Cash-trapped Sri Lanka has cut lending rates for the first time in nearly three years, the island nation which faced economic downturn last year, has cut its lending rates after massive fall in inflation in May. The central bank of Sri Lanka has reduced its lending rates by 2.5% points.

Sri Lanka economy in recovery mode: Sri Lanka cuts interest rates, inflation eases

<p>Stand-up comedian, Nathasha Edirisooriya, who drew widespread criticism in the country for allegedly making derogatory remarks about religions, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).</p>

<p>According to the police, she was taken into custody at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake on Sunday night while attempting to fly out of the country.</p>

<p>The CID received a complaint against Edirisooriya for allegedly insulting religions, including Buddhism, and Christianity during a stand-up comedy show.</p>

<p>She later shared a video and publicly apologised for the statements made.</p>

<h2><strong>Sri Lanka to draft new law against religious slander &nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Sri Lanka's religious affairs minister said that the country is drafting new legislation to control the incidents of religious slander and online virulence.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's Minister of Buddhashasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayaka, on Sunday, said that legislation would be soon passed to control the growing incidents of religious slander in the country.</p>

<p>"This will stop all incidents of demeaning religion on social media," he claimed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this month, Pastor Jerome Fernando, a self-styled Godman, was condemned for making disparaging remarks about Lord Buddha, the video of which went viral on social media.</p>

<p>President Ranil Wickremesinghe instructed the Criminal Investigation Department to launch a probe into the matter, asserting that such statements could create religious conflicts in the country.</p>

<p>Fernando also released a public apology before fleeing to Singapore.</p>

<p>He then filed a fundamental rights petition to block his impending arrest.</p>

<p>In January, famous YouTuber Sepal Amarasinghe was sent to police custody for allegedly making derogatory remarks about the Sacred Tooth relic of Lord Buddha.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's population, which roughly comprises 22 million, approximately 74 per cent are Buddhists. Sri Lanka's Constitution, while also respecting other communities and their rights, concedes Buddhism as the "foremost place" among the country's religious faiths.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Stand-up comedian, Nathasha Edirisooriya, who drew widespread criticism in the country for allegedly making derogatory remarks about religions, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Stand-up comedian, Nathasha Edirisooriya, who drew widespread criticism in the country for allegedly making derogatory remarks about religions, was arrested by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). According to the police, she was taken into custody at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake on Sunday night while attempting to fly out of the country. The CID received a complaint against Edirisooriya for allegedly insulting religions, including Buddhism, and Christianity during a stand-up comedy show. She later shared a video and publicly apologised for the statements made. Sri Lanka to draft new law against religious slander Sri Lanka's religious affairs minister said that the country is drafting new legislation to control the incidents of religious slander and online virulence. Sri Lanka's Minister of Buddhashasana, Religious, and Cultural Affairs Vidura Wickramanayaka, on Sunday, said that legislation would be soon passed to control the growing incidents of religious slander in the country. "This will stop all incidents of demeaning religion on social media," he claimed. Earlier this month, Pastor Jerome Fernando, a self-styled Godman, was condemned for making disparaging remarks about Lord Buddha, the video of which went viral on social media. President Ranil Wickremesinghe instructed the Criminal Investigation Department to launch a probe into the matter, asserting that such statements could create religious conflicts in the country. Fernando also released a public apology before fleeing to Singapore. He then filed a fundamental rights petition to block his impending arrest. In January, famous YouTuber Sepal Amarasinghe was sent to police custody for allegedly making derogatory remarks about the Sacred Tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Sri Lanka's population, which roughly comprises 22 million, approximately 74 per cent are Buddhists. Sri Lanka's Constitution, while also respecting other communities and their rights, concedes Buddhism as the "foremost place" among the country's religious faiths. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka: Stand-up comedian arrested for allegedly making derogatory remarks on religions

If the Sri Lankan government approves a pool for a Russian nuclear power station, Russia is willing to provide financial and technical support to build a nuclear power plant in Sri Lanka, according to an official statement from Russia's Ambassador to Sri Lanka.

Russia offers to help build Sri Lanka's first nuclear power plant

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe met Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Tokyo. The two leaders affirmed the importance of transparent and fair debt restructuring, according to a summary of their discussions issued by Japan.

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe meets Japanese PM Fumio Kishida

Sri Lankan government has decided to allow China's Sinopec to sell fuel in the domestic market. Colombo has signed a trade agreement permitting the Chinese petrochemical giant to self-fuel domestically. The deal brings to an end a two-decade long duopoly enjoyed by the state-run ceylon petroleum and the Indian Oil Corporation president of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe was present at the signing of the agreement he termed it a crucial step to ensure a steady and uninterrupted fuel supply for the nation.

China's Sinopec signs agreements to enter fuel market in Sri Lanka

<p>A contract agreement between Sinopec Fuel Oil Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and its parent company in China and Singapore granting a license to operate for 20 years to import, store, distribute and sell petroleum products in Sri Lanka was signed Monday in the Presidential Secretariat.&nbsp;The Sri Lankan President’s Media Division confirmed the signing of the contract between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Entry into Sri Lanka’s fuel market</strong></h2>

<p>In June 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers had given the go-ahead to a proposal to open up Sri Lanka’s fuel import and retail sales market to companies from oil-producing nations. In October 2022, the Petroleum Products (Special Provisions) Bill, which would pave a new way for suppliers to enter as importers, distributors and retail operators for petroleum products, was approved by the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Power and Energy.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/a-year-after-crisis-sri-lanka-grants-3-foreign-oil-companies-to-sell-fuel-581267">A year after crisis, Sri Lanka allows 3 foreign oil companies to sell fuel</a></strong></p>

<p>As per a report published in the ADA Derana, a Sri Lankan&nbsp;news portal, the Cabinet of Ministers had granted approval to award licenses to China’s Sinopec, Australia’s United Petroleum and RM Parks of the USA, in collaboration with multinational oil and gas company - Shell plc, to enter the fuel retail market in Sri Lanka in March.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A team of officials from Sinopec visited Sri Lanka in late April to finalise the agreements and commencement of operations for retail fuel sales. During their visit, other important decisions regarding the timeline and conditions of the agreement were discussed between the Sinopec officials and Kanchana Wijesekera, Minister of Power and Energy. As per negotiations, it was decided that the agreements would be signed in mid-May and the operation would commence 45 days thereon.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ongoing talks with the US and British-based multinational oil and gas company&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Wijesekera also held talks with the US-based oil company RM Parks Inc. and the British multinational oil and gas company Shell PLC regarding the commencement of retail fuel sales in Sri Lanka in the first week of June this year.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Taliban signs oil extraction deal with Chinese company</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>More dealer-operated filling stations in the local market</strong></h2>

<p>On the popular talk show “360°” on TV Derana in April this year, Wijesekera revealed that each company will be handling around 150 Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) dealer-operated filling stations in the local market.</p>

<p>Further, he added that a total of 1,142 filling stations are under the purview of the CPC. However, only 234 are owned by the corporation. Going forward, nearly 450 out of the 908 remaining filling stations are supposed to be allocated to the three foreign oil companies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A contract agreement between Sinopec Fuel Oil Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and its parent company in China and Singapore granting a license to operate for 20 years to import, store, distribute and sell petroleum products in Sri Lanka was signed Monday in the Presidential Secretariat.

A contract agreement between Sinopec Fuel Oil Lanka (Pvt) Ltd and its parent company in China and Singapore granting a license to operate for 20 years to import, store, distribute and sell petroleum products in Sri Lanka was signed Monday in the Presidential Secretariat. The Sri Lankan President’s Media Division confirmed the signing of the contract between the two countries. Entry into Sri Lanka’s fuel market In June 2022, the Cabinet of Ministers had given the go-ahead to a proposal to open up Sri Lanka’s fuel import and retail sales market to companies from oil-producing nations. In October 2022, the Petroleum Products (Special Provisions) Bill, which would pave a new way for suppliers to enter as importers, distributors and retail operators for petroleum products, was approved by the Ministerial Consultative Committee on Power and Energy. ALSO READ | A year after crisis, Sri Lanka allows 3 foreign oil companies to sell fuel As per a report published in the ADA Derana, a Sri Lankan news portal, the Cabinet of Ministers had granted approval to award licenses to China’s Sinopec, Australia’s United Petroleum and RM Parks of the USA, in collaboration with multinational oil and gas company - Shell plc, to enter the fuel retail market in Sri Lanka in March. A team of officials from Sinopec visited Sri Lanka in late April to finalise the agreements and commencement of operations for retail fuel sales. During their visit, other important decisions regarding the timeline and conditions of the agreement were discussed between the Sinopec officials and Kanchana Wijesekera, Minister of Power and Energy. As per negotiations, it was decided that the agreements would be signed in mid-May and the operation would commence 45 days thereon. Ongoing talks with the US and British-based multinational oil and gas company Wijesekera also held talks with the US-based oil company RM Parks Inc. and the British multinational oil and gas company Shell PLC regarding the commencement of retail fuel sales in Sri Lanka in the first week of June this year. WATCH | Taliban signs oil extraction deal with Chinese company × More dealer-operated filling stations in the local market On the popular talk show “360°” on TV Derana in April this year, Wijesekera revealed that each company will be handling around 150 Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) dealer-operated filling stations in the local market. Further, he added that a total of 1,142 filling stations are under the purview of the CPC. However, only 234 are owned by the corporation. Going forward, nearly 450 out of the 908 remaining filling stations are supposed to be allocated to the three foreign oil companies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

China's Sinopec to enter Sri Lanka's fuel-retail market

Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Zambia, Mongolia and Laos, what do these countries have in common ? These countries are either on the brink of bankruptcy or have already gone bankrupt. A dozen poor countries are on the verge of collapse under the weight of billions of dollars in foreign loans that they had taken from China.

China's loan policy pushing poor countries to brink of collapse | World Business Watch

<p>A Sri Lankan court on Wednesday lifted the overseas travel ban on former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in connection to the 9 May 2022 clashes that resulted in his resignation while&nbsp;sending his brother Gotabaya fleeing the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Sri Lanka was gripped in massive protests, called Aragalaya, when people gathered at Colombo's Galle Face Green and demanded that Gotabaya step down as the country's president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to former Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Fort Magistrate's Court on Wednesday also lifted ban on Member of Parliament&nbsp;Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, and Ex-Provincial Council member Kanchana Jayaratne.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-arrests-three-hypersonic-missile-scientists-on-charges-of-very-serious-treason-593499">Russia arrests three hypersonic missile scientists on charges of 'very serious treason'</a></p>

<p>Colombo Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage, and several MPs from Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party were also present in court when the ruling was given.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mahinda Rajapaksa's Counsel Shavendra Fernando urged the court to lift the travel ban imposed on the former prime minister, MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, and Ex-Provincial Council member Kanchana Jayaratne. In this argument, the counsel said that these people were not named as suspects pertaining the 9 May 2022 clashes case.&nbsp;The impounded passports of the four politicians were ordered to be released, as per reports.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/small-banner-plane-crashes-near-shopping-plaza-in-hollywood-pilot-died-593480">Small banner plane crashes near shopping plaza in Hollywood, pilot dead</a></p>

<p>Upon hearing the argument, the magistrate issued an order lifting the travel prohibition. The court also directed the stated order to the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration.</p>

<p>The travel restriction on two other suspects were, however, prolonged till the next court hearing and they were ordered to be freed on an extra Rs. 1 million in personal bail.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | US President Joe Biden to visit Japan's Hiroshima for G7 summit</strong></p>

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<p>The severe economic crisis that gripped Sri Lanka last year resulted in massive anti-government protests in Sri Lanka where homes and offices of MPs were torched and a significant amount of public property was also damaged.&nbsp;</p>

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A Sri Lankan court on Wednesday lifted the overseas travel ban on former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in connection to the 9 May 2022 clashes that resulted in his resignation while sending his brother Gotabaya fleeing the country.

A Sri Lankan court on Wednesday lifted the overseas travel ban on former prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa in connection to the 9 May 2022 clashes that resulted in his resignation while sending his brother Gotabaya fleeing the country. Last year, Sri Lanka was gripped in massive protests, called Aragalaya, when people gathered at Colombo's Galle Face Green and demanded that Gotabaya step down as the country's president. In addition to former Mahinda Rajapaksa, the Fort Magistrate's Court on Wednesday also lifted ban on Member of Parliament Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, and Ex-Provincial Council member Kanchana Jayaratne. Also Read | Russia arrests three hypersonic missile scientists on charges of 'very serious treason' Colombo Fort Magistrate Thilina Gamage, and several MPs from Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) party were also present in court when the ruling was given. Mahinda Rajapaksa's Counsel Shavendra Fernando urged the court to lift the travel ban imposed on the former prime minister, MP Rohitha Abeygunawardena, Minister Pavithra Wanniarachchi, and Ex-Provincial Council member Kanchana Jayaratne. In this argument, the counsel said that these people were not named as suspects pertaining the 9 May 2022 clashes case. The impounded passports of the four politicians were ordered to be released, as per reports. Also Read | Small banner plane crashes near shopping plaza in Hollywood, pilot dead Upon hearing the argument, the magistrate issued an order lifting the travel prohibition. The court also directed the stated order to the Controller General of Immigration and Emigration. The travel restriction on two other suspects were, however, prolonged till the next court hearing and they were ordered to be freed on an extra Rs. 1 million in personal bail. Watch | US President Joe Biden to visit Japan's Hiroshima for G7 summit × The severe economic crisis that gripped Sri Lanka last year resulted in massive anti-government protests in Sri Lanka where homes and offices of MPs were torched and a significant amount of public property was also damaged. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Overseas travel ban on ex-Sri Lankan prime minister Mahinda Rajapaksa lifted

The fate of the Asia cup still uncertain, host Pakistan have threatened to boycott a test Series in Sri Lanka after reports emerged off the Sri Lankan cricket board's reluctance to commit to the hybrid model proposed by the PCB. The PCB proposed the hybrid model to ensure the participation of India. India and Pakistan have not played a bilateral series since early 2012 and all subsequent encounters have taken place on neutral ground and in multilateral events like the world cup or the Asia cup India have refused to travel to Pakistan citing security concerns and the PCB has offered to host all matches involving India in either the UAE or even in Sri Lanka.

PCB threatens to boycott SL series if Sri Lanka opposes hybrid model for Asia Cup

The International Monetary Fund says Sri Lanka's crisis-hit economy is expected to begin bouncing back in 2024. The country took a dent of 3% this year, amid its worst economic crisis since independence. An IMF team is currently visiting Sri Lanka until May 23 as part of regular consultations with the officials.

Sri Lanka economy crisis: IMF review team in the country until May 23

<p>Seven Sri Lanka tri-forces personnel have reportedly gone missing in France while participating in the 2023 CISM World Military Triathlon Championship. According to Sri Lankan Defence Ministry, the missing personnel included four army officers, one navy officer and two personnel of the air force, the NewsWire reported on Friday (May 11).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan Defence Services Triathlon team left the country on May 4 to participate in the championship in France that was held from May 5-9. The team had five men and five women players along with three officials from the army, the navy, and the air force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team took part in the elite men’s and women’s individual events, team events and mixed team events, the report said. The passports of the delegation were in the possession of Commander Lakmal Weerakkody (from Sri Lankan Navy) who is the Chairman of the Defence Services Triathlon and the Chief of the Mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report added that seven members of the team stole the passports when the chief official had left for lunch and fled their accommodation. Authorities now suspect that the seven personnel escaped in search of employment in France.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A senior official said that the passports of the personnel were placed with a high-ranking official as similar incidents had occurred in the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further details are awaited.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Seven Sri Lanka tri-forces personnel have reportedly gone missing in France while participating in the 2023 CISM World Military Triathlon Championship. According to Sri Lankan Defence Ministry, the missing personnel included four army officers, one navy officer and two personnel of the air force, the NewsWire reported on Friday (May 11).

Seven Sri Lanka tri-forces personnel have reportedly gone missing in France while participating in the 2023 CISM World Military Triathlon Championship. According to Sri Lankan Defence Ministry, the missing personnel included four army officers, one navy officer and two personnel of the air force, the NewsWire reported on Friday (May 11). The Sri Lankan Defence Services Triathlon team left the country on May 4 to participate in the championship in France that was held from May 5-9. The team had five men and five women players along with three officials from the army, the navy, and the air force. The team took part in the elite men’s and women’s individual events, team events and mixed team events, the report said. The passports of the delegation were in the possession of Commander Lakmal Weerakkody (from Sri Lankan Navy) who is the Chairman of the Defence Services Triathlon and the Chief of the Mission. The report added that seven members of the team stole the passports when the chief official had left for lunch and fled their accommodation. Authorities now suspect that the seven personnel escaped in search of employment in France. A senior official said that the passports of the personnel were placed with a high-ranking official as similar incidents had occurred in the past. Further details are awaited. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Seven Sri Lankan tri-force personnel missing during sports event in France: Report

<p>Sri Lanka's Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva spoke&nbsp;to WION on Hambantota and Colombo ports, investments by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani in the country, and more.</p>

<p>"We have excellent relations with India. India is helping and we are reciprocating. We have started flights from India to our airports. We have started ferry services to and from Madras [Chennai]. We have increased connectivity," de Silva told WION on the sidelines of the sixth international Indian Ocean Conference in Bangladeshi capital Dhaka.</p>

<p>"We have to be mindful about the security of India. We have very friendly relationship," the minister emphasised, while adding that New Delhi is helping Colombo build its energy sector.</p>

<p>"We have requested India to come to Trincomalee port and do the value addition," he said, in an invitation for New Delhi to invest in the port, located about 262 km southwest of Sri Lankan capital Colombo.</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan ports minister also expressed confidence on the Indian conglomerate Adani group's investment in Colombo port.</p>

<p>The minister added that while Colombo had to sell the Hambantota port to China, it has ensured that the port is not used for war or security purposes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lanka urges China to not dock at Hambantota port</strong></p>

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<p>"We had to sell the Hambantota [port]. We asked India to take it over and the US to take it over. Then the&nbsp;Chinese came and took it over. It is a private sector [takeover].&nbsp;It is not being used for other purposes.&nbsp; Our agreement with the Chinese is very clear that it cannot be used for any war or security purposes but only trade," he added.</p>

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Sri Lanka's Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva spoke to WION on Hambantota and Colombo ports, investments by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani in the country, and more.

Sri Lanka's Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva spoke to WION on Hambantota and Colombo ports, investments by Indian billionaire Gautam Adani in the country, and more. "We have excellent relations with India. India is helping and we are reciprocating. We have started flights from India to our airports. We have started ferry services to and from Madras [Chennai]. We have increased connectivity," de Silva told WION on the sidelines of the sixth international Indian Ocean Conference in Bangladeshi capital Dhaka. "We have to be mindful about the security of India. We have very friendly relationship," the minister emphasised, while adding that New Delhi is helping Colombo build its energy sector. "We have requested India to come to Trincomalee port and do the value addition," he said, in an invitation for New Delhi to invest in the port, located about 262 km southwest of Sri Lankan capital Colombo. The Sri Lankan ports minister also expressed confidence on the Indian conglomerate Adani group's investment in Colombo port. The minister added that while Colombo had to sell the Hambantota port to China, it has ensured that the port is not used for war or security purposes. ALSO WATCH | Sri Lanka urges China to not dock at Hambantota port × "We had to sell the Hambantota [port]. We asked India to take it over and the US to take it over. Then the Chinese came and took it over. It is a private sector [takeover]. It is not being used for other purposes. Our agreement with the Chinese is very clear that it cannot be used for any war or security purposes but only trade," he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive: Hambantota port with China can't be used for war, Sri Lankan minister Nimal Siripala de Silva

On the second day of the Indian Ocean Conference in Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, high-level delegations and also think tanks from about 25 different countries are taking part in the sixth-edition of the conference. Watch WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal in a conversation with Sri Lanka's ports, shipping and aviation minister Nimal Siripala De Silva.

Sri Lankan minister Nimal Siripala De Silva in a conversation with WION on India-Lanka relationship

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has ruled that a bill seeking to decriminalise homosexuality is "not inconsistent with the Constitution", clearing the way for a Parliamentary debate and vote on the subject. Neither Government nor Opposition have commented on the bill.

Sri Lankan Supreme Court says bill on decriminalising homosexuality is not unconstitutional

The Supreme Court of Sri Lanka has ruled that a bill seeking to decriminalise homosexuality is "not inconsistent with the Constitution", clearing the way for a Parliamentary debate and vote on the subject. Watch this report to know more.

Sri Lanka Supreme Court green lights bill on decriminalising homosexuality

There is hope for Sri Lanka, with its creditors sitting across the table to help find a way to mitigate the financial woes of the South Asian country. However, there are lingering doubts over China's presence at the meeting as Beijing is the largest creditor.

Sri Lanka's financial woes: Fresh hope for the Lankan economy | WION Dispatch

<p>In a major development surrounding the 2023 Asia Cup,&nbsp;island nation Sri Lanka has emerged as the front-runner to host the multi-team event in September. With BCCI refusing to send its team across the border for the slated event and with UAE getting ruled out as an option due to harsh weather conditions during that month, Sri Lanka looks like a viable venue to host Asia Cup, as per the Indian Express.</p>

<p>Earlier, we reported that the BCCI received support from its close allies in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan cricket boards over not sending the team to Pakistan and staging the 2023 Asia at a neutral venue or out of Pakistan. With an official word on the much-talked-about 2023 Asia Cup venue likely to be out by the end of this month at the earliest, it remains to be seen what stance PCB will take.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-bangladesh-lend-support-to-bcci-over-not-sending-indian-team-to-pakistan-for-asia-cup-reports-590239">Sri Lanka, Bangladesh lend support to BCCI over not sending Indian team to Pakistan for Asia Cup - Reports</a></p>

<p>As per Geo News, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) would consider bringing UAE in place of Pakistan for the tournament if the Men in Green consider boycotting it as a response to snatching away of hosting rights.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, after the end of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, the ACC, under the chairmanship of Jay Shah – who also happens to be BCCI secretary, decided to allot Pakistan a chance to host Asia Cup on their soil for the first time since 2008.</p>

<p>However, after getting a red signal from the Narendra Modi-led government, the BCCI refused to send the team to Pakistan.</p>

<p>PCB chief, Najam Sethi then also proposed a hybrid model wherein the Indian team will play its matches outside of Pakistan – to which the Indian cricket board snubbed the offer mentioning this will make things awkward between both BCCI and PCB.</p>

<p>After BCCI denied accepting anything that PCB had to offer, the Pakistani board retaliated, threatening BCCI of boycotting the 2023 World Cup in India later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In case of India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan to compete in the Asia Cup, chances are there that the Pakistan government would not allow the Men in Green to cross the borders for their World Cup participation. In that case, cricket will be the ultimate sufferer,” Sethi said, as quoted in Geo News.</p>


In a major development surrounding the 2023 Asia Cup, island nation Sri Lanka has emerged as the front-runner to host the multi-team event in September. With BCCI refusing to send its team across the border for the slated event and with UAE getting ruled out as an option due to harsh weather conditions during that month, Sri Lanka looks like a viable venue to host Asia Cup, as per the Indian Express.

In a major development surrounding the 2023 Asia Cup, island nation Sri Lanka has emerged as the front-runner to host the multi-team event in September. With BCCI refusing to send its team across the border for the slated event and with UAE getting ruled out as an option due to harsh weather conditions during that month, Sri Lanka looks like a viable venue to host Asia Cup, as per the Indian Express. Earlier, we reported that the BCCI received support from its close allies in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan cricket boards over not sending the team to Pakistan and staging the 2023 Asia at a neutral venue or out of Pakistan. With an official word on the much-talked-about 2023 Asia Cup venue likely to be out by the end of this month at the earliest, it remains to be seen what stance PCB will take. ALSO READ: Sri Lanka, Bangladesh lend support to BCCI over not sending Indian team to Pakistan for Asia Cup - Reports As per Geo News, the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) would consider bringing UAE in place of Pakistan for the tournament if the Men in Green consider boycotting it as a response to snatching away of hosting rights. Earlier, after the end of the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, the ACC, under the chairmanship of Jay Shah – who also happens to be BCCI secretary, decided to allot Pakistan a chance to host Asia Cup on their soil for the first time since 2008. However, after getting a red signal from the Narendra Modi-led government, the BCCI refused to send the team to Pakistan. PCB chief, Najam Sethi then also proposed a hybrid model wherein the Indian team will play its matches outside of Pakistan – to which the Indian cricket board snubbed the offer mentioning this will make things awkward between both BCCI and PCB. After BCCI denied accepting anything that PCB had to offer, the Pakistani board retaliated, threatening BCCI of boycotting the 2023 World Cup in India later this year. “In case of India’s refusal to travel to Pakistan to compete in the Asia Cup, chances are there that the Pakistan government would not allow the Men in Green to cross the borders for their World Cup participation. In that case, cricket will be the ultimate sufferer,” Sethi said, as quoted in Geo News.

Sri Lanka, not Pakistan, set to host 2023 Asia Cup - Reports

<p>Former finance minister and National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Basil Rajapaksa, left for Dubai early on Monday (May 07) aboard an Emirates flight, as per Ada Derana reports.</p>

<p>He reportedly jetted off for Dubai from the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and is expected to travel to the United States from Dubai.</p>

<p>The younger brother of ousted president Gotabaya Rajapaksa was as per reports, accompanied by his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Ada Derana, a spokesperson from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna said that Rajapaksa is on a brief visit to the US and is scheduled to return to the island shortly.</p>

<h2><strong>Basil Rajapaksa and his US citizenship</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this year, Basil Rajapaksa had said that he was ready to give up his US citizenship as he believed it was an 'obstacle' to his political career and depriving him of the opportunity to serve the nation.</p>

<p>“I am ready to give up my US citizenship if dual citizenship was an obstacle to my future political activities. I am also ready to remove any other legal obstacle so that I can work for my people,” he said during a television programme.</p>

<p>Basil said Ranil Wickremesinghe achieved the two key requirements for which he was appointed the Sri Lankan President.</p>

<p>“Due to the ‘Aragalaya,’ we were unable to step outside of our houses and several properties of politicians were attacked and burned down by the public. But Wickremesinghe has changed that situation,” news portal Newswire reported, quoting the former lawmaker and the national organiser of SLPP.</p>

<p>Since he assumed power, Wickremesinghe was also able to resolve the key issues of fuel shortages and frequent power cuts, he said.</p>

<p>“At present, we are not facing any of those social issues. We believe he is an individual who has the capacity to resolve such issues and he has proven so,” the report quoted him as saying.</p>

<p>Last year, after protests by officials and passengers at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Basil was prevented from leaving Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Then later, in September 2022, Basil was permitted by Sri Lanka's Supreme Court to travel to the United States to receive medical treatment.</p>

<p>Ahead of the 2019 presidential elections, Basil’s elder brother Gotabaya, formerly a dual citizen of both Sri Lanka and the US, had to renounce his US citizenship.</p>

<p>Mahinda Rajapaksa, the 76-year-old patriarch of the Rajapaksa family, has held the position of both president and prime minister during his political career.</p>

<p>He was also compelled to resign in May amid anti-government demonstrations in the country.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Former finance minister and National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Basil Rajapaksa, left for Dubai early on Monday (May 07) aboard an Emirates flight, as per Ada Derana reports.

Former finance minister and National Organiser of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), Basil Rajapaksa, left for Dubai early on Monday (May 07) aboard an Emirates flight, as per Ada Derana reports. He reportedly jetted off for Dubai from the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and is expected to travel to the United States from Dubai. The younger brother of ousted president Gotabaya Rajapaksa was as per reports, accompanied by his wife. According to Ada Derana, a spokesperson from the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna said that Rajapaksa is on a brief visit to the US and is scheduled to return to the island shortly. Basil Rajapaksa and his US citizenship Earlier this year, Basil Rajapaksa had said that he was ready to give up his US citizenship as he believed it was an 'obstacle' to his political career and depriving him of the opportunity to serve the nation. “I am ready to give up my US citizenship if dual citizenship was an obstacle to my future political activities. I am also ready to remove any other legal obstacle so that I can work for my people,” he said during a television programme. Basil said Ranil Wickremesinghe achieved the two key requirements for which he was appointed the Sri Lankan President. “Due to the ‘Aragalaya,’ we were unable to step outside of our houses and several properties of politicians were attacked and burned down by the public. But Wickremesinghe has changed that situation,” news portal Newswire reported, quoting the former lawmaker and the national organiser of SLPP. Since he assumed power, Wickremesinghe was also able to resolve the key issues of fuel shortages and frequent power cuts, he said. “At present, we are not facing any of those social issues. We believe he is an individual who has the capacity to resolve such issues and he has proven so,” the report quoted him as saying. Last year, after protests by officials and passengers at the Bandaranaike International Airport, Basil was prevented from leaving Sri Lanka. Then later, in September 2022, Basil was permitted by Sri Lanka's Supreme Court to travel to the United States to receive medical treatment. Ahead of the 2019 presidential elections, Basil’s elder brother Gotabaya, formerly a dual citizen of both Sri Lanka and the US, had to renounce his US citizenship. Mahinda Rajapaksa, the 76-year-old patriarch of the Rajapaksa family, has held the position of both president and prime minister during his political career. He was also compelled to resign in May amid anti-government demonstrations in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sri Lanka’s former finance minister Basil Rajapaksa jets off to the US

<p>India and Sri Lanka stepped up their talks to proceed with trade in Indian Rupee as New Delhi and Colombo look set to expand their bilateral cooperation in "power and energy sector as well&nbsp;as aspects relating to Rupee trade".</p>

<p>Dr Pramod Kumar Mishra, a cabinet rank official in India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration, met with Sri Lankan High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda in New Delhi on Friday to continue the bilateral dialogue between two South Asian neighbours on a number of issues, including on debt restructuring matters crucial for Colombo's economic recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The High Commissioner stressed the vital role that economic integration between the two countries could play in Sri Lanka's economic recovery," an official readout stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"High Commissioner Moragoda also followed up [Pramod Kumar Mishra] on a range of issues pertaining to the bilateral relationship that had been discussed during their last meeting in February," the readout added, while referring to a previous round of bilateral talks between New Delhi and Colombo that addressed former's support for latter's economic recovery alongside aforementioned matters of bilateral cooperation.</p>

<p>"The matters discussed included further economic integration between Sri Lanka and India, enhancing Indian investments and tourism in Sri Lanka, ways and means to further promote bilateral trade, cooperation in power and energy sector as well as aspects relating to Rupee trade," the official readout stated further.</p>

<p>Several banks in Sri Lanka have opened special rupee trading accounts, called Vostro accounts. This means that Sri Lankan citizens can now hold $10,000 (₹8,26,823) in physical form and for transactions with their Indian counterparts, they can use Indian rupees instead of US dollars.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-to-use-indian-rupee-for-international-trade-543895">Sri Lanka to use Indian rupee for international trade, more countries aim to follow</a></strong></p>

<p>India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration since July 2022, has been looking to bring countries that are short of dollars, into its rupee settlement mechanism.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lanka mull using Indian rupee for economic transactions</strong></p>

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<p>Designating Indian Rupee as a legal currency in Sri Lanka has provided India's coastal neighbour at its south much-needed liquidity support to help tide over its economic crisis amid inadequate availability of the US dollar.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, India's finance ministry has asked the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) to proceed with an awareness campaign to sensitise stakeholders about the rupee trade.&nbsp;</p>

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India and Sri Lanka stepped up their talks to proceed with trade in Indian Rupee as New Delhi and Colombo look set to expand their bilateral cooperation in "power and energy sector as well as aspects relating to Rupee trade".

India and Sri Lanka stepped up their talks to proceed with trade in Indian Rupee as New Delhi and Colombo look set to expand their bilateral cooperation in "power and energy sector as well as aspects relating to Rupee trade". Dr Pramod Kumar Mishra, a cabinet rank official in India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration, met with Sri Lankan High Commissioner Milinda Moragoda in New Delhi on Friday to continue the bilateral dialogue between two South Asian neighbours on a number of issues, including on debt restructuring matters crucial for Colombo's economic recovery. "The High Commissioner stressed the vital role that economic integration between the two countries could play in Sri Lanka's economic recovery," an official readout stated. "High Commissioner Moragoda also followed up [Pramod Kumar Mishra] on a range of issues pertaining to the bilateral relationship that had been discussed during their last meeting in February," the readout added, while referring to a previous round of bilateral talks between New Delhi and Colombo that addressed former's support for latter's economic recovery alongside aforementioned matters of bilateral cooperation. "The matters discussed included further economic integration between Sri Lanka and India, enhancing Indian investments and tourism in Sri Lanka, ways and means to further promote bilateral trade, cooperation in power and energy sector as well as aspects relating to Rupee trade," the official readout stated further. Several banks in Sri Lanka have opened special rupee trading accounts, called Vostro accounts. This means that Sri Lankan citizens can now hold $10,000 (₹8,26,823) in physical form and for transactions with their Indian counterparts, they can use Indian rupees instead of US dollars. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka to use Indian rupee for international trade, more countries aim to follow India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration since July 2022, has been looking to bring countries that are short of dollars, into its rupee settlement mechanism. ALSO WATCH | Sri Lanka mull using Indian rupee for economic transactions × Designating Indian Rupee as a legal currency in Sri Lanka has provided India's coastal neighbour at its south much-needed liquidity support to help tide over its economic crisis amid inadequate availability of the US dollar. Meanwhile, India's finance ministry has asked the Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) and the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) to proceed with an awareness campaign to sensitise stakeholders about the rupee trade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India steps up rupee's internationalisation for Sri Lanka's economic recovery

Pakistan's economy appears to be worsening with every passing day. The country has now overtaken Sri Lanka, which too is suffering severe economic crisis and is gradually showing signs of recovery.

Pakistan overtakes Sri Lanka with weakest currency

India has kicked off another engagement outreach in the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary are on a visit to two of India's key maritime neighbours - Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Maldives to kick off drill in Indian Ocean

The Department of Census and Statistics yesterday said that inflation in Colombo has dropped to 35.3 percent in April. Sri Lanka’s headline inflation, as measured by the Year-on-Year (Y-O-Y) change in the Colombo Consumer Price Index (CCPI), significantly eased to 35.3% in April 2023, in comparison to March 2023, the department said.

Sri Lanka inflation rate drops to lowest in a year as Colombo approves IMF package

<p>Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/half-of-worlds-language-diversity-at-risk-says-study-585261">Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study</a></p>

<p>"H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">H.E Prime Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SriLanka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DCRGunawardena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCRGunawardena</a> accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) <a href="https://t.co/3YwAOYFqXP">pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP</a></p>
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<p>Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana.</p>

<p>According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskyy-signs-law-banning-russian-place-names-in-ukraine-aims-to-restore-national-identity-585227">Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity</a></p>

<p>The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story</strong></p>

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<p>Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita.</p>

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Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond.

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena unveiled the Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple and laid the foundation stone for Meditation Centre at Ramayana fame Ashok Vatika site with an aim to attract more tourists from India and beyond. Prime Minister Gunawardena, accompanied by Indian High Commissioner Gopal Bagalay and other dignitaries, issued the cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka on Sunday. The meditation centre, which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic Rramayana, will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists. Also Read | Half of world's language diversity at risk, frightening trends in some regions: Study "H.E Prime Minister @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple which is believed to signify the place of Ashok Vatika in the epic #ramayana. The Meditation Centre will add to the facilities at the Temple and help attract more tourists from #India and other places," the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka tweeted. H.E Prime Minister of #SriLanka @DCRGunawardena accompanied by High Commissioner and other dignitaries issued a Special Commemorative Cover for Sita Temple near Nuwara Eliya in 🇱🇰 today. They also laid the foundation stone for a Meditation Centre at the Temple, (1/2) pic.twitter.com/3YwAOYFqXP — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) April 23, 2023 × Ashok Vatika is a garden in Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka) that is believed to have been the location where the demon king Ravana held Sita captive in the Hindu epic, Ramayana. According to the story, Rama and his brother Lakshmana, along with their devotee Hanuman, went to Lanka to rescue Sita from Ravana's captivity. In the Ashok Vatika. Also Read | Zelensky signs law banning Russian place names in Ukraine, aims to restore national identity The garden was named after the Ashoka tree, which is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is said that Hanuman uprooted the tree to show his strength. Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story × Today, there is a temple in Sri Lanka called the Seetha Amman Temple, which is believed to be located at the site of the Ashok Vatika. The temple is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees of Rama and Sita. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sita temple at Sri Lanka's Ashok Vatika, linked to Hindu epic Ramayana, gets special cover

Is Sri Lanka being forced to send 100,000 endangered monkeys to China? Reports say Colombo is considering sending Toque Macaques to China. What will China do with the Lankan monkeys? Send them to labs for experiments?

Gravitas | Is indebted Sri Lanka being forced to send 100,000 endangered monkeys to China?

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