Sri Lanka Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa on Monday quit from his post. The development came after clashes between pro and anti-government supporters in Colombo.

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa steps down

Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa has resigned from his post. This comes after violent clashes erupted in Colombo over the economic crisis in the country.

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: PM Mahinda Rajapaksa resigns amid massive clashes

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: Mahinda Rajapaksa steps down as PM amid massive clashes

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa resigns amid protests

Political turmoil continues to worsen in Sri Lanka. Protests against the ongoing economic crisis continues. In a latest update, reports suggest that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa might have resigned. According to political sources, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa during the cabinet meeting stated that the PM and government should resign

Sri Lanka Political Crisis: Final announcement on PM Mahinda Rajapaksa's resignation today

A group of students tried to storm into the Sri Lankan Parliament. The protests were being staged by the inter-university students federation, which is the largest student body in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: University students stage protest near parliament

Sri Lanka plans to replace its current "unrealistic" budget and is in talks with the World Bank to extend its support by $300 million to $700 million, the country's finance minister said on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka Crisis: Colombo to replace 'unrealistic' budget, in talks to extend World Bank aid

Sri Lanka's main opposition party submitted no-trust motions against the Rajapaksa brothers. This comes amid reports that Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa might resign. Palki Sharma tells you more about the political crisis in Sri Lanka.

Gravitas: Mahinda Rajapaksa to step down?

Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP) agreed to form an interim government. The decision was taken when a group of independent MPs met SLPP representatives in presence of Sri Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka Crisis & Chaos: Rajapaksas, SLPP decide to form interim govt

Sri Lanka, in the midst of an economic crisis decided on Saturday that price of dozens of commonly used medicined would be increased by 40 per cent.

The nation is witnessing countrywide protests from citizens who are reeling from lengthy blackouts and acute shortages of food, fuel and pharmaceuticals. People are demanding government's resignation.

Antibiotics, non-prescription painkillers and medications for heart conditions and diabetes will all be subject to the price rise, health minister Channa Jayasumana said.

Industry officials said the latest hike was necessary to offset the impact of fuel prices, which have doubled since December.

According to official figures, Sri Lanka's inflation rate was at nearly 30 per cent in April. This was seventh consecutive record high.

Sri Lanka has run out of foreign currency to import sorely needed essential goods.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-president-agrees-to-form-all-party-interim-government-with-new-pm-say-reports-474847">Sri Lanka president agrees to form all-party interim government with a new PM, say reports</a>

The government this month announced a default on its $51 billion foreign debt and asked citizens abroad to donate money to help the island out of its economic predicament.

Sri Lanka has asked for an International Monetary Fund bailout, which could take up to three months to arrive.

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On Friday (April 30), Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has agreed to form an all-party interim government led by a new prime minister

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Sri Lanka, in the midst of an economic crisis decided on Saturday that price of dozens of commonly used medicined would be increased by 40 per cent. The nation is witnessing countrywide protests from citizens who are reeling from lengthy blackouts and acute shortages of food, fuel and pharmaceuticals.

Sri Lanka, in the midst of an economic crisis decided on Saturday that price of dozens of commonly used medicined would be increased by 40 per cent. The nation is witnessing countrywide protests from citizens who are reeling from lengthy blackouts and acute shortages of food, fuel and pharmaceuticals. People are demanding government's resignation. Antibiotics, non-prescription painkillers and medications for heart conditions and diabetes will all be subject to the price rise, health minister Channa Jayasumana said. Industry officials said the latest hike was necessary to offset the impact of fuel prices, which have doubled since December. According to official figures, Sri Lanka's inflation rate was at nearly 30 per cent in April. This was seventh consecutive record high. Sri Lanka has run out of foreign currency to import sorely needed essential goods. Also Read | Sri Lanka president agrees to form all-party interim government with a new PM, say reports The government this month announced a default on its $51 billion foreign debt and asked citizens abroad to donate money to help the island out of its economic predicament. Sri Lanka has asked for an International Monetary Fund bailout, which could take up to three months to arrive. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × On Friday (April 30), Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has agreed to form an all-party interim government led by a new prime minister (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka hikes medicine prices amid financial crisis

The situation in Sri Lanka is getting worse by the day and the impact can clearly be seen on the country’s share market. Trading was halted for the second time this month on Monday after the Sri Lanka share market saw a massive fall of around 12.6 per cent amidst the ongoing economic crisis.

The market was closed for around two weeks due to the Sri Lankan New Year holidays and the five-day break after trading was halted on the first occasion. On that occasion, the trading was stopped due to the rising interest rates as the country’s government defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japans-antivirus-pill-shows-rapid-clearance-of-covid-19-473574">Japan's antivirus pill shows 'rapid clearance' of COVID-19</a>

According to an AFP report, Sri Lanka is currently facing its worst economic condition since gaining independence in 1948 and the local currency and equities have lost around 40 per cent of value.

Blackouts and food shortages have become common in the country which is experiencing acute problems when it comes to its economy and that has resulted in massive wide-spread protests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-minister-godahewa-backs-demonstrators-asking-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-to-step-down-473195" hreflang="en">Pressure intensifies on PM Mahinda Rajapaksa as staunch allies break ranks</a>

The AFP report further said that the local S&amp;P index fell around seven per cent since the start of trading and it kept going down until it triggered an automatic half-hour halt to the trading.

A finance ministry source in Colombo told AFP that Sri Lanka re currently in talks with neighbours India, China and Japan in order to acquire some financial help. The source also emphasised on the fact that foreign aid seems to be the most likely solution to the current economic crisis.

WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lanka marks New Year amid economic crisis

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<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">(With inputs from agencies)</div>

The situation in Sri Lanka is getting worse by the day and the impact can clearly be seen on the country’s share market. Trading was halted for the second time this month on Monday after the Sri Lanka share market saw a massive fall of around 12.

The situation in Sri Lanka is getting worse by the day and the impact can clearly be seen on the country’s share market. Trading was halted for the second time this month on Monday after the Sri Lanka share market saw a massive fall of around 12.6 per cent amidst the ongoing economic crisis. The market was closed for around two weeks due to the Sri Lankan New Year holidays and the five-day break after trading was halted on the first occasion. On that occasion, the trading was stopped due to the rising interest rates as the country’s government defaulted on its $51 billion foreign debt. Also read | Japan's antivirus pill shows 'rapid clearance' of COVID-19 According to an AFP report, Sri Lanka is currently facing its worst economic condition since gaining independence in 1948 and the local currency and equities have lost around 40 per cent of value. Blackouts and food shortages have become common in the country which is experiencing acute problems when it comes to its economy and that has resulted in massive wide-spread protests. Also read | Pressure intensifies on PM Mahinda Rajapaksa as staunch allies break ranks The AFP report further said that the local S&P index fell around seven per cent since the start of trading and it kept going down until it triggered an automatic half-hour halt to the trading. A finance ministry source in Colombo told AFP that Sri Lanka re currently in talks with neighbours India, China and Japan in order to acquire some financial help. The source also emphasised on the fact that foreign aid seems to be the most likely solution to the current economic crisis. WATCH | Sri Lanka marks New Year amid economic crisis (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka stock market halts trading after 12.6 per cent fall amidst economic crisis

The International Monetary Fund said on Saturday it held "fruitful technical discussions" with Sri Lanka on its loan request, while the World Bank said it was preparing an emergency aid package for the crisis-stricken country.

Sri Lanka, an island country of 22 million people, is struggling to pay for imports amid a crushing debt crisis and sharp drop in foreign exchange reserves that has fueled soaring inflation. Prolonged power cuts and shortages of fuel, food and medicines have sparked nationwide protests.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-minister-godahewa-backs-demonstrators-asking-pm-mahinda-rajapaksa-to-step-down-473195" hreflang="en">Sri Lankan minister Godahewa changes camp, backs protests to seek PM's resignation</a>

Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry has been in Washington this week talking to the IMF, the World Bank, India and others about financing help for his country, which has suspended payments on portions of its $51 billion in external debt.

The World Bank's emergency response package includes $10 million to be made immediately available for the purchase of essential medicines, funds shifted from its ongoing COVID-19 health preparedness project, a World Bank spokesperson said.

The global lender, which along with the IMF held its spring meetings this week, did not provide a total value for its package, but Sabry said on Friday that about $500 million in aid was being considered.

The World Bank spokesperson said the package would leverage existing bank-financed projects and repurpose funds to quickly provide medicines, meals for school children and cash transfers for poor and vulnerable households.

Support to provide cooking gas, basic food supplies, seeds and fertilizers and other essentials is also under discussion, the spokesperson said, adding that the World Bank was "deeply concerned" about the situation in Sri Lanka.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lankan Minister resigns two days after appointment amid the ongoing crisis

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The IMF said in a statement on Saturday that talks between its staff focused on the need for Sri Lanka to implement "a credible and coherent strategy" to restore macroeconomic stability, and to strengthen its social safety net and protect the poor and vulnerable during the current crisis.

"The IMF team welcomed the authorities' plan to engage in a collaborative dialogue with their creditors," IMF Sri Lanka mission chief Masahiro Nozaki said in a statement after the country took steps to explore a restructuring of some $12 billion in sovereign bonds

Sabry told reporters on Friday that the talks with the IMF were focused on a more traditional Extended Fund Facility program, but that $3 billion to $4 billion in bridge financing was needed while this could be finalized.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/debt-ridden-sri-lankas-inflation-soared-to-a-record-high-473058" hreflang="en">Debt-ridden Sri Lanka's inflation soared to a record high</a>

The IMF has said that Sri Lanka's debt needs to be put on a sustainable path before it could make new loans to Colombo - a process that could require lengthy negotiations with China and the country's other creditors.

Sabry said on Friday that in addition to the IMF loan and World Bank assistance, Sri Lanka is discussing with India some $1.5 billion in bridge financing to help continue essential imports, and added that he has also approached China, Japan and the Asian Development Bank for help.

The International Monetary Fund said on Saturday it held "fruitful technical discussions" with Sri Lanka on its loan request, while the World Bank said it was preparing an emergency aid package for the crisis-stricken country.

The International Monetary Fund said on Saturday it held "fruitful technical discussions" with Sri Lanka on its loan request, while the World Bank said it was preparing an emergency aid package for the crisis-stricken country. Sri Lanka, an island country of 22 million people, is struggling to pay for imports amid a crushing debt crisis and sharp drop in foreign exchange reserves that has fueled soaring inflation. Prolonged power cuts and shortages of fuel, food and medicines have sparked nationwide protests. Also read | Sri Lankan minister Godahewa changes camp, backs protests to seek PM's resignation Sri Lankan Finance Minister Ali Sabry has been in Washington this week talking to the IMF, the World Bank, India and others about financing help for his country, which has suspended payments on portions of its $51 billion in external debt. The World Bank's emergency response package includes $10 million to be made immediately available for the purchase of essential medicines, funds shifted from its ongoing COVID-19 health preparedness project, a World Bank spokesperson said. The global lender, which along with the IMF held its spring meetings this week, did not provide a total value for its package, but Sabry said on Friday that about $500 million in aid was being considered. The World Bank spokesperson said the package would leverage existing bank-financed projects and repurpose funds to quickly provide medicines, meals for school children and cash transfers for poor and vulnerable households. Support to provide cooking gas, basic food supplies, seeds and fertilizers and other essentials is also under discussion, the spokesperson said, adding that the World Bank was "deeply concerned" about the situation in Sri Lanka. Watch | Sri Lankan Minister resigns two days after appointment amid the ongoing crisis The IMF said in a statement on Saturday that talks between its staff focused on the need for Sri Lanka to implement "a credible and coherent strategy" to restore macroeconomic stability, and to strengthen its social safety net and protect the poor and vulnerable during the current crisis. "The IMF team welcomed the authorities' plan to engage in a collaborative dialogue with their creditors," IMF Sri Lanka mission chief Masahiro Nozaki said in a statement after the country took steps to explore a restructuring of some $12 billion in sovereign bonds Sabry told reporters on Friday that the talks with the IMF were focused on a more traditional Extended Fund Facility program, but that $3 billion to $4 billion in bridge financing was needed while this could be finalized. Also read | Debt-ridden Sri Lanka's inflation soared to a record high The IMF has said that Sri Lanka's debt needs to be put on a sustainable path before it could make new loans to Colombo - a process that could require lengthy negotiations with China and the country's other creditors. Sabry said on Friday that in addition to the IMF loan and World Bank assistance, Sri Lanka is discussing with India some $1.5 billion in bridge financing to help continue essential imports, and added that he has also approached China, Japan and the Asian Development Bank for help.

Sri Lanka economic crisis: IMF holds 'fruitful' loan discussions with Colombo, World Bank readies aid package

The inevitable has happened, and the Sri Lankan government has declared bankruptcy. It makes one wonder if other nations might have undergone bankruptcy in the past?

Did you know this country was once bankrupt?

Grappling with the worst economic crisis since its independence, Sri Lanka celebrates New Year

Sri Lanka has decided to temporarily suspend foreign debt payments. Will this decision lead to default? Molly Gambhir brings you a report

Gravitas: Has Sri Lanka defaulted on its entire $51 billion debt?

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's central bank doubled its key&nbsp;interest&nbsp;rates&nbsp;on Friday, raising each by an unprecedented 700 basis points to tame&nbsp; inflation that has soared due to crippling shortages of basic goods driven by a devastating economic crisis.

The heavily indebted country has little money left to pay for imports, meaning fuel, power, food and, increasingly, medicines are in short supply.

Street protests have been held nearly non-stop for more than a month, despite a five-day state of emergency and a two-day curfew.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/crisis-hit-sri-lanka-hikes-rates-by-record-as-protests-spiral-469411">Crisis-hit: Sri Lanka hikes rates by record as protests spiral</a>

The Central Bank of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's (CBSL) monetary board raised its standing lending facility to 14.50 per cent and its standing deposit facility to 13.50 per cent.

The build-up of aggregate demand, domestic supply disruptions, the plunge of the local currency and high prices of commodities globally could keep up the pressure on&nbsp;inflation, CBSL said in its monetary policy decision statement.

"The rate hike will give a strong signal to investors and markets that we are coming out of this as soon as possible," governor P. Nandalal Weerasinghe said at a post-policy decision briefing.

Independent Central bank

Weerasinghe said that he wanted to run the central bank independently without any external influence and that he had been given the authority to do so by the president and has been asked to expedite measures to get the country out of the current crisis.

"I want to be very clear that my message is not one of blind positivity. Things are challenging and we need to take decisive action. Things will get worse before they get better, but we need to apply the breaks to this vehicle before it crashes," he added.

Inflation&nbsp;hit 18.7 per cent&nbsp;in March.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lanka Crisis Decoded | WION Wideangle

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An analyst had expected hikes of up to 400 basis points.

"With the monetary policy tightening now finally clear, the stage is set to take the next vital steps with regards to IMF and debt restructuring and clearly communicate this to the international stage," said Thilina Panduwawala, head of economic research at Frontier Research.

Finance Minister Ali Sabry said earlier that the country must urgently restructure its debt and seek external financial help, while the main opposition threatened a no-confidence motion in the government and business leaders warned exports could plummet.

"We cannot step away from repaying debt because the consequences are terrifying. There is no alternative, we must restructure our debt," Sabry told parliament.

J.P. Morgan analysts estimate that&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's gross debt servicing costs will amount to $7 billion this year, with a $1 billion repayment due in July.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-parliament-passes-bill-to-impose-tax-on-rich-to-garner-quick-revenue-469305">Sri Lankan parliament passes bill to impose tax on rich to garner quick revenue</a>

"We have to go for a debt moratorium," said Sabry, who offered to quit a day after he was appointed on Monday but later confirmed that he was still finance minister.

"We have to suspend debt repayment for some time and get bilateral and multilateral support to manage our balance of payments."

No-Confidence motion?

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is running his administration with only a handful of ministers after his entire cabinet resigned this week, while the opposition and some coalition partners rejected calls for a unity government to deal with the country's worst crisis in decades.

At least 41 lawmakers have quit the ruling coalition to become independents, though the government says it still has a majority in parliament.

"The government needs to address the financial crisis and work to improve governance, or we will move a no-confidence motion," Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya opposition group, said in parliament.

Sabry, a former justice minister, said political stability was necessary as the country prepared to start talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month. Weerasinghe said he will be holding a virtual meeting with the IMF on April 11.

Earlier on Friday, nearly two dozen associations, representing industries that collectively employ a fifth of the country's 22 million people, together urged the government to quickly seek financial help from the IMF, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-former-minister-calls-sri-lankas-current-situation-chaos-says-govt-trying-to-hold-on-to-power-469337">Exclusive | Sri Lanka crisis: Govt trying to hold on to power, cricket icon Arjuna Ranatunga tells WION</a>

Masakorala said that both merchandise and service exports could drop 20-30 per cent this year due to a dollar shortage, higher freight costs and power cuts.

Sri&nbsp;Lanka's foreign exchange reserves have plunged some 70% in the past two years, hitting $1.93 billion at the end of March.

Sri Lanka's central bank doubled its key interest rates on Friday, raising each by an unprecedented 700 basis points to tame inflation that has soared due to crippling shortages of basic goods driven by a devastating economic crisis.

Sri Lanka's central bank doubled its key interest rates on Friday, raising each by an unprecedented 700 basis points to tame inflation that has soared due to crippling shortages of basic goods driven by a devastating economic crisis. The heavily indebted country has little money left to pay for imports, meaning fuel, power, food and, increasingly, medicines are in short supply. Street protests have been held nearly non-stop for more than a month, despite a five-day state of emergency and a two-day curfew. Also read | Crisis-hit: Sri Lanka hikes rates by record as protests spiral The Central Bank of Sri Lanka's (CBSL) monetary board raised its standing lending facility to 14.50 per cent and its standing deposit facility to 13.50 per cent. The build-up of aggregate demand, domestic supply disruptions, the plunge of the local currency and high prices of commodities globally could keep up the pressure on inflation, CBSL said in its monetary policy decision statement. "The rate hike will give a strong signal to investors and markets that we are coming out of this as soon as possible," governor P. Nandalal Weerasinghe said at a post-policy decision briefing. Independent Central bank Weerasinghe said that he wanted to run the central bank independently without any external influence and that he had been given the authority to do so by the president and has been asked to expedite measures to get the country out of the current crisis. "I want to be very clear that my message is not one of blind positivity. Things are challenging and we need to take decisive action. Things will get worse before they get better, but we need to apply the breaks to this vehicle before it crashes," he added. Inflation hit 18.7 per cent in March. Watch | Sri Lanka Crisis Decoded | WION Wideangle An analyst had expected hikes of up to 400 basis points. "With the monetary policy tightening now finally clear, the stage is set to take the next vital steps with regards to IMF and debt restructuring and clearly communicate this to the international stage," said Thilina Panduwawala, head of economic research at Frontier Research. Finance Minister Ali Sabry said earlier that the country must urgently restructure its debt and seek external financial help, while the main opposition threatened a no-confidence motion in the government and business leaders warned exports could plummet. "We cannot step away from repaying debt because the consequences are terrifying. There is no alternative, we must restructure our debt," Sabry told parliament. J.P. Morgan analysts estimate that Sri Lanka's gross debt servicing costs will amount to $7 billion this year, with a $1 billion repayment due in July. Also read | Sri Lankan parliament passes bill to impose tax on rich to garner quick revenue "We have to go for a debt moratorium," said Sabry, who offered to quit a day after he was appointed on Monday but later confirmed that he was still finance minister. "We have to suspend debt repayment for some time and get bilateral and multilateral support to manage our balance of payments." No-Confidence motion? President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is running his administration with only a handful of ministers after his entire cabinet resigned this week, while the opposition and some coalition partners rejected calls for a unity government to deal with the country's worst crisis in decades. At least 41 lawmakers have quit the ruling coalition to become independents, though the government says it still has a majority in parliament. "The government needs to address the financial crisis and work to improve governance, or we will move a no-confidence motion," Sajith Premadasa, leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya opposition group, said in parliament. Sabry, a former justice minister, said political stability was necessary as the country prepared to start talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month. Weerasinghe said he will be holding a virtual meeting with the IMF on April 11. Earlier on Friday, nearly two dozen associations, representing industries that collectively employ a fifth of the country's 22 million people, together urged the government to quickly seek financial help from the IMF, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Also read | Exclusive | Sri Lanka crisis: Govt trying to hold on to power, cricket icon Arjuna Ranatunga tells WION Masakorala said that both merchandise and service exports could drop 20-30 per cent this year due to a dollar shortage, higher freight costs and power cuts. Sri Lanka's foreign exchange reserves have plunged some 70% in the past two years, hitting $1.93 billion at the end of March.

Sri Lanka doubles interest rates to tame inflation; stabilise economy

Sri Lanka has doubled the interest rates to tame inflation. There's an unprecedented 700 basis point hike by the Central bank. The rate for deposits has increased to 13.5%. To get more perspective, watch this report by Dasuni Athauda.

Crisis-hit Sri Lanka doubles interest rates to tame inflation

In an exclusive conversation, our Sri Lanka correspondent Dasuni spoke with Jeevan Thondaman who is a member of the parliament of Sri Lanka. He was appointed as the president's youngest state minister but recently he has resigned amid the Sri Lankan crisis.

Sri Lanka crisis & chaos: Sri Lanka's MP Jeevan Thondaman speaks to WION

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus".

The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend.

India and Maldives are the closest neighbours of the Indian Ocean island country.

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Addressing a group of journalists virtually, HC Baglay explained, "there are few reports of few persons maybe few families reaching our eastern coast" but "fact of the matter is that there are families ties on both sides. People have relatives and families, like some cases mother and father are there and children living here, or vice versa, marriage ties or other relations like people coming to study here or going to study there . It is not surprising to see that people do seek comfort in such ties.".

Amid the crisis, since January, India has provided $2.4 billion in financial assistance to Sri Lanka. This included a credit swap of US$ 400 million, &nbsp;deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over $515 million, and&nbsp;two&nbsp;lines of credits-- $1 billion for food, and $500 million for fuel.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-our-big-brother-grateful-to-pm-modi-sri-lankas-sanath-jayasuriya-amid-economic-crisis-469085" hreflang="en">India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Jayasuriya amid economic crisis</a>

The High Commissioner highlighted that "India's model of development is very demand-driven..based on the requirement of recipient country".

The first consignment of Rice from India is expected to reach Sri Lanka this weekend. First-order is 40,000 MT of rice, and the consignment is under the $1 billion line of credit signed last month in Delhi.

The High commissioner said, "India has come forward with humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. It is India's closest maritime neighbour" and&nbsp;Delhi's ties with "Sri Lanka are the confluence of thee factors: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, doctrine of Sagar and Neighbourhood First"

In the almost 20 minute long presser, the envoy also dismissed social media reports of the Indian army being sent to the country terming it "baseless".

Asked about some countries being responsible for current situation in the Indian Ocean Island country, Baglay said,"Can't comment on Sri Lanka's ties with other countries..Sri Lanka has to see how ties with countries impact them" even as he pointed to New Delhi's positive role. China-led debt crisis in Sri Lanka has been grabbing headlines for months now.

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus". The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend.

Amid the economic crisis in Sri Lanka, Indian High commissioner to the country Gopal Baglay has said he doesn't see "a situation of refugees or exodus". The country has seen economic turmoil that has led to political instability with the cabinet resigning last weekend. India and Maldives are the closest neighbours of the Indian Ocean island country. Addressing a group of journalists virtually, HC Baglay explained, "there are few reports of few persons maybe few families reaching our eastern coast" but "fact of the matter is that there are families ties on both sides. People have relatives and families, like some cases mother and father are there and children living here, or vice versa, marriage ties or other relations like people coming to study here or going to study there . It is not surprising to see that people do seek comfort in such ties.". Amid the crisis, since January, India has provided $2.4 billion in financial assistance to Sri Lanka. This included a credit swap of US$ 400 million, deferment of an Asian Clearing Union payment of over $515 million, and two lines of credits-- $1 billion for food, and $500 million for fuel. Also read | India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Jayasuriya amid economic crisis The High Commissioner highlighted that "India's model of development is very demand-driven..based on the requirement of recipient country". The first consignment of Rice from India is expected to reach Sri Lanka this weekend. First-order is 40,000 MT of rice, and the consignment is under the $1 billion line of credit signed last month in Delhi. The High commissioner said, "India has come forward with humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. It is India's closest maritime neighbour" and Delhi's ties with "Sri Lanka are the confluence of thee factors: Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, doctrine of Sagar and Neighbourhood First" In the almost 20 minute long presser, the envoy also dismissed social media reports of the Indian army being sent to the country terming it "baseless". Asked about some countries being responsible for current situation in the Indian Ocean Island country, Baglay said,"Can't comment on Sri Lanka's ties with other countries..Sri Lanka has to see how ties with countries impact them" even as he pointed to New Delhi's positive role. China-led debt crisis in Sri Lanka has been grabbing headlines for months now.

Don't see refugees arising out of crisis, India's High Commissioner of Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay

Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;must look at restructuring a $1 billion sovereign debt due for payment in July, the outgoing finance minister told parliament on Thursday, urging an end to calls for a change in government amid the country's worst economic crisis in decades.

The opposition and some partners of the ruling coalition rejected calls this week for a unity government from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa after he disbanded his cabinet, in the hope of quelling weeks-long street protests over shortages of fuel, power, food and medicine.

With its foreign exchange reserves shrinking quickly, massive debt payments due and the rupee currency slumping, analysts say the government is running out of options.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-our-big-brother-grateful-to-pm-modi-sri-lankas-sanath-jayasuriya-amid-economic-crisis-469085">India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya amid economic crisis</a>

"We must look at how to structure the $1 billion international sovereign bond payment maturing in July. We must go to the IMF, there is no other solution that I can see," said Ali Sabry, who sent his resignation to Rajapaksa on Tuesday, a day after he was moved to finance from the justice ministry.

It was not immediately clear if the president had accepted his resignation, which was submitted just days ahead of scheduled talks with the International Monetary Fund for emergency loans.

"We must have political stability to find solutions to the financial crisis," Sabry said.

"We must discuss with the World Bank and we must have a bridge-financing plan with the ADB. If we don’t have stability, who will conduct these talks?," he said, referring to the Philippines-based Asian Development Bank.

Opposition lawmakers, however, continued to call for the president to step down.

Critics have accused the government of mismanagement, but the economy has also been hit by drought and a sharp drop in tourism due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Help from the IMF would also likely come with some tough political choices -- policy reforms that could add to the pain in the short-term in hopes of getting the economy back on more solid footing in a few years.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: How can Sri Lanka escape this mess?

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J.P. Morgan analysts estimated this week that&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's gross debt servicing would amount to $7 billion this year, with the current account deficit coming in at around $3 billion. As of February, the country had only $2.31 billion in reserves.

Reuters reported on Wednesday that asset managers Blackrock Inc and Ashmore Group Plc were among the top holders of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's international bonds that form part of a creditor group as markets prepare for a potential debt restructuring - which would be a first for the island nation.

Monetary Policy

As the search for a replacement for Sabry continues, a new central bank governor was set to take over on Thursday in place of Ajith Nivard Cabraal, who quit on Monday.

P. Nandalal Weerasinghe, a former senior deputy governor of the Central Bank of&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;who has worked with the IMF, will hold a monetary policy meeting on Friday. It was originally supposed to be held on Monday.

An analyst said the central bank was expected to hike key interest rates by 300-400 basis points (bps) - following a 100 bps increase in early March - to tame inflation that hit 18.7% in March.

"We also expect the newly appointed governor to outline potential measures to be included in the IMF reform plan, views on potential debt restructuring, and currency management," said Lakshini Fernando of Asia Securities, adding she also expected Weerasinghe to address the need for "higher stability and transparency" at the bank.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-appoints-advisory-committee-of-economic-and-fiscal-experts-to-tackle-debt-crisis-469042">Sri Lanka appoints advisory committee of economic and fiscal experts to tackle debt crisis</a>

Protests over shortages of food, fuel, and other essentials have gone unabated in the country of 22 million people. Little money is left to pay for imports.

The&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka&nbsp;rupee currency's 40% depreciation against the U.S. dollar in one month has compounded problems.

The stock market, which is down a third this year, fell about 4% on Thursday.

Sri Lanka must look at restructuring a $1 billion sovereign debt due for payment in July, the outgoing finance minister told parliament on Thursday, urging an end to calls for a change in government amid the country's worst economic crisis in decades.

Sri Lanka must look at restructuring a $1 billion sovereign debt due for payment in July, the outgoing finance minister told parliament on Thursday, urging an end to calls for a change in government amid the country's worst economic crisis in decades. The opposition and some partners of the ruling coalition rejected calls this week for a unity government from President Gotabaya Rajapaksa after he disbanded his cabinet, in the hope of quelling weeks-long street protests over shortages of fuel, power, food and medicine. With its foreign exchange reserves shrinking quickly, massive debt payments due and the rupee currency slumping, analysts say the government is running out of options. Also read | India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya amid economic crisis "We must look at how to structure the $1 billion international sovereign bond payment maturing in July. We must go to the IMF, there is no other solution that I can see," said Ali Sabry, who sent his resignation to Rajapaksa on Tuesday, a day after he was moved to finance from the justice ministry. It was not immediately clear if the president had accepted his resignation, which was submitted just days ahead of scheduled talks with the International Monetary Fund for emergency loans. "We must have political stability to find solutions to the financial crisis," Sabry said. "We must discuss with the World Bank and we must have a bridge-financing plan with the ADB. If we don’t have stability, who will conduct these talks?," he said, referring to the Philippines-based Asian Development Bank. Opposition lawmakers, however, continued to call for the president to step down. Critics have accused the government of mismanagement, but the economy has also been hit by drought and a sharp drop in tourism due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Help from the IMF would also likely come with some tough political choices -- policy reforms that could add to the pain in the short-term in hopes of getting the economy back on more solid footing in a few years. Watch | Gravitas: How can Sri Lanka escape this mess? J.P. Morgan analysts estimated this week that Sri Lanka's gross debt servicing would amount to $7 billion this year, with the current account deficit coming in at around $3 billion. As of February, the country had only $2.31 billion in reserves. Reuters reported on Wednesday that asset managers Blackrock Inc and Ashmore Group Plc were among the top holders of Sri Lanka's international bonds that form part of a creditor group as markets prepare for a potential debt restructuring - which would be a first for the island nation. Monetary Policy As the search for a replacement for Sabry continues, a new central bank governor was set to take over on Thursday in place of Ajith Nivard Cabraal, who quit on Monday. P. Nandalal Weerasinghe, a former senior deputy governor of the Central Bank of Sri Lanka who has worked with the IMF, will hold a monetary policy meeting on Friday. It was originally supposed to be held on Monday. An analyst said the central bank was expected to hike key interest rates by 300-400 basis points (bps) - following a 100 bps increase in early March - to tame inflation that hit 18.7% in March. "We also expect the newly appointed governor to outline potential measures to be included in the IMF reform plan, views on potential debt restructuring, and currency management," said Lakshini Fernando of Asia Securities, adding she also expected Weerasinghe to address the need for "higher stability and transparency" at the bank. Also read | Sri Lanka appoints advisory committee of economic and fiscal experts to tackle debt crisis Protests over shortages of food, fuel, and other essentials have gone unabated in the country of 22 million people. Little money is left to pay for imports. The Sri Lanka rupee currency's 40% depreciation against the U.S. dollar in one month has compounded problems. The stock market, which is down a third this year, fell about 4% on Thursday.

Crisis deepens: Sri Lanka needs stability, must restructure $1 billion debt, says outgoing finance minister

A&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lankan court&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday placed a&nbsp;travel&nbsp;ban&nbsp;on&nbsp;the country's recently resigned&nbsp;central&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief&nbsp;following allegations he is responsible for the island's crippling economic crisis.

The magistrate in Colombo ordered Ajith Cabraal, who quit&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday, to appear in court&nbsp;on&nbsp;April 18 to answer a complaint against him.

The court asked immigration authorities not to allow him to leave the island after a rights activist filed a petition against him.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-our-big-brother-grateful-to-pm-modi-sri-lankas-sanath-jayasuriya-amid-economic-crisis-469085">India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya amid economic crisis</a>

Cabraal, who was handpicked to lead the&nbsp;bank&nbsp;by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, was responsible for&nbsp;Sri&nbsp;Lanka's acute foreign exchange shortage and other financial woes, activist Keerthi Tennakoon argued.

Tennakoon told the court the&nbsp;former&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief&nbsp;was also responsible for insider trading when he led the institution between 2006 and 2015. He was appointed to a new term in September last year.

Cabraal quit&nbsp;on&nbsp;Monday a day after the cabinet resigned en masse except Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, the president's brother. A replacement has yet to be appointed.

Watch |&nbsp;Sri Lankan Lawmaker issues grim warning says food, gas &amp; electricity shortages will get worse

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Senior government figures have accused the banker of misleading President Rajapaksa and preventing Colombo from seeking a bailout from the International Monetary Fund at an earlier date.

Last month the government said it will finally go to the IMF for help but talks are yet to begin.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-appoints-advisory-committee-of-economic-and-fiscal-experts-to-tackle-debt-crisis-469042">Sri Lanka appoints advisory committee of economic and fiscal experts to tackle debt crisis</a>

Cabraal previously insisted he had a homegrown solution to boost foreign reserves, but the government has now run out of dollars to pay even for essential supplies.

The&nbsp;former&nbsp;bank&nbsp;chief&nbsp;was not immediately available for comment&nbsp;on&nbsp;Thursday.

A Sri Lankan court on Thursday placed a travel ban on the country's recently resigned central bank chief following allegations he is responsible for the island's crippling economic crisis.

A Sri Lankan court on Thursday placed a travel ban on the country's recently resigned central bank chief following allegations he is responsible for the island's crippling economic crisis. The magistrate in Colombo ordered Ajith Cabraal, who quit on Monday, to appear in court on April 18 to answer a complaint against him. The court asked immigration authorities not to allow him to leave the island after a rights activist filed a petition against him. Also read | India our big brother, grateful to PM Modi: Sri Lanka's Sanath Jayasuriya amid economic crisis Cabraal, who was handpicked to lead the bank by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, was responsible for Sri Lanka's acute foreign exchange shortage and other financial woes, activist Keerthi Tennakoon argued. Tennakoon told the court the former bank chief was also responsible for insider trading when he led the institution between 2006 and 2015. He was appointed to a new term in September last year. Cabraal quit on Monday a day after the cabinet resigned en masse except Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa, the president's brother. A replacement has yet to be appointed. Watch | Sri Lankan Lawmaker issues grim warning says food, gas & electricity shortages will get worse Senior government figures have accused the banker of misleading President Rajapaksa and preventing Colombo from seeking a bailout from the International Monetary Fund at an earlier date. Last month the government said it will finally go to the IMF for help but talks are yet to begin. Also read | Sri Lanka appoints advisory committee of economic and fiscal experts to tackle debt crisis Cabraal previously insisted he had a homegrown solution to boost foreign reserves, but the government has now run out of dollars to pay even for essential supplies. The former bank chief was not immediately available for comment on Thursday.

Sri Lanka slaps travel ban on former central bank chief

Amid the political turmoil sweeping the country, Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa revoked the state of emergency in the country.

The Lankan president lost his parliamentary majority after allies walked out of the government amid large scale anti-government protests in the country.

On Tuesday, Sri Lanka's newly-appointed finance minister Ali Sabry quit after just one day in office as the opposition rejected the president's request for a unity government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-medical-body-declares-health-emergency-amid-political-turmoil-report-468449">Also Read:&nbsp;Sri Lankan medical body declares health emergency</a>

The island nation has witnessed an economic downturn ever since the pandemic hit the country over two years ago with its foreign reserves at an all-time low. In recent months, the country has struggled with fuel crisis and rising inflation including long power cuts.

Last week protesters tried to storm the president's house in Colombo as President Rajapaksa sought to impose a state of emergency in the country. The president's cabinet submitted their resignation en masse leading to further instability.

Watch:&nbsp;How can Sri Lanka escape this mess?

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Amid the political turmoil, 41 lawmakers left Rajapaka's coalition government reducing it to a minority. The medical body in the country had declared a state of health emergency on Tuesday due to a shortage of medicines and life-saving drugs.&nbsp;

The protesters have been demanding Rajapaksa's resignation amid the economic crisis even as authorities have moved to clamp down on demonstrators and reportedly arrested over 60 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/please-try-and-save-our-motherland-sri-lanka-opposition-leader-to-indian-pm-modi-468261">Also Read:&nbsp;'Please try and save our motherland': Sri Lanka opposition leader to Indian PM Modi</a>

There were protests outside the prime ministers' house on Tuesday as students chanted anti-government slogans. There have been street demonstrations against food and fuel shortages as the country has struggled to service its foreign debts.

The International Monetary Fund had said it was monitoring&nbsp;the situation closely amid&nbsp;reports of a bailout, however, there has been no confirmation on it.&nbsp;

(With inputs from Agencies)

Amid the political turmoil sweeping the country, Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa revoked the state of emergency in the country. The Lankan president lost his parliamentary majority after allies walked out of the government amid large scale anti-government protests in the country.

Amid the political turmoil sweeping the country, Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa revoked the state of emergency in the country. The Lankan president lost his parliamentary majority after allies walked out of the government amid large scale anti-government protests in the country. On Tuesday, Sri Lanka's newly-appointed finance minister Ali Sabry quit after just one day in office as the opposition rejected the president's request for a unity government. Also Read: Sri Lankan medical body declares health emergency The island nation has witnessed an economic downturn ever since the pandemic hit the country over two years ago with its foreign reserves at an all-time low. In recent months, the country has struggled with fuel crisis and rising inflation including long power cuts. Last week protesters tried to storm the president's house in Colombo as President Rajapaksa sought to impose a state of emergency in the country. The president's cabinet submitted their resignation en masse leading to further instability. Watch: How can Sri Lanka escape this mess? Amid the political turmoil, 41 lawmakers left Rajapaka's coalition government reducing it to a minority. The medical body in the country had declared a state of health emergency on Tuesday due to a shortage of medicines and life-saving drugs. The protesters have been demanding Rajapaksa's resignation amid the economic crisis even as authorities have moved to clamp down on demonstrators and reportedly arrested over 60 people. Also Read: 'Please try and save our motherland': Sri Lanka opposition leader to Indian PM Modi There were protests outside the prime ministers' house on Tuesday as students chanted anti-government slogans. There have been street demonstrations against food and fuel shortages as the country has struggled to service its foreign debts. The International Monetary Fund had said it was monitoring the situation closely amid reports of a bailout, however, there has been no confirmation on it. (With inputs from Agencies)

Sri Lanka President Rajapaksa revokes emergency order amid economic crisis

Mumbai Indians'&nbsp;coach and the former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene on Sunday said he feels sad to see emergency law and curfew in his country.

He added that the government cannot ignore the needs of the people who have every right to protest. 
 
"I am sad to see emergency law and curfew in Sri Lanka. The government cannot ignore the needs of the people who have every right to protest. Detaining people who do is not acceptable and I am very proud of the brave Sri Lankan lawyers who rushed to their defence," Jayawardene tweeted on Sunday.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/heartbreaking-to-seee-the-despair-of-people-kumar-sangakkara-on-sri-lankas-economic-crisis-467959">Heartbreaking to see&nbsp;the despair of people: Kumar Sangakkara on Sri Lanka's economic crisis</a>

Check out&nbsp;Mahela Jayawardene's post:

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— Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) <a href="https://twitter.com/MahelaJay/status/1510586358837878788?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 3, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sri Lanka is grappling with its worst economic crisis and people are protesting in different cities including capital Colombo against the government's policies.

"True leaders own up to mistakes. There is massive urgency here to protect the people of our country united in their suffering. These problems are man-made and can be fixed by the right, qualified people. Certain people controlling the economy of this country have lost the people's confidence and must stand down. We then need a good team to give the country confidence and belief. There is no time to waste. It is time to be humble, not make excuses and to do the right thing. #PeoplePower," he wrote on Twitter.

Mumbai Indians' coach and the former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene on Sunday said he feels sad to see emergency law and curfew in his country. He added that the government cannot ignore the needs of the people who have every right to protest.

Mumbai Indians' coach and the former Sri Lanka captain Mahela Jayawardene on Sunday said he feels sad to see emergency law and curfew in his country. He added that the government cannot ignore the needs of the people who have every right to protest. "I am sad to see emergency law and curfew in Sri Lanka. The government cannot ignore the needs of the people who have every right to protest. Detaining people who do is not acceptable and I am very proud of the brave Sri Lankan lawyers who rushed to their defence," Jayawardene tweeted on Sunday. ALSO READ: Heartbreaking to see the despair of people: Kumar Sangakkara on Sri Lanka's economic crisis Check out Mahela Jayawardene's post: pic.twitter.com/kxwS4dL3HV — Mahela Jayawardena (@MahelaJay) April 3, 2022 × Sri Lanka is grappling with its worst economic crisis and people are protesting in different cities including capital Colombo against the government's policies. "True leaders own up to mistakes. There is massive urgency here to protect the people of our country united in their suffering. These problems are man-made and can be fixed by the right, qualified people. Certain people controlling the economy of this country have lost the people's confidence and must stand down. We then need a good team to give the country confidence and belief. There is no time to waste. It is time to be humble, not make excuses and to do the right thing. #PeoplePower," he wrote on Twitter.

'Sad to see emergency law and curfew': Mahela Jayawardene expresses pain over Sri Lanka's economic crisis

Sri Lanka is currently facing one of its worst economic crises in decades as the country continues to battle issues such as shortage of essential supplies and soaring inflation among others. &nbsp;Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's government has been immensely criticised for its poor handling of the crisis as people continue to struggle to make ends meet on a day-to-day basis.

The Sri Lankan government is dealing with a major crisis as the country's foreign currency reserves have shrunk. There is a severe shortage of food and fuel in the country as Sri Lanka has run out of foreign currency to pay for imports. People have been facing power cuts four hours daily and have run out of supplies.

Amid the ongoing economic crisis, legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara shared his views and expressed his solidarity with the people of his country. Sangakkara in a lengthy post on social media said it has been heartbreaking for him to see the despair of the people and their struggles.

He urged the Sri Lankan government to take decisions in the best interests of the country and its people amid protests across the nation. The former Sri Lankan cricket team captain also stated that time is running out and that the government should act fast to protect the future of the Sri Lankans.

Check out Kumar Sangakkara's post:

<img alt="Sangakkara on Sri Lanka economic crisis." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3df38be-8b9c-41bd-990a-1fb13c8f3021" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sanga%20post.png" />

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-jos-buttler-yuzvendra-chahal-power-rajasthan-royals-to-23-run-win-against-mumbai-indians-467767">Jos Buttler, Yuzvendra Chahal power Rajasthan Royals to 23-run win over Mumbai Indians</a>

The Sri Lankan government imposed a 36-hour curfew on Saturday amid protests in the country. President Rajapaksa had also declared public emregency in the country with immediate effect from April 1. The government also banned gatherings and social media was blacked out to curb planned protests amidst the crisis.

Sangakkara, who is one of the most successful cricketers to have played for Sri Lanka, is currently in India with his IPL team Rajasthan Royals (RR). Sangakkara is currently serving as the Director of Criket for RR and his team has made a good start to the ongoing IPL 2022 season with two wins in their first two matches.

Sri Lanka is currently facing one of its worst economic crises in decades as the country continues to battle issues such as shortage of essential supplies and soaring inflation among others.

Sri Lanka is currently facing one of its worst economic crises in decades as the country continues to battle issues such as shortage of essential supplies and soaring inflation among others. Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa's government has been immensely criticised for its poor handling of the crisis as people continue to struggle to make ends meet on a day-to-day basis. The Sri Lankan government is dealing with a major crisis as the country's foreign currency reserves have shrunk. There is a severe shortage of food and fuel in the country as Sri Lanka has run out of foreign currency to pay for imports. People have been facing power cuts four hours daily and have run out of supplies. Amid the ongoing economic crisis, legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Kumar Sangakkara shared his views and expressed his solidarity with the people of his country. Sangakkara in a lengthy post on social media said it has been heartbreaking for him to see the despair of the people and their struggles. He urged the Sri Lankan government to take decisions in the best interests of the country and its people amid protests across the nation. The former Sri Lankan cricket team captain also stated that time is running out and that the government should act fast to protect the future of the Sri Lankans. Check out Kumar Sangakkara's post: Also Read: Jos Buttler, Yuzvendra Chahal power Rajasthan Royals to 23-run win over Mumbai Indians The Sri Lankan government imposed a 36-hour curfew on Saturday amid protests in the country. President Rajapaksa had also declared public emregency in the country with immediate effect from April 1. The government also banned gatherings and social media was blacked out to curb planned protests amidst the crisis. Sangakkara, who is one of the most successful cricketers to have played for Sri Lanka, is currently in India with his IPL team Rajasthan Royals (RR). Sangakkara is currently serving as the Director of Criket for RR and his team has made a good start to the ongoing IPL 2022 season with two wins in their first two matches.

Heartbreaking to see the despair of people: Kumar Sangakkara on Sri Lanka's economic crisis

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