<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/us-warns-of-more-attacks-in-sri-lanka-by-active-members-of-terror-group-still-at-large-214821">Sri Lanka stepped up security</a> Wednesday as political parties staged low-key May Day commemorations after calling off scheduled rallies following fears of Islamist bomb attacks.

Officials said more police were deployed for cordon-and-search operations in many parts of the country, while the military also re-inforced roadblocks and patrols.

Several roads in the capital were closed Wednesday as President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe attended a tightly guarded public ceremony marking the 26th anniversary of president Ranasinghe Premadasa assassination.

Officials said police used extraordinary security measures for Sirisena's public appearance to commemorate Premadasa, who was killed by a suicide bomber during a May Day rally in 1993.

"His security used three identical convoys to bring the president to the commemoration.&nbsp;This was to make sure that no-one has advance warning about the vehicles used by the president", a police official at the function told AFP.

Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) cancelled its May Day celebrations and instead was holding a closed-door meeting with senior stalwarts later in the day, officials said.

Former president and current leader of the opposition, Mahinda Rajapakse, who leads a breakaway faction of the SLFP also cancelled his May Day event and was attending a low-key meeting just outside Colombo.

The country has been under a state of emergency since Easter Sunday attacks killed 253 people at three churches and three luxury hotels.&nbsp;

The emergency gives sweeping powers to police and the military to arrest and detain suspects for long periods.

Police say they have arrested over 150 people suspected of links to jihadists who carried out the bombings.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said Tuesday that some suspects remained at large.

"A few more people involved in the attacks are out there and we hope to arrest them soon.&nbsp;Even if we arrest all of them, the threat will not disappear",&nbsp; Wickremesinghe said.

He said Sri Lanka will have to work closely with international partners to neutralise the Islamic State, which claimed responsibility for the audacious bombings,&nbsp;the worst single-day attack against civilians on the island.

Sri Lanka blamed the local National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) for the bombings.

The group had pledged an oath of allegiance to IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who in a recent audio message praised the Sri Lanka attacks.

Schools were due to open on Monday, but authorities put it off by a week.

The Roman Catholic church cancelled its Sunday services fearing a repeat of Easter bombings, but announced Tuesday that they will resume May 5.

Sri Lanka stepped up security Wednesday as political parties staged low-key May Day commemorations after calling off scheduled rallies following fears of Islamist bomb attacks.

Sri Lanka stepped up security Wednesday as political parties staged low-key May Day commemorations after calling off scheduled rallies following fears of Islamist bomb attacks. Officials said more police were deployed for cordon-and-search operations in many parts of the country, while the military also re-inforced roadblocks and patrols. Several roads in the capital were closed Wednesday as President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe attended a tightly guarded public ceremony marking the 26th anniversary of president Ranasinghe Premadasa assassination. Officials said police used extraordinary security measures for Sirisena's public appearance to commemorate Premadasa, who was killed by a suicide bomber during a May Day rally in 1993. "His security used three identical convoys to bring the president to the commemoration. This was to make sure that no-one has advance warning about the vehicles used by the president", a police official at the function told AFP. Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) cancelled its May Day celebrations and instead was holding a closed-door meeting with senior stalwarts later in the day, officials said. Former president and current leader of the opposition, Mahinda Rajapakse, who leads a breakaway faction of the SLFP also cancelled his May Day event and was attending a low-key meeting just outside Colombo. The country has been under a state of emergency since Easter Sunday attacks killed 253 people at three churches and three luxury hotels. The emergency gives sweeping powers to police and the military to arrest and detain suspects for long periods. Police say they have arrested over 150 people suspected of links to jihadists who carried out the bombings. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe said Tuesday that some suspects remained at large. "A few more people involved in the attacks are out there and we hope to arrest them soon. Even if we arrest all of them, the threat will not disappear", Wickremesinghe said. He said Sri Lanka will have to work closely with international partners to neutralise the Islamic State, which claimed responsibility for the audacious bombings, the worst single-day attack against civilians on the island. Sri Lanka blamed the local National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) for the bombings. The group had pledged an oath of allegiance to IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, who in a recent audio message praised the Sri Lanka attacks. Schools were due to open on Monday, but authorities put it off by a week. The Roman Catholic church cancelled its Sunday services fearing a repeat of Easter bombings, but announced Tuesday that they will resume May 5.

Sri Lanka steps up security for low-key May Day

Watch this exclusive interview with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on WION.

WION Exclusive: Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION

Barring three areas, Sri Lanka on Sunday lifted the nationwide night curfew which was imposed after the island nation was rocked with eight blasts targeting churches and hotels that killed 253 people, including Indians.&nbsp;

Police also said they have arrested one more person suspected to be involved in the Easter blasts.

"No island-wide curfew tonight. Curfew only imposed in Kalmunai, Sammanthurai and Chavalakade areas from 5 pm today," police spokesmen Ruwan Gunasekera said.

Ibrahim Mohamed Ifran Ahmed, the elder brother of two suicide bombers at the Shangri-La and Cinnamon Hotels, was arrested in Dematagoda area for possessing swords and an air rifle, he added.

A string of eight powerful blasts, including suicide attacks, struck churches and luxury hotels frequented by foreigners in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday and shattering a decade of peace in the island nation since the end of the brutal civil war with the LTTE.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Gunasekera said a mother-child duo rescued by police from a terrorist safe house at Sainthamarudu in Eastern Sri Lanka during a raid have been identified as the wife and four-year-old daughter of Mohamad

Zahran Hashim, the suicide bomber-cum-mastermind of the serial bombings.

"Abdul Cader Fathima Sadia and Mohamad Zahran Rusaina, 4, rescued from the blasts and taken to Ampara hospital have been identified by Zahran's sister as his wife and daughter," he said.

The Special Task Force and Army troops, following a tip-off, raided a house in Kalmunai city at at Sainthamarudu on Friday night, leading to a heavy exchange of fire with armed militants. As many as 15 people, including six children and three women, were killed in the shootout.&nbsp;

Barring three areas, Sri Lanka on Sunday lifted the nationwide night curfew which was imposed after the island nation was rocked with eight blasts targeting churches and hotels that killed 253 people, including Indians.

Barring three areas, Sri Lanka on Sunday lifted the nationwide night curfew which was imposed after the island nation was rocked with eight blasts targeting churches and hotels that killed 253 people, including Indians. Police also said they have arrested one more person suspected to be involved in the Easter blasts. "No island-wide curfew tonight. Curfew only imposed in Kalmunai, Sammanthurai and Chavalakade areas from 5 pm today," police spokesmen Ruwan Gunasekera said. Ibrahim Mohamed Ifran Ahmed, the elder brother of two suicide bombers at the Shangri-La and Cinnamon Hotels, was arrested in Dematagoda area for possessing swords and an air rifle, he added. A string of eight powerful blasts, including suicide attacks, struck churches and luxury hotels frequented by foreigners in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday and shattering a decade of peace in the island nation since the end of the brutal civil war with the LTTE. Gunasekera said a mother-child duo rescued by police from a terrorist safe house at Sainthamarudu in Eastern Sri Lanka during a raid have been identified as the wife and four-year-old daughter of Mohamad Zahran Hashim, the suicide bomber-cum-mastermind of the serial bombings. "Abdul Cader Fathima Sadia and Mohamad Zahran Rusaina, 4, rescued from the blasts and taken to Ampara hospital have been identified by Zahran's sister as his wife and daughter," he said. The Special Task Force and Army troops, following a tip-off, raided a house in Kalmunai city at at Sainthamarudu on Friday night, leading to a heavy exchange of fire with armed militants. As many as 15 people, including six children and three women, were killed in the shootout.

Sri Lanka lifts nationwide night curfew

Sri Lankan forces have killed or arrested most of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-can-someone-kill-in-the-name-of-god-wonders-sri-lankan-cardinal-214113">radical Islamists</a> linked to the Easter suicide bombings and the country is ready to return to normality, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Sunday.

But the prime minister said the government had planned tougher laws to deal with Islamist extremists and that foreign clerics teaching in Sri Lanka illegally will be expelled.

The Easter Sunday bombings that left 253 dead were carried out by a "small, but a well organised group," Wickremesinghe said in a statement.

"Most of them have been arrested. Some have died," he said. "Now we are able to return to normality."

"We should all now help restore the normal life of the community."

Three churches and three hotels were targeted by suicide bombers in the attacks in which at least 40 foreigners were killed.

More than 100 people have been detained since the attacks. Authorities have said there are about 140 followers of the Islamic State group in the country.

Wickremesinghe confirmed that a number of would-be suicide bombers had taken their lives when confronted by security forces on Friday night in the east of the country.

Fifteen people died in a clash with security forces when three suicide bombers blew themselves up at a jihadist safe house on Friday night. &nbsp;

"Jihad terrorism should be ended immediately. For that we will bring new and tougher laws," the prime minister said.

"There are several foreigners working as teachers in our country without work visas. In consultation with the Muslim religious affairs ministry and the home ministry, we will expel them from the country," he added.

Wickremesinghe did not give a number nor the nationalities of the clerics.

The prime minister also thanked the minority Muslim community for tipping off authorities about radical groups.

The government on Saturday used emergency laws to ban the extremist National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), which was accused of carrying out the Easter attacks.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan forces have killed or arrested most of the radical Islamists linked to the Easter suicide bombings and the country is ready to return to normality, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Sunday.

Sri Lankan forces have killed or arrested most of the radical Islamists linked to the Easter suicide bombings and the country is ready to return to normality, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Sunday. But the prime minister said the government had planned tougher laws to deal with Islamist extremists and that foreign clerics teaching in Sri Lanka illegally will be expelled. The Easter Sunday bombings that left 253 dead were carried out by a "small, but a well organised group," Wickremesinghe said in a statement. "Most of them have been arrested. Some have died," he said. "Now we are able to return to normality." "We should all now help restore the normal life of the community." Three churches and three hotels were targeted by suicide bombers in the attacks in which at least 40 foreigners were killed. More than 100 people have been detained since the attacks. Authorities have said there are about 140 followers of the Islamic State group in the country. Wickremesinghe confirmed that a number of would-be suicide bombers had taken their lives when confronted by security forces on Friday night in the east of the country. Fifteen people died in a clash with security forces when three suicide bombers blew themselves up at a jihadist safe house on Friday night. "Jihad terrorism should be ended immediately. For that we will bring new and tougher laws," the prime minister said. "There are several foreigners working as teachers in our country without work visas. In consultation with the Muslim religious affairs ministry and the home ministry, we will expel them from the country," he added. Wickremesinghe did not give a number nor the nationalities of the clerics. The prime minister also thanked the minority Muslim community for tipping off authorities about radical groups. The government on Saturday used emergency laws to ban the extremist National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ), which was accused of carrying out the Easter attacks.

Most Sri Lanka Islamist radicals killed or arrested: PM Ranil Wickremesinghe

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government.

Sirisena, facing criticism over the failure to thwart the attacks, blamed the inspector general of police Pujith Jayasundara and defence secretary Hemesiri Fernando for not sharing advance warnings of the attacks with him.

Fernando resigned earlier in the week, but Jayasundara was holding on, the two officials said.&nbsp;

"He has refused to resign despite the president's request," one of the sources said. Under Sri Lanka's constitution, only parliament can remove the police chief through a lengthy process designed to shield officers from political interference.

The attacks in which more than 250 people were killed have exposed the divisions between Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, with both saying they had not seen warnings given by India's spy service about impending strikes on churches and the Indian embassy including one just hours before the attacks.

Jayasundara, the police chief, was handpicked for the job by Wickremesinghe. The first source at the president`s office said Sirisena was still expecting him to turn in his papers. The second source confirmed the situation. 
Both sources declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak with media.

Jayasundara did not answer his phone or email seeking comments. An officer at the police department said the police chief had not resigned but did not come to work on Saturday. 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government.

Sri Lanka's police chief has refused a request by President Maithripala Sirisena to step down following suicide bombings on churches and hotels, two sources at the president's office said on Saturday, deepening the rift at top levels of government. Sirisena, facing criticism over the failure to thwart the attacks, blamed the inspector general of police Pujith Jayasundara and defence secretary Hemesiri Fernando for not sharing advance warnings of the attacks with him. Fernando resigned earlier in the week, but Jayasundara was holding on, the two officials said. "He has refused to resign despite the president's request," one of the sources said. Under Sri Lanka's constitution, only parliament can remove the police chief through a lengthy process designed to shield officers from political interference. The attacks in which more than 250 people were killed have exposed the divisions between Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, with both saying they had not seen warnings given by India's spy service about impending strikes on churches and the Indian embassy including one just hours before the attacks. Jayasundara, the police chief, was handpicked for the job by Wickremesinghe. The first source at the president`s office said Sirisena was still expecting him to turn in his papers. The second source confirmed the situation. Both sources declined to be identified as they were not authorised to speak with media. Jayasundara did not answer his phone or email seeking comments. An officer at the police department said the police chief had not resigned but did not come to work on Saturday.

Sri Lanka police chief refusing to quit despite president Sirisena's request: Report

Muslim brothers from a wealthy Sri Lankan family plotted and carried out two of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-had-provided-specific-intelligence-on-attack-sri-lanka-pm-wickremesinghe-213001">Easter suicide blasts</a> in Colombo that killed more than 320 people, police sources told AFP Tuesday amid growing questions on whether the attackers received foreign help.

The two sons of a Colombo spice trader were among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-on-high-alert-as-mass-burials-take-place-in-st-sebastian-church-212928">suicide bombers who hit three churches and three luxury hotels</a>, investigators said.&nbsp;

An attack on a fourth hotel failed and helped lead police to the Islamist group now blamed for the assault, they added in comments later confirmed by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The brothers, whose names have not been revealed, were in their late twenties and operated their own "family cell", an investigation officer said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sri-lanka-how-british-colonial-footprint-ltte-led-attacks-tormented-the-island-nation-212615">In pics: How British colonial footprint, LTTE-led attacks tormented the island nation</a>

The pair were members of the Islamist National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) group which the government has blamed for the attacks.

The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility in an official statement for the attacks on the "infidel holiday".

A Sri Lankan minister said the bombers may have struck in revenge for the killing of 50 worshippers in two New Zealand mosques last month.&nbsp;

"Some of them might have travelled abroad and come back," Wickremesinghe told a press conference.

One brother checked into the Cinnamon Grand hotel and the other the Shangri-La on Saturday.

The next morning, at virtually the same time, they went to the hotels' Easter Sunday breakfast buffets and blew up explosives-laden backpacks, the officer said.

Another bomb tore through a restaurant at the nearby Kingsbury hotel. Similar explosions devastated three churches.

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Fourth attacker

Another would-be suicide bomber was in a fourth hotel in Colombo, an official source told AFP.&nbsp;

"This man had also checked into the hotel the previous day," the source said.

It was not known if his explosives failed or he had a change of heart.

But after the Shangri-la blast, staff became suspicious and the man was tracked to a residence near the capital. He blew himself up when confronted by police, the source said. Two bystanders were also killed.

"What we have seen from the CCTV footage is that all the suicide bombers were carrying very heavy backpacks. These appear to be crude devices made locally," the source said.

With 321 people dead, including at least 39 foreign nationals, and over 500 wounded, Sri Lanka has declared a state of emergency and launched a desperate hunt to head off more attacks.

At least 40 people were under arrest Tuesday over one of the worst militant strikes ever staged in Asia.

The whereabouts of the brothers' parents was unknown. But the blasts had a further impact on the family.

One brother gave false identity details when he checked into the hotel, the investigator said. The other gave a real address which led police commandos to their family home in a commercial area of Colombo.

Children killed

"When the Special Task Force went there to investigate, one brother's wife set off explosives killing herself and her two children," the officer said.&nbsp;

"It was a single terror cell operated by one family," the investigator said.

"They had the cash and the motivation. They operated the cell and it is believed they influenced their extended family."&nbsp;

Three police commandos were also killed in the blast, and several extended family members are among those in detention.

The brothers had been involved in their father's lucrative spice export business, investigators said.

It was not known if they were in contact with the other bombers, however.

A focus of the inquiry will be any foreign influence in their radicalisation and how the children of such a wealthy family had become involved, an official source said.

"What we have gathered so far is that they had indicated to their close family what they were going to do," another senior police officer said.

"It looks like they were inspired by foreign terrorist groups, but to what extent they had direct links is still unclear."

Police alert

Sri Lanka police chief Pujith Jayasundara issued an alert on April 11 that the NTJ could launch suicide attacks against churches and other targets.

NTJ leader Zahran Hashmi was linked to the vandalising of Buddha statues on December 26 at the central town of Mawanella. His whereabouts now are unknown.

The local Muslim community had been complaining to authorities about Hashmi since 2017.&nbsp;

Residents of an eastern village where he lived had demanded police action over his radical comments and acts, community leaders told AFP.

"He was a threat to moderate Muslims in the east and we had made several complaints," one Muslim leader told AFP.&nbsp;

The police chief's warnings about the NTJ were not passed to top ministers. A separate investigation is underway into why more was not done to stop the bombers.&nbsp;

Muslim brothers from a wealthy Sri Lankan family plotted and carried out two of the Easter suicide blasts in Colombo that killed more than 320 people, police sources told AFP Tuesday amid growing questions on whether the attackers received foreign help.

Muslim brothers from a wealthy Sri Lankan family plotted and carried out two of the Easter suicide blasts in Colombo that killed more than 320 people, police sources told AFP Tuesday amid growing questions on whether the attackers received foreign help. The two sons of a Colombo spice trader were among suicide bombers who hit three churches and three luxury hotels, investigators said. An attack on a fourth hotel failed and helped lead police to the Islamist group now blamed for the assault, they added in comments later confirmed by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. The brothers, whose names have not been revealed, were in their late twenties and operated their own "family cell", an investigation officer said. In pics: How British colonial footprint, LTTE-led attacks tormented the island nation The pair were members of the Islamist National Thowheeth Jama'ath (NTJ) group which the government has blamed for the attacks. The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility in an official statement for the attacks on the "infidel holiday". A Sri Lankan minister said the bombers may have struck in revenge for the killing of 50 worshippers in two New Zealand mosques last month. "Some of them might have travelled abroad and come back," Wickremesinghe told a press conference. One brother checked into the Cinnamon Grand hotel and the other the Shangri-La on Saturday. The next morning, at virtually the same time, they went to the hotels' Easter Sunday breakfast buffets and blew up explosives-laden backpacks, the officer said. Another bomb tore through a restaurant at the nearby Kingsbury hotel. Similar explosions devastated three churches. × Fourth attacker Another would-be suicide bomber was in a fourth hotel in Colombo, an official source told AFP. "This man had also checked into the hotel the previous day," the source said. It was not known if his explosives failed or he had a change of heart. But after the Shangri-la blast, staff became suspicious and the man was tracked to a residence near the capital. He blew himself up when confronted by police, the source said. Two bystanders were also killed. "What we have seen from the CCTV footage is that all the suicide bombers were carrying very heavy backpacks. These appear to be crude devices made locally," the source said. With 321 people dead, including at least 39 foreign nationals, and over 500 wounded, Sri Lanka has declared a state of emergency and launched a desperate hunt to head off more attacks. At least 40 people were under arrest Tuesday over one of the worst militant strikes ever staged in Asia. The whereabouts of the brothers' parents was unknown. But the blasts had a further impact on the family. One brother gave false identity details when he checked into the hotel, the investigator said. The other gave a real address which led police commandos to their family home in a commercial area of Colombo. Children killed "When the Special Task Force went there to investigate, one brother's wife set off explosives killing herself and her two children," the officer said. "It was a single terror cell operated by one family," the investigator said. "They had the cash and the motivation. They operated the cell and it is believed they influenced their extended family." Three police commandos were also killed in the blast, and several extended family members are among those in detention. The brothers had been involved in their father's lucrative spice export business, investigators said. It was not known if they were in contact with the other bombers, however. A focus of the inquiry will be any foreign influence in their radicalisation and how the children of such a wealthy family had become involved, an official source said. "What we have gathered so far is that they had indicated to their close family what they were going to do," another senior police officer said. "It looks like they were inspired by foreign terrorist groups, but to what extent they had direct links is still unclear." Police alert Sri Lanka police chief Pujith Jayasundara issued an alert on April 11 that the NTJ could launch suicide attacks against churches and other targets. NTJ leader Zahran Hashmi was linked to the vandalising of Buddha statues on December 26 at the central town of Mawanella. His whereabouts now are unknown. The local Muslim community had been complaining to authorities about Hashmi since 2017. Residents of an eastern village where he lived had demanded police action over his radical comments and acts, community leaders told AFP. "He was a threat to moderate Muslims in the east and we had made several complaints," one Muslim leader told AFP. The police chief's warnings about the NTJ were not passed to top ministers. A separate investigation is underway into why more was not done to stop the bombers.

Fourth planned Sri Lanka hotel attack failed: Sources

The attacks on Easter Sunday, which Sri Lankan authorities believe were carried out by a local Islamist group, were "one of the deadliest terrorist events since the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States,"

Sri Lanka blasts: Priority is to apprehend perpetrators says Ranil Wickremesinghe

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/trumps-solidarity-message-on-sri-lanka-blasts-goes-wrong-tweets-out-heartfelt-condolences-on-death-of-138-million-people-212299">US President Donald Trump</a> called Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday to express condolences over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-imposes-state-of-emergency-after-attacks-blamed-on-islamists-212724">killing of nearly 300 people in suicide bomb blasts</a> at churches and hotels.

The attacks on Easter Sunday, which Sri Lankan authorities believe were carried out by a local Islamist group, were "one of the deadliest terrorist events since the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said.

At least four Americans were killed in the attacks, including a fifth grader (around 10 years old) who attended the private Sidwell Friends school in Washington.

"Prime Minister Wickremesinghe expressed appreciation for the president's concern and updated him on the progress of the investigation," according to the White House.

Trump told the premier that he "pledged United States support to Sri Lanka in bringing the perpetrators to justice, and the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the fight against global terrorism."

Washington has pledged investigative assistance and is sending FBI agents to help support Sri Lankan police in the probe, The Washington Post reported.&nbsp;

It said the FBI has also offered laboratory expertise for testing bomb evidence, while analysts are reviewing bureau databases for any useful information.

In a brief statement on Twitter, Trump said he had also spoken with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday.

He later deleted this statement and the White House could not be immediately reached for comment on why the president did so.

A State Department official said that at least four Americans were killed in the bombings.

US President Donald Trump called Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday to express condolences over the killing of nearly 300 people in suicide bomb blasts at churches and hotels.

US President Donald Trump called Sri Lanka's Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Monday to express condolences over the killing of nearly 300 people in suicide bomb blasts at churches and hotels. The attacks on Easter Sunday, which Sri Lankan authorities believe were carried out by a local Islamist group, were "one of the deadliest terrorist events since the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States," White House spokesman Hogan Gidley said. At least four Americans were killed in the attacks, including a fifth grader (around 10 years old) who attended the private Sidwell Friends school in Washington. "Prime Minister Wickremesinghe expressed appreciation for the president's concern and updated him on the progress of the investigation," according to the White House. Trump told the premier that he "pledged United States support to Sri Lanka in bringing the perpetrators to justice, and the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the fight against global terrorism." Washington has pledged investigative assistance and is sending FBI agents to help support Sri Lankan police in the probe, The Washington Post reported. It said the FBI has also offered laboratory expertise for testing bomb evidence, while analysts are reviewing bureau databases for any useful information. In a brief statement on Twitter, Trump said he had also spoken with Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Sunday. He later deleted this statement and the White House could not be immediately reached for comment on why the president did so. A State Department official said that at least four Americans were killed in the bombings.

Trump calls Sri Lanka PM Wickremsinghe to express condolences over attacks

Two days <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-colombo-on-high-alert-following-reports-of-explosives-laden-van-212903">after the terror attacks</a>, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable.

"I have sought a report on why intelligence wasn't shared," PM Ranil Wickremesinghe said, adding,"attacks occurred with intelligence from international network."&nbsp;

"There was a breakdown in communication," he added.

"Those arrested till now are all Lankans."

"The probe is headed in the right direction," the Lankan PM said.

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Meanwhile, the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-sri-lanka-bombings-212899"> Islamic State terrorist group</a> claimed responsibility for the Easter Sunday attack in which at least 320 people have been killed with several hundred wounded.

According to police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera at least 500 people have been wounded. The police said 40 people were under arrest in connection with the attacks.

The Sri Lankan government on Tuesday had blamed the Islamist National Thowheeth Jamath (NTJ) group for the blasts, saying they were carried out in retaliation for last month's attacks on two mosques in New Zealand.

However, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern's office said it hadn't seen any intelligence reports linking the bombings in Sri Lanka to last month's mosque massacre in Christchurch.&nbsp;

"We understand the Sri Lankan investigation into the attack is in its early stages," the spokesperson said. "New Zealand has not yet seen any intelligence upon which such an assessment might be based." &nbsp;

Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am.

Several Lankans came out on the streets as the nation buried all those who lost their lives in the Sunday's attack. Devastated relatives collapsed into the arms of bystanders at memorial services as people wept openly.

Inside St Sebastian's, evidence of the blast was everywhere, with shattered religious statues and smashed pews littering the floor. Services were held in the grounds, where more than a thousand people gathered by mid-morning to remember the victims.

The atmosphere was heavy with grief.&nbsp;

Two days after the terror attacks, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable.

Two days after the terror attacks, Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe today addressed the media asserting that the bombings could have been prevented if intelligence was avaliable. "I have sought a report on why intelligence wasn't shared," PM Ranil Wickremesinghe said, adding,"attacks occurred with intelligence from international network." "There was a breakdown in communication," he added. "Those arrested till now are all Lankans." "The probe is headed in the right direction," the Lankan PM said. × Meanwhile, the Islamic State terrorist group claimed responsibility for the Easter Sunday attack in which at least 320 people have been killed with several hundred wounded. According to police spokesman Ruwan Gunasekera at least 500 people have been wounded. The police said 40 people were under arrest in connection with the attacks. The Sri Lankan government on Tuesday had blamed the Islamist National Thowheeth Jamath (NTJ) group for the blasts, saying they were carried out in retaliation for last month's attacks on two mosques in New Zealand. However, New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern's office said it hadn't seen any intelligence reports linking the bombings in Sri Lanka to last month's mosque massacre in Christchurch. "We understand the Sri Lankan investigation into the attack is in its early stages," the spokesperson said. "New Zealand has not yet seen any intelligence upon which such an assessment might be based." Sri Lankans observed three minutes of silence early Tuesday to pay tribute to the victims. National flags were lowered and people bowed their heads as the silence began at 8:30 am. Several Lankans came out on the streets as the nation buried all those who lost their lives in the Sunday's attack. Devastated relatives collapsed into the arms of bystanders at memorial services as people wept openly. Inside St Sebastian's, evidence of the blast was everywhere, with shattered religious statues and smashed pews littering the floor. Services were held in the grounds, where more than a thousand people gathered by mid-morning to remember the victims. The atmosphere was heavy with grief.

I have sought report on why intelligence wasn't shared: Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe

A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-memo-circulated-a-day-before-had-warned-of-attack-212458">how the government handled a recent warning</a> of an attack.

The premier has been kept out of intelligence briefings since he fell out with the president, a government minister said, a day after Easter attacks on churches and hotels killed 290 people and wounded nearly 500.

Police had been warned this month about a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-says-local-militant-group-national-thowheed-jamath-behind-easter-sunday-blasts-212556">possible attack on churches by a little-known domestic Islamist group</a>, according to a document seen by Reuters.

But Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had not been told of the report, dated April 11, that said a foreign intelligence agency had warned of attacks on churches by a domestic militant group called the National Thawheed Jama'ut, Health Minister Rajith Senaratne told reporters.

It was not immediately clear what action, if any, was taken in response to the tip-off.

"When we asked about the intelligence report, the prime minister was not aware of this," said Senaratne, who also briefs reporters on the deliberations of the cabinet.

It was not clear if the president, Maithripala Sirisena, was aware of the report but the top security organisation, the Security Council, reports to him, while the prime minister was no longer invited to council meetings because of the rift, Senaratne said.

The president was out of the country when the bombers struck. His office declined to comment.

"As a government, we have to say very, very sorry and we have to apologise to the families and their institutions about this incident," said Senaratne.

The president fired Wickremesinghe last October over political differences, only to reinstate him weeks later under pressure from the Supreme Court.&nbsp; 
Their relationship has not improved and their differences have delayed government decisions, politicians say.&nbsp;

On Sunday, with the president on a foreign trip and the country shaken by the suicide attacks, Wickremesinghe called a Security Council meeting but its members failed to show up, Senaratne said.&nbsp;

"This is the first time in history we have seen that the Security Council refused to come for a meeting with the country`s prime minister," he said.

On Monday, Wickremesinghe attended a council meeting called by Sirisena after his return. It was the prime minister`s first council meeting since the political crisis, his office said.&nbsp;

Senaratne said security forces had raided training sites of the National Thawheed Jama'ut. The government also believed there were international links to the attacks.

"We don't think a small organisation can do all that. We are now investigating international support for them and their other links - how they produced the suicide bombers and bombs like this," he said.

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&nbsp;

A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over how the government handled a recent warning of an attack.

A rift between Sri Lanka's president and prime minister, which sparked a crisis last year, came under scrutiny on Monday a day after a series of deadly bomb blasts, with questions over how the government handled a recent warning of an attack. The premier has been kept out of intelligence briefings since he fell out with the president, a government minister said, a day after Easter attacks on churches and hotels killed 290 people and wounded nearly 500. Police had been warned this month about a possible attack on churches by a little-known domestic Islamist group, according to a document seen by Reuters. But Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe had not been told of the report, dated April 11, that said a foreign intelligence agency had warned of attacks on churches by a domestic militant group called the National Thawheed Jama'ut, Health Minister Rajith Senaratne told reporters. It was not immediately clear what action, if any, was taken in response to the tip-off. "When we asked about the intelligence report, the prime minister was not aware of this," said Senaratne, who also briefs reporters on the deliberations of the cabinet. It was not clear if the president, Maithripala Sirisena, was aware of the report but the top security organisation, the Security Council, reports to him, while the prime minister was no longer invited to council meetings because of the rift, Senaratne said. The president was out of the country when the bombers struck. His office declined to comment. "As a government, we have to say very, very sorry and we have to apologise to the families and their institutions about this incident," said Senaratne. The president fired Wickremesinghe last October over political differences, only to reinstate him weeks later under pressure from the Supreme Court. Their relationship has not improved and their differences have delayed government decisions, politicians say. On Sunday, with the president on a foreign trip and the country shaken by the suicide attacks, Wickremesinghe called a Security Council meeting but its members failed to show up, Senaratne said. "This is the first time in history we have seen that the Security Council refused to come for a meeting with the country`s prime minister," he said. On Monday, Wickremesinghe attended a council meeting called by Sirisena after his return. It was the prime minister`s first council meeting since the political crisis, his office said. Senaratne said security forces had raided training sites of the National Thawheed Jama'ut. The government also believed there were international links to the attacks. "We don't think a small organisation can do all that. We are now investigating international support for them and their other links - how they produced the suicide bombers and bombs like this," he said. ×

Sri Lanka PM not alerted to warning of attack because of feud: Health minister

'Some intelligence officers were aware of this incident': Sri Lanka Minister on serial bomb blasts

Eighty-seven detonators were found at <a href="In statement police found the detonators at the Bastian Mawatha Private bus stand, 12 of them scattered on the ground and another 75 in a garbage dump nearby, AFP reported.">Sri Lanka</a>'s Colombo bus station on Monday, a day after the series of blasts ripped through the island-nation killing as many as 290&nbsp;people. Over 500 people were also injured. &nbsp;

In a statement police found the detonators at the Bastian Mawatha Private bus stand, 12 of them scattered on the ground and another 75 in a garbage dump nearby, AFP reported.

Earlier in the day,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-serial-blasts-13-under-arrest-ninth-bomb-defused-near-colombo-airport-212476"> twenty-four people were arrested</a> by Sri Lanka police in connection with eight devastating bomb blasts on churches and hotels.

Sri Lankan airforce also successfully defused an improvised pipe bomb discovered close to Colombo's main airport.

People from at least eight countries were killed in the series of attacks, including five citizens of Britain, five Indian nationals, three Danes, two each from China and Turkey and one each from Netherlands and Portugal.

Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sririsena announced a nation-wide emergency which will come into effect from midnight today.&nbsp;

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The development came soon after the Sri Lankan authorities lifted a curfew in the country on Monday and another night-time curfew was imposed.&nbsp;

According to reports, a memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka.

The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka's deputy inspector general of police.

As many as 290 people were killed and about 500 wounded by a string of bombings that tore through churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka. The attacks are been billed as the worst-ever in the history of the island nation after the civil war that ended almost a decade ago.

Out of Sri Lanka's total population of around 22 million, 70 per cent are Buddhist, 12.6 per cent Hindu, 9.7 per cent Muslim and 7.6 per cent Christian, according to the country's 2012 census.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Eighty-seven detonators were found at Sri Lanka's Colombo bus station on Monday, a day after the series of blasts ripped through the island-nation killing as many as 290 people.

Eighty-seven detonators were found at Sri Lanka's Colombo bus station on Monday, a day after the series of blasts ripped through the island-nation killing as many as 290 people. Over 500 people were also injured. In a statement police found the detonators at the Bastian Mawatha Private bus stand, 12 of them scattered on the ground and another 75 in a garbage dump nearby, AFP reported. Earlier in the day, twenty-four people were arrested by Sri Lanka police in connection with eight devastating bomb blasts on churches and hotels. Sri Lankan airforce also successfully defused an improvised pipe bomb discovered close to Colombo's main airport. People from at least eight countries were killed in the series of attacks, including five citizens of Britain, five Indian nationals, three Danes, two each from China and Turkey and one each from Netherlands and Portugal. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sririsena announced a nation-wide emergency which will come into effect from midnight today. × The development came soon after the Sri Lankan authorities lifted a curfew in the country on Monday and another night-time curfew was imposed. According to reports, a memo that warned of a potential attack was circulated a day before the deadly explosions in Sri Lanka. The memo dated April 11 was signed by Sri Lanka's deputy inspector general of police. As many as 290 people were killed and about 500 wounded by a string of bombings that tore through churches and luxury hotels on Easter Sunday in Sri Lanka. The attacks are been billed as the worst-ever in the history of the island nation after the civil war that ended almost a decade ago. Out of Sri Lanka's total population of around 22 million, 70 per cent are Buddhist, 12.6 per cent Hindu, 9.7 per cent Muslim and 7.6 per cent Christian, according to the country's 2012 census. (With inputs from news agencies)

87 bomb detonators found at Colombo bus station: Police

South Asia countries were among the first to react and stand with Sri Lanka in its hour of grief on Sunday after it was hit by series of blasts. The attack killed over 200 people&nbsp;and 450 were injured.

Hours after the serial bombs that ripped through Sri Lanka, Indian Prime Minister <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">Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena</a> and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on call and condemned the attacks. He also conveyed "deepest condolences" on behalf of the Indians.

Terming the attacks "cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts" PM Modi pointed out that these attacks were another&nbsp;"grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism."

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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.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1119863044216172544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India has also offered all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges posed by terrorism.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement extended condolences to the families of the victims and Government of Sri Lanka, said, "India has always opposed and rejected terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" and has urged "concerted action by the international community against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. "

"There can be no justification whatsoever for any act of terror," the foreign ministry added.&nbsp;

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We strongly condemn the serial blasts on multiple locations in Sri Lanka today morning in which many people have been killed and injured. 
 
We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Sri Lanka.<a href="https://t.co/Si1ilrSU8j">https://t.co/Si1ilrSU8j</a> <a href="https://t.co/pdSjh8OyVO">pic.twitter.com/pdSjh8OyVO</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1119891690595053570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Maldivian&nbsp;President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih extended "heartfelt sympathies to all affected by this cowardly act" and assured "support in the fight against terrorism."

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Saddened by the horrific events in Sri Lanka this morning. My heartfelt sympathies to all affected by this cowardly act of terror. At this difficult time, I affirm our solidarity with the government and people of Sri Lanka and assure our support in the fight against terrorism.
— Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih/status/1119852312212541441?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid also condemned the "heinous terroristic attack."

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Shocked and saddened by reports of multiple explosions in Colombo and elsewhere in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a>. Condemn unreservedly this heinous terroristic attack claiming numerous lives and injuring many. Our deepest condolences &amp; prayers are with Govt &amp; people of Sri Lanka &amp; affected families.
— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1119834856681172992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Maldives' minister of state Ahmed Khaleel will visit Sri Lanka on Monday as a special envoy of the president to inquire on the condition of Maldivians who may have been affected by the explosions. He will also convey solidarity to the Sri Lankan government at this time of national distress.

Expressing sadness, Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in a tweet said," I express my condolence with Rt. Hon'ble Ranil Wickramasinghe, PM of Sri Lanka and bereaved families of victims of brutality. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured."

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I am deeply saddened by multiple bomb blasts and killings of innocent people in Sri Lanka. I express my condolence with Rt. Hon'ble Ranil Wickramasinghe, PM of SriLanka and bereaved families of victims of brutality. I wish speedy recovery of the injured.
— KP Sharma Oli (@PM_Nepal) <a href="https://twitter.com/PM_Nepal/status/1119887430264348673?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed condolences to Sri Lanka and said his country "stands in complete solidarity in their hour of grief."

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Strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday resulting in precious lives lost &amp; hundreds injured. My profound condolences go to our Sri Lankan brethren. Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka in their hour of grief.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1119872631308718081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi telephoned Sri Lankan President and Prime Minister to express condolences and conveyed sympathies for the families that lost their loved ones in the tragedy.

Afghan foreign minister's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi also condemned the attack in "strongest terms".

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1/2 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan condemns in strongest terms, the terrorist attacks on churches, hotels and worshippers in Sri Lanka. <a href="https://t.co/OYHcO3f8GW">pic.twitter.com/OYHcO3f8GW</a>
— Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sibghat_Ah/status/1119903560672608256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bhutan and Bangladesh also condemned the attack and expressed their solidarity with Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

Bangladesh's&nbsp;PM Sheikh Hasina wished quick recovery of those who were injured in the attacks.

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Extremely saddened on the reports of multiple bomb blast in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/srilankaterrorattack?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#srilankaterrorattack</a> My condolences to the families of the victims... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bhutan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bhutan</a> condemn this act of terrorism <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PrayforSriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PrayforSriLanka</a>
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1119929832886943745?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

South Asia countries were among the first to react and stand with Sri Lanka in its hour of grief on Sunday after it was hit by series of blasts. The attack killed over 200 people and 450 were injured.

South Asia countries were among the first to react and stand with Sri Lanka in its hour of grief on Sunday after it was hit by series of blasts. The attack killed over 200 people and 450 were injured. Hours after the serial bombs that ripped through Sri Lanka, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on call and condemned the attacks. He also conveyed "deepest condolences" on behalf of the Indians. Terming the attacks "cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts" PM Modi pointed out that these attacks were another "grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism." 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. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2019 × India has also offered all possible help and assistance to Sri Lanka for ensuring its security against the challenges posed by terrorism. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement extended condolences to the families of the victims and Government of Sri Lanka, said, "India has always opposed and rejected terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" and has urged "concerted action by the international community against terrorism, including cross-border terrorism. " "There can be no justification whatsoever for any act of terror," the foreign ministry added. We strongly condemn the serial blasts on multiple locations in Sri Lanka today morning in which many people have been killed and injured. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Sri Lanka.https://t.co/Si1ilrSU8j pic.twitter.com/pdSjh8OyVO — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) April 21, 2019 × Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih extended "heartfelt sympathies to all affected by this cowardly act" and assured "support in the fight against terrorism." Saddened by the horrific events in Sri Lanka this morning. My heartfelt sympathies to all affected by this cowardly act of terror. At this difficult time, I affirm our solidarity with the government and people of Sri Lanka and assure our support in the fight against terrorism. — Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (@ibusolih) April 21, 2019 × Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid also condemned the "heinous terroristic attack." Shocked and saddened by reports of multiple explosions in Colombo and elsewhere in #SriLanka. Condemn unreservedly this heinous terroristic attack claiming numerous lives and injuring many. Our deepest condolences & prayers are with Govt & people of Sri Lanka & affected families. — Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) April 21, 2019 × Meanwhile, Maldives' minister of state Ahmed Khaleel will visit Sri Lanka on Monday as a special envoy of the president to inquire on the condition of Maldivians who may have been affected by the explosions. He will also convey solidarity to the Sri Lankan government at this time of national distress. Expressing sadness, Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in a tweet said," I express my condolence with Rt. Hon'ble Ranil Wickramasinghe, PM of Sri Lanka and bereaved families of victims of brutality. I wish a speedy recovery to the injured." I am deeply saddened by multiple bomb blasts and killings of innocent people in Sri Lanka. I express my condolence with Rt. Hon'ble Ranil Wickramasinghe, PM of SriLanka and bereaved families of victims of brutality. I wish speedy recovery of the injured. — KP Sharma Oli (@PM_Nepal) April 21, 2019 × Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan also expressed condolences to Sri Lanka and said his country "stands in complete solidarity in their hour of grief." Strongly condemn the horrific terrorist attack in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday resulting in precious lives lost & hundreds injured. My profound condolences go to our Sri Lankan brethren. Pakistan stands in complete solidarity with Sri Lanka in their hour of grief. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) April 21, 2019 × Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi telephoned Sri Lankan President and Prime Minister to express condolences and conveyed sympathies for the families that lost their loved ones in the tragedy. Afghan foreign minister's spokesperson Sibghatullah Ahmadi also condemned the attack in "strongest terms". 1/2 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan condemns in strongest terms, the terrorist attacks on churches, hotels and worshippers in Sri Lanka. pic.twitter.com/OYHcO3f8GW — Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) April 21, 2019 × Bhutan and Bangladesh also condemned the attack and expressed their solidarity with Sri Lanka. Bangladesh's PM Sheikh Hasina wished quick recovery of those who were injured in the attacks. Extremely saddened on the reports of multiple bomb blast in #srilankaterrorattack My condolences to the families of the victims... #Bhutan condemn this act of terrorism #PrayforSriLanka — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) April 21, 2019 ×

South Asia unites in Sri Lanka's hour of grief

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eighth-blast-hits-sri-lankan-capital-city-colombo-death-toll-crosses-160-212267">series of blasts</a> that hit the neighbour island today, news agency PTI reported. He&nbsp;conveyed his condolences on behalf of all Indians and termed "as cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts".

During the call, PM Modi pointed out that these attacks were another grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism in our region and the entire world.

A series of blasts ripped through high-end hotels and churches holding Easter services in Sri Lanka on Sunday, over 160 people have been reported dead so far, including 35 foreigners.

So far no group has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi also <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/leaders-condemn-serial-explosions-in-sri-lanka-that-killed-at-least-129-212230">condemned the attacks</a> on Twitter and said that&nbsp;India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka.

"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."

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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.
— Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1119863044216172544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indian foreign ministry also extended condolences to the families of victims.

"We strongly condemn the serial blasts on multiple locations in Sri Lanka today morning in which many people have been killed and injured. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Sri Lanka. We wish a speedy recovery to those injured in the attacks," the foreign ministry&nbsp;said in the statement.

"We stand together with the people and Government of Sri Lanka in this hour of grief," the statement added.

India also called for perpetrators of the attack and those who provide them support to be brought to justice expeditiously.

The three hotels that were hit were the Shangri-La Colombo, Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo and the Cinnamon Grand Colombo in the capital city, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

St Anthony's Shrine, a Catholic Church in Kochcikade, Colombo, was one of the churches where a blast was reported on Sunday along with an explosion at St Sebastian's gothic-style Catholic church in Katuwapitiya, north of Colombo and an explosion that hit an evangelical church in Batticaloa in Eastern Province.

Later in the day, the Sri Lankan police reported the seventh explosion, the fourth at a hotel near the national zoo, which is in an area near the capital Colombo, Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The latest and the eighth in the series of Easter Day explosions occurred in the suburb of Orugodawatta in the north of the capital city Colombo.&nbsp;

As per reports, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for an emergency parliamentary session.&nbsp;

The Sri Lankan government also imposed a nationwide curfew Sunday that police said would go into effect immediately and would last "until further notice".

(With inputs from agencies)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on series of blasts that hit the neighbour island today, news agency PTI reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on series of blasts that hit the neighbour island today, news agency PTI reported. He conveyed his condolences on behalf of all Indians and termed "as cold-blooded and pre-planned barbaric acts". During the call, PM Modi pointed out that these attacks were another grim reminder of the most serious challenge posed to the entire humanity by terrorism in our region and the entire world. A series of blasts ripped through high-end hotels and churches holding Easter services in Sri Lanka on Sunday, over 160 people have been reported dead so far, including 35 foreigners. So far no group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Earlier in the day, PM Modi also condemned the attacks on Twitter and said that India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka. "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." 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. — Chowkidar Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 21, 2019 × Indian foreign ministry also extended condolences to the families of victims. "We strongly condemn the serial blasts on multiple locations in Sri Lanka today morning in which many people have been killed and injured. We extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims and to the people and Government of Sri Lanka. We wish a speedy recovery to those injured in the attacks," the foreign ministry said in the statement. "We stand together with the people and Government of Sri Lanka in this hour of grief," the statement added. India also called for perpetrators of the attack and those who provide them support to be brought to justice expeditiously. The three hotels that were hit were the Shangri-La Colombo, Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo and the Cinnamon Grand Colombo in the capital city, news agency Reuters reported. St Anthony's Shrine, a Catholic Church in Kochcikade, Colombo, was one of the churches where a blast was reported on Sunday along with an explosion at St Sebastian's gothic-style Catholic church in Katuwapitiya, north of Colombo and an explosion that hit an evangelical church in Batticaloa in Eastern Province. Later in the day, the Sri Lankan police reported the seventh explosion, the fourth at a hotel near the national zoo, which is in an area near the capital Colombo, Reuters reported. The latest and the eighth in the series of Easter Day explosions occurred in the suburb of Orugodawatta in the north of the capital city Colombo. As per reports, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has called for an emergency parliamentary session. The Sri Lankan government also imposed a nationwide curfew Sunday that police said would go into effect immediately and would last "until further notice". (With inputs from agencies)

These blasts are grim reminder of most serious challenge to humanity: PM Modi to Sri Lankan President, PM

Sri Lankan politicians praised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chinas-belt-and-road-outreach-to-nepal-wont-work-says-leading-european-think-tank-210282">China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative</a> (BRI) for its benefits to their country.

As China-assisted projects under the BRI, like the Colombo Port City project and the Hambantota International Port development project, have benefited the economy of Sri Lanka and the life of local people, and Sri Lanka is among the first countries joining the initiative, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke highly of the BRI in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV).

Wickremesinghe noted he has seen more countries in favour of the BRI over the past years, as the initiative linking existing land and maritime roads is helpful to development.

"The Belt and Road Initiative is really creating an economic system, which is helpful to us in Asia. I would call it innovative," he said.

Karu Jayasuriya, speaker of the Parliament, told CCTV that he is confident about the prospect of the BRI.

"Sri Lanka and China have been in a relationship which has been lasting for thousands of years. So, therefore, traditionally, we have been friends, and China has been a friend to us during good times and bad times, and we are very happy that China has been with us in this process of development. They have been involved with us in several development programs like the building of roads, buildings, the airports and also seaports, and especially in the infrastructure, the country is now opening up to the world as an ideal investment centre. So I'm happy with this initiative that you are taking. Sri Lanka will be seen as a country that is poised for growth," said Jayasuriya.

As the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will be held in Beijing late April, Wickremesinghe said the Sri Lankan government participated in the first forum two years ago and got real benefits, so it will actively take part in the second forum as well.

"I was there at the first meeting of the Belt and Road Initiative [in Beijing]. We have all agreed together on the Belt and Road Initiative, it's potential for economic development." Wickremesinghe said.

The prime minister said the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will play a bigger role in the development and Chinese President Xi Jinping is courageous in starting the BRI.

The BRI, proposed by Chinese President Xi in 2013, aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe, Africa and beyond.

Sri Lankan politicians praised China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for its benefits to their country. As China-assisted projects under the BRI, like the Colombo Port City project and the Hambantota International Port development project, have benefited the economy of Sri Lanka and the life of local people, and Sri Lanka is among the first countries joining the initiative, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke highly of the BRI in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV).

Sri Lankan politicians praised China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for its benefits to their country. As China-assisted projects under the BRI, like the Colombo Port City project and the Hambantota International Port development project, have benefited the economy of Sri Lanka and the life of local people, and Sri Lanka is among the first countries joining the initiative, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke highly of the BRI in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV). Wickremesinghe noted he has seen more countries in favour of the BRI over the past years, as the initiative linking existing land and maritime roads is helpful to development. "The Belt and Road Initiative is really creating an economic system, which is helpful to us in Asia. I would call it innovative," he said. Karu Jayasuriya, speaker of the Parliament, told CCTV that he is confident about the prospect of the BRI. "Sri Lanka and China have been in a relationship which has been lasting for thousands of years. So, therefore, traditionally, we have been friends, and China has been a friend to us during good times and bad times, and we are very happy that China has been with us in this process of development. They have been involved with us in several development programs like the building of roads, buildings, the airports and also seaports, and especially in the infrastructure, the country is now opening up to the world as an ideal investment centre. So I'm happy with this initiative that you are taking. Sri Lanka will be seen as a country that is poised for growth," said Jayasuriya. As the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will be held in Beijing late April, Wickremesinghe said the Sri Lankan government participated in the first forum two years ago and got real benefits, so it will actively take part in the second forum as well. "I was there at the first meeting of the Belt and Road Initiative [in Beijing]. We have all agreed together on the Belt and Road Initiative, it's potential for economic development." Wickremesinghe said. The prime minister said the second Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation will play a bigger role in the development and Chinese President Xi Jinping is courageous in starting the BRI. The BRI, proposed by Chinese President Xi in 2013, aims to build a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe, Africa and beyond.

Sri Lankan politicians praise China-proposed Belt and Road initiative

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Saturday that the security and operations of the strategic Hambantota port are managed by his country and not by other nations.

"Many people consider that the Hambantota port is a Chinese military base. I accept that there will be an army camp. But it is a Sri Lanka Navy camp. Once installed, a Sri Lankan Rear Admiral will be in control. Any ship from any country can come there. But we control the operations," Colombo Page quoted Wickremesinghe as saying during the third meeting of the Asia-Europe Political Forum (AEPF).

The Sri Lankan premier maintained that Colombo has friendly and cordial ties with all countries and is aware of current international trends.

"India is our partner from our history. We joined Japan at the San Francisco Conference. Despite the opposition from the United States, Sri Lanka recognised the People's Republic of China and first signed a trade agreement. We will maintain this situation. We do not get caught up in someone`s competition," Wickremesinghe said.

In December 2017, Sri Lanka had leased Hambantota port to the state-run China Merchant Ports Holdings Ltd for a period of 99 years, a move that caused concern in neighbouring India.

As part of the agreement, the China Merchants Port Holdings Company and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority jointly own the port and the investment zone around it, according to officials.

The Chinese firm has a 70 per cent stake in the joint venture while the state-run Sri Lanka Ports Authority is holding the remaining 30 per cent stake. Meanwhile, a Chinese firm will soon set up a cement plant in Hambantota where China already controls the strategic port, in an indication of Beijing's increasing footprint in the island nation.

Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, Nalin Bandara, had said in January this year that the Chinese firm would set up its plant in the Hambantota Export Processing Zone. Bandara had also said this is the first time a Chinese cement company is entering the local market directly.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Saturday that the security and operations of the strategic Hambantota port are managed by his country and not by other nations.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said on Saturday that the security and operations of the strategic Hambantota port are managed by his country and not by other nations. "Many people consider that the Hambantota port is a Chinese military base. I accept that there will be an army camp. But it is a Sri Lanka Navy camp. Once installed, a Sri Lankan Rear Admiral will be in control. Any ship from any country can come there. But we control the operations," Colombo Page quoted Wickremesinghe as saying during the third meeting of the Asia-Europe Political Forum (AEPF). The Sri Lankan premier maintained that Colombo has friendly and cordial ties with all countries and is aware of current international trends. "India is our partner from our history. We joined Japan at the San Francisco Conference. Despite the opposition from the United States, Sri Lanka recognised the People's Republic of China and first signed a trade agreement. We will maintain this situation. We do not get caught up in someone`s competition," Wickremesinghe said. In December 2017, Sri Lanka had leased Hambantota port to the state-run China Merchant Ports Holdings Ltd for a period of 99 years, a move that caused concern in neighbouring India. As part of the agreement, the China Merchants Port Holdings Company and the Sri Lanka Ports Authority jointly own the port and the investment zone around it, according to officials. The Chinese firm has a 70 per cent stake in the joint venture while the state-run Sri Lanka Ports Authority is holding the remaining 30 per cent stake. Meanwhile, a Chinese firm will soon set up a cement plant in Hambantota where China already controls the strategic port, in an indication of Beijing's increasing footprint in the island nation. Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Development Strategies and International Trade, Nalin Bandara, had said in January this year that the Chinese firm would set up its plant in the Hambantota Export Processing Zone. Bandara had also said this is the first time a Chinese cement company is entering the local market directly.

Hambantota port's security not in foreign hands: Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe

An elite police commando committed suicide on Thursday by shooting himself at Prime Minister <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiw8p7WgrbhAhUp63MBHZFUDIMQFggLMAI&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw3gmLGTPK-sBLo7ICY4plGA">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a>'s official residence in Colombo, officials said.

The <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/execution-style-killing-of-two-policemen-shocks-sri-lanka-180575&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwirxbnqgrbhAhXTTX0KHZ73CoUQFggEMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw2fsuxSDgklIH23KUoF7HM2">Special Task Force</a> (STF) member used his officially issued automatic assault rifle to shoot himself at the gate of the Temple Trees residence while the premier was inside the sprawling complex.

It was not immediately clear why the commando took his life, but police officials said an investigation was underway.

An opposition legislator raised Thursday's suicide in parliament during a debate on the budgets of the military and the police, but there was no immediate comment from the government.

Sri Lanka's leaders and visiting dignitaries are given protection by the Special Task Force which is specially trained for security as well as urban guerrilla warfare.&nbsp;

An elite police commando committed suicide on Thursday by shooting himself at Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's official residence in Colombo, officials said.

An elite police commando committed suicide on Thursday by shooting himself at Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's official residence in Colombo, officials said. The Special Task Force (STF) member used his officially issued automatic assault rifle to shoot himself at the gate of the Temple Trees residence while the premier was inside the sprawling complex. It was not immediately clear why the commando took his life, but police officials said an investigation was underway. An opposition legislator raised Thursday's suicide in parliament during a debate on the budgets of the military and the police, but there was no immediate comment from the government. Sri Lanka's leaders and visiting dignitaries are given protection by the Special Task Force which is specially trained for security as well as urban guerrilla warfare.

At PM Wickremesinghe residence in Sri Lanka commando commits suicide

Sri Lanka began construction Sunday of a nearly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-investment-board-says-oman-oil-keen-on-refinery-project-204708">$4 billion oil refinery it hopes will revive foreign interest</a> in its shipping facilities after Beijing's takeover of a nearby port spooked international investors.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Hambantota, a district in Sri Lanka's south which lies on one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, would become a global investment hub with the addition of the oil refinery and storage complex.

The $3.85 billion projects are the single largest foreign investment in Sri Lanka's history. It is jointly funded by Oman and Singapore-registered Silver Park International, a company owned by an Indian business family.

The oil facility is near the port of Hambantota, which was controversially leased to a Chinese state-owned firm in 2017 for 99 years after Sri Lanka failed to service a loan from Beijing.

The circumstances surrounding China's acquisition of the port generated concern in neighbouring India and beyond over Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean.

But the government pointed to this new line of cash pouring into the region as proof foreign investors were not deterred by that experience.

"The interest was shown by the Oman government, the interest shown by many other investors from other parts of the world shows that Hambantota will become a truly international investment zone," Wickremesinghe said Sunday.

Wickremesinghe also said he hoped to strike a deal within three months with Indian airport authorities to revive a $210 million airport in Hambantota dubbed the "world's emptiest" international terminal for its lack of flights.

The oil storage tanks are expected to be completed within two years while the refinery is due to be up and running by 2023.

Once fully operational the refinery -- the second in Sri Lanka -- is to export nine million tonnes of petroleum products annually.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean island nation does not have oil of its own. It refines imported crude, but the existing refinery is unable to meet demand.

The Hambantota port was built by former president Mahinda Rajapakse, but like many of his ambitious infrastructure projects it ended up a white elephant.

Unable to service the loan, the Wickremesinghe government in 2017 leased the Chinese-built port to a Beijing company for $1.12 billion.

This stoked controversy, with Beijing rejecting suggestions it ensnared Sri Lanka in a "debt trap" to acquire the port.

Several major foreign-backed projects were put on hold last year amid a constitutional crisis after President Maithripala Sirisena's aborted bid to remove Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lanka began construction Sunday of a nearly $4 billion oil refinery it hopes will revive foreign interest in its shipping facilities after Beijing's takeover of a nearby port spooked international investors.

Sri Lanka began construction Sunday of a nearly $4 billion oil refinery it hopes will revive foreign interest in its shipping facilities after Beijing's takeover of a nearby port spooked international investors. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said Hambantota, a district in Sri Lanka's south which lies on one of the world's busiest shipping lanes, would become a global investment hub with the addition of the oil refinery and storage complex. The $3.85 billion projects are the single largest foreign investment in Sri Lanka's history. It is jointly funded by Oman and Singapore-registered Silver Park International, a company owned by an Indian business family. The oil facility is near the port of Hambantota, which was controversially leased to a Chinese state-owned firm in 2017 for 99 years after Sri Lanka failed to service a loan from Beijing. The circumstances surrounding China's acquisition of the port generated concern in neighbouring India and beyond over Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean. But the government pointed to this new line of cash pouring into the region as proof foreign investors were not deterred by that experience. "The interest was shown by the Oman government, the interest shown by many other investors from other parts of the world shows that Hambantota will become a truly international investment zone," Wickremesinghe said Sunday. Wickremesinghe also said he hoped to strike a deal within three months with Indian airport authorities to revive a $210 million airport in Hambantota dubbed the "world's emptiest" international terminal for its lack of flights. The oil storage tanks are expected to be completed within two years while the refinery is due to be up and running by 2023. Once fully operational the refinery -- the second in Sri Lanka -- is to export nine million tonnes of petroleum products annually. The Indian Ocean island nation does not have oil of its own. It refines imported crude, but the existing refinery is unable to meet demand. The Hambantota port was built by former president Mahinda Rajapakse, but like many of his ambitious infrastructure projects it ended up a white elephant. Unable to service the loan, the Wickremesinghe government in 2017 leased the Chinese-built port to a Beijing company for $1.12 billion. This stoked controversy, with Beijing rejecting suggestions it ensnared Sri Lanka in a "debt trap" to acquire the port. Several major foreign-backed projects were put on hold last year amid a constitutional crisis after President Maithripala Sirisena's aborted bid to remove Wickremesinghe.

Sri Lanka opens work on $3.85 billion refinery near strategic port

Sri Lanka's parliament on Tuesday approved the cash-strapped country's 2019 budget, which had been delayed by four months due to a power struggle triggered by President Maithripala Sirisena dismissing the premier.

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera secured an absolute majority in the 225-member house despite threats from the opposition to defeat the budget and topple the government.

Samaraweera on Tuesday eased some of the import restrictions on vehicles for government servants, saying the country's foreign exchange reserves had improved since the crisis.

The budget was due in early November, but it was scuttled when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked his coalition government on October 26 and sparked an unprecedented power struggle.

It was originally due to be unveiled on November 5.

With no spending approved by parliament by the start of 2019, the country was on the brink of defaulting on a $1.5 billion foreign loan repayment due in January.&nbsp;

However, the supreme court intervened and restored the government, which rushed through an interim budget in December to clear the way to meet its foreign debt servicing obligations.

Samaraweera told parliament that confidence in Sri Lanka's economy suffered a serious blow due to the power struggle, and a massive amount of foreign capital left the country during the political crisis.

"The damage to the country's economy during those 52 days is immeasurable," Samaraweera said. "Over a billion dollars in foreign capital left the country at the time."

Sirisena is now in an uneasy cohabitation with his estranged Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The crisis led to three credit downgrades for Sri Lanka, making international borrowing more expensive for the island. However, the International Monetary Fund earlier this month revived a $1.5 billion bailout as the government consolidated its hold on power.

Unveiling the delayed budget a week ago, Samaraweera sharply raised taxes on alcohol, tobacco and gambling to pay for public sector salary increases and subsidised loans for small businesses.

He denied that concessions were aimed at national elections due later this year.

Sri Lanka's economy grew by just 3.0 per cent last year -- the slowest expansion in 17 years -- according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The IMF said it expected Sri Lanka's growth to improve to 3.5 per cent in 2019.

Sri Lanka's parliament on Tuesday approved the cash-strapped country's 2019 budget, which had been delayed by four months due to a power struggle triggered by President Maithripala Sirisena dismissing the premier.

Sri Lanka's parliament on Tuesday approved the cash-strapped country's 2019 budget, which had been delayed by four months due to a power struggle triggered by President Maithripala Sirisena dismissing the premier. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera secured an absolute majority in the 225-member house despite threats from the opposition to defeat the budget and topple the government. Samaraweera on Tuesday eased some of the import restrictions on vehicles for government servants, saying the country's foreign exchange reserves had improved since the crisis. The budget was due in early November, but it was scuttled when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked his coalition government on October 26 and sparked an unprecedented power struggle. It was originally due to be unveiled on November 5. With no spending approved by parliament by the start of 2019, the country was on the brink of defaulting on a $1.5 billion foreign loan repayment due in January. However, the supreme court intervened and restored the government, which rushed through an interim budget in December to clear the way to meet its foreign debt servicing obligations. Samaraweera told parliament that confidence in Sri Lanka's economy suffered a serious blow due to the power struggle, and a massive amount of foreign capital left the country during the political crisis. "The damage to the country's economy during those 52 days is immeasurable," Samaraweera said. "Over a billion dollars in foreign capital left the country at the time." Sirisena is now in an uneasy cohabitation with his estranged Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. The crisis led to three credit downgrades for Sri Lanka, making international borrowing more expensive for the island. However, the International Monetary Fund earlier this month revived a $1.5 billion bailout as the government consolidated its hold on power. Unveiling the delayed budget a week ago, Samaraweera sharply raised taxes on alcohol, tobacco and gambling to pay for public sector salary increases and subsidised loans for small businesses. He denied that concessions were aimed at national elections due later this year. Sri Lanka's economy grew by just 3.0 per cent last year -- the slowest expansion in 17 years -- according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The IMF said it expected Sri Lanka's growth to improve to 3.5 per cent in 2019.

Sri Lanka parliament finally approves 2019 budget

Sri Lanka's main Tamil party TNA and Marxist party JVP on Monday held a rare meeting here and decided to work together towards abolishing the executive presidency in the country.

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), which represented diagonally opposed political stands, came together during the political crisis in the island nation when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

The TNA and JVP put up a broad front to force Sirisena backtrack through court action. The Supreme Court's intervention made Sirisena to reinstate Wickremesinghe as the prime minister.

The meeting between the two parties on Monday came as part of JVP's consultations on the need to abolish presidency.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

The two parties held a discussion on the 20th Amendment to the Constitution which aimed at abolishing the executive presidency.

JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake told the media they discussed mustering support for the 20th amendment to the Constitution in Parliament and working in tandem on matters of mutual interest.&nbsp;

He said the JVP discussed with the TNA about a model to get all communities involved in governance.

He said the decision on the implementation of the proposed 20th amendment must be vested with the people.&nbsp;

"Those who attempt to defeat the amendment in Parliament are the ones who are afraid of the people,"&nbsp;Dissanayake said.

TNA leader R Sampanthan said they discussed how the two parties could work together for the country and the people. He said they briefed the JVP on matters recently discussed with the President and the Prime Minister on the devolution of power.&nbsp;

Both parties said their coming together was to preserve the island's Constitution and it was not an action in personal favour of Wickremesinghe.

"We have decided to work with the JVP for the betterment of the country. If we need to bring the main political parties onto the right track, the TNA and the JVP must work in unison in this regard," the veteran TNA leader said.&nbsp;

"We are open to working with the TNA based on equal participation," Dissanayake said.

The JVP in 2004 branded the TNA a proxy party of the LTTE who ran a bloody separatist campaign to carve out a separate Tamil homeland in the north and east regions of the country.

Dissanayake said the TNA was supportive of the idea to abolish the presidential system of government through the JVP's move to introduce an amendment to the Constitution.&nbsp;

The 20A seeks to abolish the executive presidency, the main feature in the existing 1978 Constitution.&nbsp;

The nationalist opposition led by the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa accuses the government of relying on the TNA's support for its survival.

Sri Lanka's main Tamil party TNA and Marxist party JVP on Monday held a rare meeting here and decided to work together towards abolishing the executive presidency in the country.

Sri Lanka's main Tamil party TNA and Marxist party JVP on Monday held a rare meeting here and decided to work together towards abolishing the executive presidency in the country. The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP) and the Tamil National Alliance (TNA), which represented diagonally opposed political stands, came together during the political crisis in the island nation when President Maithripala Sirisena sacked Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. The TNA and JVP put up a broad front to force Sirisena backtrack through court action. The Supreme Court's intervention made Sirisena to reinstate Wickremesinghe as the prime minister. The meeting between the two parties on Monday came as part of JVP's consultations on the need to abolish presidency. The two parties held a discussion on the 20th Amendment to the Constitution which aimed at abolishing the executive presidency. JVP leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake told the media they discussed mustering support for the 20th amendment to the Constitution in Parliament and working in tandem on matters of mutual interest. He said the JVP discussed with the TNA about a model to get all communities involved in governance. He said the decision on the implementation of the proposed 20th amendment must be vested with the people. "Those who attempt to defeat the amendment in Parliament are the ones who are afraid of the people," Dissanayake said. TNA leader R Sampanthan said they discussed how the two parties could work together for the country and the people. He said they briefed the JVP on matters recently discussed with the President and the Prime Minister on the devolution of power. Both parties said their coming together was to preserve the island's Constitution and it was not an action in personal favour of Wickremesinghe. "We have decided to work with the JVP for the betterment of the country. If we need to bring the main political parties onto the right track, the TNA and the JVP must work in unison in this regard," the veteran TNA leader said. "We are open to working with the TNA based on equal participation," Dissanayake said. The JVP in 2004 branded the TNA a proxy party of the LTTE who ran a bloody separatist campaign to carve out a separate Tamil homeland in the north and east regions of the country. Dissanayake said the TNA was supportive of the idea to abolish the presidential system of government through the JVP's move to introduce an amendment to the Constitution. The 20A seeks to abolish the executive presidency, the main feature in the existing 1978 Constitution. The nationalist opposition led by the former President Mahinda Rajapaksa accuses the government of relying on the TNA's support for its survival.

Sri Lanka's Tamil party TNA, JVP pledge to work together to abolish executive presidency

Sri Lanka's communist party JVP Saturday said the time was right to bring in the 20th amendment to the Constitution to abolish the all-powerful executive presidential system of governance.

The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the main mover of the motion seeking to abolish of the presidency, held a series of discussions with the main opposition leader and Sri Lanka's former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to seek his support to bring in the 20th amendment to abolish the executive presidency.

"He (Rajapaksa) was for the idea of abolishing it," senior JVP leader Bimal Ratnayake said.

He claimed that all current leaders Rajapaksa, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe were afraid of facing another presidential election.

"All of them know they can't win it. So they all will support it," Ratnayake said.

He said it was an opportune time to abolish the executive presidency which has been in existence since 1978.

Rajapaksa, who is constitutionally barred from contesting again to become president, has supported the proposal. His supporters, however, have expressed public opposition to abolishing the presidency.

They want Rajapaksa's brother Gotabaya to contest it as Rajapaksa will be constitutionally barred from running for president again.

Ratnayake said both Sirisena and Wickremesinghe want to dodge holding the provincial elections which have fallen due.

"If we can adopt 20th amendment then there will be no need to hold another presidential election. A parliamentary election can be held thereafter," he said.

The Sinhala-majority political parties, however, will face stiff resistance from the minority Muslim and Tamil parties for abolishing the presidency.

Sri Lanka Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem said his party would strongly object to abolishing the presidency.

"When the whole country is considered as one electorate to elect a president, the minority vote will become important, so we will be politically valued. That is why we would not allow JVP to change it," Hakeem said.

Since the introduction of the presidential system in 1978, every election which ensued was fought on the promise to abolish the presidency.

However, once elected all presidents chose to ignore the election promise.

Rajapaksa was elected twice as President. In 2010, he adopted an amendment to the Constitution allowing him to contest any number of times to be president.

Sirisena's current government in 2015 through the nineteenth amendment to the Constitution restored the two-term limit. This means Rajapaksa cannot become President again.

With his new party's unexpected win in the local council elections held February, the former strongman presses for an early parliamentary poll ahead of its 2020 August schedule.

However, the next election which is due is the presidential election which must be held by January of 2020. P

Sri Lanka's communist party JVP Saturday said the time was right to bring in the 20th amendment to the Constitution to abolish the all-powerful executive presidential system of governance.

Sri Lanka's communist party JVP Saturday said the time was right to bring in the 20th amendment to the Constitution to abolish the all-powerful executive presidential system of governance. The Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), the main mover of the motion seeking to abolish of the presidency, held a series of discussions with the main opposition leader and Sri Lanka's former President Mahinda Rajapaksa to seek his support to bring in the 20th amendment to abolish the executive presidency. "He (Rajapaksa) was for the idea of abolishing it," senior JVP leader Bimal Ratnayake said. He claimed that all current leaders Rajapaksa, Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe were afraid of facing another presidential election. "All of them know they can't win it. So they all will support it," Ratnayake said. He said it was an opportune time to abolish the executive presidency which has been in existence since 1978. Rajapaksa, who is constitutionally barred from contesting again to become president, has supported the proposal. His supporters, however, have expressed public opposition to abolishing the presidency. They want Rajapaksa's brother Gotabaya to contest it as Rajapaksa will be constitutionally barred from running for president again. Ratnayake said both Sirisena and Wickremesinghe want to dodge holding the provincial elections which have fallen due. "If we can adopt 20th amendment then there will be no need to hold another presidential election. A parliamentary election can be held thereafter," he said. The Sinhala-majority political parties, however, will face stiff resistance from the minority Muslim and Tamil parties for abolishing the presidency. Sri Lanka Muslim Congress leader Rauff Hakeem said his party would strongly object to abolishing the presidency. "When the whole country is considered as one electorate to elect a president, the minority vote will become important, so we will be politically valued. That is why we would not allow JVP to change it," Hakeem said. Since the introduction of the presidential system in 1978, every election which ensued was fought on the promise to abolish the presidency. However, once elected all presidents chose to ignore the election promise. Rajapaksa was elected twice as President. In 2010, he adopted an amendment to the Constitution allowing him to contest any number of times to be president. Sirisena's current government in 2015 through the nineteenth amendment to the Constitution restored the two-term limit. This means Rajapaksa cannot become President again. With his new party's unexpected win in the local council elections held February, the former strongman presses for an early parliamentary poll ahead of its 2020 August schedule. However, the next election which is due is the presidential election which must be held by January of 2020. P

Right time to abolish Sri Lanka's presidential system of governance: Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna

Sri Lanka Tuesday sharply raised taxes on alcohol, tobacco and gambling to pay for public sector salary increases and subsidised loans for small businesses in an election year.

Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera introduced a $50 entry tax on a handful of casinos while doubling taxes from the gaming industry. Hefty increases were slapped on cigarettes and alcohol.

Taxes on popular small Japanese cars were increased by a minimum of 20 per cent, while Samaraweera also introduced a new carbon tax on all categories of vehicles except electric cars.

However, the minister announced a minimum 2,500 rupee ($15) monthly salary increase for the 1.5 million public sector employees, as well as raising pensions.&nbsp;

He also announced a raft of special subsidised loans to start small businesses and cheap housing loans for newlywed couples.

The populist moves come ahead of presidential elections due later this year.

A power struggle between President Maithripala Sirisena and his estranged Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe dealt a severe blow to the economy in the last quarter of last year, Samaraweera said.

Sirisena unexpectedly sacked his prime minister in October and called fresh elections, triggering a two-month power struggle that was only ended after the Supreme Court ruled that the president had violated the constitution.

The crisis led to three credit downgrades for Sri Lanka, making international borrowing more expensive for the island.

"The resulting loss in confidence spiralled into a wave of capital flight from our debt and equity markets –- bleeding a billion dollars within those 52 days from our hard-earned foreign reserves," Samaraweera told parliament.

However, he said the economy was now on the mend.&nbsp;

Last week, the International Monetary Fund revived a $1.5 billion bailout for Sri Lanka that was suspended in October following the power struggle.

Because of the political crisis, the economy grew by just 3.0 per cent last year, the slowest expansion in 17 years, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The IMF said it expected Sri Lanka's growth to improve to 3.5 per cent in 2019.

Samaraweera said the budget deficit for calendar 2019 was estimated at 4.4 per cent of GDP, down from 5.3 per cent last year.&nbsp;

Official figures show that Sri Lanka will have to repay a record $5.9 billion in foreign loans in 2019.

Sri Lanka Tuesday sharply raised taxes on alcohol, tobacco and gambling to pay for public sector salary increases and subsidised loans for small businesses in an election year.

Sri Lanka Tuesday sharply raised taxes on alcohol, tobacco and gambling to pay for public sector salary increases and subsidised loans for small businesses in an election year. Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera introduced a $50 entry tax on a handful of casinos while doubling taxes from the gaming industry. Hefty increases were slapped on cigarettes and alcohol. Taxes on popular small Japanese cars were increased by a minimum of 20 per cent, while Samaraweera also introduced a new carbon tax on all categories of vehicles except electric cars. However, the minister announced a minimum 2,500 rupee ($15) monthly salary increase for the 1.5 million public sector employees, as well as raising pensions. He also announced a raft of special subsidised loans to start small businesses and cheap housing loans for newlywed couples. The populist moves come ahead of presidential elections due later this year. A power struggle between President Maithripala Sirisena and his estranged Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe dealt a severe blow to the economy in the last quarter of last year, Samaraweera said. Sirisena unexpectedly sacked his prime minister in October and called fresh elections, triggering a two-month power struggle that was only ended after the Supreme Court ruled that the president had violated the constitution. The crisis led to three credit downgrades for Sri Lanka, making international borrowing more expensive for the island. "The resulting loss in confidence spiralled into a wave of capital flight from our debt and equity markets –- bleeding a billion dollars within those 52 days from our hard-earned foreign reserves," Samaraweera told parliament. However, he said the economy was now on the mend. Last week, the International Monetary Fund revived a $1.5 billion bailout for Sri Lanka that was suspended in October following the power struggle. Because of the political crisis, the economy grew by just 3.0 per cent last year, the slowest expansion in 17 years, according to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka. The IMF said it expected Sri Lanka's growth to improve to 3.5 per cent in 2019. Samaraweera said the budget deficit for calendar 2019 was estimated at 4.4 per cent of GDP, down from 5.3 per cent last year. Official figures show that Sri Lanka will have to repay a record $5.9 billion in foreign loans in 2019.

Sri Lanka raises sin taxes ahead of elections

Sri Lanka's Opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday indicated that he would lead the proposed political alliance, which would function as the Joint Opposition and also fight all upcoming elections in the island nation.

The opposition led by Rajapaksa's new political outfit -- the Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP) -- has announced that they would form the broadest political alliance. It also demanded a fresh poll in the country.

"The leader of the new alliance needs to be me," Rajapaksa told reporters in Kandy town.&nbsp;

The elections to six provincial councils in Lanka are long overdue and are expected to be held in the next two-three months and the Rajapaksa camp is looking towards winning them under the broader alliance to be formed.

Meanwhile, President Maithripala Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), which is also a part of the proposed alliance, wants Sirisena to run for his second term against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe-led United National Party's (UNP) candidate in the forthcoming presidential polls, scheduled to be held in 2020.&nbsp;

While SLFP members have been publicly promoting Sirisena as the next presidential candidate, Rajapaksa's SLPP front liners have gone on record saying that the main challenger should be an SLPP member.&nbsp;

The catch, however, is that Rajapaksa is constitutionally barred from running for a third term as he was twice elected president -- in 2005 and in 2010.&nbsp;

When asked about SLFP promoting Sirisena to run for his second term, Rajapaksa said, "We will decide that at the right time."

Sri Lanka's Opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday indicated that he would lead the proposed political alliance, which would function as the Joint Opposition and also fight all upcoming elections in the island nation.

Sri Lanka's Opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa on Saturday indicated that he would lead the proposed political alliance, which would function as the Joint Opposition and also fight all upcoming elections in the island nation. The opposition led by Rajapaksa's new political outfit -- the Sri Lanka People's Party (SLPP) -- has announced that they would form the broadest political alliance. It also demanded a fresh poll in the country. "The leader of the new alliance needs to be me," Rajapaksa told reporters in Kandy town. The elections to six provincial councils in Lanka are long overdue and are expected to be held in the next two-three months and the Rajapaksa camp is looking towards winning them under the broader alliance to be formed. Meanwhile, President Maithripala Sirisena's Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP), which is also a part of the proposed alliance, wants Sirisena to run for his second term against Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe-led United National Party's (UNP) candidate in the forthcoming presidential polls, scheduled to be held in 2020. While SLFP members have been publicly promoting Sirisena as the next presidential candidate, Rajapaksa's SLPP front liners have gone on record saying that the main challenger should be an SLPP member. The catch, however, is that Rajapaksa is constitutionally barred from running for a third term as he was twice elected president -- in 2005 and in 2010. When asked about SLFP promoting Sirisena to run for his second term, Rajapaksa said, "We will decide that at the right time."

Rajapaksa may lead proposed political alliance in Sri Lanka

The International Monetary Fund will resume discussions with Sri Lanka in February for further disbursal of part of a $1.5 billion loan, the lender said, after a political crisis led to talks being delayed by three months.

Sri Lanka government leaders had agreed to stick to a reform programme following a meeting with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/america-first-imfs-lagarde-urges-us-others-to-reject-dystopian-path-181545">IMF managing director Christine Lagarde</a> in Washington on Tuesday, the bank said in a statement.

Sri Lanka is struggling to restore investor confidence and pay down its debt after it was plunged into political turmoil in October when President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly removed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and then dissolved parliament.&nbsp;

A court later ruled the move was unconstitutional, and Wickremesinghe was reinstalled as premier.

"The IMF remains ready to support the Sri Lankan authorities in these endeavours and an IMF team is scheduled to visit Colombo in mid-February to resume program discussions," Lagarde said after meeting with Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera and the central bank governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy.

"We discussed the challenging economic environment and the policy priorities for the country. The authorities stressed Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to their economic reform agenda under the IMF-supported program," Lagarde said.&nbsp;

A series of credit rating downgrades have made it harder for Sri Lanka to borrow as it faces record high repayments of $5.9 billion this year, $2.6 billion of which fall due in the first three months.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the island nation`s junior finance minister Eran Wickramaratne told Reuters that Sri Lanka is considering an offer from Bank of China for a loan of $300 million, which could be raised to $1 billion, to help it meet repayments in coming months.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka government leaders had agreed to stick to a reform programme following a meeting with IMF managing director Christine Lagarde in Washington.

The International Monetary Fund will resume discussions with Sri Lanka in February for further disbursal of part of a $1.5 billion loan, the lender said, after a political crisis led to talks being delayed by three months. Sri Lanka government leaders had agreed to stick to a reform programme following a meeting with IMF managing director Christine Lagarde in Washington on Tuesday, the bank said in a statement. Sri Lanka is struggling to restore investor confidence and pay down its debt after it was plunged into political turmoil in October when President Maithripala Sirisena abruptly removed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and then dissolved parliament. A court later ruled the move was unconstitutional, and Wickremesinghe was reinstalled as premier. "The IMF remains ready to support the Sri Lankan authorities in these endeavours and an IMF team is scheduled to visit Colombo in mid-February to resume program discussions," Lagarde said after meeting with Finance Minister Mangala Samaraweera and the central bank governor Indrajit Coomaraswamy. "We discussed the challenging economic environment and the policy priorities for the country. The authorities stressed Sri Lanka’s continued commitment to their economic reform agenda under the IMF-supported program," Lagarde said. A series of credit rating downgrades have made it harder for Sri Lanka to borrow as it faces record high repayments of $5.9 billion this year, $2.6 billion of which fall due in the first three months. On Tuesday, the island nation`s junior finance minister Eran Wickramaratne told Reuters that Sri Lanka is considering an offer from Bank of China for a loan of $300 million, which could be raised to $1 billion, to help it meet repayments in coming months.

IMF to resume Sri Lanka's loan discussion next month: Christine Lagarde

The sharp political differences between Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have been further reflected in the allocation of key departments under various ministries.

According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence.

The UNP led by Wickremesinghe argues that the police cannot be controlled by Sirisena whereas the 19th amendment to the Constitution has restricted the president to just one ministry in addition to the defence ministry.

Sirisena had also kept the government printer under him which is the authority which publishes government-gazetted decrees.

Sirisena's differences with Wickremesinghe led to a collapse of the unity government between the two leaders on October 26 as Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe as premier and withdrew his

UPFA alliance from the unity government, triggering a constitutional and political crisis never before seen in the island nation.

Both Wickremesinghe and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed prime minister by Sirisena, were claiming the premiership.

Wickremesinghe citing the 19A said Sirisena had no power to sack him. After a 50-day standoff, Wickremesinghe was restored to office.

The country's highest court has termed Sirisena's action to dismiss parliament and his call for a fresh election as illegal.

Since Wickremesinghe's reinstatement a new Cabinet was sworn in. The UNP wants the Cabinet to consist of 30 members apart from Sirisena and Wickremesinghe.

"We have asked for the opinion of the attorney general on the number of ministers. The president and prime minister who hold portfolios must be excluded in our view," minister Mano Ganesan said.

The 19A amendment has restricted the Cabinet to 30 members when a single political party holds power without any coalition arrangement with another party. Sirisena had ignored the names of those who had crossed over from his SLFP to join Wickremesinghe when the prime minister recommended them for ministerial posts.

Under the Constitution, Cabinet ministers are appointed by the president under advise from the prime minister.

Significantly, Sirisena has also appointed his own representatives to state media directorates while giving Wickremesinghe's UNP control over institutions.

According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence.

The sharp political differences between Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe have been further reflected in the allocation of key departments under various ministries. According to the subjects gazette published on Saturday, Sirisena has kept control of the police department under him as the minister of defence. The UNP led by Wickremesinghe argues that the police cannot be controlled by Sirisena whereas the 19th amendment to the Constitution has restricted the president to just one ministry in addition to the defence ministry. Sirisena had also kept the government printer under him which is the authority which publishes government-gazetted decrees. Sirisena's differences with Wickremesinghe led to a collapse of the unity government between the two leaders on October 26 as Sirisena sacked Wickremesinghe as premier and withdrew his UPFA alliance from the unity government, triggering a constitutional and political crisis never before seen in the island nation. Both Wickremesinghe and former president Mahinda Rajapaksa who was appointed prime minister by Sirisena, were claiming the premiership. Wickremesinghe citing the 19A said Sirisena had no power to sack him. After a 50-day standoff, Wickremesinghe was restored to office. The country's highest court has termed Sirisena's action to dismiss parliament and his call for a fresh election as illegal. Since Wickremesinghe's reinstatement a new Cabinet was sworn in. The UNP wants the Cabinet to consist of 30 members apart from Sirisena and Wickremesinghe. "We have asked for the opinion of the attorney general on the number of ministers. The president and prime minister who hold portfolios must be excluded in our view," minister Mano Ganesan said. The 19A amendment has restricted the Cabinet to 30 members when a single political party holds power without any coalition arrangement with another party. Sirisena had ignored the names of those who had crossed over from his SLFP to join Wickremesinghe when the prime minister recommended them for ministerial posts. Under the Constitution, Cabinet ministers are appointed by the president under advise from the prime minister. Significantly, Sirisena has also appointed his own representatives to state media directorates while giving Wickremesinghe's UNP control over institutions.

Sirisena keeps control of police as Lanka political crisis festers

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/victory-for-democracy-says-reinstated-sri-lankan-pm-wickremesinghe-184636"> power struggle with his prime minister</a>, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pms-termination-done-in-good-faith-reinstated-him-to-uphold-democracy-sri-lanka-president-sirisena-184631">Sirisena reinstated Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister</a> on Sunday after the Supreme Court threw out his attempt to dissolve <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-parliament-to-convene-on-tuesday-for-first-time-after-pm-wickremesinghes-reinstatement-185010">parliament</a> and hold early elections in the Indian Ocean nation.&nbsp;

"The forming of the cabinet was delayed because the president wanted to retain media and the police," government spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said as the new cabinet was announced.&nbsp;

"He conceded the media ministry, but will retain control over the police for a little longer."

No law and order minister was named in the new cabinet and Sirisena, who also serves as defence minister, will take responsibility for the police. &nbsp;

The key posts of finance minister and foreign minister remained unchanged from Wickremesinghe's deposed government. Mangala Samaraweera stays as finance minister and Tilak Marapana as foreign chief.

Sirisena sparked the political crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe in a bid to name nationalist firebrand <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mahinda-rajapaksa-sri-lankas-former-strongman-and-hardline-politician-184884">Mahinda Rajapakse</a> as prime minister. He had to backtrack in the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083"> face of opposition</a> from the legislature, where he had no majority and Sri Lankan courts.

In a statement in New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called for "restraint" at the beginning of the crisis, welcomed its conclusion "by peaceful, constitutional means".

Guterres called for all sides to use the appointment of the new cabinet to "resolve outstanding political differences... in the interest of the people of Sri Lanka."

Shortly after giving Wickremesinghe his job back on Sunday, Sirisena made it clear that working with the new government would be difficult.

"I still believe that I should not have made <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sri-lankas-reformist-premiere-184790">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> the prime minister, but I bow to the wishes of the majority in parliament," Sirisena said.

"But, I don't know how far we will succeed in fulfilling the wishes of our people."

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 69-year-old Wickremesinghe refused to give way to former president Rajapakse, leaving the country with two claimants to the prime minister's post and no functioning government.

The Sri Lankan parliament backed Wickremesinghe's claim that his dismissal was illegal, voting six times against Rajapakse during tumultuous sessions that at times erupted into brawls.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week power struggle with his prime minister, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police.

Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena named a 30-member cabinet Thursday to end a crippling seven-week power struggle with his prime minister, but only after a final tussle over who should control the police. Sirisena reinstated Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister on Sunday after the Supreme Court threw out his attempt to dissolve parliament and hold early elections in the Indian Ocean nation. "The forming of the cabinet was delayed because the president wanted to retain media and the police," government spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said as the new cabinet was announced. "He conceded the media ministry, but will retain control over the police for a little longer." No law and order minister was named in the new cabinet and Sirisena, who also serves as defence minister, will take responsibility for the police. The key posts of finance minister and foreign minister remained unchanged from Wickremesinghe's deposed government. Mangala Samaraweera stays as finance minister and Tilak Marapana as foreign chief. Sirisena sparked the political crisis on October 26 when he sacked Wickremesinghe in a bid to name nationalist firebrand Mahinda Rajapakse as prime minister. He had to backtrack in the face of opposition from the legislature, where he had no majority and Sri Lankan courts. In a statement in New York, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, who called for "restraint" at the beginning of the crisis, welcomed its conclusion "by peaceful, constitutional means". Guterres called for all sides to use the appointment of the new cabinet to "resolve outstanding political differences... in the interest of the people of Sri Lanka." Shortly after giving Wickremesinghe his job back on Sunday, Sirisena made it clear that working with the new government would be difficult. "I still believe that I should not have made Ranil Wickremesinghe the prime minister, but I bow to the wishes of the majority in parliament," Sirisena said. "But, I don't know how far we will succeed in fulfilling the wishes of our people." 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 69-year-old Wickremesinghe refused to give way to former president Rajapakse, leaving the country with two claimants to the prime minister's post and no functioning government. The Sri Lankan parliament backed Wickremesinghe's claim that his dismissal was illegal, voting six times against Rajapakse during tumultuous sessions that at times erupted into brawls.

Sri Lanka political crisis ends as President Sirisena names new cabinet

The abrupt removal of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-work-with-sirisena-again-wickremesinghes-united-national-party-184455">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> as Sri Lankan Prime Minister by President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-sirisena-fails-to-meet-deadline-to-end-political-crisis-183274">Maithripala Sirisena</a> and Rajapaksa’s appointment stunned the world and caused international concern.

Sri Lanka plunged into crisis on October after Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with former president <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-becomes-sri-lankas-main-opposition-leader-185083">Mahinda Rajapaksa</a> without the backing of parliament, leading to protests and downgrades of Sri Lanka’s debt.

The chain of political events in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka">island nation</a> has been billed to give shape to arguably the biggest political crisis in the country after the civil war that ended almost a decade ago.

Rajapaksa was previously unsuccessful in mustering a majority to instate his cabinet. President Sirisena prorogated and later dissolved the Parliament, calling for snap polls in January next year. The Sri Lankan Parliament moved two no-confidence motions against Rajapaksa which were rejected by President Sirisena.&nbsp;

A court, earlier this month, suspended Rajapaksa's powers as Prime Minister, ruling that his cabinet would not be functional until its legitimacy is established.

President Sirisena had dismissed the possibility of reinstating Wickremesinghe citing sharp political dissent. Ousted PM Ranil Wickremesinghe, on December 12, emphatically proved his majority in Parliament with as many as 117 of 225 Sri Lankan parliamentarians voting to pass a motion of confidence in his leadership.

The high-voltage political drama in the island nation subsided as the embattled Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned on December 15, only a month and a half after taking office.

Amid fears of a government shutdown, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off.

The development came after Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court, on December 13, pronounced a crucial verdict calling the sacking of the country's parliament by President Sirisena as illegal.

The seven-judge bench unanimously decided that Sirisena violated the country's Constitution when he dissolved parliament and called for snap polls nearly two years ahead of the schedule.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn into office for the fifth time on December 16 in a remarkable comeback. Shortly after assuming office, he held discussions with President Sirisena about forming a cabinet and restoring stability in the nations.

With Wickremesinghe’s reinstatement the Lankan political crisis, that began in late October, seems to come to an end and is being seen as an embarrassment for president Sirisena who appointed a 30-member cabinet on December 20.

Mangala Samaraweera was reappointed as finance minister as parliament considers a temporary budget aimed at avoiding a government shutdown from January 1. Sri Lankan Parliament will now get ready for a vote on account for a temporary budget that is required by January 1, preparations for the same will begin as soon as the new finance minister and the treasury secretary assume office, news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

The abrupt removal of Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lankan Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena and Rajapaksa’s appointment stunned the world and caused international concern.

The abrupt removal of Ranil Wickremesinghe as Sri Lankan Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena and Rajapaksa’s appointment stunned the world and caused international concern. Sri Lanka plunged into crisis on October after Sirisena replaced Wickremesinghe with former president Mahinda Rajapaksa without the backing of parliament, leading to protests and downgrades of Sri Lanka’s debt. The chain of political events in the island nation has been billed to give shape to arguably the biggest political crisis in the country after the civil war that ended almost a decade ago. Rajapaksa was previously unsuccessful in mustering a majority to instate his cabinet. President Sirisena prorogated and later dissolved the Parliament, calling for snap polls in January next year. The Sri Lankan Parliament moved two no-confidence motions against Rajapaksa which were rejected by President Sirisena. A court, earlier this month, suspended Rajapaksa's powers as Prime Minister, ruling that his cabinet would not be functional until its legitimacy is established. President Sirisena had dismissed the possibility of reinstating Wickremesinghe citing sharp political dissent. Ousted PM Ranil Wickremesinghe, on December 12, emphatically proved his majority in Parliament with as many as 117 of 225 Sri Lankan parliamentarians voting to pass a motion of confidence in his leadership. The high-voltage political drama in the island nation subsided as the embattled Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa resigned on December 15, only a month and a half after taking office. Amid fears of a government shutdown, Rajapaksa put in his papers and said in a statement that a change of government that "the people expected" has now been put off. The development came after Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court, on December 13, pronounced a crucial verdict calling the sacking of the country's parliament by President Sirisena as illegal. The seven-judge bench unanimously decided that Sirisena violated the country's Constitution when he dissolved parliament and called for snap polls nearly two years ahead of the schedule. Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn into office for the fifth time on December 16 in a remarkable comeback. Shortly after assuming office, he held discussions with President Sirisena about forming a cabinet and restoring stability in the nations. With Wickremesinghe’s reinstatement the Lankan political crisis, that began in late October, seems to come to an end and is being seen as an embarrassment for president Sirisena who appointed a 30-member cabinet on December 20. Mangala Samaraweera was reappointed as finance minister as parliament considers a temporary budget aimed at avoiding a government shutdown from January 1. Sri Lankan Parliament will now get ready for a vote on account for a temporary budget that is required by January 1, preparations for the same will begin as soon as the new finance minister and the treasury secretary assume office, news agency Reuters reported.

Sri Lankan political turmoil: Crisis that caused mighty embarrassment for President Sirisena

The United States on Monday praised the restoration of Sri Lankan <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ranil-wickremesinghe-sworn-in-as-the-prime-minister-of-sri-lanka-184452">Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> -- controversially replaced by a former strongman in October -- and voiced eagerness to work with him.

"We are pleased that the leadership in Sri Lanka has resolved the political crisis of the past several weeks in accordance with constitutional norms and the rule of law," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said.

"Sri Lanka is a valued partner in the Indo-Pacific, and we look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," he said.

President Maithripala Sirisena in October abruptly sacked his onetime ally Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, a former strongman who had defiantly refused international calls for accountability over the bloody end of the decades-old Tamil Tiger insurgency.

Wickremesinghe's dismissal sparked an outcry at home and abroad, with his allies saying that China -- which forged a close economic relationship with Rajapakse -- was involved, a claim denied by Beijing.

The United States on Monday praised the restoration of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe -- controversially replaced by a former strongman in October -- and voiced eagerness to work with him.

The United States on Monday praised the restoration of Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe -- controversially replaced by a former strongman in October -- and voiced eagerness to work with him. "We are pleased that the leadership in Sri Lanka has resolved the political crisis of the past several weeks in accordance with constitutional norms and the rule of law," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said. "Sri Lanka is a valued partner in the Indo-Pacific, and we look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Wickremesinghe and his cabinet to advance cooperation on bilateral and regional issues of common interest," he said. President Maithripala Sirisena in October abruptly sacked his onetime ally Wickremesinghe and replaced him with Mahinda Rajapaksa, a former strongman who had defiantly refused international calls for accountability over the bloody end of the decades-old Tamil Tiger insurgency. Wickremesinghe's dismissal sparked an outcry at home and abroad, with his allies saying that China -- which forged a close economic relationship with Rajapakse -- was involved, a claim denied by Beijing.

US eager to work with restored Sri Lanka PM Wickremesinghe

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-work-with-sirisena-again-wickremesinghes-united-national-party-184455">Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister</a> after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.

On October 26, Sirisena ousted the United National Party (UNP) leader and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, 73, in his place, a move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis.&nbsp;

However, 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.&nbsp;

"I did everything after consulting very senior lawyers and former chief justices. I acted in good faith and I will be remembered in the history for this," Sirisena, 67, said addressing Wickremesinghe and his party leaders after administering him the oath of office.&nbsp;

The president said he had sacked Wickremesinghe and called for a fresh election to give 15 plus million voters to exercise their right to vote, but "122 legislators blocked" the effort.&nbsp;

Sirisena, who had earlier vowed to never reinstate Wickremesinghe, said he reappointed him to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.&nbsp;

He is expected to swear in the new Cabinet on Monday. "A Cabinet of 30 lawmakers would be appointed within the next 48 hours," Eran Wickremaratne, a senior UNP leader, said.&nbsp;

Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. 
Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe.

Rajapaksa 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.

He said 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."

Rajapaksa said he has no intention of remaining as premier 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.

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;

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, who on Sunday reappointed Ranil Wickremesinghe as prime minister after sacking him from the job nearly two months ago, said his move to terminate the premier was done in "good faith" and the reinstatement was done to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy. On October 26, Sirisena ousted the United National Party (UNP) leader and installed former rival and ex-strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, 73, in his place, a move which plunged the island nation into a constitutional crisis. However, 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. "I did everything after consulting very senior lawyers and former chief justices. I acted in good faith and I will be remembered in the history for this," Sirisena, 67, said addressing Wickremesinghe and his party leaders after administering him the oath of office. The president said he had sacked Wickremesinghe and called for a fresh election to give 15 plus million voters to exercise their right to vote, but "122 legislators blocked" the effort. Sirisena, who had earlier vowed to never reinstate Wickremesinghe, said he reappointed him to uphold parliamentary traditions and democracy. He is expected to swear in the new Cabinet on Monday. "A Cabinet of 30 lawmakers would be appointed within the next 48 hours," Eran Wickremaratne, a senior UNP leader, said. Earlier, Wickremesinghe's party said it was ready to work with Sirisena, who was "misled by some groups" against the unity government. Sirisena and Rajapaksa suffered reversal setbacks since October, forcing the president to reinstate Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa 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. He said 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." Rajapaksa said he has no intention of remaining as premier 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. 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.

PM's termination done in 'good faith', reinstated him to uphold democracy: Sri Lanka President Sirisena

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances.

His reinstatement to power is being expected to end a political crisis gripping the country since October when he was surprisingly sacked.

Born on 24 March 1979 in Colombo, Ranil Wickremesinghe is a lawyer by profession and comes from an affluent family. 
&nbsp; 
He was first known as the nephew of Sri Lanka's first executive president, Junius Jayewardene.&nbsp;

He also received an honorary doctorate from Deakin University in Australia in 2017, for his significant contributions in reforms in economy, education and human rights.

Wickremesinghe began his political journey in 1994 when he became the leader of the United National Party (UNP) and progressed through its ranks.

Wickremesinghe was appointed as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in the new government of JR Jayewardene and was soon promoted to the post of Minister of Youth Affairs and Employment and became the youngest cabinet minister of Sri Lanka.

Under the Presidency of Ranasinghe Premadasa, Wickremasinghe was appointed as the Minister of Industry, under which he initiated industrial reforms and established the Biyagama Special Economic Zone.

In 1989 he got appointed as the Leader of the House.&nbsp;

On May 1993 Wickremesinghe came to power as he sworn in as prime minister after President Ranasinghe Premdana was assassinated by the Tamil Tigers and BV Wijetunga was appointed an acting president.

During his term, he was credited for pushing the country through an impressive economic transformation and was generally backed by the business community for his free-market policies.

He was made the minister of industries and leader of the house and then he went on to be prime minister for 16 months until Chandrika Kumaratunga's People's Alliance coalition came to power in 1994.

In the same year, he became the leader of the United National Party when party leader Gamini Dissanayake was killed by suspected rebels of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (Tamil Tigers).

In the 1999 election, Wickremesinghe was nominated as United National Party's Presidential candidate. After a tense election campaign in the wake of the violent North Western Provincial Council election, Wickremesinghe lost in the presidential elections in what observers said was a sympathy vote for President Kumaratunga after she was injured in a bomb attack.

After the loss of the 1999 presidential elections, Wickremasinghe unsuccessfully led his party in the 2000 parliamentary elections, again losing out Kumaratunga's People's alliance.

However, in 2001 UNP/UNFGG-led by Wickremesinghe&nbsp;won 109 seats and People's Alliance was able to obtain only 77 seats. Consequently, he was able to form a new UNF government and sworn as the 17th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on 9 December 2001.

During his prime ministerial tenure, Wickremesinghe&nbsp;managed a ceasefire between the government and Tamil Tiger rebels - ending 20 years of civil war - brokered by Norwegian mediators in February 2002.

He also pushed close relations with its neighbours and West.

In July 2002 he met George W Bush, then President of the United States, the first time in 18 years&nbsp;a Sri Lankan leader met the US leader in the White House.&nbsp;

This visit was primarily focused on building new relationships based on economic links between the United States and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

He also met then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi and the Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Many of these visits were focused on the issues regarding resolving the Ethnic Problem in Sri Lanka.

Wickramasinghe again lost power in 2004 in which Kumaratunga's alliance won 105 seats, defeating former who only got eight seats.

Kumaratunga commissioned Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister.

In 2005 as well Wickramasinghe lost to Rajapaksa in the presidential election with a narrow margin.

Rajapaksa lost his bid for a third term in January 2015 after calling for an early presidential election, two years ahead of schedule, ending a decade of rule that critics say had become increasingly authoritarian and marred by nepotism and corruption.

Opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena, a one-time ally of Rajapaksa who had defected in November the previous year and derailed what the president thought would be an easy win, took 51.3 per cent of the votes polled in the election. Rajapaksa got 47.6 per cent.

Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on August 21, 2015, and his alliance signed an agreement with President Maithripala Sirisena's party to work together in a national unity government to implement reform agenda.

Sri Lanka woke up to political uncertainty on October 27 after&nbsp;President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and Rajapaksa in his place.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances.

Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on Sunday, making a remarkable comeback weeks after being ousted by President Maithripala Sirisena under controversial circumstances. His reinstatement to power is being expected to end a political crisis gripping the country since October when he was surprisingly sacked. Born on 24 March 1979 in Colombo, Ranil Wickremesinghe is a lawyer by profession and comes from an affluent family. He was first known as the nephew of Sri Lanka's first executive president, Junius Jayewardene. He also received an honorary doctorate from Deakin University in Australia in 2017, for his significant contributions in reforms in economy, education and human rights. Wickremesinghe began his political journey in 1994 when he became the leader of the United National Party (UNP) and progressed through its ranks. Wickremesinghe was appointed as Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs in the new government of JR Jayewardene and was soon promoted to the post of Minister of Youth Affairs and Employment and became the youngest cabinet minister of Sri Lanka. Under the Presidency of Ranasinghe Premadasa, Wickremasinghe was appointed as the Minister of Industry, under which he initiated industrial reforms and established the Biyagama Special Economic Zone. In 1989 he got appointed as the Leader of the House. On May 1993 Wickremesinghe came to power as he sworn in as prime minister after President Ranasinghe Premdana was assassinated by the Tamil Tigers and BV Wijetunga was appointed an acting president. During his term, he was credited for pushing the country through an impressive economic transformation and was generally backed by the business community for his free-market policies. He was made the minister of industries and leader of the house and then he went on to be prime minister for 16 months until Chandrika Kumaratunga's People's Alliance coalition came to power in 1994. In the same year, he became the leader of the United National Party when party leader Gamini Dissanayake was killed by suspected rebels of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (Tamil Tigers). In the 1999 election, Wickremesinghe was nominated as United National Party's Presidential candidate. After a tense election campaign in the wake of the violent North Western Provincial Council election, Wickremesinghe lost in the presidential elections in what observers said was a sympathy vote for President Kumaratunga after she was injured in a bomb attack. After the loss of the 1999 presidential elections, Wickremasinghe unsuccessfully led his party in the 2000 parliamentary elections, again losing out Kumaratunga's People's alliance. However, in 2001 UNP/UNFGG-led by Wickremesinghe won 109 seats and People's Alliance was able to obtain only 77 seats. Consequently, he was able to form a new UNF government and sworn as the 17th Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on 9 December 2001. During his prime ministerial tenure, Wickremesinghe managed a ceasefire between the government and Tamil Tiger rebels - ending 20 years of civil war - brokered by Norwegian mediators in February 2002. He also pushed close relations with its neighbours and West. In July 2002 he met George W Bush, then President of the United States, the first time in 18 years a Sri Lankan leader met the US leader in the White House. This visit was primarily focused on building new relationships based on economic links between the United States and Sri Lanka. He also met then Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair, the Prime Minister of Japan Junichiro Koizumi and the Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Many of these visits were focused on the issues regarding resolving the Ethnic Problem in Sri Lanka. Wickramasinghe again lost power in 2004 in which Kumaratunga's alliance won 105 seats, defeating former who only got eight seats. Kumaratunga commissioned Mahinda Rajapaksa as Prime Minister. In 2005 as well Wickramasinghe lost to Rajapaksa in the presidential election with a narrow margin. Rajapaksa lost his bid for a third term in January 2015 after calling for an early presidential election, two years ahead of schedule, ending a decade of rule that critics say had become increasingly authoritarian and marred by nepotism and corruption. Opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena, a one-time ally of Rajapaksa who had defected in November the previous year and derailed what the president thought would be an easy win, took 51.3 per cent of the votes polled in the election. Rajapaksa got 47.6 per cent. Wickremesinghe was sworn in as Sri Lanka's new prime minister on August 21, 2015, and his alliance signed an agreement with President Maithripala Sirisena's party to work together in a national unity government to implement reform agenda. Sri Lanka woke up to political uncertainty on October 27 after President Sirisena, who had sacked him on October 26 and installed former rival and Rajapaksa in his place.

Ranil Wickremesinghe: Sri Lanka's reformist Premiere

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ready-to-work-with-sirisena-again-wickremesinghes-united-national-party-184455">United National Party</a> leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sri-lanka/president-sirisenas-decision-led-to-the-political-crisis-in-sri-lanka-ranil-wickremesinghe-to-wion-176269">Ranil Wickremesinghe</a> was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on Sunday, ending a 51-day power tussle in the island nation that had crippled the government.

Wickremesinghe was administered the oath of office by President Maithripala Sirisen at a simple ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat here.

Wickremesinghe was sworn in around 11:15 am, which was considered as an auspicious time for Wickremesinghe, who took over the post for the fifth time.

His appointment comes hours after former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena, resigned Saturday, paving way for the return of Wickremesinghe as premier.

President Sirisena had sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into an unprecedented constitutional crisis.

Sirisena agreed to reinstate Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday.

Meanwhile, 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.

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.

United National Party leader Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on Sunday, ending a 51-day power tussle in the island nation that had crippled the government.

United National Party leader Ranil Wickremesinghe was sworn in as the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka on Sunday, ending a 51-day power tussle in the island nation that had crippled the government. Wickremesinghe was administered the oath of office by President Maithripala Sirisen at a simple ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat here. Wickremesinghe was sworn in around 11:15 am, which was considered as an auspicious time for Wickremesinghe, who took over the post for the fifth time. His appointment comes hours after former strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was appointed Prime Minister by President Maithripala Sirisena, resigned Saturday, paving way for the return of Wickremesinghe as premier. President Sirisena had sacked Wickremesinghe on October 26, in a controversial move which plunged the island nation into an unprecedented constitutional crisis. Sirisena agreed to reinstate Minister Wickremesinghe in the post after a discussion with him over the phone on Friday. Meanwhile, 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. 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.

Ranil Wickremesinghe takes oath as Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister after 2 months of political impasse

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