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Ranil Wickremesinghe Calls for Stronger India Ties, Infrastructure Boost | WATCH

April 5, 2025, 5:32 pm

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Colombo following his attendance at the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok, anticipation grew over his bilateral meeting with Sri Lankan President Anurak Desanayake. The visit is a strategic move to further cooperation in the spheres of trade, connectivity, and infrastructure.

In an exclusive conversation with NewsX World Executive Editor Megha Sharma, former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke about the transformation of India-Sri Lanka relations, stressing the need to move from words to concrete action. Based on his intimate diplomatic relationship with PM Modi, Wickremesinghe provided insightful comments on the challenges and opportunities defining bilateral cooperation.

Wickremesinghe emphasized the need to translate mutual vision into action. Citing the 2023 joint vision statement signed on his visit to India, he said, “I would hope that we go a step further in making a closer relationship between the two countries. including connectivity, dairy development, and Trincomalee.”

While accepting the symbolic importance of recent high-level visits, he demanded it’s time to act operationally. “We have to step out of the statement phase, where we make declarations, into action to take necessary steps to make it operational,” he pointed out.

Watch:

Energy Projects Face Delays

On the Sampur (Samcoot) power project, long-delayed in Trincomalee, which was initially planned in 2006 as a coal-fired plant, Wickremesinghe owned up to delays. “Many things in Sri Lanka take long time—sometimes even on the Indian side. But Prime Minister Modi has always been enthusiastic to drive it forward.”

When the environment became an issue and global warming pacts such as the Paris Accord began to take effect, the plan for coal was abandoned. LNG was considered and found wanting, finally turning towards a solar power energy hub in Trincomalee.

India’s Economic Support Helped Steady Sri Lanka

Wickremesinghe, who took over as president during Sri Lanka’s 2022 economic collapse, attributed India for providing a lifeline $4.5 billion in assistance. “India gave us a lifeline $4.5 billion loan through various credit lines, which was very useful, particularly during the first six months that I was president,” he said.

He also admitted that India’s investment willingness had a wider effect. “If India invests, others will follow without waiting until 2027 or 2028 to see how the economy performs.”

Adani Project Under Fire But Crucial

On the Nowscrab wind power project of Adani Group being controversial, Wickremesinghe vindicated its need amid pricing issues. “There appears to be a pricing dispute… Larger projects, which involve $500–800 million, have higher financing costs.”

He further said that every negotiation had been vetted by official committees and reaffirmed its significance: “I regard this as a very important project.”

Colombo Port City vs. Hambantota

Wickremesinghe explained myths surrounding Chinese investment in Colombo Port City, an area of 600 acres. It is a development area that functions under Sri Lankan laws and focuses on foreign currency-based property. With regard to tax evasion, he assured foreign investors that tax benefits are offered exclusively.

Discussing Hambantota Port comparisons, he explained, “Hambantota was leased for 70+ years for $1 billion, which went into reserves. Chinese loans were concessional—repaying them with commercial loans would’ve cost more.”

Reform Costs and Political Backlash

Though winning fiscal stabilization and IMF restructuring, Wickremesinghe’s party experienced election losses. He blamed this on stringent reforms. “Reforms tend to make people suffer in the short run. I did not offer relief from taxes or salary increases, but opponents did. People voted for short-term relief as opposed to long-term stability.”

He also countered accusations of Sri Lankan politics being dynastic. “Our party ended dynasties in 1988… Sri Lanka has had leaders outside the dynasty, contrary to perception.”

Grievances Against Current Government’s Agenda

Complaining against the incumbent government, Wickremesinghe stated it’s more concerned with looking back into the past rather than planning for the future. “The present government appears concerned with questions (Easter attacks, Central Bank bonds) and not with progress.”

He rejected political connections to the Easter attacks as unfounded. “Claims by a minority Christian group are politically motivated. Sri Lanka is a Buddhist nation; I report to its institutions, not to outside religious leaders.”

Tamil Issues and Fishermen Controversies

Wickremesinghe emphasized actions taken during his tenure for Tamil reconciliation, including conducting elections in northern provinces. Regarding cross-border fishing controversies, he stated, “If Tamil Nadu fishermen encroach, it harms local livelihoods. Reconciliation must include protecting Sri Lankan fishermen.”

He laid stress on the completion of the Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) with India. “It should be completed soon. In view of changing world trade patterns (such as Trump’s policies), we require robust deals with India, Thailand, and RCEP.”

Concluding the interview, Wickremesinghe expressed his vision for Sri Lanka’s future: “A developed, democratic nation with good living standards and law and order.”

As Modi’s visit unfolds, voices like Wickremesinghe’s reflect a shared aspiration: that both nations now act decisively and turn diplomatic intent into real progress.

World Leaders Praise Manmohan Singh’s Friendship, Contribution To Inclusivity, Economic Liberalisation

December 27, 2024, 6:05 pm

On Friday President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed condolensces for the passing of former Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh complimenting his contributions in India’s development, with Right to Education Act and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.

Dissanayake expressed his condolences in a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), extending sympathies to Singh’s family and his admirers worldwide. “On behalf of the people of Sri Lanka and myself, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Republic of India, Dr Manmohan Singh’s family, and his countless admirers worldwide. A visionary leader, Dr Singh’s influence transcended national boundaries,” Dissanayake wrote.

Following the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Thursday night, tributes poured in from global leaders who praised his exceptional leadership and contributions to India’s development.

Dissanayake also praised Dr Singh for his efforts in forging global alliances, including his role in BRICS and the Indo-US nuclear agreement.

“As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, his transformative policies, like the Right to Education Act and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, reflected his steadfast commitment to equity and inclusivity. A tireless advocate of international collaboration, he forged lasting alliances, contributed to coalitions like BRICS, and showcased remarkable diplomacy through achievements such as the Indo-US nuclear agreement. His humility, intellect, and dedication to public service will forever inspire future generations. May his soul find peace and be united with the divine,” he added.

Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who had known Dr Singh since 1992, described him as a good friend and a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. “I have known him since 1992, I had discussions with him…he has been a good friend…he was a good leader, one of those who made modern India…” Wickremesinghe stated.

Meanwhile, Minister Counsellor – Trade, Commercial and Economic Affairs at the Royal Danish Embassy in New Delhi, Søren Nørrelund Kannik-Marquardsen, also offered his tribute, emphasising Singh’s monumental role in India’s economic reforms. “India has lost a great man who changed the fate of his nation and lives of millions…Manmohan Singh’s work in the 90’s where he liberalised the economy and opened up the Indian market paved for foreign direct investment into India, without him, it would have been a totally different thing,” Kannik-Marquardsen remarked.

Singh’s legacy is deeply tied to the 1991 economic liberalisation reforms, which he introduced as Finance Minister, catapulting India into the global economic landscape. His tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 saw India strengthening its international standing, particularly in relation to the United States, and fostering regional cooperation through forums like BRICS.

Singh’s passing marks the end of an era. His leadership in navigating India’s economic growth, domestic policy reforms, and international relations remains a defining feature of his tenure.

Following his death due to age-related medical conditions, Singh will be cremated near Rajghat, the final resting place of many Indian leaders.

Sri Lanka’s New President Anura Kumara Dissanayake: ‘We Won’t Be Sandwiched…’

September 24, 2024, 11:33 am

Sri Lanka’s newly appointed President, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, has made it clear that under his leadership, the country will pursue a balanced foreign policy, avoiding entanglement in the geopolitical struggles between China and India. In an interview with Monocle magazine, Dissanayake emphasized that Sri Lanka will not align with any global power blocs but will instead focus on fostering mutually beneficial relationships with its closest neighbors and other international partners.

A Neutral Foreign Policy Stance

Dissanayake highlighted his administration’s commitment to maintaining neutrality in the face of growing tensions between global superpowers. With China and India as two of Sri Lanka’s closest neighbors, Dissanayake underscored the importance of balanced diplomacy to safeguard Sri Lanka’s sovereignty. He stated, “We won’t be a competitor in that geopolitical fight, nor will we be aligned to any party. We don’t want to be sandwiched, especially between China and India. Both countries are valued friends, and under an NPP government, we expect them to become close partners.”

This stance of neutrality, the president suggested, is crucial in helping Sri Lanka navigate the increasingly multipolar world, as regional tensions rise. Additionally, he noted that Sri Lanka will aim to maintain productive relationships with the European Union, the Middle East, and Africa.

Dissanayake Takes Office Amid Economic Crisis

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who represents the leftist National People’s Power (NPP), officially assumed office as president on Monday, signaling a significant shift in Sri Lanka’s political landscape. The NPP leader, often referred to as “AKD,” rose to power on the back of widespread frustration with the country’s traditional political elites, displacing the incumbent Ranil Wickremesinghe, who had taken over following the resignation of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

Dissanayake secured his presidency by winning over 1.27 million votes, surpassing his main opponent, Sajith Premadasa, while Wickremesinghe finished in third place.

Congratulatory Messages from Neighbors and China

Following his victory, Dissanayake received congratulations from Sri Lanka’s neighboring countries, including India, Pakistan, and the Maldives. China, Sri Lanka’s largest bilateral creditor, also extended its congratulations. A spokesperson from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed hope that Sri Lanka will continue on a path of national stability and economic development, stating that China remains committed to playing a constructive role in the country’s recovery.

Rescuing Sri Lanka from Economic Collapse

On the domestic front, President Dissanayake faces the monumental challenge of addressing Sri Lanka’s severe economic crisis. In his interview, Dissanayake acknowledged the country’s dire financial situation, referring to Sri Lanka as a “bankrupt nation” due to its €34 billion external debt, rising poverty rates, and skyrocketing prices of essential goods.

He criticized the previous governments for adhering to neoliberal economic models, which, he claimed, contributed to the country’s economic downfall. Dissanayake pledged that his government will introduce reforms aimed at pulling Sri Lanka out of its financial collapse and restoring stability to the country.

A New Era for Sri Lanka

As Sri Lanka looks to recover from its worst economic crisis in over seven decades, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s administration is set to introduce reforms that prioritize national sovereignty and economic recovery. By charting a neutral course in foreign policy and focusing on alleviating domestic financial burdens, Dissanayake hopes to lead the island nation toward a more stable and prosperous future.

Sri Lanka’s President Ranil Wickremesinghe Declares Candidacy For September Elections

July 27, 2024, 10:57 pm

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe officially announced his candidacy for the upcoming presidential elections, scheduled for September 21. This marks a significant political moment as the country continues to recover from a major economic crisis.

Announcement of Candidacy:

Addressing a rally in Galle, President Wickremesinghe, 75, declared his intention to run for president, stating, “I declare that I will contest the presidential election having already paid my deposit to do so.” His announcement comes amidst speculation about his candidacy due to the weakened position of his United National Party (UNP).

Historical Context:

This will be the first presidential election since Sri Lanka’s severe economic crisis in 2022, which led to the ouster of the powerful Rajapaksa family. Wickremesinghe, who also serves as the country’s finance minister, took office in July 2022 after widespread protests forced his predecessor, Gotabaya Rajapaksa, to flee and resign.

Wickremesinghe’s Vision:

With a clear vision and unwavering determination to elevate our nation on the global stage and transform it into a prosperous and thriving country, I am proud to announce my candidacy for the upcoming presidential election. In a time when our nation was in chaos and on the brink…

— Ranil Wickremesinghe (@RW_UNP) July 27, 2024

In a post on X, Wickremesinghe highlighted his achievements and vision: “With a clear vision and unwavering determination to elevate our nation on the global stage and transform it into a prosperous and thriving country, I am proud to announce my candidacy for the upcoming presidential election.”

He emphasized his efforts in stabilizing the country during its financial crisis: “In a time when our nation was in chaos and on the brink of bankruptcy, it was my love for this country and its people that drove me to take on the arduous task of rebuilding it.”

Election Details:

Nominations for the election are due by August 15. Wickremesinghe has already submitted his nomination and paid a non-refundable deposit to the election commission. The upcoming election will be closely watched as Sri Lanka continues to navigate its economic recovery and political landscape.

Conclusion:

President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s decision to run for re-election underscores his commitment to leading Sri Lanka through its ongoing recovery. As the election approaches, his campaign will likely focus on his role in stabilizing the nation’s economy and his vision for its future prosperity.

Key Takeaway:

Ranil Wickremesinghe’s candidacy in the upcoming presidential election highlights the significant political and economic challenges facing Sri Lanka, as well as the efforts to overcome them and restore stability to the nation.

PM Modi Extends Invitation To Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe For Swearing-In Ceremony

June 6, 2024, 4:20 am

Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe has agreed to attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming swearing-in ceremony, expected to occur on June 8.

President Wickremesinghe extended his congratulations to Prime Minister Modi over the phone for the BJP-led NDA’s electoral success. During their discussion, PM Modi extended an invitation to President Wickremesinghe to attend his oath-taking ceremony, which the Sri Lankan President graciously accepted.

“During the conversation, Prime Minister @narendramodi invited President Wickremesinghe to his swearing-in ceremony, which President @RW_UNP accepted,” the President’s Media Division of Sri Lanka said in a post on X.

“President Ranil Wickremesinghe congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the @BJP4India led NDA’s electoral victory in a phone call,” the post added.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe congratulated Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the @BJP4India led NDA’s electoral victory in a phone call. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/tNhJfuPAxX

— President’s Media Division of Sri Lanka – PMD (@PMDNewsGov) June 5, 2024

President Ranil Wickremesinghe conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the victory of the BJP-led coalition in the parliamentary elections. He expressed Sri Lanka’s anticipation for deepening the partnership with India.

In a post on X, Sri Lanka’s president said, “I extend my warmest felicitations to the @BJP4India led NDA on its victory, demonstrating the confidence of the Indian people in the progress and prosperity under the leadership of PM @narendramodi.”

“As the closest neighbour Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthening the partnership with India,” he added.

A day following the announcement of the Lok Sabha election results, the Union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recommended the dissolution of the 17th Lok Sabha, scheduled to conclude its term on June 16.

Sources indicate that with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal-United (JDU), potential “kingmakers,” signaling their approval, the formation of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government and Prime Minister Modi’s swearing-in ceremony are expected to occur on June 8.

As per the Lok Sabha election results, the Election Commission of India has declared outcomes for 542 out of the 543 Lok Sabha constituencies. The BJP secured victory in 240 seats, a decline from its 2019 tally of 303 and the 282 seats it won in 2014. Meanwhile, the Congress witnessed significant growth, securing 99 seats compared to 52 in 2019 and 44 in 2014.

Sri Lankan Navy Apprehends 19 Fishermen from Rameswaram, Seizes Two Boats

February 8, 2024, 11:15 am

On Thursday, the Sri Lankan Navy captured 19 Indian fishermen from Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, along with two boats.
The fishermen were apprehended while fishing near Delft Island in the Palk Bay Sea, according to the fishing association.
The arrested fishermen have been identified Jolson (42), Mcdon (40), Bismar (26), Muniyasamy (36), Muniyasamy (48), Shekhar (49), Sesu Raja (41), Flower Sun (28), Prashant (32), Arogya Prabhakaran (47), Selva Thomas (50), Selvaraj (46), Anton Sasikumar (43), Muniasamy, Health (50), Oswald (36), and Orissa (36).

“480 fishermen from Rameswaram went to the sea yesterday to catch fish. They were fishing near Neduntivu in the Bagjalasanthi Sea area. The Sri Lankan Navy arrived there. 19 fishermen were arrested and taken to Kangesanthurai Naval Camp for investigation,” CR Senthilvel, state secretary, AITUC Fishermen Association said.
“Fishing boats INT.TN 10 MM 324 is owned by K Alex of Thangachimadham and INT.TN 10 MM 925 owned by S Anton Sasikumar were taken,” he added.

Earlier on February 6, twelve Tamil Nadu fishermen captured by the Sri Lankan Navy on January 13 were released and sent to Chennai airport.
According to sources, the Sri Lankan Navy detained 23 Indian fishermen and two boats from Rameswaram as they were fishing near Delft Island in the Palkbay Sea.
The frequent arrests of Indian fishermen by the Sri Lankan navy have raised concerns not only with the central government but also with Tamil Nadu authorities.

Rameswaram fishermen staged a symbolic strike on February 5 to call attention to their long-standing problems and offer a list of demands to solve the challenges they confront.
The fishermen also proclaimed their intention to return their voter ID cards to the federal government and boycott the polls if their demands were not granted.

The Rameswaram All Boats Fishermen’s Association emphasized the fishermen’s dilemma, stating that the Sri Lankan government still owns over 150 mechanised boats from Tamil Nadu that were confiscated by the Sri Lankan Navy between 2018 and 2024.
The fishermen urged prompt action from both the central and state governments to guarantee the release and restoration of impounded boats in good condition.They stressed the importance of adequate compensation for damaged vessels and allowing rescue teams to retrieve boats seized by the Sri Lankan Navy.

The fishermen also demanded the federal government to promptly allow the rescue team to travel to Sri Lanka to retrieve the ten boats freed by the Sri Lankan Navy and to compensate the boats that were sunk by the Sri Lankan Navy.
The topic was previously discussed during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe during the latter’s July 2017 visit to India.

PM Modi holds talks with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe

July 21, 2023, 12:22 pm

Friday saw the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ranil Wickremesinghe of Sri Lanka to discuss matters of mutual interest.

The Sri Lankan President is on a two-day visit to India. “PM @narendramodi warmly welcomes President @RW_UNP of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks. An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing – ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year,” External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said in a tweet.

The talks are being held in Hyderabad House in the national capital.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval called on the Sri Lanka President earlier in the day.
Sri Lanka is an important partner in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR. The visit is expected to reinforce the longstanding friendship between the two countries and explore avenues for enhanced connectivity and mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors.

On Thursday, Wickremesinghe arrived in New Delhi and was welcomed by V Muraleedharan, the Union Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs.

EAM Jaishankar reaches Maldives; marks his fourth visit

January 18, 2023, 1:59 pm

After assuming office in 2019 External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reached Maldives on Wednesday and marked his fourth visit to the island country.

Taking to Twitter Foreign Minister Jaishankar said, “Delighted to arrive in Maldives for my fourth visit as External Affairs Minister. Thank FM @abdulla_shahid for the warm welcome. The synergies of India’s Neighborhood First and Maldives’ India First policies strengthen further.”

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid also welcomed Jaishankar with an open heart and tweeted, “Welcome to the Maldives my dear friend @DrSJaishankar! And this time to the northernmost atolls, to bear witness the impact of developmental assistance extended through the ever-reliable #MaldivesIndiaPartnership.”

Posting a video on social media Shahid wrote, “Leaving HA Dhidhdhoo to N. Maafaru to receive External Affairs Minister of India @DrSJaishankar on his fourth official visit to the Maldives.”

Moreover with this Jaishankar marked his fourth visit to the Maldives since 2019. Earlier it was announced that signing agreements related to the bilateral development cooperation Jaishankar will visit Maldives and Sri Lanka from 18-20 January.

“EAM’s visit will see the signing of agreements related to the bilateral development cooperation, ground-breaking/ inauguration/ handing-over and launch of a number of key India-supported projects that will contribute to the socio-economic development of the Maldives,” the MEA statement read.

However, in January 2021 and March 2022, Jaishankar visited Sri Lanka. India has always stood by Sri Lanka as Sri Lanka is a close friend and neighbor.

“During the visit, EAM will call on President Ranil Wickremesinghe and Prime Minister Dinesh Gunawardena and also hold discussions with Minister of Foreign Affairs MUM Ali Sabry on the entire gamut of close India-Sri Lanka partnership and steps to strengthen it in all spheres,” the statement stated.

Ranil Wickremesinghe wins Presidential election in Sri Lanka

July 20, 2022, 2:06 pm

Six-time Sri Lanka Prime Minister and the acting President Ranil Wickremesinghe won the presidential election on Wednesday by 134 votes.

President Ranil Wickremesinghe will replace Gotabaya Rajapaksa who fled from the country. Wickremesinghe will remain president until 2024. Wickremesinghe has served as the Prime Minister of the island nation six times.

Moreover, Wickremesinghe’s main opponent was SLPP parliamentarian Dullas Alahaperuma, who received 82 votes, while National People’s Power (NPP) leader Anura Kumara Dissanayake received three votes in the Presidential election.

After the counting of the votes, the secretary general of parliament said, “Ranil Wickremesinghe has been elected as the eighth executive president under the constitution.”

Earlier, after Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled from the country, Wickremesinghe was appointed as the new President.

Earlier on July 9, President Rajapaksa fled from his official residence in Colombo. Many dramatic visuals came from his official home, where people played carrom board, slept on the sofa, enjoyed the park and cooked dinner.

The country’s 22 million population suffers from its worst economic crisis since gaining independence in 1948. The oil supply shortage has forced the closure of schools and government offices until further notice.

Sri Lanka declares emergency after President flees

July 13, 2022, 12:45 pm

Amid massive protests, President Gotabaya Rajapaksa fled from the country, and an indefinite nationwide state of emergency was declared in Sri Lanka on Wednesday.

“Since the president is out of the country, an emergency has been declared to deal with the situation in the country,” Prime Minister’s spokesman Dinouk Colombage said.

According to the sources, President Rajapaksa fled to the Maldives on a military aircraft with his wife and two bodyguards.

Moreover, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe declared an emergency as he took over the role of acting PM. A curfew was imposed in Sri Lanka’s western province immediately after Ranil took control.

However, the deteriorating economic situation in the country has increased the tension. Over the past few weeks, there have been reports of several confrontations between individuals and members of the police force and the armed forces at fuel stations.

Notably on Saturday, during a press conference, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abhaywardene announced that the President would resign from his post on July 13.

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to resign on July 13, PM’s office confirms

July 11, 2022, 2:15 pm

Amid the ongoing protest in Sri Lanka and mounting pressure of protesters, Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa is resigning from his post and has officially informed Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. According to the Colombo Gazette, the prime minister’s media unit said Rajapaksa had announced that he would resign on July 13.

Earlier on Saturday, during a press conference, Speaker Mahinda Yapa Abhaywardene announced that the President would resign from his post on July 13. Moreover, even Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has announced to step down from his position.

Sri Lankan President Rajapaksa’s resignation came after thousands of people stormed the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Saturday. However, the protesters who occupied the residences of the President and the Prime Minister have made it clear that they will continue their protest till the ministers resign.

Meanwhile, many dramatic visuals came from the PM’s official residence, where people were seen playing carrom board, sleeping on the sofa, enjoying the park and cooking dinner. The deteriorating economic situation in the country has increased the tension. Over the past few weeks, there have been reports of several confrontations between individuals and members of the police force and the armed forces at fuel stations.

However, Sri Lanka is suffering its worst economic crisis since gaining independence in 1948. The oil supply shortage has forced the closure of schools and government offices until further notice.