After the results of Sri Lanka presidential election, Gotabaya Rajapaksa will shortly sworn-in as the President. Understand, What does Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory mean for India?

Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory in Sri Lanka: What does it mean for India?

After the results of Sri Lanka presidential election, Gotabaya Rajapaksa will shortly sworn-in as the President.

Sri Lanka presidential election: Gotabaya Rajapaksa will shortly sworn-in as the President

On WION Edit, we will explore what does Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory mean for India, China and the region at large?

First, there is no sugar-coating the fact that the Rajapaksas are close to China.

The rise of Chinese influence in Sri Lanka ran parallel to the presidency of Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Under him, they sealed infrastructure deals worth billions of dollars. Between 2008 and 2012, 60 per cent of Sri Lanka's foreign borrowing came from China.

No wonder, India and the US were alarmed. However, this closeness to china did not mean that Rajapaksa was not cordial with India.

But china began having the larger say in a country where India was traditionally a major player.

Then Sirisena came to power. Under his presidency, India's influence rose.

New Delhi entered major port and airport projects - even though there was no matching the Chinese money.

Now another Rajapaksa is in power. India can only hope that he won't undo the gains made over the last 4 years.

China - on the other hand - will have a clear advantage. They share a Buddhist link and an old friendship.

When the world slammed Sri Lanka over human rights violations, China backed it.

It is no surprise that Gotabaya Rajapaksa has signalled at a revival of the China-Sri Lanka ties. Now, here's an important question--&nbsp;does advantage China mean disadvantage India?

The answer is no. India still has a higher share than China in trade imports to Sri Lanka. The relationship is older, beyond the framework of trade and economy.

Moreover, there's America. Sri Lanka cannot pigeonhole itself with china and face the wrath of the west.

It must consciously maintain balance. India, on its part, must expand ties with Sri Lanka irrespective of the Chinese presence.

Many Sri Lankans view China with suspicion. This election doesn't end the debate on Chinese debt.

It's very much a concern. India must come in here. If India backs good intentions with action, then it's a win-win influence in Sri Lanka and influence in the Indian ocean.

This is an opportunity for India to start on the same page with Gotabaya Rajapaksa. 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

On WION Edit, we will explore what does Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory mean for India, China and the region at large? First, there is no sugar-coating the fact that the Rajapaksas are close to China.

On WION Edit, we will explore what does Gotabaya Rajapaksa's victory mean for India, China and the region at large? First, there is no sugar-coating the fact that the Rajapaksas are close to China. The rise of Chinese influence in Sri Lanka ran parallel to the presidency of Mahinda Rajapaksa. Under him, they sealed infrastructure deals worth billions of dollars. Between 2008 and 2012, 60 per cent of Sri Lanka's foreign borrowing came from China. No wonder, India and the US were alarmed. However, this closeness to china did not mean that Rajapaksa was not cordial with India. But china began having the larger say in a country where India was traditionally a major player. Then Sirisena came to power. Under his presidency, India's influence rose. New Delhi entered major port and airport projects - even though there was no matching the Chinese money. Now another Rajapaksa is in power. India can only hope that he won't undo the gains made over the last 4 years. China - on the other hand - will have a clear advantage. They share a Buddhist link and an old friendship. When the world slammed Sri Lanka over human rights violations, China backed it. It is no surprise that Gotabaya Rajapaksa has signalled at a revival of the China-Sri Lanka ties. Now, here's an important question-- does advantage China mean disadvantage India? The answer is no. India still has a higher share than China in trade imports to Sri Lanka. The relationship is older, beyond the framework of trade and economy. Moreover, there's America. Sri Lanka cannot pigeonhole itself with china and face the wrath of the west. It must consciously maintain balance. India, on its part, must expand ties with Sri Lanka irrespective of the Chinese presence. Many Sri Lankans view China with suspicion. This election doesn't end the debate on Chinese debt. It's very much a concern. India must come in here. If India backs good intentions with action, then it's a win-win influence in Sri Lanka and influence in the Indian ocean. This is an opportunity for India to start on the same page with Gotabaya Rajapaksa. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: What does Sri Lanka election results mean for India?

The winner of Sri Lanka's presidential election, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modi-congratulates-gotabaya-rajapaksa-for-winning-sri-lanka-presidential-election-262770">Gotabaya Rajapaksa</a> made national security his top priority after being sworn in on Monday at an ancient temple in the north-central city of Anuradhapura where he received blessings from Buddhist monks.

Nicknamed "The Terminator" within his own powerful political family, the 70-year-old former defence chief had made security his top campaign issue for a nation traumatised by the Easter bomb attacks by Islamist militants earlier this year.

Seen as a champion of the Indian Ocean island's Buddhist Sinhalese majority, Rajapaksa oversaw the military defeat of Tamil separatists under his brother and then president Mahinda Rajapaksa 10 years ago.

"I consider the foremost responsibility of my government is to ensure the national security of my country," Rajapaksa said in a televised speech at his swearing in ceremony attended by thousands of supporters.

"We will rebuild the state security machineries to secure the country from terrorism, underworld activities, robbers, extortionists."

Rajapaksa also promised to protect Sinhala culture and heritage and provide state sponsorship to safeguard the morals, and traditional ways.

"As your new president, I request again to join as true Sri Lankans to develop this country," Rajapaksa, who was dressed in a white short-sleeves shirt and a trouser.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/gotabaya-rajapaksa-sworn-in-as-sri-lankan-new-president-262851">Rajapaksa was declared winner</a> in the presidential polls on Sunday after he defeated Sajith Premadasa, a housing minister in the current government.

Millions voted to elect a new president to lead the country out of its deepest economic slump in over 15 years, dragged down by its tourism sector following the April attacks on hotels and churches in which more than 250 people were killed. Islamic State claimed responsibility.

The previous government was heavily criticised over the failure of its intelligence agencies to act on information that attacks were being planned.

Some 70 per cent&nbsp;of Sri Lanka's 22 million people are Buddhist Sinhalese, 14 per cent&nbsp;are Tamil Hindus, Muslims make up 10 per cent, while the rest are Catholics and other religions.

Rajapaksa, who is seen as close to China, requested all countries to respect Sri Lanka's sovereignty.

"We want to remain neutral in our foreign relations and stay out of any conflicts amongst the world powers," he said in English during his speech that he gave largely in local Sinhala language.

The winner of Sri Lanka's presidential election, Gotabaya Rajapaksa made national security his top priority after being sworn in on Monday at an ancient temple in the north-central city of Anuradhapura where he received blessings from Buddhist monks.

The winner of Sri Lanka's presidential election, Gotabaya Rajapaksa made national security his top priority after being sworn in on Monday at an ancient temple in the north-central city of Anuradhapura where he received blessings from Buddhist monks. Nicknamed "The Terminator" within his own powerful political family, the 70-year-old former defence chief had made security his top campaign issue for a nation traumatised by the Easter bomb attacks by Islamist militants earlier this year. Seen as a champion of the Indian Ocean island's Buddhist Sinhalese majority, Rajapaksa oversaw the military defeat of Tamil separatists under his brother and then president Mahinda Rajapaksa 10 years ago. "I consider the foremost responsibility of my government is to ensure the national security of my country," Rajapaksa said in a televised speech at his swearing in ceremony attended by thousands of supporters. "We will rebuild the state security machineries to secure the country from terrorism, underworld activities, robbers, extortionists." Rajapaksa also promised to protect Sinhala culture and heritage and provide state sponsorship to safeguard the morals, and traditional ways. "As your new president, I request again to join as true Sri Lankans to develop this country," Rajapaksa, who was dressed in a white short-sleeves shirt and a trouser. Rajapaksa was declared winner in the presidential polls on Sunday after he defeated Sajith Premadasa, a housing minister in the current government. Millions voted to elect a new president to lead the country out of its deepest economic slump in over 15 years, dragged down by its tourism sector following the April attacks on hotels and churches in which more than 250 people were killed. Islamic State claimed responsibility. The previous government was heavily criticised over the failure of its intelligence agencies to act on information that attacks were being planned. Some 70 per cent of Sri Lanka's 22 million people are Buddhist Sinhalese, 14 per cent are Tamil Hindus, Muslims make up 10 per cent, while the rest are Catholics and other religions. Rajapaksa, who is seen as close to China, requested all countries to respect Sri Lanka's sovereignty. "We want to remain neutral in our foreign relations and stay out of any conflicts amongst the world powers," he said in English during his speech that he gave largely in local Sinhala language.

Blessed by Buddhist monks, Sri Lanka's new president prioritises national security

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who spearheaded the brutal crushing of the Tamil Tigers 10 years ago, stormed to victory Sunday in Sri Lanka's presidential elections seven months after Islamist extremist attacks killed 269 people. The retired lieutenant colonel, nicknamed the "Terminator" by his own family, won 53-54 per cent of the vote, his spokesman told AFP as Rajapaksa's main rival Sajith Premadasa of the ruling party conceded the race. "It is a clear win. We envisaged it. We are very happy that Gota will be the next president. He will be sworn in tomorrow or the day after," spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa wins Sri Lanka Presidential election

Gotabaya Rajapaksa: It's a new journey for Sri Lanka

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who spearheaded the brutal crushing of the Tamil Tigers 10 years ago, stormed to victory Sunday in Sri Lanka's presidential elections seven months after Islamist extremist attacks killed 269 people.

The retired lieutenant colonel, nicknamed the "Terminator" by his own family, won 53-54 per cent of the vote, his spokesman told AFP as Rajapaksa's main rival <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ruling-party-candidate-premadasa-concedes-sri-lanka-presidential-poll-to-rajapaksa-262678">Sajith Premadasa </a>of the ruling party conceded the race.

"It is a clear win. We envisaged it. We are very happy that Gota will be the next president. He will be sworn in tomorrow or the day after," spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said.

Rajapaksa, 70, had a 49.6 per cent share of the vote with close to six million ballots counted. He is the younger brother of the charismatic but controversial Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was president from 2005-15.

Results from Sinhalese-majority regions -- the Rajapaksas' core support base -- were expected to push this above 50 per cent.

Premadasa, 52, of the ruling party was trailing at 44.4 per cent. He had strong support in minority Tamil areas and a poor showing in larger Sinhalese constituencies.

Election Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/voting-concludes-in-sri-lanka-president-polls-result-may-come-by-sunday-afternoon-262601">80 per cent </a>of the 15.99 million eligible voters participated in Saturday's poll, which was marred by isolated violence that left several people injured.

Rajapaksa conducted a nationalist campaign with a promise of security and a vow to crush religious extremism in the Buddhist-majority country following the April 21 suicide bomb attacks blamed on a homegrown jihadi group.

Three luxury hotels and three churches were targeted in the coordinated bombings. The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility for the attack, which left 45 foreigners dead.

Saturday's poll was the first popularity test of the United National Party (UNP) government of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who stepped aside and allowed his deputy Premadasa to stand in the election.

Intelligence failure&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe's administration faced severe criticism for failing to prevent the attacks despite prior warnings from an intelligence agency of neighbouring India, according to findings of a parliamentary investigation.

Premadasa also offered better security and a pledge to make a former war general, Sarath Fonseka, his national security chief, projecting himself as a victim seeking to crush terrorism.

He is the son of assassinated ex-president Ranasinghe Premadasa who fell victim to a Tamil rebel suicide bomber in May 1993.

Gotabaya is adored by the Sinhalese majority and by the powerful Buddhist clergy for directing security forces to crush Tamil separatists and end a 37-year separatist war in May 2009 with brother Mahinda.

But they are detested and feared by many Tamils, who make up 15 per cent of the population. The conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army.

Some in the Muslim community, who make up 10 per cent of the population, are also fearful of Gotabaya becoming president, having faced days of mob violence in the wake of the April attacks.

Under his brother, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, allegedly overseeing "death squads" that bumped off rivals, journalists and others. He denies the allegations.

During that time, Sri Lanka also borrowed heavily from China for infrastructure projects and even allowed two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014, alarming Western countries as well as India.

The projects ballooned Sri Lanka's debts and many turned into white elephants -- such as an airport in the south devoid of airlines -- mired in corruption allegations.

China also offered Sri Lanka "international diplomatic protection" against criticism for its rights record, analyst Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told AFP.

The Rajapaksas "spent and spent without giving any consideration to how it has to be paid back".

Unlike in 2015 when there were bomb attacks and shootings, this election was relatively peaceful by the standards of Sri Lanka's fiery politics.

The only major incident was on Saturday when gunmen fired at two vehicles in a convoy of at least 100 buses taking voters from the Muslim minority to vote. Two people were injured.

After a campaign that according to the Election Commission was the worst ever for hate speech and misinformation, final results could come by later Sunday.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who spearheaded the brutal crushing of the Tamil Tigers 10 years ago, stormed to victory Sunday in Sri Lanka's presidential elections seven months after Islamist extremist attacks killed 269 people.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa, who spearheaded the brutal crushing of the Tamil Tigers 10 years ago, stormed to victory Sunday in Sri Lanka's presidential elections seven months after Islamist extremist attacks killed 269 people. The retired lieutenant colonel, nicknamed the "Terminator" by his own family, won 53-54 per cent of the vote, his spokesman told AFP as Rajapaksa's main rival Sajith Premadasa of the ruling party conceded the race. "It is a clear win. We envisaged it. We are very happy that Gota will be the next president. He will be sworn in tomorrow or the day after," spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said. Rajapaksa, 70, had a 49.6 per cent share of the vote with close to six million ballots counted. He is the younger brother of the charismatic but controversial Mahinda Rajapaksa, who was president from 2005-15. Results from Sinhalese-majority regions -- the Rajapaksas' core support base -- were expected to push this above 50 per cent. Premadasa, 52, of the ruling party was trailing at 44.4 per cent. He had strong support in minority Tamil areas and a poor showing in larger Sinhalese constituencies. Election Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said at least 80 per cent of the 15.99 million eligible voters participated in Saturday's poll, which was marred by isolated violence that left several people injured. Rajapaksa conducted a nationalist campaign with a promise of security and a vow to crush religious extremism in the Buddhist-majority country following the April 21 suicide bomb attacks blamed on a homegrown jihadi group. Three luxury hotels and three churches were targeted in the coordinated bombings. The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility for the attack, which left 45 foreigners dead. Saturday's poll was the first popularity test of the United National Party (UNP) government of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, who stepped aside and allowed his deputy Premadasa to stand in the election. Intelligence failure Wickremesinghe's administration faced severe criticism for failing to prevent the attacks despite prior warnings from an intelligence agency of neighbouring India, according to findings of a parliamentary investigation. Premadasa also offered better security and a pledge to make a former war general, Sarath Fonseka, his national security chief, projecting himself as a victim seeking to crush terrorism. He is the son of assassinated ex-president Ranasinghe Premadasa who fell victim to a Tamil rebel suicide bomber in May 1993. Gotabaya is adored by the Sinhalese majority and by the powerful Buddhist clergy for directing security forces to crush Tamil separatists and end a 37-year separatist war in May 2009 with brother Mahinda. But they are detested and feared by many Tamils, who make up 15 per cent of the population. The conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army. Some in the Muslim community, who make up 10 per cent of the population, are also fearful of Gotabaya becoming president, having faced days of mob violence in the wake of the April attacks. Under his brother, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, allegedly overseeing "death squads" that bumped off rivals, journalists and others. He denies the allegations. During that time, Sri Lanka also borrowed heavily from China for infrastructure projects and even allowed two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014, alarming Western countries as well as India. The projects ballooned Sri Lanka's debts and many turned into white elephants -- such as an airport in the south devoid of airlines -- mired in corruption allegations. China also offered Sri Lanka "international diplomatic protection" against criticism for its rights record, analyst Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told AFP. The Rajapaksas "spent and spent without giving any consideration to how it has to be paid back". Unlike in 2015 when there were bomb attacks and shootings, this election was relatively peaceful by the standards of Sri Lanka's fiery politics. The only major incident was on Saturday when gunmen fired at two vehicles in a convoy of at least 100 buses taking voters from the Muslim minority to vote. Two people were injured. After a campaign that according to the Election Commission was the worst ever for hate speech and misinformation, final results could come by later Sunday.

Sri Lanka presidential election 2019: Gotabaya Rajapaksa storms to victory

Sri Lanka's former wartime defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa took an early lead Sunday in a fiercely fought presidential election conducted under high security seven months after deadly Islamist attacks.

Sri Lanka Presidential election: Rajapaksa camp  claims victory

Sri Lanka Presidential election: Counting underway

Sri Lanka Presidential election: Gotabaya Rajapaksa takes early lead

After the results of Sri Lanka presidential election, WION Speaks to Dr. S. Y. Quraishi, Former Chief Election Commissioner of India for more clarity on the victory of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Dr. S. Y. Quraishi, Former CEC of India

Sri Lanka's former wartime defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has won the presidency with a clear majority, his spokesman told AFP on Sunday, a day after the polls.

Sri Lanka's former wartime defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapaksa has won the presidency with a clear majority, his spokesman told AFP on Sunday, a day after the polls. "We got between 53 to 54 percent (of the vote)," Keheliya Rambukwella said as official results showed the 70-year-old heading to victory in Saturday's fiercely contested election. The 70-year-old retired lieutenant colonel secured massive support in majority Sinhalese constituencies and had 52.87 per cent of the vote, according to early official results of Saturday's poll. His younger rival, Housing minister Sajith Premadasa, 52, was trailing with 39.67 per cent in the first half a million votes counted. He had strong support in minority Tamil areas and a poor showing in larger Sinhalese constituencies. Leftist Anura Kumara Dissanayake was in third place with less than five per cent of the vote. There were 32 other candidates for the top job. Election Commission chairman Mahinda Deshapriya said at least 80 per cent of the 15.99 million eligible voters participated in Saturday's poll, which was marred by isolated violence that left several people injured. Rajapaksa conducted a nationalist campaign with a promise of security and a vow to crush religious extremism following the April 21 suicide bomb attacks blamed on a homegrown jihadi group. Three luxury hotels and three churches were targeted in the coordinated bombings. The Islamic State too claimed responsibility for the attack which also left 45 foreigners dead. Saturday's poll was the first popularity test of the United National Party (UNP) government of Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe who stepped aside and allowed his deputy Premadasa to stand in the election. Costly intelligence failure Wickremesinghe's administration faced severe criticism for failing to prevent the attacks despite prior warnings from an intelligence agency of neighbouring India, according to findings of a parliamentary investigation. Premadasa also offered better security and a pledge to make a former war general, Sarath Fonseka, his national security chief and projected himself as a victim seeking to crush terrorism. He is the son of assassinated ex-president Ranasinghe Premadasa who fell victim to a tamil rebel suicide bomber in May 1993. Gotabaya is credited with directing security forces to crush Tamil rebels and end a 37-year separatist war in May 2009 during the tenure of his elder brother Mahinda, who was president from 2005 to 2015. The Rajapaksas are adored by Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority, as well as the powerful Buddhist clergy, for defeating Tamil Tiger separatists and ending a 37-year civil war in 2009. But they are detested and feared by many Tamils, who make up 15 per cent of the population. The conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army. Some in the Muslim community, who make up 10 per cent of the population, are also fearful of Gotabaya becoming president, having faced days of mob violence in the wake of the April attacks. Under his brother, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, allegedly overseeing "death squads" that bumped off rivals, journalists and others. He denies the allegations. During that time Sri Lanka also borrowed heavily from China for infrastructure projects and even allowed two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014, alarming Western countries as well as India. The projects ballooned Sri Lanka's debts and many turned into white elephants -- such as an airport in the south devoid of airlines -- mired in corruption allegations. China also offered Sri Lanka "international diplomatic protection" against criticism for its rights record, analyst Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told AFP. The Rajapaksas "spent and spent without giving any consideration to how it has to be paid back." Unlike in 2015 when there were bomb attacks and shootings, this election was relatively peaceful by the standards of Sri Lanka's fiery politics. The only major incident was on Saturday when gunmen fired at two vehicles in a convoy of at least 100 buses taking voters from the Muslim minority to vote. Two people were injured. After a campaign that according to the Election Commission was the worst ever for hate speech and misinformation, final results could come by later Sunday.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa spokesman claims victory in Sri Lanka election

After the results of Sri Lanka presidential election, WION Speaks to Iqbal Athas, Political Editor at Sunday Times from Sri Lanka for more clarity on the victory of Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Iqbal Athas, Political Editor from Sri Lanka

Gotabaya Rajapaksa has won the presidency with a clear majority, his spokesman told AFP on Sunday, a day after the polls. Gotabaya Rajapaksa is the one who spearheaded the brutal crushing of the Tamil Tigers 10 years ago "It is a clear win. We envisaged it. We are very happy that Gota will be the next president. He will be sworn in tomorrow or the day after," spokesman Keheliya Rambukwella said.

Gotabaya Rajapaksa: Looking forward to meet PM Narendra Modi

Sri Lankans began voting on Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China.

Sri Lanka presidential election: Sajith Premadasa urges people to go out and vote

Sri Lanka polls to have major implications for India

During Sri Lanka presidential election, WION Speaks to Dr. Aruna Kulatunga, Political Analyst from Colombo for more clarity on this.

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Dr Aruna Kulatunga, political analyst from Colombo

Sri Lankans began voting on Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China. Finally, Voting has been concluded and over 80% voter turnout recorded. WION also exclusively spoke to G. Parthasarathy, Political Analyst from New Delhi for more clarity on this.

Sri Lanka presidential election: Voting concluded, over 80% voter turnout recorded

Voting begins in Sri Lanka presidential polls

The Indian Ocean nation of Sri Lanka emerged a decade ago from a devastating civil war to be rocked again this year by a series of Easter suicide bombings.

Here are some key facts:

Mostly Buddhist&nbsp;

The teardrop-shaped tropical island off the southern tip of India is separated from the subcontinent by a shallow strip of sea known as the Palk Strait that is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) wide at the narrowest point. The island has a population of 21.6 million, according to the World Bank in 2018.

Seventy percent are Buddhist, most of them ethnic Sinhalese; around 12 percent are Hindus -- mostly Tamils, who mainly live in the north and northeast of the island.

Muslims make up 10 percent of the population and Christians about seven percent.

Once Ceylon&nbsp;

A strategic point on early maritime trade routes, the island was controlled by Portugal (1505-1656) and The Netherlands (1656-1796) before becoming a British colony called Ceylon in 1815.

The last Sinhalese king reigned from 1798 to 1815.&nbsp;

After more than 130 years of British rule, the island gained independence in 1948.

In 1972 it became a republic and adopted the name Sri Lanka.

Tamil Tigers crushed&nbsp;

In 1972, Tamil rebels launched an armed struggle for a separate homeland that triggered a nearly four-decade civil war estimated to have claimed up to 100,000 lives.

The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) campaign was marked by suicide bombings and assassinations, including of President Ranasinghe Premadasa in 1993, and it was labeled a terrorist group by some Western nations and India.

After a ceasefire failed, the Sinhalese-majority government crushed the Tigers in an all-out military offensive in 2009, killing their founder and leader Velupillai Prabhakaran.

The operation was criticised for its brutality, with troops accused of killing at least 40,000 Tamil civilians.&nbsp;

The United Nations Human Rights Council has demanded an independent investigation into war crimes in the conflict.

Easter bloodshed&nbsp;

Sri Lanka was about to mark a decade since the end of the Tamil separatist war when its capital was struck by new terror attacks on Easter Sunday this year.

A series of suicide bombings on three packed churches and three luxury hotels on April 21 killed 269 people including 45 foreigners.

The government blamed a local jihadi group while the Islamic State group also claimed responsibility.&nbsp;

It sparked anti-Muslim riots in which one Muslim man was lynched and hundreds of homes, shops and mosques vandalised.

A state of emergency was relaxed in August.

The attacks took place amid a power struggle between President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and both have backed down from running in the upcoming presidential election.

Tourism and tea&nbsp;

Following the end of the civil war, international tourism flourished in Sri Lanka with more than two million visitors per year since 2016 compared to 448,000 in 2009.

But after the Easter bombings, the country estimates it will lose about $1.5 billion in tourism revenue in 2019 because of a sharp dip in arrivals.

Sri Lanka's main export is tea, with more than 90 per cent of its production traded abroad. It ranks with China and Kenya as the top international exporters.

The garment industry and remittances from workers abroad are also key sources of revenue.

Growth is forecast at 2.7 per cent in 2019, after an average of 5.6 per cent between 2010 and 2018, according to the World Bank.

The Indian Ocean nation of Sri Lanka emerged a decade ago from a devastating civil war to be rocked again this year by a series of Easter suicide bombings. Here are some key facts: Mostly Buddhist The teardrop-shaped tropical island off the southern tip of India is separated from the subcontinent by a shallow strip of sea known as the Palk Strait that is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) wide at the narrowest point.

The Indian Ocean nation of Sri Lanka emerged a decade ago from a devastating civil war to be rocked again this year by a series of Easter suicide bombings. Here are some key facts: Mostly Buddhist The teardrop-shaped tropical island off the southern tip of India is separated from the subcontinent by a shallow strip of sea known as the Palk Strait that is about 20 kilometres (12 miles) wide at the narrowest point. The island has a population of 21.6 million, according to the World Bank in 2018. Seventy percent are Buddhist, most of them ethnic Sinhalese; around 12 percent are Hindus -- mostly Tamils, who mainly live in the north and northeast of the island. Muslims make up 10 percent of the population and Christians about seven percent. Once Ceylon A strategic point on early maritime trade routes, the island was controlled by Portugal (1505-1656) and The Netherlands (1656-1796) before becoming a British colony called Ceylon in 1815. The last Sinhalese king reigned from 1798 to 1815. After more than 130 years of British rule, the island gained independence in 1948. In 1972 it became a republic and adopted the name Sri Lanka. Tamil Tigers crushed In 1972, Tamil rebels launched an armed struggle for a separate homeland that triggered a nearly four-decade civil war estimated to have claimed up to 100,000 lives. The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) campaign was marked by suicide bombings and assassinations, including of President Ranasinghe Premadasa in 1993, and it was labeled a terrorist group by some Western nations and India. After a ceasefire failed, the Sinhalese-majority government crushed the Tigers in an all-out military offensive in 2009, killing their founder and leader Velupillai Prabhakaran. The operation was criticised for its brutality, with troops accused of killing at least 40,000 Tamil civilians. The United Nations Human Rights Council has demanded an independent investigation into war crimes in the conflict. Easter bloodshed Sri Lanka was about to mark a decade since the end of the Tamil separatist war when its capital was struck by new terror attacks on Easter Sunday this year. A series of suicide bombings on three packed churches and three luxury hotels on April 21 killed 269 people including 45 foreigners. The government blamed a local jihadi group while the Islamic State group also claimed responsibility. It sparked anti-Muslim riots in which one Muslim man was lynched and hundreds of homes, shops and mosques vandalised. A state of emergency was relaxed in August. The attacks took place amid a power struggle between President Maithripala Sirisena and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and both have backed down from running in the upcoming presidential election. Tourism and tea Following the end of the civil war, international tourism flourished in Sri Lanka with more than two million visitors per year since 2016 compared to 448,000 in 2009. But after the Easter bombings, the country estimates it will lose about $1.5 billion in tourism revenue in 2019 because of a sharp dip in arrivals. Sri Lanka's main export is tea, with more than 90 per cent of its production traded abroad. It ranks with China and Kenya as the top international exporters. The garment industry and remittances from workers abroad are also key sources of revenue. Growth is forecast at 2.7 per cent in 2019, after an average of 5.6 per cent between 2010 and 2018, according to the World Bank.

Sri Lanka: Indian Ocean island marked by civil war

Voting in Sri Lanka's presidential election concluded on Saturday with reportedly registering over&nbsp;80% voter turnout.&nbsp;

Some 85,000 police were on duty for the election with a record 35 candidates running for president, an office with considerable power similar to the French political system, with close to 16 million eligible voters.

Results could come as early as midday&nbsp;on Sunday if there is a clear winner.&nbsp;

Voting which began at 7 am in the morning&nbsp;ended at 5:00 pm.

One of the two frontrunners is grey-haired retired army lieutenant colonel Gotabaya Rajapaksa, 70, younger brother to the charismatic but controversial Mahinda Rajapaksa, president from 2005-15.

Dubbed the "Terminator" by his own family, "Gota" is promising an infrastructure blitz and better security in the wake of the Islamist attacks in April that killed 269 people.

"Gotabaya will protect our country," construction worker Wasantha Samarajjeew, 51, said as he cast his ballot in Colombo.

His main rival is Sajith Premadasa, 52, from the governing liberal United National Party (UNP), son of assassinated ex-president Ranasinghe Premadasa.

He is also pushing development and security as well as free sanitary pads for poor women, earning him the nickname "Padman" after a famous Bollywood movie.

The Rajapaksas are adored by Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority for defeating Tamil Tiger separatists and ending a 37-year civil war in 2009.

They are detested and feared by many Tamils, who make up 15 per cent of the population. The conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army.

During Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, even allegedly overseeing "death squads" that bumped off political rivals, journalists and others.

He denies the allegations.

What also concerns Western countries, as well as India, is that strategically located Sri Lanka moved closer to China under Mahinda Rajapaksa, even allowing two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014.

Under its Belt and Road Initiative spanning Asia and beyond, China loaned and granted Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects, many of which turned into white elephants and mired in corruption allegations.

Mahinda says credit was unavailable elsewhere.

Western capitals "should give a fair chance to us", Basil Rajapaksa, another brother, told reporters. "They can't be monitors of this country. They must be partners."

(With inputs from agencies)

Voting in Sri Lanka's presidential election concluded on Saturday with reportedly registering over 80% voter turnout. Some 85,000 police were on duty for the election with a record 35 candidates running for president, an office with considerable power similar to the French political system, with close to 16 million eligible voters.

Voting in Sri Lanka's presidential election concluded on Saturday with reportedly registering over 80% voter turnout. Some 85,000 police were on duty for the election with a record 35 candidates running for president, an office with considerable power similar to the French political system, with close to 16 million eligible voters. Results could come as early as midday on Sunday if there is a clear winner. Voting which began at 7 am in the morning ended at 5:00 pm. One of the two frontrunners is grey-haired retired army lieutenant colonel Gotabaya Rajapaksa, 70, younger brother to the charismatic but controversial Mahinda Rajapaksa, president from 2005-15. Dubbed the "Terminator" by his own family, "Gota" is promising an infrastructure blitz and better security in the wake of the Islamist attacks in April that killed 269 people. "Gotabaya will protect our country," construction worker Wasantha Samarajjeew, 51, said as he cast his ballot in Colombo. His main rival is Sajith Premadasa, 52, from the governing liberal United National Party (UNP), son of assassinated ex-president Ranasinghe Premadasa. He is also pushing development and security as well as free sanitary pads for poor women, earning him the nickname "Padman" after a famous Bollywood movie. The Rajapaksas are adored by Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority for defeating Tamil Tiger separatists and ending a 37-year civil war in 2009. They are detested and feared by many Tamils, who make up 15 per cent of the population. The conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army. During Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, even allegedly overseeing "death squads" that bumped off political rivals, journalists and others. He denies the allegations. What also concerns Western countries, as well as India, is that strategically located Sri Lanka moved closer to China under Mahinda Rajapaksa, even allowing two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014. Under its Belt and Road Initiative spanning Asia and beyond, China loaned and granted Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects, many of which turned into white elephants and mired in corruption allegations. Mahinda says credit was unavailable elsewhere. Western capitals "should give a fair chance to us", Basil Rajapaksa, another brother, told reporters. "They can't be monitors of this country. They must be partners." (With inputs from agencies)

Voting concludes in Sri Lanka president polls; result may come by Sunday afternoon

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Zulfick Farzan, Journalist from Colombo for more clarity on this.

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Zulfick Farzan, Journalist from Colombo

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Nilathan Niruthan, Political Analyst from Colombo for more clarity on this.

Sri Lanka presidential election: WION Speaks to Nilathan Niruthan, Political Analyst from Colombo

16 million voters to decide to Sri Lanka's fate

Sri Lanka presidential election: Polling authority hints at a attempt to influence voters

Sri Lanka presidential election: Who holds the edge?

Sri Lankans began voting on&nbsp;Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China.

Almost five years after political heavyweight Mahinda Rajapaksa lost power, his brother Gotabaya, 70, is running for the top job, promising development and security in the wake of Islamist extremist attacks that killed 269 people in April.

His main opponent is Sajith Premadasa, 52, from the governing liberal United National Party (UNP), son of assassinated former president Ranasinghe Premadasa, who is also pushing security and development as well as free sanitary pads for poor women.

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Watch: Voting begins in Sri Lanka presidential polls

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Polls opened at 0130 GMT and results could be known as early as midday Sunday if there is a clear winner. Security was tight with 85,000 police on duty, election officials said.

Just under 16 million people are eligible to vote, with a record 35 candidates, including two Buddhist monks but just one woman, on the monster ballot paper.

Even before polling stations opened, dozens of people were seen queueing up outside schools and public buildings where the 12,600 polling booths were set up.

"My appeal to voters is go to the polls as early as possible," Election Commission chief Mahinda Desahpriya said.

The Rajapaksas are adored by Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority for defeating the Tigers and ending a 37-year civil war on the Indian Ocean island in 2009 in which around 100,000 people lost their lives.

For the same reason, the brothers are detested and feared by many in the Tamil minority, who make up 15 percent of the population, not least due to the way the conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army.

During Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency from 2005-15, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, even allegedly overseeing "death squads" that used white vans to abduct, torture and in some cases kill political rivals, journalists and others.

The grey-haired retired army lieutenant colonel, dubbed the "Terminator" by his own family, denies the allegations.

"If Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa returns, the white van culture will return," Alfonso, a half-Tamil man living in Colombo, told AFP. "Nobody can speak against him. Nobody, not just us."

Many Muslims in the Buddhist-majority country of 21.6 million are also worried, having already witnessed increased hostility since the April attacks, including hundreds of homes and shops being trashed in the immediate aftermath.

After the civil war ended in 2009, Gotabaya "presided over the opening up of a new area of conflict, which was the Sinhalese majority versus the Muslims," analyst Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told AFP.

"We had a number of incidents of violence against the Muslim community and Gotabaya was seen to be very much as a sponsor and supporter, particularly of an organisation called Bodu Bala Sena (Buddhist Power Force)."

Chinese subs&nbsp;

What also concerns Western countries, as well as India, is that strategically located Sri Lanka moved closer to China under Mahinda, even allowing two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014.

Beijing loaned and granted Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects under China's immense Belt and Road Initiative spanning Asia and beyond. Mahinda says credit was unavailable elsewhere.

Sri Lanka was forced in 2017 to hand Beijing a 99-year lease on the port of Hambantota after being unable to service a $1.4-billion Chinese loan, highlighting for critics the debt dangers of the Belt and Road scheme.&nbsp;

An airport in the south has failed to retain a single international airline. Another white elephant is Colombo's unfinished "Lotus Tower", believed to be South Asia's tallest free-standing communications tower.

"Chinese entities were also credibly accused of fuelling corruption, illegally funnelling money to favoured political candidates, and inserting sovereignty-violating provisions into their infrastructure agreements," said Jeff Smith, a research fellow at US think-tank the Heritage Foundation.

He added though that Gotabaya may have "learned some lessons from his brother's tenure; that he recognises the downside risks of backsliding on democracy and human rights, and of excessive dependency on China."

Western capitals "should give a fair chance to us," Basil Rajapaksa, another brother, told reporters. "They can't be monitors of this country. They must be partners."

Sri Lankans began voting on Saturday for a new president in what could mark a comeback for the Rajapaksa clan, lauded by supporters for crushing the Tamil Tigers but condemned by critics for war crimes, corruption and cosying up to China. Almost five years after political heavyweight Mahinda Rajapaksa lost power, his brother Gotabaya, 70, is running for the top job, promising development and security in the wake of Islamist extremist attacks that killed 269 people in April. His main opponent is Sajith Premadasa, 52, from the governing liberal United National Party (UNP), son of assassinated former president Ranasinghe Premadasa, who is also pushing security and development as well as free sanitary pads for poor women. Watch: Voting begins in Sri Lanka presidential polls × Polls opened at 0130 GMT and results could be known as early as midday Sunday if there is a clear winner. Security was tight with 85,000 police on duty, election officials said. Just under 16 million people are eligible to vote, with a record 35 candidates, including two Buddhist monks but just one woman, on the monster ballot paper. Even before polling stations opened, dozens of people were seen queueing up outside schools and public buildings where the 12,600 polling booths were set up. "My appeal to voters is go to the polls as early as possible," Election Commission chief Mahinda Desahpriya said. The Rajapaksas are adored by Sri Lanka's Sinhalese majority for defeating the Tigers and ending a 37-year civil war on the Indian Ocean island in 2009 in which around 100,000 people lost their lives. For the same reason, the brothers are detested and feared by many in the Tamil minority, who make up 15 percent of the population, not least due to the way the conflict ended with some 40,000 Tamil civilians allegedly killed by the army. During Mahinda Rajapaksa's presidency from 2005-15, Gotabaya was defence secretary and effectively ran the security forces, even allegedly overseeing "death squads" that used white vans to abduct, torture and in some cases kill political rivals, journalists and others. The grey-haired retired army lieutenant colonel, dubbed the "Terminator" by his own family, denies the allegations. "If Mr. Gotabaya Rajapaksa returns, the white van culture will return," Alfonso, a half-Tamil man living in Colombo, told AFP. "Nobody can speak against him. Nobody, not just us." Many Muslims in the Buddhist-majority country of 21.6 million are also worried, having already witnessed increased hostility since the April attacks, including hundreds of homes and shops being trashed in the immediate aftermath. After the civil war ended in 2009, Gotabaya "presided over the opening up of a new area of conflict, which was the Sinhalese majority versus the Muslims," analyst Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu told AFP. "We had a number of incidents of violence against the Muslim community and Gotabaya was seen to be very much as a sponsor and supporter, particularly of an organisation called Bodu Bala Sena (Buddhist Power Force)." Chinese subs What also concerns Western countries, as well as India, is that strategically located Sri Lanka moved closer to China under Mahinda, even allowing two Chinese submarines to dock in Colombo in 2014. Beijing loaned and granted Sri Lanka billions of dollars for infrastructure projects under China's immense Belt and Road Initiative spanning Asia and beyond. Mahinda says credit was unavailable elsewhere. Sri Lanka was forced in 2017 to hand Beijing a 99-year lease on the port of Hambantota after being unable to service a $1.4-billion Chinese loan, highlighting for critics the debt dangers of the Belt and Road scheme. An airport in the south has failed to retain a single international airline. Another white elephant is Colombo's unfinished "Lotus Tower", believed to be South Asia's tallest free-standing communications tower. "Chinese entities were also credibly accused of fuelling corruption, illegally funnelling money to favoured political candidates, and inserting sovereignty-violating provisions into their infrastructure agreements," said Jeff Smith, a research fellow at US think-tank the Heritage Foundation. He added though that Gotabaya may have "learned some lessons from his brother's tenure; that he recognises the downside risks of backsliding on democracy and human rights, and of excessive dependency on China." Western capitals "should give a fair chance to us," Basil Rajapaksa, another brother, told reporters. "They can't be monitors of this country. They must be partners."

Voting begins in Sri Lanka presidential election as Mahinda Rajapaksa's family seeks a comeback

Gunmen fired on a convoy of buses carrying Muslims in northwest Sri Lanka early on Saturday before the beginning of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/voting-begins-in-sri-lanka-presidential-election-262478">presidential elections</a>, police officials said.

There were no reports of any casualties so far. A police official said the attackers had burnt tyres on the road and set up makeshift road blocks to ambush the convoy of over 100 buses.

"The gunmen opened fire and also pelted stones," a police official in Tantirimale, 240 kilometers&nbsp;(150 miles) north of Colombo said. "At least two buses were hit, but we have no reports of casualties."

Watch:&nbsp;<meta name="uuid" content="uuidfxcx7z7AUKiv" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Voters' convoy ambushed in Sri Lanka

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Police reinforcements rushed to the spot, cleared the obstructions in the road and escorted the voters' convoy to the polling booth.

The police official added that the Muslims were from the coastal town of Puttalam and traveling to the district of Mannar to cast their votes. &nbsp;

The attack came on the backdrop of a tense standoff between Sri Lankan army and police as the latter is claiming that the Army were manning roadblocks that are making it difficult for the residents to vote in the Tamil-dominated northern peninsula of Jaffna. The police later said that after the issue was brought to the notice of the army, the roadblocks were removed. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Police sources said they had also warned local military commanders that any disruption to the election would lead to a stricter action.&nbsp;

The minority Muslims and Tamils are seen as a crucial factor in deciding a winner in a close contest between the two front runners -- housing minister Sajith Premadasa and the opposition's Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Local media reports claimed that strong military presence in Jaffna, which is the heartland of Sri Lanka's Tamil minority, could influence the voter turnout and favour Rajapaksha, a former defence ministry chief and brother of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa.

(with inputs from AFP)

Gunmen fired on a convoy of buses carrying Muslims in northwest Sri Lanka early on Saturday before the beginning of presidential elections, police officials said.

Gunmen fired on a convoy of buses carrying Muslims in northwest Sri Lanka early on Saturday before the beginning of presidential elections, police officials said. There were no reports of any casualties so far. A police official said the attackers had burnt tyres on the road and set up makeshift road blocks to ambush the convoy of over 100 buses. "The gunmen opened fire and also pelted stones," a police official in Tantirimale, 240 kilometers (150 miles) north of Colombo said. "At least two buses were hit, but we have no reports of casualties." Watch: Voters' convoy ambushed in Sri Lanka × Police reinforcements rushed to the spot, cleared the obstructions in the road and escorted the voters' convoy to the polling booth. The police official added that the Muslims were from the coastal town of Puttalam and traveling to the district of Mannar to cast their votes. The attack came on the backdrop of a tense standoff between Sri Lankan army and police as the latter is claiming that the Army were manning roadblocks that are making it difficult for the residents to vote in the Tamil-dominated northern peninsula of Jaffna. The police later said that after the issue was brought to the notice of the army, the roadblocks were removed. Police sources said they had also warned local military commanders that any disruption to the election would lead to a stricter action. The minority Muslims and Tamils are seen as a crucial factor in deciding a winner in a close contest between the two front runners -- housing minister Sajith Premadasa and the opposition's Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Local media reports claimed that strong military presence in Jaffna, which is the heartland of Sri Lanka's Tamil minority, could influence the voter turnout and favour Rajapaksha, a former defence ministry chief and brother of former president Mahinda Rajapaksa. (with inputs from AFP)

Gunmen fire at bus carrying Muslim voters in Sri Lanka

Sri Lankans elect a new president on Saturday in a "finely balanced" race between the early favourite, former defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and government minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lanka-elections-profile-of-sajith-premadasa-can-he-emulate-his-father-again-261712">Sajith Premadasa</a>, who has gained momentum in recent weeks.

The election comes amid a deep slump in the country following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attackers-of-sri-lanka-easter-sunday-bombings-were-inspire-by-isis-238342">Easter Sunday attacks</a> on hotels and churches by Islamist militants that killed over 250 people and sharpened tensions between majority Sinhalese and minority Muslims.

Added to that are long-standing grievances of ethnic Tamils, who say they are still to get justice stemming from the human rights violations during a 26-war civil war with Tamil rebels, especially at the closing stages when a U.N. panel says around 40,000 people were killed.

Gotabaya, who oversaw the military rout of Tamil fighters under his brother and then president Mahinda Rajapaksa, has campaigned on a platform of national security, playing on the fears of Sinhalese Buddhists following the April attacks claimed by Islamic State.

Premadasa has sought to fire up the countryside with promises of free housing, schools uniforms for students and sanitary pads for women - touching on a topic rarely discussed in public but which has drawn women to his rallies.

Both the frontrunners in a field of 35 candidates said they will seek a balance in Sri Lanka's political and economic ties with China and India that have competed for influence in the island that sits near busy shipping lanes.

In Pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/a-look-at-sri-lankas-rocky-history-leading-up-to-presidential-polls-261628">A look at Sri Lanka's rocky history leading up to presidential polls</a>

However, Rajapaksa and his family are seen closer to China, which has led to post-civil war reconstruction.

There are no opinion polls but political strategists in the two main campaigns, the minority parties and political analysts say the race has become much closer in recent weeks.

Initially, Rajapaksa was strongly favoured but Premadasa is seen to have closed in on him in the final two weeks of the campaign, they say.

An internal assessment shared by a government minister who is supporting the Premadasa campaign shows an edge over Rajapaksa after initially trailing him. But Kehelia Rambukwella, the spokesman for the Rajapaksa campaign, told Reuters on Friday the team was confident of winning.

The election is now "finely balanced" between the two frontrunners, Eurasia said in a note. While Gotabaya is banking on the support of the Sinhalese, Premadasa has been assured the support of Tamil parties who strongly oppose a return of the Rajapaksas.

Muslims are also concerned they would be targeted in large-scale surveillance and raids that a Gotabaya presidency might bring.

"The prospect of a new Rajapaksa presidency has heightened ethnic tensions and raised fears among minorities and democratic activists," said Alan Keenan from the International Crisis Group.

About 16 million people are eligible to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-steps-up-security-for-final-vote-rallies-261898">vote on Saturday</a> with the ballot allowing voters to choose up to three candidates in order of preference.

Votes will be counted soon after polling stations close that evening but the results are not expected before Sunday.

Anyone who gets over 50 per cent of votes as the first choice will win. If there is no clear winner, authorities will hold a second round of counting to determine the winner through preference votes.

One of the challenges the new president will face is to service Sri Lanka's foreign debt, which stands at 45 per cent&nbsp;of its gross domestic product.

A quarter of the debt is owed to China, which has raised fears of a loss of sovereignty after Sri Lanka was forced to hand over control of the giant Hambantota port in a debt-for-equity swap with Beijing in 2017.

"The management of debt is going to be a challenge, we are still paying down the interest on the loans we have taken, we have to start paying the principal, the repayments will rise," said Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne who is on Premadasa's campaign.

Growth hit a 17-year low of 3.2 per cent in 2018, and the IMF has forecast expansion to fall to 2.7 per cent&nbsp;in 2019 as the Easter Sunday attacks dented tourism and broader business activity.

"Given the headwinds facing the economy, we think growth will struggle whoever wins," said Capital Economics in a note. There might be a slight nudge if Rajapaksa wins, reflecting the prospect of an upturn in Chinese investment because of his family's close ties with Beijing, it said.

Sri Lankans elect a new president on Saturday in a "finely balanced" race between the early favourite, former defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and government minister Sajith Premadasa, who has gained momentum in recent weeks.

Sri Lankans elect a new president on Saturday in a "finely balanced" race between the early favourite, former defence chief Gotabaya Rajapaksa, and government minister Sajith Premadasa, who has gained momentum in recent weeks. The election comes amid a deep slump in the country following Easter Sunday attacks on hotels and churches by Islamist militants that killed over 250 people and sharpened tensions between majority Sinhalese and minority Muslims. Added to that are long-standing grievances of ethnic Tamils, who say they are still to get justice stemming from the human rights violations during a 26-war civil war with Tamil rebels, especially at the closing stages when a U.N. panel says around 40,000 people were killed. Gotabaya, who oversaw the military rout of Tamil fighters under his brother and then president Mahinda Rajapaksa, has campaigned on a platform of national security, playing on the fears of Sinhalese Buddhists following the April attacks claimed by Islamic State. Premadasa has sought to fire up the countryside with promises of free housing, schools uniforms for students and sanitary pads for women - touching on a topic rarely discussed in public but which has drawn women to his rallies. Both the frontrunners in a field of 35 candidates said they will seek a balance in Sri Lanka's political and economic ties with China and India that have competed for influence in the island that sits near busy shipping lanes. In Pictures: A look at Sri Lanka's rocky history leading up to presidential polls However, Rajapaksa and his family are seen closer to China, which has led to post-civil war reconstruction. There are no opinion polls but political strategists in the two main campaigns, the minority parties and political analysts say the race has become much closer in recent weeks. Initially, Rajapaksa was strongly favoured but Premadasa is seen to have closed in on him in the final two weeks of the campaign, they say. An internal assessment shared by a government minister who is supporting the Premadasa campaign shows an edge over Rajapaksa after initially trailing him. But Kehelia Rambukwella, the spokesman for the Rajapaksa campaign, told Reuters on Friday the team was confident of winning. The election is now "finely balanced" between the two frontrunners, Eurasia said in a note. While Gotabaya is banking on the support of the Sinhalese, Premadasa has been assured the support of Tamil parties who strongly oppose a return of the Rajapaksas. Muslims are also concerned they would be targeted in large-scale surveillance and raids that a Gotabaya presidency might bring. "The prospect of a new Rajapaksa presidency has heightened ethnic tensions and raised fears among minorities and democratic activists," said Alan Keenan from the International Crisis Group. About 16 million people are eligible to vote on Saturday with the ballot allowing voters to choose up to three candidates in order of preference. Votes will be counted soon after polling stations close that evening but the results are not expected before Sunday. Anyone who gets over 50 per cent of votes as the first choice will win. If there is no clear winner, authorities will hold a second round of counting to determine the winner through preference votes. One of the challenges the new president will face is to service Sri Lanka's foreign debt, which stands at 45 per cent of its gross domestic product. A quarter of the debt is owed to China, which has raised fears of a loss of sovereignty after Sri Lanka was forced to hand over control of the giant Hambantota port in a debt-for-equity swap with Beijing in 2017. "The management of debt is going to be a challenge, we are still paying down the interest on the loans we have taken, we have to start paying the principal, the repayments will rise," said Health Minister Rajitha Senaratne who is on Premadasa's campaign. Growth hit a 17-year low of 3.2 per cent in 2018, and the IMF has forecast expansion to fall to 2.7 per cent in 2019 as the Easter Sunday attacks dented tourism and broader business activity. "Given the headwinds facing the economy, we think growth will struggle whoever wins," said Capital Economics in a note. There might be a slight nudge if Rajapaksa wins, reflecting the prospect of an upturn in Chinese investment because of his family's close ties with Beijing, it said.

Sri Lanka presidential race tightens as minorities seek to stop Rajapaksa

Sri lanka elections: Profile of Sajith Premadasa; Can he emulate his father again?

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