Economic crisis in the island nation of Sri Lanka is worsening with each passing day. Amid pressing financial concerns, the IMF has decided to resume talks with the country on Friday.

Inflation in Sri Lanka running at 60.8%, Central bank warns of 8% contraction this year

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled his country amidst massive anti-government protests and major economic crisis, is awaiting to obtain a US Green Card to return to America and settle there.

Gotabaya in process of obtaining US green card: Reports

Former Sri Lankan President, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who fled the country last month amid protest calling for his resignation is reportedly trying to obtain a US green card.

Former Sri Lanka President seeks US green card, wants to settle with wife and son

The newly elected Anthony Albanese government in Australia has decided to offer an additional $25 million in emergency funds to the crisis-ridden country of Sri Lanka.

The newly elected Anthony Albanese government in Australia has decided to offer an additional $25 million in emergency funds to the crisis-ridden country of Sri Lanka. The money will be used to fast-track health and food supplies to the Sri Lankan public which has to run from pillar to post for the basic necessities. “Australia stands with the people of Sri Lanka, especially those experiencing severe hardship. It is in Australia’s national interest to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economic resilience and accelerate its recovery.” said Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The addition of $25 million takes Australia's contribution towards the island nation to $75 million. Reportedly, in June, Australia had committed $50 million. Also read | Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa Australian Minister of Home Affairs Clare O’Neil had met then President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and announced the monetary help. “We will contribute an immediate 22 million dollars to the World Food Programme for emergency food assistance to help three million people in Sri Lanka meet their daily nutritional needs." read the statement. "Australia will also provide 23 million dollars in development assistance to Sri Lanka in 2022-23. These contributions are in addition to 5 million dollars recently provided to United Nations agencies for Sri Lanka," it further added. The island nation of Sri Lanka, housing 22 million people is going through its worst economic crisis since it gained independence in 1948. After the President, Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials deserted office, the entire country plunged into a state of crisis. The country has defaulted on its debts; faces an acute shortage of fuel, medicines and soaring food commodity rates. However, according to makeshift President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the emergency imposed in the country is expected to end this week. Read more: Situation in Sri Lanka 'stabilised', no need to extend emergency: President Wickremesinghe Moreover, it is being reported that former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is expected to return to Sri Lanka after fleeing the country and submitting his resignation via email. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia commits another $25 million in emergency aid to Sri Lanka, takes total to $75 million

According to local media reports, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, the former president of Sri Lanka, may return to the island nation next week after leaving amid widespread protests in July.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa to return to Sri Lanka on August 24?

The country's state of emergency won't be stretched past this week, said&nbsp;President Ranil Wickremesinghe's media office on Thursday, as protests in Sri Lanka about the plight of the country's economy and its destruction begin to fade.

According to his office, the president reportedly announced that the emergency would end this week at a gathering in the capital city of Colombo.

Watch |&nbsp;Chinese ship docks at Sri Lanka's Hambantota port

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Reuters reports that the emergency was declared by Wickremesinghe on July 18 when he was serving as acting president after tens of thousands of citizens surged into government buildings in search of answers to the nation's greatest economic crisis in more than seven decades.

As per AFP, Wickremesinghe's declared emergency is set to expire on Thursday, but he has the authority to extend it each subsequent month.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-on-the-run-rajapaksa-exits-singapore-for-thailand-505915" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka president on the run: Rajapaksa exits Singapore for Thailand</a>

However, as per his office, he believes that "the situation in the country has stabilised, there is no need to reimpose the state of emergency when it lapses this week."

The emergency regulations provide troops and law enforcement with the power to detain suspects for extended periods of time.

After his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, fled a popular uprising over months of severe shortages of fuel, food, and medication, Wickremesinghe—who had served as Sri Lanka's prime minister for six terms—was elected president on July 20 by parliamentarians.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-govt-asks-thailand-to-grant-entry-to-gotabaya-rajapaksa-505609" hreflang="en">Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a>

The nation's sovereign debt has already fallen into default.

After the nation missed interest payments due on June 3, June 28, and July 18, as well as a principle payment due on July 25, S&amp;P Global lowered its rating on Sri Lankan bonds to 'D,' which stands for default.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The country's state of emergency won't be stretched past this week, said President Ranil Wickremesinghe's media office on Thursday, as protests in Sri Lanka about the plight of the country's economy and its destruction begin to fade.

The country's state of emergency won't be stretched past this week, said President Ranil Wickremesinghe's media office on Thursday, as protests in Sri Lanka about the plight of the country's economy and its destruction begin to fade. According to his office, the president reportedly announced that the emergency would end this week at a gathering in the capital city of Colombo. Watch | Chinese ship docks at Sri Lanka's Hambantota port Reuters reports that the emergency was declared by Wickremesinghe on July 18 when he was serving as acting president after tens of thousands of citizens surged into government buildings in search of answers to the nation's greatest economic crisis in more than seven decades. As per AFP, Wickremesinghe's declared emergency is set to expire on Thursday, but he has the authority to extend it each subsequent month. Also read | Sri Lanka president on the run: Rajapaksa exits Singapore for Thailand However, as per his office, he believes that "the situation in the country has stabilised, there is no need to reimpose the state of emergency when it lapses this week." The emergency regulations provide troops and law enforcement with the power to detain suspects for extended periods of time. After his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, fled a popular uprising over months of severe shortages of fuel, food, and medication, Wickremesinghe—who had served as Sri Lanka's prime minister for six terms—was elected president on July 20 by parliamentarians. Also read | Sri Lanka govt asks Thailand to grant entry to Gotabaya Rajapaksa The nation's sovereign debt has already fallen into default. After the nation missed interest payments due on June 3, June 28, and July 18, as well as a principle payment due on July 25, S&P Global lowered its rating on Sri Lankan bonds to 'D,' which stands for default. (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.

Situation in Sri Lanka 'stabilised', no need to extend emergency: President Wickremesinghe

After a U-turn from Sri Lanka, a Chinese ship was allowed to dock at the Hambantota port today. The ship is believed to be operated by the PLA. Can the vessel spy on Indian assets? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Chinese vessel in Hambantota reports to the PLA

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka.

"What happens in our neighborhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security, obviously are of interest to us. "I think our spokesmen said a while ago that we are obviously monitoring any development that has bearing on our interest very, very carefully," Jaishankar said at a press conference convened by Thailand and India's foreign ministries in Bangkok.

Despite objections from India and the US, Sri Lanka authorised China's dual-purpose navy monitoring vessel, Yuan Wang 5, to dock at the southern Hambantota Port, which is under Chinese control on a 99-year lease.

According to a Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement, India and the United States did not provide "concrete reasons" to reject entry, therefore Yuan Wang 5 was permitted to berth after being held back for a few days for consultations.

The statement underlined that the clearance was conditional on the Chinese vessel not doing any'research' (spying?) while in Hambantota and would only stop to refill its supplies.

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Watch | Gravitas: Chinese ship to spy on India from Sri Lanka?

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Two ministers met on Wednesday to discuss areas of cooperation such as tourism, commerce, and cyber security.

The two nations also agreed on significant infrastructure projects, such as motorways connecting India, Myanmar, and Thailand, but acknowledged that there are many obstacles to surmount, particularly given Myanmar's ongoing political uncertainty.

Don Pramudwinai, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, are co-chairing the 9th Thailand-India Joint Commission.

Both parties will witness the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding between Thailand and India.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka.

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka. "What happens in our neighborhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security, obviously are of interest to us. "I think our spokesmen said a while ago that we are obviously monitoring any development that has bearing on our interest very, very carefully," Jaishankar said at a press conference convened by Thailand and India's foreign ministries in Bangkok. Despite objections from India and the US, Sri Lanka authorised China's dual-purpose navy monitoring vessel, Yuan Wang 5, to dock at the southern Hambantota Port, which is under Chinese control on a 99-year lease. According to a Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement, India and the United States did not provide "concrete reasons" to reject entry, therefore Yuan Wang 5 was permitted to berth after being held back for a few days for consultations. The statement underlined that the clearance was conditional on the Chinese vessel not doing any'research' (spying?) while in Hambantota and would only stop to refill its supplies. According to foreign security analysts, the Yuan Wang 5 is one of China's most advanced space-tracking ships, designed to follow satellite, rocket, and intercontinental ballistic missile launches. According to the Pentagon, the Yuan Wang ships are operated by the People's Liberation Army's Strategic Support Force. × Watch | Gravitas: Chinese ship to spy on India from Sri Lanka? Two ministers met on Wednesday to discuss areas of cooperation such as tourism, commerce, and cyber security. The two nations also agreed on significant infrastructure projects, such as motorways connecting India, Myanmar, and Thailand, but acknowledged that there are many obstacles to surmount, particularly given Myanmar's ongoing political uncertainty. Don Pramudwinai, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, are co-chairing the 9th Thailand-India Joint Commission. Both parties will witness the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding between Thailand and India. (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.

Watch | India monitoring China's 'spy ship' docked in Sri Lanka: Foreign minister Jaishankar

Former Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa will return to the island nation next week, a local media broadcaster Newsfirst reported on Wednesday (August 17) citing Udayanga Weeratunga, a former Lankan envoy to Russia.

Former Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa will return to the island nation next week, a local media broadcaster Newsfirst reported on Wednesday (August 17) citing Udayanga Weeratunga, a former Lankan envoy to Russia. There's no official confirmation yet. As quoted by the local media, Weeratunga, who is related to Rajapaksa, said that the former president will arrive in Sri Lanka on August 24. ALSO READ | Sri Lanka set to include Sinhala, Tamil during Independence Day celebrations Amid nationwide protests over the country's worst economic crisis, Gotabaya Rajapaksa flew out of the country last month in a military plane. He landed in the neighbouring Maldives and then spent weeks in Singapore before flying to Thailand. After fleeing the country, Rajapaksa has not made any public appearances or comments. ALSO READ | Situation in Sri Lanka 'stabilised', no need to extend emergency: President Wickremesinghe Sri Lanka has suffered through months of food and fuel shortages, lengthy blackouts and galloping inflation as the nation ran out of foreign currency to import vital goods. In a dramatic turn of events on July 9, hundreds of thousands of people in Colombo stormed the presidential palace, demanding Rajapaksa take responsibility for shortages of medicines, food and fuel. Udayanga Weeratunga and the MiG deal probe As far as the probe of the MiG deal is concerned, Weeratunga arrived at the CID to provide a statement about the procurement of MiG-27 fighter jets to the Sri Lanka Air Force. Weerathunga was arrested in February 2022 and released on bail several months later. He is accused of unlawfully interfering with the purchase of seven MiG ground attack aircraft for the Air Force from Ukraine. He is also accused of embezzling millions of US dollars through the deal. 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.

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to return on August 24: Report

- Chinese 'spy ship' docks at Sri Lanka's Hambantota port - India, United States concerned over ship's spying systems - Lanka says Yuan Wang 5 will not engage in any research

Chinese ship docks at Sri Lanka's Hambantota port

India has gifted a maritime surveillance aircraft to Sri Lanka. The consignment was handed over by the Indian Air force on its 75th Independence Day.

India gifts Dornier-228 aircraft to Sri Lanka used for maritime surveillance

The Chinese 'spy ship' Yuan Wang 5 docked at Sri Lanka's southern Hambantota Port on Tuesday amid snooping concerns expressed by India.

WION Dispatch: Chinese 'spy ship' Yuan Wang 5 docks at Sri Lanka port despite Indian concern

From a Chinese vessel Yuan Wang 5 arriving at Hambantota port in Sri Lanka to protest against the results of Kenya's general election, here are some impactful images from around the world on 16 August 2022.

World in Pictures: Chinese vessel Yuan Wang 5 arrives at Hambantota port; Protests in Kenya

The controversial Chinese tracking vessel Yuan Wang 5 has now docked at Sri Lanka Hambantota port despite security concerns raised by India. WION's principal correspondent Sidhant Sibal brings in more on this.

Chinese ‘spy’ ship Yuan Wang 5 reaches Sri Lanka’s Hambantota; Delhi, Washington raise concern

The controversial Chinese tracking vessel Yuan Wang 5 has now docked at Sri Lanka Hambantota port despite security concerns raised by India.

Chinese 'spy' ship Yuan Wang 5 docked at Sri Lankan port raises concerns

In the presence of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, India handed over a Dornier aircraft to Sri Lanka on Monday, confirming its security relations with the island country.

The Indian High Commissioner in Colombo, Gopal Baglay, handed over the maritime surveillance aircraft to the Sri Lanka Navy at the Sri Lanka Airforce facility in Katunayake, which is next to the Colombo international airport.

"The security of India and Sri Lanka is enhanced by mutual understanding, mutual trust and cooperation. The gifting of Dornier 228 is India’s latest contribution to this cause," High Commissioner Gopal Baglay said at the handing over event held on Indian Independence Day. A day before the arrival of a Chinese space and satellite tracking vessel that has alarmed India. Despite New Delhi's concerns, including those expressed to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Colombo has approved the Chinese vessel's visit after asking a five-day delay.

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"Like fruits of other areas of cooperation with India, the gift of Dornier to @airforcelk is of relevance to and a step to meet its requirements for maritime safety and security. It is an example of India's strength adding to the strength of its friends," the Indian High Commission said.

Last Monday, the Sri Lanka Air Force announced that the Indian Air Force would be donating a Dornier 228 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, with another aircraft to follow within two years. The Indian donation came in response to a request by the Sri Lankan government in 2018 for two Dornier Reconnaissance Aircraft to improve the island nation's maritime surveillance capabilities, according to the SLAF.

Sri Lanka is a participant of the "Colombo Security Conclave," which began as a trilateral effort comprising India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, and later included Mauritius, for regional marine cooperation.

Meanwhile, in his Independence Day message, High Commissioner Baglay said that India has been an active partner in catalyzing the economic recovery of Sri Lanka.

Indian investments in Sri Lanka in mutually beneficial sectors such as ports, renewable energy, infrastructure etc will be instrumental in this through employment generation and stepped up economic activities, he said.

The civilisational connect, shared heritage and abiding bonds between the people are the hallmark of India-Sri Lanka ties. Today, as we rapidly move forward on the path laid out by generations from antiquity, we also seek to strengthen these age-old linkages for posterity as well, he said.

(With inputs from agencies) 
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In the presence of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, India handed over a Dornier aircraft to Sri Lanka on Monday, confirming its security relations with the island country.

In the presence of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, India handed over a Dornier aircraft to Sri Lanka on Monday, confirming its security relations with the island country. The Indian High Commissioner in Colombo, Gopal Baglay, handed over the maritime surveillance aircraft to the Sri Lanka Navy at the Sri Lanka Airforce facility in Katunayake, which is next to the Colombo international airport. "The security of India and Sri Lanka is enhanced by mutual understanding, mutual trust and cooperation. The gifting of Dornier 228 is India’s latest contribution to this cause," High Commissioner Gopal Baglay said at the handing over event held on Indian Independence Day. A day before the arrival of a Chinese space and satellite tracking vessel that has alarmed India. Despite New Delhi's concerns, including those expressed to President Ranil Wickremesinghe, Colombo has approved the Chinese vessel's visit after asking a five-day delay. Watch: India gifted Dornier martime Aircraft lands in Sri Lanka with fanfare pic.twitter.com/DygbZFqJfS — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 15, 2022 × "Like fruits of other areas of cooperation with India, the gift of Dornier to @airforcelk is of relevance to and a step to meet its requirements for maritime safety and security. It is an example of India's strength adding to the strength of its friends," the Indian High Commission said. Last Monday, the Sri Lanka Air Force announced that the Indian Air Force would be donating a Dornier 228 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, with another aircraft to follow within two years. The Indian donation came in response to a request by the Sri Lankan government in 2018 for two Dornier Reconnaissance Aircraft to improve the island nation's maritime surveillance capabilities, according to the SLAF. Sri Lanka is a participant of the "Colombo Security Conclave," which began as a trilateral effort comprising India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, and later included Mauritius, for regional marine cooperation. Meanwhile, in his Independence Day message, High Commissioner Baglay said that India has been an active partner in catalyzing the economic recovery of Sri Lanka. Indian investments in Sri Lanka in mutually beneficial sectors such as ports, renewable energy, infrastructure etc will be instrumental in this through employment generation and stepped up economic activities, he said. The civilisational connect, shared heritage and abiding bonds between the people are the hallmark of India-Sri Lanka ties. Today, as we rapidly move forward on the path laid out by generations from antiquity, we also seek to strengthen these age-old linkages for posterity as well, he said. (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.

India hands over Dornier aircraft to Sri Lanka on its 76th Independence Day

Sri Lanka has again taken a U-turn as it has allowed a Chinese vessel to dock in Sri Lanka's Hambanthota port. Now, Washington and Delhi raised a concern.

Sri Lanka allows Chinese vessel to dock, Washington and Delhi raise a concern

Sri Lanka allows Chinese vessel to dock, Washington and Delhi raise

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, a well-known social and spiritual leader, opened the first phase of a 75-bed free super speciality hospital, Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital, in Batticaloa, a region in the east of the island of Sri Lanka, which has endured years of civil war and has housed over 30,000 war widows, in order to support the Indian Government's efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which is bankrupt.

The island nation of <meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-on-the-run-rajapaksa-exits-singapore-for-thailand-505915">Sri Lanka</a>&nbsp;is struggling with an unprecedented economic crisis, unemployment, and inflation, which has severely weakened its healthcare system and caused a dreadful shortage of key medications, such as life-saving antibiotics and paediatric care.

Through its member-foundation in Sri Lanka, the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation, which was founded in 2016, the Sai Global Federation of Foundations, chaired by Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, has offered assistance at this time of need. The Foundation's Sri Sathya Sai Karunalayam Medical Center, which opened in 2017, has provided care to more than 16,000 rural patients to date.

In the presence of Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, the opening of Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital was presided over by Mr. Aravinda de Silva, a former captain and international cricket player for Sri Lanka. Other guests included representatives from the government and diplomatic community of Sri Lanka, the medical community, and the armed forces of Sri Lanka.

<meta charset="utf-8" /><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-research-vessel-given-entry-in-sri-lanka-despite-indias-concerns-that-it-is-dual-use-spy-ship-506483">Also Read | Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship</a>

Recognising the selfless services of Sri Sathya Sai Karunanilayam Foundation, the President of Sri Lanka, Mr Ranil Wickremesinghe sent his message:

“It gives me immense pleasure to be addressing all of you on this momentous occasion of the inauguration of Sri Sathya Sai Super Speciality Hospital at Kirankulam in Batticaloa under the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation. The services rendered by this foundation, completely free of cost, stands out even more so in the background of the economic turbulence, we are facing at present in our country. 

I understand that the foundation, since its inception in 2017, has treated over 16,000 outpatients. The services rendered are inspiring and their vision for the future healthcare mission with this specialised hospital is truly something very special. I’m grateful to the Founder of Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Chain of Hospitals, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai under whose leadership and vision, the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation has set up this hospital.

Also, on behalf of the people of Sri Lanka, my heartfelt gratitude to the international team of expertise from Sai Sanjeevani India who have exhibited the true meaning of brotherhood during these challenging times. I wish to thank all the guests who have come here from across the globe and shown their solidarity and support and also to those who were not able to be physically present but have continuously supported this noble initiative from all around the world. 

Finally, on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka&nbsp;and its people, I once again extend my heartfelt gratitude to the whole team and wish them and the Karuna Nilayam Foundation and the Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospitals, all the very best for their future endeavours.”

At the event, Mr Aravinda de Silva, Former Sri Lankan International Cricketer and Captain said:

“About two weeks ago, I got a message from a very famous man from India, who has been very dear to me and has been one of my childhood idols…that was none other than, Mr Sunil Gavaskar.&nbsp;His message was a request to represent him at the inauguration of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital at Batticaloa in Sri Lanka. 

Before coming here, I didn’t anticipate this kind of magnitude, effort and love that has gone into this project, and witnessing this in person is a remarkable experience; for something like this to happen within 5 years is indeed remarkable. 

Congratulations for achieving this in the last five&nbsp;years. Today, after having completed my childhood phase of enjoying playing cricket, as a cricketer who contributed towards the game of cricket by representing Sri Lanka, as a business man who has established his own business for the last 14 years; it is time to serve my country, and at this juncture, I find my thinking matching with the motto of this organization – Love All Serve All.

We have enjoyed everything from this lovely nation and now it is time to give the country back, what it deserves. Thanks to everyone who has put in so much effort and time to make this hospital happen. My support and help will be there anytime.”

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai remarked:

“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the whole world is one family. There are people from US, UK, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Middle East, Fiji, a few European nations and India who have come today—we all have come together today in the spirit of one global family. The message of fraternity, love and brotherhood is universal. 

When one member in a family needs help, the whole family comes together to help. This is what we are doing now. Time is of essence in cardiac care, the sooner we treat the child, the sonner we save his/ her life. This is the first time in the history of Sri Lankan healthcare, where a speciality hospital is set up completely free of cost. 

When we want to do good, the whole universe conspires to do good. Every child in Sri Lanka is as important as a child in our own country. Sri Lanka and India shares a lot in common — be it our spirituality, history – both culture and colonial, passion for cricket…congenital heart disease is our common burden and hence a solution for this is our common cause. I hope there is a day in Sri Lanka when every child has access to good education, nutrition and healthcare.”

Within the next few days, free paediatric heart care surgeries and interventions will be performed at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital in Batticaloa to mark the beginning of its operations.

With the assistance of its international partners in 33 nations, the hospital is prepared to expand in stages to carry out various healthcare missions across specialties. Even during the COVID era, the medical centre provided hot, wholesome cooked food in the nearby villages to meet the nutritional needs of the poor.

The facility was recognised by the Sri Lankan Healthcare Fraternity as being able to close the gap in paediatric cardiac treatment in Sri Lanka, where 3,000 kids are born with congenital heart disease each year.

Following the opening of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children's Heart Facility in Suva, Fiji, on April 27, 2022, by the Honourable Prime Minister of Fiji, Mr. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, this hospital in Sri Lanka is the second in a short period of time—roughly three months.

Through the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Global Heart Care Centers, many young hearts in Sri Lanka are prepared to be welcomed with love and compassion in order to advance the cause of the "Right to Healthy Childhood" by building a holistic ecosystem that will lessen the burden of congenital heart disease worldwide.

&nbsp;

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, a well-known social and spiritual leader, opened the first phase of a 75-bed free super speciality hospital, Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital, in Batticaloa, a region in the east of the island of Sri Lanka, which has endured years of civil war and has housed over 30,000 war widows, in order to support the Indian Government's efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which is bankrupt.

Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, a well-known social and spiritual leader, opened the first phase of a 75-bed free super speciality hospital, Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital, in Batticaloa, a region in the east of the island of Sri Lanka, which has endured years of civil war and has housed over 30,000 war widows, in order to support the Indian Government's efforts to provide humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka, which is bankrupt. The island nation of Sri Lanka is struggling with an unprecedented economic crisis, unemployment, and inflation, which has severely weakened its healthcare system and caused a dreadful shortage of key medications, such as life-saving antibiotics and paediatric care. Through its member-foundation in Sri Lanka, the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation, which was founded in 2016, the Sai Global Federation of Foundations, chaired by Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, has offered assistance at this time of need. The Foundation's Sri Sathya Sai Karunalayam Medical Center, which opened in 2017, has provided care to more than 16,000 rural patients to date. In the presence of Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai, the opening of Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital was presided over by Mr. Aravinda de Silva, a former captain and international cricket player for Sri Lanka. Other guests included representatives from the government and diplomatic community of Sri Lanka, the medical community, and the armed forces of Sri Lanka. Also Read | Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship Recognising the selfless services of Sri Sathya Sai Karunanilayam Foundation, the President of Sri Lanka, Mr Ranil Wickremesinghe sent his message: “It gives me immense pleasure to be addressing all of you on this momentous occasion of the inauguration of Sri Sathya Sai Super Speciality Hospital at Kirankulam in Batticaloa under the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation. The services rendered by this foundation, completely free of cost, stands out even more so in the background of the economic turbulence, we are facing at present in our country. I understand that the foundation, since its inception in 2017, has treated over 16,000 outpatients. The services rendered are inspiring and their vision for the future healthcare mission with this specialised hospital is truly something very special. I’m grateful to the Founder of Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Chain of Hospitals, Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai under whose leadership and vision, the Sri Sathya Sai Karuna Nilayam Foundation has set up this hospital. Also, on behalf of the people of Sri Lanka, my heartfelt gratitude to the international team of expertise from Sai Sanjeevani India who have exhibited the true meaning of brotherhood during these challenging times. I wish to thank all the guests who have come here from across the globe and shown their solidarity and support and also to those who were not able to be physically present but have continuously supported this noble initiative from all around the world. Finally, on behalf of the Government of Sri Lanka and its people, I once again extend my heartfelt gratitude to the whole team and wish them and the Karuna Nilayam Foundation and the Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospitals, all the very best for their future endeavours.” At the event, Mr Aravinda de Silva, Former Sri Lankan International Cricketer and Captain said: “About two weeks ago, I got a message from a very famous man from India, who has been very dear to me and has been one of my childhood idols…that was none other than, Mr Sunil Gavaskar. His message was a request to represent him at the inauguration of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital at Batticaloa in Sri Lanka. Before coming here, I didn’t anticipate this kind of magnitude, effort and love that has gone into this project, and witnessing this in person is a remarkable experience; for something like this to happen within 5 years is indeed remarkable. Congratulations for achieving this in the last five years. Today, after having completed my childhood phase of enjoying playing cricket, as a cricketer who contributed towards the game of cricket by representing Sri Lanka, as a business man who has established his own business for the last 14 years; it is time to serve my country, and at this juncture, I find my thinking matching with the motto of this organization – Love All Serve All. We have enjoyed everything from this lovely nation and now it is time to give the country back, what it deserves. Thanks to everyone who has put in so much effort and time to make this hospital happen. My support and help will be there anytime.” Sadguru Sri Madhusudan Sai remarked: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the whole world is one family. There are people from US, UK, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, Middle East, Fiji, a few European nations and India who have come today—we all have come together today in the spirit of one global family. The message of fraternity, love and brotherhood is universal. When one member in a family needs help, the whole family comes together to help. This is what we are doing now. Time is of essence in cardiac care, the sooner we treat the child, the sonner we save his/ her life. This is the first time in the history of Sri Lankan healthcare, where a speciality hospital is set up completely free of cost. When we want to do good, the whole universe conspires to do good. Every child in Sri Lanka is as important as a child in our own country. Sri Lanka and India shares a lot in common — be it our spirituality, history – both culture and colonial, passion for cricket…congenital heart disease is our common burden and hence a solution for this is our common cause. I hope there is a day in Sri Lanka when every child has access to good education, nutrition and healthcare.” Within the next few days, free paediatric heart care surgeries and interventions will be performed at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Super Speciality Hospital in Batticaloa to mark the beginning of its operations. With the assistance of its international partners in 33 nations, the hospital is prepared to expand in stages to carry out various healthcare missions across specialties. Even during the COVID era, the medical centre provided hot, wholesome cooked food in the nearby villages to meet the nutritional needs of the poor. The facility was recognised by the Sri Lankan Healthcare Fraternity as being able to close the gap in paediatric cardiac treatment in Sri Lanka, where 3,000 kids are born with congenital heart disease each year. Following the opening of the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children's Heart Facility in Suva, Fiji, on April 27, 2022, by the Honourable Prime Minister of Fiji, Mr. Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, this hospital in Sri Lanka is the second in a short period of time—roughly three months. Through the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Global Heart Care Centers, many young hearts in Sri Lanka are prepared to be welcomed with love and compassion in order to advance the cause of the "Right to Healthy Childhood" by building a holistic ecosystem that will lessen the burden of congenital heart disease worldwide.

Sri Lanka receives free-of-charge hospital

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island. International shipping and analytics websites refer to the Yuan Wang 5 as a research and survey vessel, however, Indian media describes it as a dual-purpose espionage ship.

Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and influence in Sri Lanka raise suspicion in New Delhi, which sees both as firmly within its area of influence. The Chinese-run Hambantota port in Sri Lanka was scheduled to receive the Yuan Wang 5 on August 11, but Colombo requested Beijing to postpone the visit indefinitely after India raised concerns. Sri Lanka's harbour master Nirmal P. Silva, however, claimed that he had obtained permission from the foreign ministry for the ship to call in Hambantota from August 16 to 22.

According to officials in the foreign ministry, Colombo had extended the first clearance for the visit, which had been given on July 12—the day before the former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after months of unrest over the nation's worst-ever economic crisis. After escaping to Singapore, Rajapaksa—whose brother Mahinda borrowed extensively from China while serving as president from 2005 to 2015—resigned.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-study-reveals-arctic-warming-four-times-and-svalbard-seven-times-faster-than-rest-of-planet-506160">In pics: Study reveals Arctic warming four times and Svalbard seven times faster than rest of planet</a>

Following accusations of poor leadership during an economic crisis that resulted in severe shortages of food, fuel, and medications, tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied Rajapaksa's palace and residence in Colombo. On Friday night, according to port officials, the Chinese ship was roughly 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) southeast of Sri Lanka and slowly making its way into the Hambantota deep sea port.

Sri Lanka paid less than the $1.4 billion to a Chinese company to build the port, and leased it to China for 99 years for $1.12 billion. Indian reports claim that the Yuan Wang 5 has specialised applications for intercontinental ballistic missile launches and may be used for tracking satellites and spacecraft.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island.

Despite India's worries that it would spy on New Delhi's military facilities, authorities said Sri Lanka's government on Saturday authorised a contentious Chinese research vessel to visit the island. International shipping and analytics websites refer to the Yuan Wang 5 as a research and survey vessel, however, Indian media describes it as a dual-purpose espionage ship. Beijing's expanding presence in the Indian Ocean and influence in Sri Lanka raise suspicion in New Delhi, which sees both as firmly within its area of influence. The Chinese-run Hambantota port in Sri Lanka was scheduled to receive the Yuan Wang 5 on August 11, but Colombo requested Beijing to postpone the visit indefinitely after India raised concerns. Sri Lanka's harbour master Nirmal P. Silva, however, claimed that he had obtained permission from the foreign ministry for the ship to call in Hambantota from August 16 to 22. According to officials in the foreign ministry, Colombo had extended the first clearance for the visit, which had been given on July 12—the day before the former president Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled the country after months of unrest over the nation's worst-ever economic crisis. After escaping to Singapore, Rajapaksa—whose brother Mahinda borrowed extensively from China while serving as president from 2005 to 2015—resigned. Also Read: In pics: Study reveals Arctic warming four times and Svalbard seven times faster than rest of planet Following accusations of poor leadership during an economic crisis that resulted in severe shortages of food, fuel, and medications, tens of thousands of demonstrators occupied Rajapaksa's palace and residence in Colombo. On Friday night, according to port officials, the Chinese ship was roughly 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) southeast of Sri Lanka and slowly making its way into the Hambantota deep sea port. Sri Lanka paid less than the $1.4 billion to a Chinese company to build the port, and leased it to China for 99 years for $1.12 billion. Indian reports claim that the Yuan Wang 5 has specialised applications for intercontinental ballistic missile launches and may be used for tracking satellites and spacecraft. (with inputs from agencies)

Chinese 'research' vessel given entry in Sri Lanka despite India's concerns that it is dual-use spy ship

After Maldives & Singapore, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has sought refuge in Thailand. The Thai Foreign Ministry has approved his request for refuge, but has denied granting him asylum.

Former Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa arrives in Bangkok in a private jet

It has been a turbulent year so far for Sri Lanka with the island states’ worst fears being realised. The present economic crisis was in the making for a few years owing to Sri Lanka’s bad political decisions and policies, ill-effects of over-centralisation of leadership even at the cost of weakening of democratic institutions, deficient future economic planning, opportunism of lender countries like China. The result was a situation of grave foreign exchange shortage, leading to a record high level of inflation and a scarcity of essentials to citizens including, fuel, food and medicines.

With President Gotabaya Rajapaksa abandoning citizens and fleeing to Singapore, followed by his resignation, there remains no doubt that the social and political unrest in the state is here to stay and the disturbing images of protesters storming the Presidential house and government offices and days-long ques outside fuel pumps are not exaggerations but a genuine depiction of the chaos.

Sri Lanka thus finds itself amidst a whirlpool. These strong currents which are pulling Sri Lanka further into the storm, call for a strong, strategic and well-crafted reaction from India in the given situation. India is a leading country in the South Asia region and an immediate neighbour having a historically cordial relationship with Sri Lanka.

What should be the Indian reaction?

India as a leading civilisational power in the region. It not just has a strategic requirement and national interest reasons but also a greater moral responsibility to act when an immediate neighbour is in crisis. External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar pointed this out earlier in July that the present economic and political crisis “pertains to a very close neighbour and, given the near proximity, we naturally worry about the consequences, the spillover it has for us”.

India ought to have twin goals in the given situation where Sri Lanka is not just encountering a political instability but a grave shortage of foreign exchange reserves which has led to the country struggling to pay for essential imports.

First, to provide maximum possible assistance and support to Sri Lanka. This would serve two purposes, to save the Sri Lankan democracy and its vibrant institutions and governance record from degenerating into a politically, economically and socially disturbed state in the years to come. It is certainly not in the Indian national interest to have another neighbouring state, after the unpleasant experiences from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Myanmar, to becoming hotbed of notorious non-state actors, non-democratic regimes and overall socio-economic turmoil.

After all, not many decades ago India had to cater to the refugees from Sri Lanka, send the rather controversial peacekeeping mission to the state between 1987 and 1990 and the in later years after the conclusion of the Sri Lankan civil war send aid. India provided aid for the rehabilitation of numerous Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), the Sri Lankan Tamils uprooted due to the situation emanating from a prolonged civil war in Sri Lanka.

Answering a question in the Parliament, inquiring whether India is taking any steps/measures to help Sri Lanka from the unprecedented crisis, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan cited the details of India’s continued support and efforts to the economic development of the people of Sri Lanka in overcoming the economic challenges.

He stated that, early this year “India extended a US$ 400 million currency swap to Sri Lanka under the SAARC Framework and deferred successive Asian Clearing Union (A.C.U.) settlements. India also offered a Line of Credit of US$ 500 million for the purpose of fuel import from India. A credit facility of US$ 1 billion has been introduced to help Sri Lanka procure food, medicines and other essential items from India. There was also a humanitarian assistance or gift of essential medicines, kerosene oil and Urea fertilizer.”

Another crucial purpose the Indian support would serve would be in proving the domestic critics of the Modi government’s foreign policy wrong. There has been criticism that the government of India in recent years has not prioritised the maintenance of healthy bilateral relationships in the neighbourhood, especially with smaller states in South Asia like Nepal etc.

Brushing aside the recent criticisms based on a report stating that Sri Lanka in 2020 had requested India for a debt deferral, the EAM Jaishankar said that, no formal request had been made for help earlier, thus the Indian assistance could not be termed as “too little too late” in this case.

The Sri Lanka crisis has given the Indian government led by PM Modi a good opportunity to strengthen it’s ‘neighbourhood first policy’ and display how the policy could be implemented and be widely seen in action. With India committing a $3.8 billion for the support of Sri Lanka, EAM Jaishankar reiterated that the Prime Minister is committed to its neighbourhood first policy where the government makes special efforts to try and support the country’s neighbours in a manner that meets their requirements.

Indian commitment to, as V. Muraleedharan mentions, support the quest of the people of Sri Lanka for stability and economic recovery, through established democratic norms, institutions and constitutional framework, remains firm.

A second goal for India and notably of equal importance is to name and shame the PRC. This would build diplomatic pressure on PRC and attract international attention and probably later invite international condemnation towards the ‘by-design’, ‘ill-intended’ bad loans China offers to many developing states like Sri Lanka.

Since 2019, there has been an overall decline in the Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves and a record increase in the external debt. China alone has making around 10% of the total debt, what Jaishankar calls as an “unsustainable debt”, of approximately $34.6 billion.

ANI reports that as per a study last year&nbsp;by two Sri Lankan economists, the “official data from the Sri Lanka’s Finance Ministry showing it as 10% might just cater to the government-to-government debt. And the commercial lending to the government and loans to Sri-Lankan state owned enterprises”. For instance, in the case of the Hambantota Port development, China enveloped Sri Lanka into an unequal deal with a controversial 99-year lease contract. Sri Lanka defaulted and had issues with the repayment of the loan and eventually lost control over its own port.

China has aimed to destabilize many Asian and African economies in the past with its ‘debt traps’. It is one of the biggest investors in various infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka though there has been both domestic and international concerns about China luring Sri Lanka into a debt trap.

However, it must be acknowledged that several reasons proliferating the recent economic and political crisis in Sri Lanka have internal or domestic causes, yet the role of China in the present turmoil could not be completely overlooked. Many political and economic analysts believe that the Sri Lankan crisis could not be seen as a bolt from the blue or unprecedented as there was in making from some years now owing to Sri Lanka’s bad political choices and poor economic planning.

To conclude, for Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ to be seen in action, the politico-economic crisis in Sri Lanka presents a ripe moment for India where it could act and assist the state in every possible manner.

Apart from the several strategic benefits, what India could draw from this crisis would be to emerge as a strong state in the region and provide a support system for many SAARC and the BIMSTEC member states. There is a vacuum for a leadership role for the fraternity of states which have borrowed heavily based on contracts and conditions designed by Beijing. Many of these economies are in ‘debt traps’ with their economies already showing the signs of strains. India is known for its soft power credentials and in Sri Lankan recovery that support from India is paramount.

The author is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

It has been a turbulent year so far for Sri Lanka with the island states’ worst fears being realised. The present economic crisis was in the making for a few years owing to Sri Lanka’s bad political decisions and policies, ill-effects of over-centralisation of leadership even at the cost of weakening of democratic institutions, deficient future economic planning, opportunism of lender countries like China.

It has been a turbulent year so far for Sri Lanka with the island states’ worst fears being realised. The present economic crisis was in the making for a few years owing to Sri Lanka’s bad political decisions and policies, ill-effects of over-centralisation of leadership even at the cost of weakening of democratic institutions, deficient future economic planning, opportunism of lender countries like China. The result was a situation of grave foreign exchange shortage, leading to a record high level of inflation and a scarcity of essentials to citizens including, fuel, food and medicines. With President Gotabaya Rajapaksa abandoning citizens and fleeing to Singapore, followed by his resignation, there remains no doubt that the social and political unrest in the state is here to stay and the disturbing images of protesters storming the Presidential house and government offices and days-long ques outside fuel pumps are not exaggerations but a genuine depiction of the chaos. Sri Lanka thus finds itself amidst a whirlpool. These strong currents which are pulling Sri Lanka further into the storm, call for a strong, strategic and well-crafted reaction from India in the given situation. India is a leading country in the South Asia region and an immediate neighbour having a historically cordial relationship with Sri Lanka. What should be the Indian reaction? India as a leading civilisational power in the region. It not just has a strategic requirement and national interest reasons but also a greater moral responsibility to act when an immediate neighbour is in crisis. External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar pointed this out earlier in July that the present economic and political crisis “pertains to a very close neighbour and, given the near proximity, we naturally worry about the consequences, the spillover it has for us”. India ought to have twin goals in the given situation where Sri Lanka is not just encountering a political instability but a grave shortage of foreign exchange reserves which has led to the country struggling to pay for essential imports. First, to provide maximum possible assistance and support to Sri Lanka. This would serve two purposes, to save the Sri Lankan democracy and its vibrant institutions and governance record from degenerating into a politically, economically and socially disturbed state in the years to come. It is certainly not in the Indian national interest to have another neighbouring state, after the unpleasant experiences from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Myanmar, to becoming hotbed of notorious non-state actors, non-democratic regimes and overall socio-economic turmoil. After all, not many decades ago India had to cater to the refugees from Sri Lanka, send the rather controversial peacekeeping mission to the state between 1987 and 1990 and the in later years after the conclusion of the Sri Lankan civil war send aid. India provided aid for the rehabilitation of numerous Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), the Sri Lankan Tamils uprooted due to the situation emanating from a prolonged civil war in Sri Lanka. Answering a question in the Parliament, inquiring whether India is taking any steps/measures to help Sri Lanka from the unprecedented crisis, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, V. Muraleedharan cited the details of India’s continued support and efforts to the economic development of the people of Sri Lanka in overcoming the economic challenges. He stated that, early this year “India extended a US$ 400 million currency swap to Sri Lanka under the SAARC Framework and deferred successive Asian Clearing Union (A.C.U.) settlements. India also offered a Line of Credit of US$ 500 million for the purpose of fuel import from India. A credit facility of US$ 1 billion has been introduced to help Sri Lanka procure food, medicines and other essential items from India. There was also a humanitarian assistance or gift of essential medicines, kerosene oil and Urea fertilizer.” Another crucial purpose the Indian support would serve would be in proving the domestic critics of the Modi government’s foreign policy wrong. There has been criticism that the government of India in recent years has not prioritised the maintenance of healthy bilateral relationships in the neighbourhood, especially with smaller states in South Asia like Nepal etc. Brushing aside the recent criticisms based on a report stating that Sri Lanka in 2020 had requested India for a debt deferral, the EAM Jaishankar said that, no formal request had been made for help earlier, thus the Indian assistance could not be termed as “too little too late” in this case. The Sri Lanka crisis has given the Indian government led by PM Modi a good opportunity to strengthen it’s ‘neighbourhood first policy’ and display how the policy could be implemented and be widely seen in action. With India committing a $3.8 billion for the support of Sri Lanka, EAM Jaishankar reiterated that the Prime Minister is committed to its neighbourhood first policy where the government makes special efforts to try and support the country’s neighbours in a manner that meets their requirements. Indian commitment to, as V. Muraleedharan mentions, support the quest of the people of Sri Lanka for stability and economic recovery, through established democratic norms, institutions and constitutional framework, remains firm. A second goal for India and notably of equal importance is to name and shame the PRC. This would build diplomatic pressure on PRC and attract international attention and probably later invite international condemnation towards the ‘by-design’, ‘ill-intended’ bad loans China offers to many developing states like Sri Lanka. Since 2019, there has been an overall decline in the Sri Lanka’s foreign reserves and a record increase in the external debt. China alone has making around 10% of the total debt, what Jaishankar calls as an “unsustainable debt”, of approximately $34.6 billion. ANI reports that as per a study last year by two Sri Lankan economists, the “official data from the Sri Lanka’s Finance Ministry showing it as 10% might just cater to the government-to-government debt. And the commercial lending to the government and loans to Sri-Lankan state owned enterprises”. For instance, in the case of the Hambantota Port development, China enveloped Sri Lanka into an unequal deal with a controversial 99-year lease contract. Sri Lanka defaulted and had issues with the repayment of the loan and eventually lost control over its own port. China has aimed to destabilize many Asian and African economies in the past with its ‘debt traps’. It is one of the biggest investors in various infrastructure projects in Sri Lanka though there has been both domestic and international concerns about China luring Sri Lanka into a debt trap. However, it must be acknowledged that several reasons proliferating the recent economic and political crisis in Sri Lanka have internal or domestic causes, yet the role of China in the present turmoil could not be completely overlooked. Many political and economic analysts believe that the Sri Lankan crisis could not be seen as a bolt from the blue or unprecedented as there was in making from some years now owing to Sri Lanka’s bad political choices and poor economic planning. To conclude, for Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ to be seen in action, the politico-economic crisis in Sri Lanka presents a ripe moment for India where it could act and assist the state in every possible manner. Apart from the several strategic benefits, what India could draw from this crisis would be to emerge as a strong state in the region and provide a support system for many SAARC and the BIMSTEC member states. There is a vacuum for a leadership role for the fraternity of states which have borrowed heavily based on contracts and conditions designed by Beijing. Many of these economies are in ‘debt traps’ with their economies already showing the signs of strains. India is known for its soft power credentials and in Sri Lankan recovery that support from India is paramount. The author is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science, Lady Shri Ram College for Women, University of Delhi. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Sri Lanka at crossroads; how should India react?

According to reports the Harbour Master for the Hambantota Port has said that no vessel can enter the port without its permission. This comes after Sri Lanka's foreign ministry last week asked Beijing to defer the arrival of Chinese ballistic missile and satellite tracking ship Yuan Wang 5.

No entry for Chinese ship at Hambantota port

After Maldives & Singapore, Gotabaya Rajapaksa has sought refuge in Thailand. The Thai Foreign Ministry has approved his request for refuge, but has denied granting him asylum. It has also asked Gotabaya to not conduct political activities on Thai soil. Palki Sharma Upadhyay reports.

Gravitas: Gotabaya Rajapaksa seeks refuge in Thailand

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