theresa May

"The acts of violence against churches and hotels in Sri Lanka are truly appalling, and my deepest sympathies go out to all of those affected at this tragic time. We must stand together to make sure that no one should ever have to practise their faith in fear," she tweeted.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez

"Terror and barbarity will never defeat us," he wrote on Twitter.

Luxembourg premier Xavier Bettel

"Even on Easter Sunday, there are those who sow hatred and reap death. The attacks in Sri Lanka churches testify to a real genocide perpetrated against Christians. Let us pray for the innocent victims and work towards religious freedom around the world," he said on Twitter.

European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker

"It was with horror and sadness that I heard of the bombings in Sri Lanka costing the lives of so many people. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who had gathered to worship peacefully or come to visit this beautiful country. We stand ready to support," he said on Twitter.

Israeli President Reuven Rivlin

"The attacks in Sri Lanka, including those at prayer celebrating Easter Sunday are a despicable crime. We are all children of God; an attack on one religion is an attack on us all," he said on Twitter.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan

"I condemn in the strongest terms possible the Easter terror attacks in Sri Lanka. This is an assault on all of humanity," he tweeted.

Iranian Foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif

"Terribly saddened by terrorist attacks on Sri Lankan worshippers during Easter. Condolences to friendly govt &amp; people of Sri Lanka. Our thoughts &amp; prayers with the victims &amp; their families. Terrorism is a global menace with no religion: it must be condemned &amp; confronted globally," he said on Twitter.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern

“New Zealand condemns all acts of terrorism, and our resolve has only been strengthened by the attack on our soil on the 15th of March. To see an attack in Sri Lanka while people were in churches and at hotels is devastating,” she said in a written statement.

"New Zealand rejects all forms of extremism and stands for freedom of religion and the right to worship safely. Collectively we must find the will and the answers to end such violence." 
&nbsp;

Easter Sunday bomb blasts at three churches and four hotels in Sri Lanka killed more than 200 people and wounded at least 450, police officials said, the first major attack on the Indian Ocean island since the end of a civil war 10 years ago.

Easter Sunday bomb blasts at three churches and four hotels in Sri Lanka killed more than 200 people and wounded at least 450, police officials said, the first major attack on the Indian Ocean island since the end of a civil war 10 years ago. Politicians and religious leaders were united in their shock and condemnation. Here are some of their reactions. Pope Francis "I learned with sadness and pain of the news of the grave attacks, that precisely today, Easter, brought mourning and pain to churches and other places where people were gathered in Sri Lanka," he told tens of thousands of people in St. Peter's Square to hear his Easter Sunday message. "I wish to express my affectionate closeness to the Christian community, hit while it was gathered in prayer, and to all the victims of such cruel violence." World Jewish Congress president Ronald S. Lauder "World Jewry - in fact, all civilized people - denounce this heinous outrage and appeal for zero tolerance of those who use terror to advance their objectives. This truly barbarous assault on peaceful worshippers on one of the holiest days in the Christian calendar serves as a painful reminder that the war against terror must be at the top of the international agenda and pursued relentlessly," he said in a statement. Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, spiritual leader of the Church of England "The will to power leads to the murder of innocents in Sri Lanka. The utterly despicable destruction that on this holiest of days seeks to challenge the reality of the risen Christ. To say that darkness will conquer, that our choice is surrender or death. Jesus chose to defy this darkness and he is risen indeed." US President Donald Trump "The United States offers heartfelt condolences to the great people of Sri Lanka. We stand ready to help!" he tweeted. Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi "Strongly condemn the horrific blasts in Sri Lanka. There is no place for such barbarism in our region. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. My thoughts are with the bereaved families and prayers with the injured," he said on Twitter. Pakistan's Prime minister Imran Khan "Strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday resulting in precious lives lost and hundreds injured. My profound condolences go to our Sri Lankan brethren. Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka in their hour of grief," he tweeted. Russian President Vladimir Putin "Vladimir Putin expressed condolences to Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena in connection with tragic consequences of terrorist acts," his English Twitter account said. German Chancellor Angela Merkel "It is shocking that people who had gathered to celebrate Easter were the deliberate target of vicious attacks," she wrote in a letter of condolence to Sri Lanka's president. French President Emmanuel Macron “Deep sorrow following the terrorist attacks against churches and hotels in Sri Lanka. We firmly condemn these heinous acts. All our solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka and our thoughts go out to all victims’ relatives on this Easter Day,” he said on Twitter. British Prime Minister Theresa May "The acts of violence against churches and hotels in Sri Lanka are truly appalling, and my deepest sympathies go out to all of those affected at this tragic time. We must stand together to make sure that no one should ever have to practise their faith in fear," she tweeted. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez "Terror and barbarity will never defeat us," he wrote on Twitter. Luxembourg premier Xavier Bettel "Even on Easter Sunday, there are those who sow hatred and reap death. The attacks in Sri Lanka churches testify to a real genocide perpetrated against Christians. Let us pray for the innocent victims and work towards religious freedom around the world," he said on Twitter. European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker "It was with horror and sadness that I heard of the bombings in Sri Lanka costing the lives of so many people. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims who had gathered to worship peacefully or come to visit this beautiful country. We stand ready to support," he said on Twitter. Israeli President Reuven Rivlin "The attacks in Sri Lanka, including those at prayer celebrating Easter Sunday are a despicable crime. We are all children of God; an attack on one religion is an attack on us all," he said on Twitter. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan "I condemn in the strongest terms possible the Easter terror attacks in Sri Lanka. This is an assault on all of humanity," he tweeted. Iranian Foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif "Terribly saddened by terrorist attacks on Sri Lankan worshippers during Easter. Condolences to friendly govt & people of Sri Lanka. Our thoughts & prayers with the victims & their families. Terrorism is a global menace with no religion: it must be condemned & confronted globally," he said on Twitter. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern “New Zealand condemns all acts of terrorism, and our resolve has only been strengthened by the attack on our soil on the 15th of March. To see an attack in Sri Lanka while people were in churches and at hotels is devastating,” she said in a written statement. "New Zealand rejects all forms of extremism and stands for freedom of religion and the right to worship safely. Collectively we must find the will and the answers to end such violence."

World's reaction to the deadliest attack in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankan president, prime minister and other political leaders strongly condemned a series of coordinated bomb attacks on churches and hotels on Sunday that leftover 150 dead and urged people to be patient while vowing to bring to justice those responsible for the barbaric act.

The blasts targeted St Anthony's Church in Colombo, St Sebastian's Church in the western coastal town of Negombo and another church in the eastern town of Batticaloa around 8.45 a.M. (local time) as the Easter Sunday mass were in progress.

Three explosions were reported from the five-star hotels - the Shangri-La, the Cinnamon Grand and the Kingsbury. Foreigners and locals who were injured in hotel blasts were admitted to the Colombo General Hospital.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena expressed shock, deep pain and dismay over the brutal attacks on places of religious worship and other civilian establishments.

The President said he has instructed all law enforcement agencies and defence services to take every possible step to maintain law and order and conduct speedy investigations into the dastardly attack and bring the culprits and those who were behind this conspiracy to book.

"I have given instructions to take very stern action against the persons who are responsible for this conspiracy," the President said and added that all required steps have been taken to fulfil the responsibilities as a government.

Sirisena appealed to the nation to act with utmost restraint and patience, and not to be misled by baseless rumours and false stories. He also urged the people to extend unstinted support and cooperation to the government for the steps taken at this trying occasion.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while condemning the attacks called upon all the Sri Lankans to remain united and said the government is taking immediate steps to contain the situation.

"I strongly condemn the cowardly attacks on our people today. I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation," Wickremesinghe said.

Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa condemning the attacks said whoever is behind the attacks must be dealt with immediately. He called on the stand together and rise up against it as one voice.

"It is absolutely barbaric to see such violent attacks on such a holy day. Whoever is behind these attacks must be dealt with immediately. My thoughts and prayers are with the families that lost loved ones and all of Sri Lanka," Rajapaksa said.

"We will not tolerate such violence, such acts of terrorism, of cowardice within our borders once again. We will stand together and rise up against it as one voice. We will stand united as a nation," he said.

At least 140 people, including nine foreigners, were killed and over 400 were injured as the Christians in the country celebrated the Easter.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sri Lankan president, prime minister and other political leaders strongly condemned a series of coordinated bomb attacks on churches and hotels on Sunday that leftover 150 dead and urged people to be patient while vowing to bring to justice those responsible for the barbaric act.

Sri Lankan president, prime minister and other political leaders strongly condemned a series of coordinated bomb attacks on churches and hotels on Sunday that leftover 150 dead and urged people to be patient while vowing to bring to justice those responsible for the barbaric act. The blasts targeted St Anthony's Church in Colombo, St Sebastian's Church in the western coastal town of Negombo and another church in the eastern town of Batticaloa around 8.45 a.M. (local time) as the Easter Sunday mass were in progress. Three explosions were reported from the five-star hotels - the Shangri-La, the Cinnamon Grand and the Kingsbury. Foreigners and locals who were injured in hotel blasts were admitted to the Colombo General Hospital. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena expressed shock, deep pain and dismay over the brutal attacks on places of religious worship and other civilian establishments. The President said he has instructed all law enforcement agencies and defence services to take every possible step to maintain law and order and conduct speedy investigations into the dastardly attack and bring the culprits and those who were behind this conspiracy to book. "I have given instructions to take very stern action against the persons who are responsible for this conspiracy," the President said and added that all required steps have been taken to fulfil the responsibilities as a government. Sirisena appealed to the nation to act with utmost restraint and patience, and not to be misled by baseless rumours and false stories. He also urged the people to extend unstinted support and cooperation to the government for the steps taken at this trying occasion. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe while condemning the attacks called upon all the Sri Lankans to remain united and said the government is taking immediate steps to contain the situation. "I strongly condemn the cowardly attacks on our people today. I call upon all Sri Lankans during this tragic time to remain united and strong. Please avoid propagating unverified reports and speculation. The government is taking immediate steps to contain this situation," Wickremesinghe said. Opposition Leader Mahinda Rajapaksa condemning the attacks said whoever is behind the attacks must be dealt with immediately. He called on the stand together and rise up against it as one voice. "It is absolutely barbaric to see such violent attacks on such a holy day. Whoever is behind these attacks must be dealt with immediately. My thoughts and prayers are with the families that lost loved ones and all of Sri Lanka," Rajapaksa said. "We will not tolerate such violence, such acts of terrorism, of cowardice within our borders once again. We will stand together and rise up against it as one voice. We will stand united as a nation," he said. At least 140 people, including nine foreigners, were killed and over 400 were injured as the Christians in the country celebrated the Easter.

Lanka PM, president condemn coordinated bomb attacks, urge countrymen to unite

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday said it has reached an agreement with Sri Lanka to extend a $1.5 billion loan facility for an extra year, a move some analysts say could allow the government to boost spending ahead of key elections.

The global lender also concluded its fifth review to ensure the terms of its lending facility are being met, allowing it to disburse the sixth tranche of the loan.&nbsp;

Reuters had earlier exclusively reported the IMF agreement on extending the loan programme and sixth tranche.

The loan programme, known as the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), now stretches to four years, from the originally agreed three in mid-2016.

Manuela Goretti, the head of visiting IMF staff team, in a statement, said the team welcomes the authorities’ efforts to bring their economic reform program back on track following the political turmoil of late 2018.&nbsp;

"The team reached understandings.... on the fifth review and their request to extend the EFF arrangement for an additional year with the remaining disbursements being evenly spread over this period to allow more time for the completion of the economic reform agenda," Goretti said in a statement.

The IMF has already disbursed over $1 billion of the $1.5 billion loans.&nbsp;

The global lender also said the island nation`s economic growth is expected to improve to about 3.5 per cent this year, speeding from 3 per cent last year and urged the central bank to be ready to tighten monetary policy if inflationary pressures re-emerge.

The loan is crucial for Sri Lanka, which plans to sell up to $3 billion of bonds as early as next week and needs the IMF programme to continue to ensure more attractive borrowing terms.

"This is very positive when the government goes for the sovereign bond," said Dimantha Mathew, head of research at broker First Capital Holdings.

"Extended time for targets considering election year also gives space for the government to face the elections. With this, investors would be very comfortable coming to Sri Lanka. Markets will also take this as a positive sign."

Sri Lanka is set to hold presidential elections later this year, followed by parliamentary polls in 2020.

The IMF in November said it had delayed the programme until it had more clarity on the political situation after President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly sacked his prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in a move that was later ruled unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe was later reinstated.

Sri Lanka is struggling to repay its foreign loans, with a record $5.9 billion due this year, including $2.6 billion in the first three months. It used its reserves to repay a $1 billion sovereign bond loan in January.

It was designed to avert a financial crisis and support the economic reform agenda of the Sirisena-led coalition government of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Wickremesinghe`s centre-right United National Party (UNP).&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday said it has reached an agreement with Sri Lanka to extend a $1.5 billion loan facility for an extra year, a move some analysts say could allow the government to boost spending ahead of key elections.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Friday said it has reached an agreement with Sri Lanka to extend a $1.5 billion loan facility for an extra year, a move some analysts say could allow the government to boost spending ahead of key elections. The global lender also concluded its fifth review to ensure the terms of its lending facility are being met, allowing it to disburse the sixth tranche of the loan. Reuters had earlier exclusively reported the IMF agreement on extending the loan programme and sixth tranche. The loan programme, known as the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), now stretches to four years, from the originally agreed three in mid-2016. Manuela Goretti, the head of visiting IMF staff team, in a statement, said the team welcomes the authorities’ efforts to bring their economic reform program back on track following the political turmoil of late 2018. "The team reached understandings.... on the fifth review and their request to extend the EFF arrangement for an additional year with the remaining disbursements being evenly spread over this period to allow more time for the completion of the economic reform agenda," Goretti said in a statement. The IMF has already disbursed over $1 billion of the $1.5 billion loans. The global lender also said the island nation`s economic growth is expected to improve to about 3.5 per cent this year, speeding from 3 per cent last year and urged the central bank to be ready to tighten monetary policy if inflationary pressures re-emerge. The loan is crucial for Sri Lanka, which plans to sell up to $3 billion of bonds as early as next week and needs the IMF programme to continue to ensure more attractive borrowing terms. "This is very positive when the government goes for the sovereign bond," said Dimantha Mathew, head of research at broker First Capital Holdings. "Extended time for targets considering election year also gives space for the government to face the elections. With this, investors would be very comfortable coming to Sri Lanka. Markets will also take this as a positive sign." Sri Lanka is set to hold presidential elections later this year, followed by parliamentary polls in 2020. The IMF in November said it had delayed the programme until it had more clarity on the political situation after President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly sacked his prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe in a move that was later ruled unconstitutional. Wickremesinghe was later reinstated. Sri Lanka is struggling to repay its foreign loans, with a record $5.9 billion due this year, including $2.6 billion in the first three months. It used its reserves to repay a $1 billion sovereign bond loan in January. It was designed to avert a financial crisis and support the economic reform agenda of the Sirisena-led coalition government of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) and Wickremesinghe`s centre-right United National Party (UNP).

IMF agrees to extend Sri Lanka's $1.5 billion loan facility by one year

Sri Lankan police told a court on Wednesday they would not press charges against an Indian national over an alleged and discredited plot to kill the president due to lack of evidence, bringing a political drama to a low-key finale.

Inaction over the plot resulted in President Maithripala Sirisena ordering the removal of Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and dissolving parliament in November, replacing him with Mahinda Rajapaksa.

The Supreme Court ruled the move unconstitutional, forcing Sisrisena to reinstate Wickremesinghe in December, ending a brief period of chaos in the South Asian island nation.

"There is no sufficient evidence to file charges against him and we will not file charges against him," S. Wijesuriya, an investigating official, told the Colombo Magistrate Court.

The court, however, ordered the Indian, Marsili Thomas from Kerala, to remain in custody for two weeks as police probe an allegation that he overstayed his visa.

Thomas, who was silent throughout the hearing, was arrested in September over the alleged plot after an Indian newspaper reported that Sirisena had accused India's intelligence services of involvement.

Both New Delhi and Colombo have since rejected claims made in the report.

Sri Lankan police told a court on Wednesday they would not press charges against an Indian national over an alleged and discredited plot to kill the president due to lack of evidence, bringing a political drama to a low-key finale.

Sri Lankan police told a court on Wednesday they would not press charges against an Indian national over an alleged and discredited plot to kill the president due to lack of evidence, bringing a political drama to a low-key finale. Inaction over the plot resulted in President Maithripala Sirisena ordering the removal of Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister and dissolving parliament in November, replacing him with Mahinda Rajapaksa. The Supreme Court ruled the move unconstitutional, forcing Sisrisena to reinstate Wickremesinghe in December, ending a brief period of chaos in the South Asian island nation. "There is no sufficient evidence to file charges against him and we will not file charges against him," S. Wijesuriya, an investigating official, told the Colombo Magistrate Court. The court, however, ordered the Indian, Marsili Thomas from Kerala, to remain in custody for two weeks as police probe an allegation that he overstayed his visa. Thomas, who was silent throughout the hearing, was arrested in September over the alleged plot after an Indian newspaper reported that Sirisena had accused India's intelligence services of involvement. Both New Delhi and Colombo have since rejected claims made in the report.

Sri Lankan police drop case in discredited plot to kill President Maithripala Sirisena

Sri Lanka's central bank unexpectedly slashed banks' statutory reserve ratio on Friday to spur credit growth as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-secures-1-billion-chinese-loan-156873">policymakers struggle to boost the island's faltering economy</a> after a political crisis.

Economic growth cooled to a 17-year low of around 3 per cent in 2018, central bank Governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy said after the policy decision, adding that it will pick up to about 4 per cent this year.

The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) cut the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 100 basis points to 5 per cent effective March 1, while leaving its two key monetary policy rates steady, saying they were "appropriate". Analysts polled by Reuters had expected all three to be left unchanged.

The SRR cut would inject 60 billion rupees (334.45 million) into the financial system, the central bank said.

"The (Monetary) Board was of the view that some policy intervention by the Central Bank to address the large and persistent liquidity deficit in the domestic money market is warranted," the central bank said in a statement.

It said liquidity has remained tight despite a 150 bps cut in the statutory reserve ratio in mid-November.

Private-sector credit grew 15.9 per cent in December from a year earlier, slowing from a 16.2 per cent pace in December 2017, central bank data showed.

"The surprise cut appears to be targeted at addressing the persistent liquidity deficit issues faced by banks over the last few quarters, rather than an active signal of monetary easing," said Trisha Peries, product head of economic research at Frontier Research.

Sri Lanka started discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last week on extending a $1.5 billion loan.

The talks were delayed after a political crisis erupted in October.

President Maithripala Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and decision to dissolve parliament created panic and uncertainty among investors, who dumped Sri Lankan government bonds and other assets, sending the rupee currency to record lows.

The move was later ruled unconstitutional and Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as prime minister after 51 days.

Analysts who had expected no change in the central bank's stance had pointed to an easing of political and financial market pressure.. The rupee has rebounded 1.8 per cent against the dollar since hitting an all-time low of 183.00 on Jan. 3, while foreigners have resumed buying government bonds.

Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll later this year and general election in 2020.

Coomaraswamy also said the central bank "is doing the paperwork" on a yuan swap agreement with the People's Bank of China equivalent to $1.5 billion, along with a $400 million swap from Reserve Bank of India and another from Qatar as Sri Lanka struggles to repay a record $5.9 billion foreign loan due this year.

Sri Lanka's central bank unexpectedly slashed banks' statutory reserve ratio on Friday to spur credit growth as policymakers struggle to boost the island's faltering economy after a political crisis.

Sri Lanka's central bank unexpectedly slashed banks' statutory reserve ratio on Friday to spur credit growth as policymakers struggle to boost the island's faltering economy after a political crisis. Economic growth cooled to a 17-year low of around 3 per cent in 2018, central bank Governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy said after the policy decision, adding that it will pick up to about 4 per cent this year. The Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) cut the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 100 basis points to 5 per cent effective March 1, while leaving its two key monetary policy rates steady, saying they were "appropriate". Analysts polled by Reuters had expected all three to be left unchanged. The SRR cut would inject 60 billion rupees (334.45 million) into the financial system, the central bank said. "The (Monetary) Board was of the view that some policy intervention by the Central Bank to address the large and persistent liquidity deficit in the domestic money market is warranted," the central bank said in a statement. It said liquidity has remained tight despite a 150 bps cut in the statutory reserve ratio in mid-November. Private-sector credit grew 15.9 per cent in December from a year earlier, slowing from a 16.2 per cent pace in December 2017, central bank data showed. "The surprise cut appears to be targeted at addressing the persistent liquidity deficit issues faced by banks over the last few quarters, rather than an active signal of monetary easing," said Trisha Peries, product head of economic research at Frontier Research. Sri Lanka started discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last week on extending a $1.5 billion loan. The talks were delayed after a political crisis erupted in October. President Maithripala Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and decision to dissolve parliament created panic and uncertainty among investors, who dumped Sri Lankan government bonds and other assets, sending the rupee currency to record lows. The move was later ruled unconstitutional and Ranil Wickremesinghe was reinstated as prime minister after 51 days. Analysts who had expected no change in the central bank's stance had pointed to an easing of political and financial market pressure.. The rupee has rebounded 1.8 per cent against the dollar since hitting an all-time low of 183.00 on Jan. 3, while foreigners have resumed buying government bonds. Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll later this year and general election in 2020. Coomaraswamy also said the central bank "is doing the paperwork" on a yuan swap agreement with the People's Bank of China equivalent to $1.5 billion, along with a $400 million swap from Reserve Bank of India and another from Qatar as Sri Lanka struggles to repay a record $5.9 billion foreign loan due this year.

Sri Lanka central bank cuts banks' liquidity ratio to spur loan growth

We stand united with India: World leaders extend solidarity over Pulwama terror attack

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday said the new Constitution would not change the unitary nature of the country.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe's comments came in the wake of his political opponents headed by opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa alleging that his government is drafting a new Constitution to appease the main Tamil political party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA).&nbsp;

Addressing a gathering at Galle town, he said, "The United National Party (UNP) would not agree to abandoning the unitary state (of Sri Lanka)."&nbsp;

On January 11, Wickremesinghe tabled in Parliament a report of experts on drafting a new Constitution.&nbsp;

Stressing that the new Constitution is still a long way ahead, the prime minister said, "We have no new constitution or even a draft".&nbsp;

What was contained in the report was ideas from all parties, he said, adding, "Without two-third support in the constitutional assembly we cannot draft a new Constitution."&nbsp;

The Rajapaksa camp has also been accusing that the new Constitution will dilute the Buddhism's foremost position over other religions in the country. However, the prime minister emphasised that the foremost place given to the majority religion Buddhism has been preserved.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday said the new Constitution would not change the unitary nature of the country. Wickremesinghe's comments came in the wake of his political opponents headed by opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa alleging that his government is drafting a new Constitution to appease the main Tamil political party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA).

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday said the new Constitution would not change the unitary nature of the country. Wickremesinghe's comments came in the wake of his political opponents headed by opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa alleging that his government is drafting a new Constitution to appease the main Tamil political party, Tamil National Alliance (TNA). Addressing a gathering at Galle town, he said, "The United National Party (UNP) would not agree to abandoning the unitary state (of Sri Lanka)." On January 11, Wickremesinghe tabled in Parliament a report of experts on drafting a new Constitution. Stressing that the new Constitution is still a long way ahead, the prime minister said, "We have no new constitution or even a draft". What was contained in the report was ideas from all parties, he said, adding, "Without two-third support in the constitutional assembly we cannot draft a new Constitution." The Rajapaksa camp has also been accusing that the new Constitution will dilute the Buddhism's foremost position over other religions in the country. However, the prime minister emphasised that the foremost place given to the majority religion Buddhism has been preserved.

New Constitution won't change unitary nature of Sri Lanka: Wickremesinghe

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-meets-party-organisers-hints-2019-may-be-election-year-186363">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> was forced to reinstate Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister 51 days after sacking him, as his preferred PM, pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, failed to secure a parliamentary majority.

An uneasy <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/2018-will-be-remembered-for-worst-political-crisis-in-lankas-history-186606">truce between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena </a>could undermine economic policies, analysts say.

All analysts expect the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to leave key rates steady as Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll next year and general election in 2020.

All 10 economists surveyed, expected the central bank to keep both its standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) and standing lending facility rate (SLFR) to be left at 8.00 per cent and 9.00 per cent respectively.

The central bank raised SDFR by 75 bps and SLFR by 50 bps last month, while reduced the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 150 bps to 6.00 per cent.

All 10 analysts saw the SRR remaining steady.

Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and his decision to dissolve parliament, which was later ruled unconstitutional, created panic and uncertainty among investors.

The Sri Lankan rupee hit a fresh low of 181.85 per dollar on Wednesday while the island nation's dollar bonds have also plummeted as foreign investors sell their holdings. The rupee has fallen nearly 5 per cent since the political crisis started on October 26. It has dropped 18.4 per cent so far this year.

"Political pressure would be against increasing the rates," said Danushka Samarasinghe, the CEO at Softlogic Capital Markets.

"However, if rates are increased, it will be better for safeguarding foreign investments in the bond market and also might be favourable from a fiscal point of view."

Foreign investors have sold a net 13.7 billion rupees worth of stocks since the political crisis began and about 56.7 billion rupees worth of bonds between October 25 and December 19, bourse and central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka has seen net outflows of 149 billion rupees ($821 million) from government bonds so far this year, central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds.

Sri Lanka's central bank is expected to leave its key interest rates steady on Friday, a Reuters poll showed, despite heavy pressure on the rupee from a political crisis that triggered foreign outflows from stocks and government bonds. President Maithripala Sirisena was forced to reinstate Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister 51 days after sacking him, as his preferred PM, pro-China former president Mahinda Rajapaksa, failed to secure a parliamentary majority. An uneasy truce between Wickremesinghe and Sirisena could undermine economic policies, analysts say. All analysts expect the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) to leave key rates steady as Wickremesinghe's government aims to focus on economic growth, which has been sluggish due to tight policies, ahead of a presidential poll next year and general election in 2020. All 10 economists surveyed, expected the central bank to keep both its standing deposit facility rate (SDFR) and standing lending facility rate (SLFR) to be left at 8.00 per cent and 9.00 per cent respectively. The central bank raised SDFR by 75 bps and SLFR by 50 bps last month, while reduced the statutory reserve ratio (SRR) by 150 bps to 6.00 per cent. All 10 analysts saw the SRR remaining steady. Sirisena's abrupt change of prime minister and his decision to dissolve parliament, which was later ruled unconstitutional, created panic and uncertainty among investors. The Sri Lankan rupee hit a fresh low of 181.85 per dollar on Wednesday while the island nation's dollar bonds have also plummeted as foreign investors sell their holdings. The rupee has fallen nearly 5 per cent since the political crisis started on October 26. It has dropped 18.4 per cent so far this year. "Political pressure would be against increasing the rates," said Danushka Samarasinghe, the CEO at Softlogic Capital Markets. "However, if rates are increased, it will be better for safeguarding foreign investments in the bond market and also might be favourable from a fiscal point of view." Foreign investors have sold a net 13.7 billion rupees worth of stocks since the political crisis began and about 56.7 billion rupees worth of bonds between October 25 and December 19, bourse and central bank data showed. Sri Lanka has seen net outflows of 149 billion rupees ($821 million) from government bonds so far this year, central bank data showed.

Sri Lanka central bank seen keeping rates steady despite pressure on rupee: Report

The year 2018 would be etched in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka">Sri Lanka</a>'s history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-meets-party-organisers-hints-2019-may-be-election-year-186363">President Maithripala Sirisena</a>'s dramatic move to sack <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/wickremesinghe-acknowledges-differences-with-sirisena-on-ministerial-appointments-185841">Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> and install former strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> in his place following differences over policy issues left the country without a functioning government for nearly two months.

Rajapaksa's return to power drew concern in India that China would tighten its grip on the country. The veteran leader, who is credited for ending the brutal civil war with the LTTE in 2009, is under intense criticism for his decade-long authoritarian rule.

However, a Supreme court verdict forced President Sirisena to reinstate United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on December 16, ending Rajapaksa brief regime.

During the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-political-crisis-ends-as-president-sirisena-names-new-cabinet-185567">political crisis</a>, New Delhi sought to maintain a hands-off approach not wanting to be seen as taking sides. India chose to stay non-committal when Rajapaksa succeeded Wickremesinghe, who is seen as pro-India.

Following Wickremesinghe's re-appointment, India welcomed the resolution of the political crisis and exuded confidence that relations between the two countries will continue to move on in an upward trajectory.

The US, the European Union, Australia and Norway also welcomed the peaceful resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka came closer to China under Rajapaksa's decade-long tenure as the president, with Beijing pumping millions of dollars in the country's infrastructure since the end of the civil war.

However, some of the projects had been reversed under the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government as Chinese debt hit the country's economy.

China sees Lanka as crucial in its ambitious plan to expand trade routes, while India is concerned about growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean.

Despite India's concerns over China's forays in Sri Lanka, including its acquisition of the strategic port of Hambantota, New Delhi and Colombo kept their relationship warm in 2018 with high-level exchanges and signing of pacts.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe visited India in October and held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on ways to deepen the bilateral ties.

During the talks, Modi and Wickremesinghe reviewed the progress in the implementation of various decisions taken during the high-level exchanges in the recent past, including Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in May 2017. They also discussed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation.

The two countries signed an agreement for construction of 1,200 houses through 50 model villages, using Indian grant assistance of 60 crore Srilankan rupees.

The long-standing issue of fishermen, however, remained unresolved as India and Sri Lanka could not find common ground.

Both sides have agreed to set up Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to expedite the release and handing over of fishermen in each other's custody on completion of respective legal and procedural formalities.

During the year, the Lankan economy grew at a slower than expected. The economy suffered due to nearly two month of political turmoil that led to government dysfunction.

Sri Lanka owes over US $50 billion to foreign lenders, which is 77 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP).

The country has to pay back more than US $4 billion of its foreign loans, which just got harder as the political turmoil has sent the rupee to its lowest ever level against the US dollar. Sri Lankan rupee weakened nearly 17 per cent this year.

Though the reinstatement of Wickremesinghe has brought some hope in Sri Lanka, the political stability in the country in the coming months would be decided by how the prime minister and the president work together despite their differences over policy issues.

This will also determine the path of India's ties with Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

The year 2018 would be etched in Sri Lanka's history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi.

The year 2018 would be etched in Sri Lanka's history as the most turbulent one politically as the cash-strapped country saw an unprecedented power struggle between the president and the prime minister, causing much concern in major world capitals, including in New Delhi. President Maithripala Sirisena's dramatic move to sack Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and install former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place following differences over policy issues left the country without a functioning government for nearly two months. Rajapaksa's return to power drew concern in India that China would tighten its grip on the country. The veteran leader, who is credited for ending the brutal civil war with the LTTE in 2009, is under intense criticism for his decade-long authoritarian rule. However, a Supreme court verdict forced President Sirisena to reinstate United National Party (UNP) leader Wickremesinghe on December 16, ending Rajapaksa brief regime. During the political crisis, New Delhi sought to maintain a hands-off approach not wanting to be seen as taking sides. India chose to stay non-committal when Rajapaksa succeeded Wickremesinghe, who is seen as pro-India. Following Wickremesinghe's re-appointment, India welcomed the resolution of the political crisis and exuded confidence that relations between the two countries will continue to move on in an upward trajectory. The US, the European Union, Australia and Norway also welcomed the peaceful resolution of the political crisis in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka came closer to China under Rajapaksa's decade-long tenure as the president, with Beijing pumping millions of dollars in the country's infrastructure since the end of the civil war. However, some of the projects had been reversed under the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government as Chinese debt hit the country's economy. China sees Lanka as crucial in its ambitious plan to expand trade routes, while India is concerned about growing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean. Despite India's concerns over China's forays in Sri Lanka, including its acquisition of the strategic port of Hambantota, New Delhi and Colombo kept their relationship warm in 2018 with high-level exchanges and signing of pacts. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe visited India in October and held talks with his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on ways to deepen the bilateral ties. During the talks, Modi and Wickremesinghe reviewed the progress in the implementation of various decisions taken during the high-level exchanges in the recent past, including Modi's visit to Sri Lanka in May 2017. They also discussed the progress of India-assisted development projects in the island nation. The two countries signed an agreement for construction of 1,200 houses through 50 model villages, using Indian grant assistance of 60 crore Srilankan rupees. The long-standing issue of fishermen, however, remained unresolved as India and Sri Lanka could not find common ground. Both sides have agreed to set up Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to expedite the release and handing over of fishermen in each other's custody on completion of respective legal and procedural formalities. During the year, the Lankan economy grew at a slower than expected. The economy suffered due to nearly two month of political turmoil that led to government dysfunction. Sri Lanka owes over US $50 billion to foreign lenders, which is 77 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP). The country has to pay back more than US $4 billion of its foreign loans, which just got harder as the political turmoil has sent the rupee to its lowest ever level against the US dollar. Sri Lankan rupee weakened nearly 17 per cent this year. Though the reinstatement of Wickremesinghe has brought some hope in Sri Lanka, the political stability in the country in the coming months would be decided by how the prime minister and the president work together despite their differences over policy issues. This will also determine the path of India's ties with Sri Lanka.

2018 will be remembered for worst political crisis in Lanka's history

The Sri Lankan government Friday secured parliamentary approval to avert a debt default of $1.5 billion after the annual budget was blocked by a <a href="http://13.232.42.114/south-asia/sri-lankan-political-turmoil-crisis-that-caused-mighty-embarrassment-for-president-sirisena-185676">seven-week political crisis</a>.

During the last day of the legislature for 2018, MPs voted 102 to six to approve an interim budget to pay for urgent government expenditure in the first four months of 2019.

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said he was finalising an appropriation bill for next year when President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pms-termination-done-in-good-faith-reinstated-him-to-uphold-democracy-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-184631">Maithripala Sirisena</a> sacked the government on October 26, plunging the country into a constitutional crisis.

"We don't have time to present a new budget, but we need to meet our (debt and salary) obligations," Samaraweera told parliament to introduce the vote on the interim budget.

Legislators approved four months of government spending pending a full-fledged budget around February.

Sirisena sacked <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> as prime minister but he refused to quit and parliament and Sri Lanka's courts blocked Sirisena's candidate Mahinda Rajapakse, a fervent nationalist former president.&nbsp;

During the power struggle, three international credit rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka making foreign borrowings more expensive.

There were fears that Sri Lanka could default on $1.5 billion sovereign bonds maturing on January 10.

Sirisena finally gave in and reinstated Wickremesinghe as prime minister on Sunday. He named a 30-member cabinet on Thursday.

While UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres led the international welcome for the end to the power struggle, Sirisena has made it clear it will be difficult to work with Wickremesinghe.

Sirisena came to power in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), but personal and political clashes came to a head with the October sacking.

The Sri Lankan government Friday secured parliamentary approval to avert a debt default of $1.5 billion after the annual budget was blocked by a seven-week political crisis.

The Sri Lankan government Friday secured parliamentary approval to avert a debt default of $1.5 billion after the annual budget was blocked by a seven-week political crisis. During the last day of the legislature for 2018, MPs voted 102 to six to approve an interim budget to pay for urgent government expenditure in the first four months of 2019. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera said he was finalising an appropriation bill for next year when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked the government on October 26, plunging the country into a constitutional crisis. "We don't have time to present a new budget, but we need to meet our (debt and salary) obligations," Samaraweera told parliament to introduce the vote on the interim budget. Legislators approved four months of government spending pending a full-fledged budget around February. Sirisena sacked Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister but he refused to quit and parliament and Sri Lanka's courts blocked Sirisena's candidate Mahinda Rajapakse, a fervent nationalist former president. During the power struggle, three international credit rating agencies downgraded Sri Lanka making foreign borrowings more expensive. There were fears that Sri Lanka could default on $1.5 billion sovereign bonds maturing on January 10. Sirisena finally gave in and reinstated Wickremesinghe as prime minister on Sunday. He named a 30-member cabinet on Thursday. While UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres led the international welcome for the end to the power struggle, Sirisena has made it clear it will be difficult to work with Wickremesinghe. Sirisena came to power in 2015 with the help of Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP), but personal and political clashes came to a head with the October sacking.

Sri Lanka averts $1.5 billion foreign debt default

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790">Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically.

Sri Lankan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rajapaksa-bribed-parliamentarians-to-prove-majority-president-sirisena-182684">President Maithripala Sirisena</a> had controversially sacked Wickremesinghe as prime minister on October 26 and appointed Sinhala strongman <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> in his place. The shock move had plunged Sri Lanka into an unprecedented constitutional crisis.

Sirisena had to reinstate Wickremesinghe on Sunday after the Supreme Court ruled that his action violated the constitution and the legislature voted confidence in Wickremesinghe.

"We are pleased to have seen the democratic, constitutional processes play out through the courts in Sri Lanka, ultimately addressing the political crisis in keeping with democratic and constitutional norms," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia David Ranz told a group of Indian reporters on Wednesday.

"We look forward to continuing to engage with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet as well as President Sirisena to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," said Ranz, who just returned from a trip to Sri Lanka.

The US, he said, anticipates the Sri Lankan government will focus on taking steps to bolster the economy and restore the country's international standing.

"During my visit, I conveyed that, as a friend and partner of Sri Lanka for 70 years, the United States wished to see the political crisis resolved in a manner befitting Sri Lanka's democratic traditions and in keeping with its status as South Asia's oldest democracy," he said.

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically.

The US has said it is looking forward to continue to engage with the reinstated Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, now that the nearly two-month-long political crisis in the South Asian country has been resolved peacefully and democratically. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had controversially sacked Wickremesinghe as prime minister on October 26 and appointed Sinhala strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. The shock move had plunged Sri Lanka into an unprecedented constitutional crisis. Sirisena had to reinstate Wickremesinghe on Sunday after the Supreme Court ruled that his action violated the constitution and the legislature voted confidence in Wickremesinghe. "We are pleased to have seen the democratic, constitutional processes play out through the courts in Sri Lanka, ultimately addressing the political crisis in keeping with democratic and constitutional norms," Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia David Ranz told a group of Indian reporters on Wednesday. "We look forward to continuing to engage with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet as well as President Sirisena to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," said Ranz, who just returned from a trip to Sri Lanka. The US, he said, anticipates the Sri Lankan government will focus on taking steps to bolster the economy and restore the country's international standing. "During my visit, I conveyed that, as a friend and partner of Sri Lanka for 70 years, the United States wished to see the political crisis resolved in a manner befitting Sri Lanka's democratic traditions and in keeping with its status as South Asia's oldest democracy," he said.

Looking forward to continuing to engage with PM Wickremesinghe: US

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sworn-in-as-the-prime-minister-of-sri-lanka-184452">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pms-termination-done-in-good-faith-reinstated-him-to-uphold-democracy-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-184631">President Maithripala Sirisena</a>, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court.

Wickremesinghe, the 69-year-old United National Party leader, was administered the oath of office by President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place.

The UNP leader had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal.

His re-appointment comes a day after Rajapaksa resigned Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to&nbsp; 
premiership untenable.

"Today marks a victory not for myself or for the UNP. It is a victory for Sri Lanka's democratic institutions and the sovereignty of our citizens. I thank everyone who stood firm in defending the constitution and ensuring the triumph of democracy," Wickremesinghe said after assuming office.

A sheepish Sirisena, who had ruled out reappointing Wickremesinghe as prime minister, was smiling with Wickremesinghe as he handed him the letter of appointment.

Wickremesinghe's supporters took to streets to celebrate after he took oath at the Presidential Secretariat for the record fifth time.

UNP Assistant Leader Ravi Karunanayake said that talks were held Saturday and more discussions will take place Sunday to select the Cabinet.

The Cabinet is expected to be limited to 30 and will include a few Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) members who have offered support to Wickremesinghe.

It is expected a new Cabinet will be formed by Monday and a vote on account will be passed to provide for the required provisions until a budget for 2019 is formulated, Sri Lankan media reported.

Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with President Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint the UNP leader.

"This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette.

Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe.

"But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government."

Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness."

Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October 26, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe.

Rajapaksa, 73, had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5.

However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls.

The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal".

The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining&nbsp; 
Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month.

Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders.

After signing the resignation letter, Rajapaksa said that following the February 10 local government election, the aim of his party is to have a general election.

However, he said that he has no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new Government.

Rajapaksa said that since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece."

Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard &amp; Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.&nbsp;

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and President Maithripala Sirisena, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court.

Ranil Wickremesinghe Sunday staged a triumphant comeback as Sri Lankan Prime Minister to end the unprecedented political turmoil in the country, 51 days after he was sacked by his bete noire and President Maithripala Sirisena, who also dissolved Parliament, controversial decisions which were nullified by the Supreme Court. Wickremesinghe, the 69-year-old United National Party leader, was administered the oath of office by President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place. The UNP leader had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal. His re-appointment comes a day after Rajapaksa resigned Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable. "Today marks a victory not for myself or for the UNP. It is a victory for Sri Lanka's democratic institutions and the sovereignty of our citizens. I thank everyone who stood firm in defending the constitution and ensuring the triumph of democracy," Wickremesinghe said after assuming office. A sheepish Sirisena, who had ruled out reappointing Wickremesinghe as prime minister, was smiling with Wickremesinghe as he handed him the letter of appointment. Wickremesinghe's supporters took to streets to celebrate after he took oath at the Presidential Secretariat for the record fifth time. UNP Assistant Leader Ravi Karunanayake said that talks were held Saturday and more discussions will take place Sunday to select the Cabinet. The Cabinet is expected to be limited to 30 and will include a few Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) members who have offered support to Wickremesinghe. It is expected a new Cabinet will be formed by Monday and a vote on account will be passed to provide for the required provisions until a budget for 2019 is formulated, Sri Lankan media reported. Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with President Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint the UNP leader. "This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette. Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. "But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government." Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness." Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October 26, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa, 73, had sought to secure a majority in the 225-member Parliament but failed. Sirisena then dissolved Parliament and called snap elections on January 5. However, the Supreme Court overturned his decision and halted the preparations for snap polls. The Supreme Court on Thursday unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by Sirisena was "illegal". The apex court on Friday also refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month. Rajapaksa signed his resignation letter during a multi-religious service at his home that was attended by several lawmakers of United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA), Buddhist and other religious leaders. After signing the resignation letter, Rajapaksa said that following the February 10 local government election, the aim of his party is to have a general election. However, he said that he has no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, he resigned from the position of Prime Minister and made way for the President to form a new Government. Rajapaksa said that since a general election can no longer be held, the UPFA cannot implement any of the measures they had planned to take "to prevent the country from becoming another Greece." Most of the countries had not recognised Rajapaksa's government. The global credit rating agencies -- the Fitch, the Standard & Poor's and the Moody's -- had also downgraded Sri Lanka's rating owing to the current political crisis.

Victory for democracy, says reinstated Sri Lankan PM Wickremesinghe

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sworn-in-as-the-prime-minister-of-sri-lanka-184452">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>'s United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and appointed Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-resigns-as-sri-lankas-pm-ranil-wickremesinghe-likely-to-take-oath-on-sunday-184207">Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday </a>after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal.

UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint Wickremesinghe.

"This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette.

Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. But now truth has prevailed,"&nbsp;he said.

"The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government," he said.

Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness."&nbsp;

UNP General Secretary MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said the new Cabinet will be appointed within two days.

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government.

Sri Lanka's ousted Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) has said it is ready to work with President Maithripala Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26 and appointed Mahinda Rajapaksa in his place, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis. Rajapaksa resigned on Saturday after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made his efforts to cling to premiership untenable, paving the way for the return of 69-year-old Wickremesinghe who had refused to step down asserting that his sacking was illegal. UNP deputy leader Sajith Premadasa said that he was not surprised that the President had agreed to appoint Wickremesinghe as Prime Minister again despite taking a firm position earlier that he will not appoint Wickremesinghe. "This showed the true character of the President," he was quoted as saying by the Colombo Gazette. Premadasa said that the President was "misled by some groups who were against the unity Government" and this resulted in the President removing Wickremesinghe. But now truth has prevailed," he said. "The party is prepared to work with Sirisena again in the government," he said. Premadasa said, "The lessons from the incident must be used to strengthen the foundation of democracy and promote justice and fairness." UNP General Secretary MP Akila Viraj Kariyawasam said the new Cabinet will be appointed within two days.

Ready to work with Sirisena again: Wickremesinghe's United National Party

A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported.

"He (Wickremesinghe) will take oath at an auspicious time today morning," Reuters quoted Rajitha Senaratne, a cabinet spokesman under Wickremesinghe's former government as saying.

The report also cited an official at the president's office confirming Wickremesinghe's oath-taking. 
&nbsp; 
The South Asian island country plunged into instability in October after President Maithripala Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Rajapaksa, who was then twice sacked by parliament.&nbsp;

But as a government shutdown loomed, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement on Saturday that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off.

"I have no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, I will resign from the position of Prime Minister and make way for the President to form a new government," Rajapaksa said in the statement.

Wickremesinghe's office on Friday said that Sirisena had called the former prime minister by telephone to invite him to be sworn back into office on Sunday.

Sirisena had previously said he would not appoint Wickremesinghe "even if he has the backing of all 225 lawmakers in parliament".

The country's parliament had voted to cut the budget for Rajapaksa and his ministers after Sirisena had refused to accept no-confidence votes against Rajapaksa saying that due procedure was not followed.

The country's Supreme Court on Friday rejected Rajapaksa's bid for an injunction on a lower court's order that barred him and his cabinet from carrying out their roles in government.

Many foreign countries have refused to recognise Rajapaksa's government. Credit rating agencies Fitch and Standard &amp; Poor's have downgraded Sri Lanka, citing refinancing risks and an uncertain policy outlook.

Earlier this week, the island nation's parliament passed a vote of confidence in favour of Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement as prime minister by the president to defuse the political crisis.

(With inputs from news agencies)

A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported.

A day after Mahinda Rajapaksa officially resigned amid the fear of government shutdown, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe will return to his post today; news agency Reuters reported. "He (Wickremesinghe) will take oath at an auspicious time today morning," Reuters quoted Rajitha Senaratne, a cabinet spokesman under Wickremesinghe's former government as saying. The report also cited an official at the president's office confirming Wickremesinghe's oath-taking. The South Asian island country plunged into instability in October after President Maithripala Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with Rajapaksa, who was then twice sacked by parliament. But as a government shutdown loomed, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement on Saturday that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off. "I have no intention of remaining as Prime Minister without a general election being held, and in order to not hamper the President in any way, I will resign from the position of Prime Minister and make way for the President to form a new government," Rajapaksa said in the statement. Wickremesinghe's office on Friday said that Sirisena had called the former prime minister by telephone to invite him to be sworn back into office on Sunday. Sirisena had previously said he would not appoint Wickremesinghe "even if he has the backing of all 225 lawmakers in parliament". The country's parliament had voted to cut the budget for Rajapaksa and his ministers after Sirisena had refused to accept no-confidence votes against Rajapaksa saying that due procedure was not followed. The country's Supreme Court on Friday rejected Rajapaksa's bid for an injunction on a lower court's order that barred him and his cabinet from carrying out their roles in government. Many foreign countries have refused to recognise Rajapaksa's government. Credit rating agencies Fitch and Standard & Poor's have downgraded Sri Lanka, citing refinancing risks and an uncertain policy outlook. Earlier this week, the island nation's parliament passed a vote of confidence in favour of Wickremesinghe, as it sought his reinstatement as prime minister by the president to defuse the political crisis. (With inputs from news agencies)

Sri Lanka's former PM Wickremesinghe to return to post today

Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed on Sunday took to Twitter and congratulated Sri Lanka's Ranil Wickremesinghe for assuming office as the Prime Minister.&nbsp;

Nasheed said that it was known that Sri Lanka "would uphold her democratic credentials."

"Congratulations PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. We always knew Sri Lanka would uphold her democratic credentials, and show emerging democracies how the rule of law prevails. The country’s military, by remaining in the baracks, has shown intergrity," the tweet read.&nbsp;

Ranil <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-work-with-sirisena-again-wickremesinghes-united-national-party-184455">Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's prime minister</a> on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances.

Wickremesinghe's reinstatement is expected to end a political crisis that began in late October when he was surprisingly sacked.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Congratulations PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. We always knew Sri Lanka would uphold her democratic credentials, and show emerging democracies how the rule of law prevails. The country’s military, by remaining in the baracks, has shown intergrity. <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a>
— Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedNasheed/status/1074205601125695489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Sirisena had replaced Wickremesinghe with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa following differences over policy matters and other issues. However, Rajapaksa failed to win a parliamentary majority and resigned on December 15 as a government shutdown loomed.

Wickremesinghe told his supporters at his official residence that he would ensure a "better economic situation, better standard of living" for Sri Lankans after first working to "normalize the country," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe was appointed for the post for the fifth time. He has never completed a full term as prime minister.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed on Sunday took to Twitter and congratulated Sri Lanka's Ranil Wickremesinghe for assuming office as the Prime Minister.

Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed on Sunday took to Twitter and congratulated Sri Lanka's Ranil Wickremesinghe for assuming office as the Prime Minister. Nasheed said that it was known that Sri Lanka "would uphold her democratic credentials." "Congratulations PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. We always knew Sri Lanka would uphold her democratic credentials, and show emerging democracies how the rule of law prevails. The country’s military, by remaining in the baracks, has shown intergrity," the tweet read. Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances. Wickremesinghe's reinstatement is expected to end a political crisis that began in late October when he was surprisingly sacked. Congratulations PM Ranil Wickremesinghe. We always knew Sri Lanka would uphold her democratic credentials, and show emerging democracies how the rule of law prevails. The country’s military, by remaining in the baracks, has shown intergrity. @RW_UNP — Mohamed Nasheed (@MohamedNasheed) December 16, 2018 × Sirisena had replaced Wickremesinghe with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa following differences over policy matters and other issues. However, Rajapaksa failed to win a parliamentary majority and resigned on December 15 as a government shutdown loomed. Wickremesinghe told his supporters at his official residence that he would ensure a "better economic situation, better standard of living" for Sri Lankans after first working to "normalize the country," news agency Reuters reported. Wickremesinghe was appointed for the post for the fifth time. He has never completed a full term as prime minister. (With inputs from Reuters)

Knew Sri Lanka would uphold democratic credentials: Maldives' Nasheed welcomes Wickremesinghe's return

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/mahinda-rajapaksa-to-resign-as-sri-lanka-prime-minister-tomorrow-says-son-namal-184099">Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign </a>on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation.

President Maithripala Sirisena has reportedly agreed to reinstate ousted Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday, Colombo Page reported.

Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) said that it was decided during the discussion that he will take oath as the Prime Minister at 10 am on Sunday.

The President removed Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister on October 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa as the Premier, plunging the country into an unprecedented crisis.

Wickremesinghe refused to accept the sacking and challenged it in a court and in the Parliament.

The daily reported that a new Cabinet will be sworn in on Monday. The Cabinet will consist of 30 members and include six Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) parliamentarians, it said.

Rajapaksa's son on Friday announced that the former strongman will resign on Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made the embattled leader's efforts to cling to premiership untenable.

The apex court on Friday refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa, 73, from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month.

"To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation," Rajapaksa's son Namal tweeted.

The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) with former president, SLFP and others will "now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena", Namal, a lawmaker, added.

The apex court's Friday ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Sirisena was "illegal".&nbsp;

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation.

Ranil Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath as Sri Lanka's Prime Minister on Sunday after disputed Premier Mahinda Rajapaksa will resign on Saturday, signalling an end to the nearly two-month power tussle in the island nation. President Maithripala Sirisena has reportedly agreed to reinstate ousted Prime Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday, Colombo Page reported. Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) said that it was decided during the discussion that he will take oath as the Prime Minister at 10 am on Sunday. The President removed Wickremesinghe from the post of Prime Minister on October 26 and appointed former president Rajapaksa as the Premier, plunging the country into an unprecedented crisis. Wickremesinghe refused to accept the sacking and challenged it in a court and in the Parliament. The daily reported that a new Cabinet will be sworn in on Monday. The Cabinet will consist of 30 members and include six Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) parliamentarians, it said. Rajapaksa's son on Friday announced that the former strongman will resign on Saturday, after two crucial Supreme Court decisions made the embattled leader's efforts to cling to premiership untenable. The apex court on Friday refused to stay a court order restraining Rajapaksa, 73, from holding the office of Prime Minister until it fully heard the case next month. "To ensure stability of the nation, Former President @PresRajapaksa has decided to resign from the Premiership tomorrow after an address to the nation," Rajapaksa's son Namal tweeted. The Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) with former president, SLFP and others will "now work to form a broader political coalition with President Sirisena", Namal, a lawmaker, added. The apex court's Friday ruling came a day after it unanimously declared that the dissolution of Parliament by President Sirisena was "illegal".

Wickremesinghe likely to take oath as Sri Lanka's PM on Sunday

Rajapaksa resigns as Lakan PM

Breaking News: Sri Lanka legislature votes in favour of Ranil Wickremesinghe