India's premier Indian Institute of Technology is all set to open a new campus in Sri Lanka. This will be the third offshore campus after Zanzibar and Abu Dhabi.

Gravitas: India's IIT to soon open a campus in Sri Lanka

Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan were 128/1 and then 143/2 before Wanindu Hasaranga came on and took four wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs to take his team home.

Afghanistan skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi acknowledged the shocking&nbsp;collapse and said after the game: "Our top order did really well, but the ball was gripping for Hasaranga. Looking at the wicket and the conditions, we were positive, and were thinking of chasing it down."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/icc-u19-world-cup-heartbreak-for-india-again-as-australia-win-by-79-runs-in-final-for-fourth-title-win-689258">ICC U19 World Cup: Heartbreak for India again as Australia win by 79 runs in final for fourth title</a>

Shahidi, however, lamented the poor discipline in bowling and fielding to allow Sri Lanka to post a 300-plus total for the second time in a row.&nbsp;

"The fielding was not good; we gave away chances. [There were] nearly four drops. Fielding is important, and you also have to think about the bowling, where we have to be more disciplined," Shahidi said.

For Afghanistan, Rahmat Shah top scored with 63 at number three while opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 54 after Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed early. Apart from Rahmat and Zadran, no Afghan batter reached the double figures as they were bowled out for 153 in 33.5 overs.

Earlier, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first in Pallekele. The hosts didn't have a good start too as they lost last match's double centurion Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando inside 10 overs. The next four batters scored a fifty each for Sri Lanka with Charith Asalanka remaining not out on 97.

Apart from him, skipper Kusal Mendis hit 61, Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 52, and Janith Liyanage managed 50 to put 308 for Sri Lanka on the board. From Afghanistan, Azamatullah Omarzai was the pick of the bowlers with the figures of 3/56.

The last and final match of the series will be played on February 14.

Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

Afghanistan lost eight wickets for just 10 runs, including the last five for just a single run in a chase of 309 as Sri Lanka won the second ODI by 155 runs on Sunday (Feb 11) to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Afghanistan were 128/1 and then 143/2 before Wanindu Hasaranga came on and took four wickets for 27 runs in 6.5 overs to take his team home. Afghanistan skipper Hasmatullah Shahidi acknowledged the shocking collapse and said after the game: "Our top order did really well, but the ball was gripping for Hasaranga. Looking at the wicket and the conditions, we were positive, and were thinking of chasing it down." Also Read: ICC U19 World Cup: Heartbreak for India again as Australia win by 79 runs in final for fourth title Shahidi, however, lamented the poor discipline in bowling and fielding to allow Sri Lanka to post a 300-plus total for the second time in a row. "The fielding was not good; we gave away chances. [There were] nearly four drops. Fielding is important, and you also have to think about the bowling, where we have to be more disciplined," Shahidi said. For Afghanistan, Rahmat Shah top scored with 63 at number three while opener Ibrahim Zadran scored 54 after Rahmanullah Gurbaz departed early. Apart from Rahmat and Zadran, no Afghan batter reached the double figures as they were bowled out for 153 in 33.5 overs. Earlier, Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first in Pallekele. The hosts didn't have a good start too as they lost last match's double centurion Pathum Nissanka and Avishka Fernando inside 10 overs. The next four batters scored a fifty each for Sri Lanka with Charith Asalanka remaining not out on 97. Apart from him, skipper Kusal Mendis hit 61, Sadeera Samarawickrama scored 52, and Janith Liyanage managed 50 to put 308 for Sri Lanka on the board. From Afghanistan, Azamatullah Omarzai was the pick of the bowlers with the figures of 3/56. The last and final match of the series will be played on February 14.

Afghanistan, in stunning collapse, lose eight wickets for 10 runs as Sri Lanka seal series with win in 2nd ODI

India and Sri Lanka have taken a step towards boosting their fintech sector connectivity. India is launching its unified payment interface also known as UPI in Sri Lanka and RuPay card in Mauritius today. Indian PM Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe and Sri Lanka's PM will attend the virtual event. Watch to know more!

India's Unified Payments Interface available in Sri Lanka from February 12

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expanded India's digital payment system, UPI, to Sri Lanka and and Mauritius today (February 12). The launch of UPI services in Sri Lanka and Mauritius took place during a virtual ceremony.

Indian PM Modi launches UPI services in Sri Lanka and Mauritius

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'.&nbsp;

Here's the full conversation

WION: I have with me the &nbsp;Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean. How do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen the crisis in the Red Sea as well.

Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and future and the globe. So therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement.

WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir?

Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our foreign policy of independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. We intend to play that role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year.

WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries?

Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in in principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them.

WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis.

Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries.

WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil?

Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again.

WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date?

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to have it on the 12th of this month for virtually sign that. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched.

WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details.

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think IIT. A delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it.

WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. &nbsp;BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping?

Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organization, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organization. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it hopefully, we will have it this year sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region.

WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well.

Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance.

WION: Thank you...

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'. Here's the full conversation WION: I have with me the Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean. How do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen the crisis in the Red Sea as well. Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and future and the globe. So therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement. WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir? Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our foreign policy of independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. We intend to play that role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year. WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries? Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in in principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them. WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis. Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries. WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil? Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again. WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date? Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to have it on the 12th of this month for virtually sign that. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched. WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details. Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think IIT. A delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it. WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping? Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organization, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organization. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it hopefully, we will have it this year sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region. WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well. Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance. WION: Thank you...

Exclusive | Sri Lanka to launch UPI on Feb 12, says Foreign Minister Sabry

India and Sri Lanka have taken a step towards boosting their fintech sector connectivity. India is launching its unified payment interface also known as UPI in Sri Lanka and RuPay card in Mauritius tomorrow. Indian PM Narendra Modi, Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe and Sri Lanka's PM will attend the virtual event. Watch to know more!

India to launch its Unified Payments Interface in Sri Lanka on February 12

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'.&nbsp;

Here's the full conversation

WION: I have with me the &nbsp;Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean, how do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen like the crisis in the Red Sea.

Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and for the globe. Therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement.

WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir?

Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our&nbsp;independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year.

WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries?

Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in&nbsp;principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them.

WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis.

Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries.

WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil?

Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again.

WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date?

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to virtually sign that &nbsp;on the 12th of this month. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched.

WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details.

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think a delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it.

WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. &nbsp;BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping?

Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organisation, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organisation. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it. Hopefully, we will have it sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region.

WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well.

Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance.

WION: Thank you...

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'. Here's the full conversation WION: I have with me the Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean, how do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen like the crisis in the Red Sea. Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and for the globe. Therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement. WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir? Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. We intend to have an IORA Summit, if the leaders' calendar permits that this year. WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries? Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in principle parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them. WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis. Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries. WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil? Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by the next 12 the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that UPL will be a lab in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again. WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date? Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to virtually sign that on the 12th of this month. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched. WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details. Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think a delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it. WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping? Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organisation, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see BIMSTEC as a viable strong organisation. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it. Hopefully, we will have it sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region. WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. And this is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well. Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and don't be carried out with one-sided versions, which have been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance. WION: Thank you...

Exclusive | Sri Lanka to launch UPI on February 12, says Foreign Minister Sabry

Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in an exclusive interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, thanked India for the economic support to his country amid the economic crisis.

Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on Chinese vessels, UPI and more

WION's Principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal spoke with Sri Lankan president Ranil Wickremesinghe. The Sri Lankan President addressed numerous topics including ties between India and Sri Lanka and also Regional security concerns amongst others. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe speaks to WION on India-Sri Lanka ties & more

Sri Lankan Foreign minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increasing tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said,'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing this possibility of establishing IIT campus in Sri Lanka'. Full interview.

UPI to be launched in Sri Lanka on 12th February: Sri Lanka Foreign minister Sabry

Sri Lanka President Ranil Wickremesinghe has thanked India for the economic support to his country amid the economic crisis. Speaking to our diplomat correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, 'thankful to India without that we could not have survived and this is why we are also looking at closer relations between the two countries'. India provided a support of almost $4 Bn to the country during the economic crisis. The President pointed that plans are underway for Chennai IIT to establish a campus in Sri Lanka "most probably in Kandy.". He President spoke on other issues including visit of Chinese vessels to Sri Lanka, Maldives President Muizzu's India policy amoung other things.

Sri Lanka President thanks India for economic support; Plans for IIT Campus in Kandy

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'.&nbsp;

Here's the full conversation

WION: With me is the Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean. How do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen the crisis in the Red Sea as well.

Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and future and the globe. So therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement.

WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir?

Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our foreign policy of independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. We intend to play that role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. It is our intention to have an IORA Summit if the leaders' calendar permits that this year.

WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries?

Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in principle, the parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them.

WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis.

Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries.

WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil?

Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by 12 February the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that, UPI will be launched in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again.

WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date?

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to have it on the 12th of this month for virtually sign that. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched.

WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details.

Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think IIT. A Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it.

WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. &nbsp;BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping?

Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organization, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see Bimstec as a viable strong organization. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it hopefully, we will have it this year sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region.

WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. This is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they still continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well.

Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and not be carried out with one-sided versions, which had been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance.

WION: Thank you...

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has said that India's UPI will be launched on 12th February. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Perth, he said, "UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online" which will help increase tourism. The minister is in Perth for the Indian Ocean conference. He also pointed to the establishment of Indian IIT in his country. He said, 'Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka'. Here's the full conversation WION: With me is the Sri Lankan foreign minister here in Perth at the Indian Ocean conference. SIR welcome to WION, starting with the Indian Ocean. How do you see this region? Going forward there are several challenges we have seen the crisis in the Red Sea as well. Ali Sabry: I think the Indian Ocean is going to be very important for the future... future of the region and future and the globe. So therefore, it's important that make collaborative partnerships, understand each other give diplomacy a chance and try to resolve issues through dialogue. So that could only be done through these kinds of involvement. WION: Essentially, how can Sri Lanka play an important role in terms of providing stability to regions sir? Ali Sabry: Sri Lanka as you know always advocated peace in the Indian Ocean. In 1971, we went to the UN and resolved a resolution. We moved the resolution to maintain the Indian Ocean and that space as a zone of peace. So that's our legacy. So we continue to do so. I think India could play a very balancing role, given our foreign policy of independent foreign policy and allied foreign policy and close leadership and the friendship that we have traditionally maintained with India and also with the other powers, both on the West and the East. So, therefore, I feel Sri Lanka can play a very important role. We intend to play that role. And I think being the chair of the IORA, we try to make use of this opportunity to bring parties together. It is our intention to have an IORA Summit if the leaders' calendar permits that this year. WION: You are planning an IORA summit... are the leaders... has there been a conversation with other countries? Ali Sabry: Yes, of course, we have during the foreign ministers meeting in October in Colombo, we discussed this and in principle, the parties agreed. Of course, it all depends on how the leaders' calendar will suit them. WION: Sir coming to the bilateral aspect, how is the relationship between India and Sri Lanka going forward? India played an important role in making sure that $4 billion was given to your country when it was going through an economic crisis. Ali Sabry: I think Sri Lanka and India have read partnership in the recent past a it has really improved Sri Lankans, as you very correctly pointed out, with gratitude remember, the great support extended by the Indians during the crucial hour in 2022. Because the challenge at that point in time was to get the bridging financing until IMF go through the EFF and other things have been going on. We need to live for a day or two. So that was a very euro too during that particular period of time. India played a great role by extending that facility by the credit line and also postponing UPI payments and all those things. So we are very grateful. I think that has provided an opportunity for further collaboration and we are happy to see a lot of projects which have been in the pipeline for a long period of time are ultimately realizing a lot of interest on the part of the Indian companies to engage in Sri Lanka, not only government to government, but private sector as well as people to people contact has improved. We have seen an upsurge of the Indian tourists coming towards Sri Lanka. So I think these are good times. We must capitalize on that and create a situation which is good for both countries. WION: Usage of Indian rupee anything on the anvil? Ali Sabry: Yes, I think by 12 February the UPI payment gateway will be signed. And I think both our leaders will connect online. So hopefully with that, UPI will be launched in Colombo. So that will boost the tourism back in Sri Lanka again. WION: So when it will be launched, you have a date? Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think we are now scheduled to have it on the 12th of this month for virtually sign that. Okay, so with that it will be officially launched. WION: Okay, that's a big development. We had an interview with your president as well who spoke about the establishment of IIT in Sri Lanka, if you can give me details. Ali Sabry: Yeah, I think IIT. A Delegation from Sri Lanka went to IIT Madras and they are discussing the possibility of establishing an IIT campus in Sri Lanka, probably in the district of either Candy or Nuwara Eliya. So we will be in the hill country, so therefore, we see a lot of potential and I see a lot of potential for education in Sri Lanka, and collaboration and partnership with IIT is a good way to look at it. WION: Sir my final question to you is, essentially, when it comes to the region, we have talked about the Indian Ocean region, but there are groupings as well. You mentioned about the IORA. BIMSTEC is a grouping that is an emerging grouping. What's your hope on that grouping? Ali Sabry: BIMSTEC we had about last year in Thailand, we had a very interesting and important discussion among the foreign ministers, in which we discussed the way forward for the BIMSTEC. I say BIMSTEC is a very vibrant organization, with a lot of potential in the Bay of Bengal initiative. So with the land connectivity with India is interested and with the land connectivity on which Sri Lanka is focused, we see Bimstec as a viable strong organization. Hopefully, we can strengthen this further. So Thailand is the current chair and last year we were to have a summit but we couldn't have it hopefully, we will have it this year sometime towards the end of the year. And with that, we could give some impetus. See that the BIMSTEC plays a role to connect the region and improve economic abilities for everybody in the region. WION: I'm tempted to ask another question. This is related to one of your replies in New York that became very viral in India and was related to Canada. How do you see the Canadian government's policy? We know that they still continue to make remarks on India the relationship with Sri Lanka we know is something that hasn't been said it ends as well. Ali Sabry: I think it's important that people should know there a two sides to any story before jumping to a conclusion and only please, a segment of a society or community is not that great. That's not diplomacy. So therefore, we would urge all parties to take diverse opinions and give diplomacy a chance and not be carried out with one-sided versions, which had been promoted by certain people with a hidden agenda and ulterior motives, because countries cannot get isolated themselves. Everyone needs everyone. So globalization means that people-to-people contact matters. So people-to-people contact means every.. whole people matters not a group of people matters. So that's the message I have to give. We would urge that all perspectives be taken into consideration in deciding the country's policy towards another country. For example, if it is Sri Lanka, take the perspective of the Sri Lankan government, the Sri Lankan community at large, not a particular segment of the Sri Lankan community. So that's how we can build relationships and build bridges is easy to you know, build walls and divide people challenge is to bring people together. So that challenge cannot be done through ill advice or one-sided acts, it needs to be a broader perspective, sit and discuss, and give diplomacy a chance. WION: Thank you...

Exclusive | UPI to be launched in Sri Lanka on February 12, says Foreign Minister Sabry

In a developing maritime situation, the Indian Navy is closely monitoring the movement of the Chinese ocean research vessel XIANG YANG HONG 03. The Chinese vessel has been denied permission to enter Sri Lanka's exclusive economic zone. An Indian Navy submarine reportedly approached Columbo on Saturday while the Chinese ship was engaged in so-called research activity. As per Sri Lankan reports the Xiang Yanng Hong 3 vessel had diverted to the Maldives for logistical support. The development comes amid the recent India-Maldives tensions. Watch to know more!

China's ship in Sri Lanka's exclusive economic zone | Research vessel or a snooping device?

Sri Lanka eyes $5 billion in foreign funds. Colombo expects to raise $5 billion in foreign funds over next two years. Sri Lanka anticipates injection of money after debt restructuring. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka: Colombo expects to raise $5 billion in foreign funds over next two years

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday (Feb 5) on a three-day outreach trip.

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday (Feb 5) on a three-day outreach trip. Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting, with the former taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) to inform about it. "Pleased to meet @anuradisanayake , Leader of NPP and JVP of Sri Lanka this morning. A good discussion on our bilateral relationship and the mutual benefits from its further deepening. Also spoke about Sri Lanka’s economic challenges and the path ahead," wrote Jaishankar. The EAM stressed that New Delhi with its neighbourhood first and SAGAR policies will continue to be a "reliable and trusted partner to Sri Lanka". Apart from Dissanayake, senior legislator Vijitha Herath, Secretary Nihal Abeysinghe and executive committee member Prof Anil Jayantha are also in the delegation. Watch | Sri Lanka's Marxist party JVP on India visit × Why is Dissanayake's visit significant? Dissanayake's visit assumes importance as the JVP leader helms the National People’s Power [NPP] alliance. His popularity soared during the economic crisis of 2022 when he led the people's movement which resulted in former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa relinquishing his powers. Recent survey conducted by the Institute for Health Policy, a Colombo-based research institution, shows that Dissanayake is the most preferred candidate to secure the presidential elections, scheduled to be held later this year. As many as 50 per cent of respondents in the survey said they will cast the ballot for Dissanayake, followed by Sajith Premadasa (33 per cent) and President Ranil Wickremesinghe (nine per cent). Sensing the tide, the NVP leader has already declared his candidacy for the election. Also read | Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe Moreover, Dissanayake taking a pro-India position comes in stark contract to the stance taken by his party in late 1980s. The JVP led an anti-India campaign in 1987-90 against the Indo-Lanka Accord that it deemed an expression of “Indian expansionism”. Dissanayake acknowledges the shift in party's stance and states that any decision that the island nation makes should be done so in keeping view of the impact it has on India. “We do know that India, who is our closest neighbour, has become a major political and economic centre. So, when we take economic and political decisions, we will always care about how it will impact India," Dissanayake was quoted as saying by Indian newspaper The Hindu last year. When Sri Lanka was staring at an economic collapse and the negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) seemed aimless, it was India that stepped in and provided assistance worth $3.8 billion. If Dissanayake does come to power, it could help New Delhi have a trusted ally in the south - a proposition that may irk China. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka's JVP delegation visits India. Why is it significant?

A delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front) arrived in New Delhi on Monday on a three-day outreach trip. The Indian government had invited a delegation led by Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of Sri Lanka’s leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP or People’s Liberation Front), to New Delhi, in a significant outreach to the island nation’s most popular politician at the moment. Dissanayake met India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and held a productive meeting. Watch to know more!

Sri Lanka's Marxist party on India visit

Sri Lanka's JVP delegation visits India | India-Sri Lanka Relations

Ahead of its independence day today, Sri Lanka has signed a free trade agreement with Thailand.

Sri Lanka-Thailand sign trade deal

A Sri Lankan court remanded a senior cabinet minister in custody Saturday over the purchase of fake medicines for state hospitals when he was in charge of the health portfolio.

Former health minister&nbsp;Keheliya&nbsp;Rambukwella&nbsp;was ordered to be held until February 15 pending investigations into a 144 million rupee ($465,000) scam involving what were meant to be life-saving drugs.

Police told the court in Colombo the health ministry had intended to buy a stock of the antibody immunoglobulin, which is used on immune-compromised patients.

What the ministry paid for turned out to be mostly water.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-controversial-new-law-to-regulate-online-content-comes-into-force-686131">Sri Lanka’s controversial new law to regulate online content comes into force</a>

"The drug had been issued to hospitals between July and September when patients reported adverse reactions triggering quality tests," an investigator told AFP.

It was not clear if there were deaths associated with the use of the fake medication.

The Criminal Investigations Department began questioning&nbsp;Rambukwella&nbsp;on Friday and took him before Colombo's Maligakanda Magistrate Court, where the judge ordered his detention.

Several other key health ministry officials have already been arrested.&nbsp;Rambukwella&nbsp;is currently the environment minister.

The supplier, a local company, was to be paid 960 million rupees ($3.1 million) but the payments were stopped after the quality concerns arose in September.

The owner of the company is also in custody.

Sri Lanka faced an acute shortage of medicines after the country defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 after declaring bankruptcy.

Most essential medicines were later financed through a credit line from neighbouring India, as well as the World Bank.

A Sri Lankan court remanded a senior cabinet minister in custody Saturday over the purchase of fake medicines for state hospitals when he was in charge of the health portfolio.

A Sri Lankan court remanded a senior cabinet minister in custody Saturday over the purchase of fake medicines for state hospitals when he was in charge of the health portfolio. Former health minister Keheliya Rambukwella was ordered to be held until February 15 pending investigations into a 144 million rupee ($465,000) scam involving what were meant to be life-saving drugs. Police told the court in Colombo the health ministry had intended to buy a stock of the antibody immunoglobulin, which is used on immune-compromised patients. What the ministry paid for turned out to be mostly water. Also read | Sri Lanka’s controversial new law to regulate online content comes into force "The drug had been issued to hospitals between July and September when patients reported adverse reactions triggering quality tests," an investigator told AFP. It was not clear if there were deaths associated with the use of the fake medication. The Criminal Investigations Department began questioning Rambukwella on Friday and took him before Colombo's Maligakanda Magistrate Court, where the judge ordered his detention. Several other key health ministry officials have already been arrested. Rambukwella is currently the environment minister. The supplier, a local company, was to be paid 960 million rupees ($3.1 million) but the payments were stopped after the quality concerns arose in September. The owner of the company is also in custody. Sri Lanka faced an acute shortage of medicines after the country defaulted on its $46 billion foreign debt in April 2022 after declaring bankruptcy. Most essential medicines were later financed through a credit line from neighbouring India, as well as the World Bank.

Former Sri Lanka minister Keheliya Rambukwella arrested over fake drug scam

Sri Lanka’s draconian law to regulate online content came into effect on Thursday (Feb 1) amid widespread criticism and concern. The law, which rights groups and opposition politicians allege is aimed at stifling free speech, passed last week in the country’s parliament.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the bill about?</h2>

The Online Safety Bill will give a five-member commission the power to assess and remove the content it considers illegal. Additionally, the members of the so-called “Online Safety Commission” will be appointed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe.&nbsp;

The bill also proposed jail terms and hefty fines for what it considers illegal content and making social media platforms such as Google, Facebook, and X, liable for such content on their platforms.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-big-blow-to-china-year-long-moratorium-on-entry-of-spy-ships-671275">Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’</a>

The government has said that the law is aimed at battling cyber crime including child abuse, data theft and online fraud, but the critics of the law and opposition politicians have said that it is to suppress free speech and dissent ahead of elections.&nbsp;

The bill was passed on January 24 with a majority of 46 votes in the 225-member house amid protests outside the parliament.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has reported 8,000 cybercrime complaints in 2023, said Public Security Minister Tiran Alles, on Tuesday (Jan 23) while introducing the bill, adding that “We all agree that we need laws to address these issues. This is why we are bringing this law.”&nbsp;

“It is not to suppress the media or the opposition...Any complaint will be taken up by the commission, who will be appointed by the president and they will decide how to act,” said the Sri Lankan minister.

<h2>‘Adamant pursuit’</h2>

On Thursday, a Sri Lankan pro-democracy group, March 12 Movement, said that the government’s “adamant pursuit” of the legislation was a “clear indication of its intention to silent dissent and suppress civic activism,” as quoted by BBC.&nbsp;

Additionally, several international rights groups, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), Amnesty International, and the United Nations have expressed concerns over the law.&nbsp;

Last year, the UN human rights office said that the law “could potentially criminalize nearly all forms of legitimate expression, creating an environment that has a chilling effect on freedom of expression.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sri-lankas-ambitious-2024-budget-targets-higher-revenues-and-a-controlled-deficit-658291">Sri Lanka's ambitious 2024 budget targets higher revenues and a controlled deficit</a>

“The law would seriously threaten the right to freedom of expression as Sri Lanka prepares for parliamentary and presidential elections later this year,” Meenakshi Ganguly, Deputy Asia Director of HRW, wrote in a statement.&nbsp;

“This legislation is a threat to our democracy,” Harsha de Silva, a lawmaker of Sri Lanka’s main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, told parliament last week.&nbsp;

He added, “This will have a severe negative impact on expanding e-commerce in Sri Lanka, to provide jobs to our youth and help our economy, which is in desperate need of growth.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka’s draconian law to regulate online content came into effect on Thursday (Feb 1) amid widespread criticism and concern. The law, which rights groups and opposition politicians allege is aimed at stifling free speech, passed last week in the country’s parliament.

Sri Lanka’s draconian law to regulate online content came into effect on Thursday (Feb 1) amid widespread criticism and concern. The law, which rights groups and opposition politicians allege is aimed at stifling free speech, passed last week in the country’s parliament. What is the bill about? The Online Safety Bill will give a five-member commission the power to assess and remove the content it considers illegal. Additionally, the members of the so-called “Online Safety Commission” will be appointed by President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The bill also proposed jail terms and hefty fines for what it considers illegal content and making social media platforms such as Google, Facebook, and X, liable for such content on their platforms. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka’s big blow to China: Year-long moratorium on entry of ‘spy ships’ The government has said that the law is aimed at battling cyber crime including child abuse, data theft and online fraud, but the critics of the law and opposition politicians have said that it is to suppress free speech and dissent ahead of elections. The bill was passed on January 24 with a majority of 46 votes in the 225-member house amid protests outside the parliament. Sri Lanka has reported 8,000 cybercrime complaints in 2023, said Public Security Minister Tiran Alles, on Tuesday (Jan 23) while introducing the bill, adding that “We all agree that we need laws to address these issues. This is why we are bringing this law.” “It is not to suppress the media or the opposition...Any complaint will be taken up by the commission, who will be appointed by the president and they will decide how to act,” said the Sri Lankan minister. ‘Adamant pursuit’ On Thursday, a Sri Lankan pro-democracy group, March 12 Movement, said that the government’s “adamant pursuit” of the legislation was a “clear indication of its intention to silent dissent and suppress civic activism,” as quoted by BBC. Additionally, several international rights groups, including Human Rights Watch (HRW), Amnesty International, and the United Nations have expressed concerns over the law. Last year, the UN human rights office said that the law “could potentially criminalize nearly all forms of legitimate expression, creating an environment that has a chilling effect on freedom of expression.” ALSO READ | Sri Lanka's ambitious 2024 budget targets higher revenues and a controlled deficit “The law would seriously threaten the right to freedom of expression as Sri Lanka prepares for parliamentary and presidential elections later this year,” Meenakshi Ganguly, Deputy Asia Director of HRW, wrote in a statement. “This legislation is a threat to our democracy,” Harsha de Silva, a lawmaker of Sri Lanka’s main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya, told parliament last week. He added, “This will have a severe negative impact on expanding e-commerce in Sri Lanka, to provide jobs to our youth and help our economy, which is in desperate need of growth.” (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka’s controversial new law to regulate online content comes into force

A series of one protest have now erupted in the island and this has bought the commercial capital Colombo to a standstill. Thousands of protestors were demanding step back from massive increase of taxes and electricity tariffs.

Sri Lanka economic crisis: Sri Lankan protest tax hike, rising prices ahead of Presidential polls

In a display of international cooperation, the Indian Navy, in conjunction with Seychelles Defence Forces and the Sri Lanka Navy, successfully thwarted the hijacking of a Sri Lankan fishing vessel, ensuring the safety of its crew, an Indian government press release said.&nbsp;

The incident took place as the Sri Lankan-flagged multiday fishing trawler, Lorenzo Putha 04, reported a hijacking approximately 955 nautical miles east of Mogadishu, Somalia. Earlier Sri Lankan navy spokesman Gayan Wickramasuriya reportedly said, “Our information is that they were captured by Somali pirates."&nbsp;

Three pirates had taken control of the fishing trawler on Saturday last week (Jan 27).

Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Indian Navy deployed INS Sharada from Kochi on January 28 and tasked HALE Sea Guardian to locate and intercept the hijacked fishing vessel.

The collaborative efforts extended to efficient operational coordination and information sharing through the Sri Lanka and Seychelles International Liaison Officers at IFC IOR, New Delhi.

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The culmination of these efforts occurred on January 29, 2024, when the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel, SCGS Topaz, intercepted the hijacked fishing vessel within the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

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The three pirates chose to surrender to the Seychelles Coast Guard, and all six crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely.

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Currently, the hijacked vessel is under escort to Mahe, Seychelles after a successful joint operation to rescue the Sri Lankan fishing crew and secure the vessel from the threat of piracy.

The bulk carrier MV Ruen also fell victim to a hijacking by Somali pirates last month. The vessel, owned by Bulgaria and flying the flag of Malta, was taken over 380 nautical miles east of the Yemeni island of Socotra on December 16.

Following the seizure, the pirates, after releasing one injured sailor to the custody of the Indian navy, transported the MV Ruen along with its remaining 17 crew members to the semi-autonomous state of Puntland in Somalia.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a display of international cooperation, the Indian Navy, in conjunction with Seychelles Defence Forces and the Sri Lanka Navy, successfully thwarted the hijacking of a Sri Lankan fishing vessel, ensuring the safety of its crew, an Indian government press release said.

In a display of international cooperation, the Indian Navy, in conjunction with Seychelles Defence Forces and the Sri Lanka Navy, successfully thwarted the hijacking of a Sri Lankan fishing vessel, ensuring the safety of its crew, an Indian government press release said. The incident took place as the Sri Lankan-flagged multiday fishing trawler, Lorenzo Putha 04, reported a hijacking approximately 955 nautical miles east of Mogadishu, Somalia. Earlier Sri Lankan navy spokesman Gayan Wickramasuriya reportedly said, “Our information is that they were captured by Somali pirates." Three pirates had taken control of the fishing trawler on Saturday last week (Jan 27). Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Indian Navy deployed INS Sharada from Kochi on January 28 and tasked HALE Sea Guardian to locate and intercept the hijacked fishing vessel. The collaborative efforts extended to efficient operational coordination and information sharing through the Sri Lanka and Seychelles International Liaison Officers at IFC IOR, New Delhi. Also Read | US-based tech entrepreneur donates $13.75 mn to alma mater IIT-Madras The culmination of these efforts occurred on January 29, 2024, when the Seychelles Coast Guard vessel, SCGS Topaz, intercepted the hijacked fishing vessel within the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Also Read | Have a look at PM Modi’s personal diary featuring Mahatma Gandhi’s quotes The three pirates chose to surrender to the Seychelles Coast Guard, and all six crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely. Watch | Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar speaks on Maldives' 'India out' campaign × Currently, the hijacked vessel is under escort to Mahe, Seychelles after a successful joint operation to rescue the Sri Lankan fishing crew and secure the vessel from the threat of piracy. The bulk carrier MV Ruen also fell victim to a hijacking by Somali pirates last month. The vessel, owned by Bulgaria and flying the flag of Malta, was taken over 380 nautical miles east of the Yemeni island of Socotra on December 16. Following the seizure, the pirates, after releasing one injured sailor to the custody of the Indian navy, transported the MV Ruen along with its remaining 17 crew members to the semi-autonomous state of Puntland in Somalia. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Navy rescues hijacked Sri Lankan vessel, all six crew members safe

Iran backed Houthi rebels continue assault on commercial vessels. Rise in commercial vessels at Sri Lanka port amid Red Sea tensions. Colombo Port provides convenient access between Africa, West Asia. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Rise in commercial vessels at Sri Lanka port amid Red Sea tensions

Sri Lanka's Colombo port is witnessing a significant increase in container volumes in recent weeks, attributed to vessels diverting from tensions in the southern Red Sea.<o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, officials on Tuesday reported that shipping companies are choosing Colombo as a convenient transit point due to its strategic location. <o:p></o:p>

The Yemeni Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have targeted ships in the Red Sea since November, prompting some shipping companies to opt for a longer and more expensive route around Africa's Cape of Good Hope. <o:p></o:p>

Colombo's accessibility to the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia positions it as a key port for vessels navigating these regions.<o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited Lal Weerasinghe, a senior official at the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), who highlighted Colombo's prominence as the first hub for ships coming past South Africa, providing a more convenient location than Singapore. <o:p></o:p>

The port, handling 6.94 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2023, experienced a 2 per cent annual increase. <o:p></o:p>

December saw a notable 15 per cent year-on-year surge in TEUs. <o:p></o:p>

Over the past four to six weeks, shipping lines have sought additional berthing windows, and transhipment volumes from neighbouring India have also risen. <o:p></o:p>

Despite the increased demand, the port had to decline requests from some shipping lines to prevent delays for existing customers.<o:p></o:p>

"We typically handle about 5,000-5,500 TEUs (per day), but since late last year, there has been an increase of about 1,000 TEUs per day," Weerasinghe told Reuters.<o:p></o:p>

He noted that up to 50 per cent of this surge is attributed to the Mediterranean Shipping Company, a leading container shipping company. <o:p></o:p>

The Colombo port is increasingly becoming a relaying port, with shipping companies offloading entire cargoes to different ships. <o:p></o:p>

Officials from other Colombo port terminals revealed a rise in vessel calls, especially due to increased transshipment from India. <o:p></o:p>

Expectations are high that the heightened traffic will propel Colombo port towards double-digit growth in the first quarter of 2024.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

Sri Lanka's Colombo port is witnessing a significant increase in container volumes in recent weeks, attributed to vessels diverting from tensions in the southern Red Sea.

Sri Lanka's Colombo port is witnessing a significant increase in container volumes in recent weeks, attributed to vessels diverting from tensions in the southern Red Sea. According to Reuters, officials on Tuesday reported that shipping companies are choosing Colombo as a convenient transit point due to its strategic location. The Yemeni Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have targeted ships in the Red Sea since November, prompting some shipping companies to opt for a longer and more expensive route around Africa's Cape of Good Hope. Colombo's accessibility to the Middle East, South Asia, and East Asia positions it as a key port for vessels navigating these regions. Reuters cited Lal Weerasinghe, a senior official at the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), who highlighted Colombo's prominence as the first hub for ships coming past South Africa, providing a more convenient location than Singapore. The port, handling 6.94 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in 2023, experienced a 2 per cent annual increase. December saw a notable 15 per cent year-on-year surge in TEUs. Over the past four to six weeks, shipping lines have sought additional berthing windows, and transhipment volumes from neighbouring India have also risen. Despite the increased demand, the port had to decline requests from some shipping lines to prevent delays for existing customers. "We typically handle about 5,000-5,500 TEUs (per day), but since late last year, there has been an increase of about 1,000 TEUs per day," Weerasinghe told Reuters. He noted that up to 50 per cent of this surge is attributed to the Mediterranean Shipping Company, a leading container shipping company. The Colombo port is increasingly becoming a relaying port, with shipping companies offloading entire cargoes to different ships. Officials from other Colombo port terminals revealed a rise in vessel calls, especially due to increased transshipment from India. Expectations are high that the heightened traffic will propel Colombo port towards double-digit growth in the first quarter of 2024. (With inputs from Reuters)

Colombo port experiences surge in traffic amid Red Sea tensions

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