May 21, Colombo (LNW): Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has urged the government to begin preparatory discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on a successor support programme, cautioning that Sri Lanka may struggle to meet future external reserve targets under the existing arrangement.

Issuing a statement, Premadasa clarified that he was not calling for changes to the current IMF programme, which remains in effect, but rather for early engagement on a follow-up framework that would take over once the present agreement concludes.

He pointed out that Sri Lanka’s gross official reserves currently stand at around US$7 billion, while the IMF’s projected target for March 2027 is US$14.2 billion. To close that gap within the required timeframe, he argued, the country would need to build reserves at a rate of roughly US$600 million per month over the next year, which he described as highly unlikely under present economic conditions.

The Opposition Leader warned that several economic indicators were already showing strain. He noted that the rupee had depreciated by approximately 14 per cent against the US dollar over the past year, while fuel prices had risen sharply, with petrol now nearing levels seen during the height of the 2022 economic crisis.

He also raised concerns over Sri Lanka’s dependence on foreign remittances, which amount to over US$8 billion annually, much of which is earned by workers in the Middle East. Premadasa cautioned that ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region could pose risks to this critical inflow of foreign currency.

Sri Lanka, he said, had historically entered IMF arrangements only after severe economic deterioration, leaving limited room for negotiation. He argued that the current period, with reserves at comparatively stronger levels and reforms underway, presented a rare opportunity for forward planning rather than crisis-driven decision-making.

Premadasa further emphasised that his call for early engagement was not a rejection of fiscal discipline, but a recommendation to ensure long-term macroeconomic stability and avoid future shocks when the current programme expires.

He urged the government to present a clear contingency strategy for the post-2027 period and to communicate transparently with the public on how it intends to meet upcoming external financing challenges.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s National Art Gallery is at the centre of concern after a parliamentary disclosure revealed that 42 antique paintings listed in official records cannot currently be accounted for, raising questions over long-term inventory management and the safeguarding of cultural assets.

Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs Hiniduma Sunil Senevi informed Parliament on Thursday (21) that discrepancies in the collection were first flagged following a formal stock verification exercise carried out in 2015.

Responding to an oral question in the House, the Minister explained that a verification board had been appointed to examine the gallery’s holdings of paintings and sculptures. The review uncovered inconsistencies between recorded inventory and physical holdings.

According to the official stock register, the National Art Gallery is expected to hold 281 paintings. However, only 239 artworks are currently confirmed to be in its possession, leaving a shortfall of 42 pieces.

The Minister noted that the issue was identified during the audit process and indicated that further steps would be necessary to trace the missing works and determine how the discrepancy occurred.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has held discussions with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in London, as part of her official visit to attend the 43rd Commonwealth of Learning (COL) Board of Governors Meeting.

The bilateral meeting, held with Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Nimal Senadheera and senior officials from the Sri Lankan mission in attendance, focused on strengthening diplomatic, economic and educational ties between the two countries.

During the talks, Prime Minister Amarasuriya expressed Sri Lanka’s gratitude for the United Kingdom’s assistance following Cyclone Ditwah, particularly in relation to ongoing recovery and reconstruction efforts. She also acknowledged London’s role in supporting expanded trade links and improved market access for Sri Lankan exports.

The Prime Minister provided an overview of Sri Lanka’s recent economic performance and outlined the government’s reform agenda, including efforts to promote sustainable growth, improve governance and advance reconciliation initiatives.

She further highlighted Sri Lanka’s intention to deepen cooperation in higher education and skills development, particularly through international academic exchange and institutional partnerships.

Both delegations exchanged views on wider global developments, including geopolitical tensions and energy security concerns, with particular emphasis on the need for resilient supply systems and improved regional connectivity.

Discussions also touched on migration and education pathways, with both sides stressing the importance of structured, transparent frameworks for student and professional mobility that ensure fairness and regulatory clarity.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing to continue strengthening bilateral engagement across areas of shared interest, including trade, education, governance and sustainable development.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka is set to receive a substantial injection of foreign financing in the coming days, with authorities expressing confidence that upcoming multilateral disbursements will further strengthen the country’s external reserves.

Speaking in Parliament this (21) afternoon, Deputy Minister of Finance Anil Jayantha Fernando said the government was anticipating a key tranche from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), expected to be approved by the organisation’s Board of Directors on May 27. He indicated that the disbursement could amount to around US$700 million.

The Deputy Minister noted that the IMF inflow would form part of a broader package of external financial support aimed at reinforcing macroeconomic stability, alongside earnings from exports and worker remittances.

He further outlined additional expected inflows from other international partners, stating that Sri Lanka could receive up to US$480 million from the Asian Development Bank over the course of the year. In addition, the World Bank is expected to provide approximately US$150 million, while a further US$50 million may come from another associated global financing facility.

According to Fernando, these combined inflows would play a crucial role in easing pressure on foreign currency reserves and supporting the country’s balance of payments position.

He told Parliament that, given the projected inflows from multilateral institutions, there should be no significant challenges in managing foreign exchange requirements in the near term.

The anticipated IMF disbursement forms part of Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic reform programme, which is aimed at stabilising public finances, restoring investor confidence and strengthening the country’s external sector resilience following recent economic difficulties.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Final arrangements for the Buddha Rashmi Vesak Zone were reviewed at Temple Trees during a high-level coordination meeting chaired by Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, as authorities move to ensure both smooth organisation and responsible resource use during this year’s Vesak commemorations.

The discussions centred on logistical planning for the festival zone as well as measures to manage electricity and fuel consumption during the religious celebrations. Officials confirmed that previously imposed restrictions on the use of fuel and electricity for Vesak-related activities would be lifted, allowing organisers greater flexibility while still encouraging prudent usage.

Committee representatives responsible for the Vesak Zone outlined the planned structure of events, including cultural displays, religious observances and public viewing arrangements designed to accommodate large crowds expected during the festival period.

Speaking at the meeting, Chief Incumbent of Gangaramaya Temple, Ven. Dr. Kirinde Assaji Thero, highlighted the importance of conducting this year’s celebrations in a more resource-conscious manner given the broader national context. He noted that efforts would be made to reduce unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining the spiritual essence of the occasion.

He added that the illumination of the Vesak Zone would be carefully designed to balance visual appeal with energy efficiency, with greater emphasis placed on devotional observances and traditional offerings rather than excessive decorative lighting. The venue will be open to the public daily from 7.00 p.m. until 12.30 a.m.

Officials also discussed ways to ensure crowd management, security and uninterrupted access for visitors, with coordinated support expected from multiple state agencies.

Representatives from the Tri-Forces, Sri Lanka Police, Civil Security Department, Department of Prisons, and officials from the Ministries of Energy and Defence participated in the meeting, alongside religious leaders and members of the organising committee.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Former Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake has alleged that thousands of Letters of Credit for vehicle imports were opened just 24 to 48 hours before the government suspended such imports, demanding a parliamentary probe and a “super tax” to recover billions in undue profits.

Speaking amid a rapidly depreciating rupee and surging milk powder prices, Karunanayake contrasted the current economic freefall with the stability maintained during the Yahapalana government. He placed direct responsibility for the rupee’s collapse on the Central Bank’s monetary policy, noting its governor has made contradictory statements in a short timeframe.

A suspicious cluster of thousands of LCs opened days before a major import suspension. Karunanayake warned this would fuel a black market, allowing select individuals to reap billions.

He proposed a “super tax” on these LCs to recover undue gains and urged the government to publish full LC details for independent parliamentary review.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan health authorities have raised concern over the potential long-term increase of thalassaemia cases in the country, warning that greater public awareness and early screening are essential to prevent the hereditary blood disorder from spreading further.

Speaking during an awareness programme organised to mark International Thalassaemia Day earlier this month, officials revealed that between 45 and 60 children are born each year with severe forms of the condition.

Although the numbers remain comparatively low, medical experts cautioned that the disease could become a growing public health challenge if preventive measures are neglected.

According to health sector data, around 2,500 people in Sri Lanka are currently living with thalassaemia and receiving ongoing treatment and monitoring through specialised clinics and hospitals.

Dr Sriyani Alahapperuma, Director of the Ministry of Health’s Non-Communicable Diseases Unit, stressed that prevention remained the most effective strategy in controlling the disorder. She noted that identifying carriers before marriage and increasing access to genetic screening programmes could significantly reduce the number of children born with major thalassaemia.

She explained that awareness campaigns were being expanded in districts considered more vulnerable to the condition, including Kurunegala, Anuradhapura, Batticaloa and Ragama. Authorities have also introduced school-based educational and testing programmes aimed at encouraging young people to undergo screening at an early stage.

Medical officials highlighted that many carriers remain unaware of their condition because they often show no symptoms. However, when two carriers have children together, there is a high risk of severe thalassaemia being passed on to the child.

Health authorities further stated that screening facilities are available at Government hospitals across the country, adding that a routine Full Blood Count (FBC) test can help doctors identify possible carriers for further examination.

Doctors also urged the public to seek medical advice before marriage and to make use of available screening services, emphasising that greater awareness and early intervention could help reduce the future burden of the disease on families and the healthcare system.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka’s Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has presented a series of far-reaching allegations before the Colombo Fort Magistrate’s Court, claiming that former State Intelligence Service Director Suresh Salley was closely connected to the planning and concealment of activities surrounding the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attacks.

The submissions, made through the Attorney General’s Department, emerged during court proceedings linked to the ongoing investigation into one of the deadliest incidents in Sri Lanka’s recent history.

Additional Solicitor General Dilip Peiris informed court that investigators had recently obtained what he described as a significant breakthrough after recording a statement from Asad Maulana in France. A CID team led by senior investigator Shani Abeysekara reportedly travelled overseas to obtain the testimony at the official residence of Sri Lanka’s Ambassador.

According to the prosecution, Maulana’s statement contained detailed claims regarding the Easter attacks, including allegations that Salley had played a central coordinating role in events leading up to the bombings. The CID further alleged that the attacks had been orchestrated to influence the country’s political climate at the time.

Court was also told that several political figures, including members of the Rajapaksa family, had allegedly visited Batticaloa Prison shortly after the attacks to meet former Eastern Province Chief Minister Sivanesathurai Chandrakanthan, widely known as Pillayan. Prosecutors claimed discussions during the visit included assurances regarding his future release following the presidential election.

The Attorney General’s Department additionally alleged that Salley’s subsequent appointment as head of the State Intelligence Service after the change of government was intended to centralise and restrict the flow of sensitive intelligence information.

In further submissions, prosecutors claimed individuals linked to extremist networks had received financial assistance connected to military intelligence operatives and associates of Pillayan. The court heard allegations that public funds had been used to facilitate bail payments and legal expenses for suspects connected to earlier extremist-related incidents.

The CID also linked several unresolved crimes and attacks on journalists to individuals allegedly associated with military intelligence structures and armed groups operating in the East. These included the disappearance of journalist Prageeth Ekneligoda and attacks on media figures such as Lasantha Wickrematunge, Keith Noyahr and Upali Tennakoon.

Additional allegations presented before court included claims that large numbers of individuals connected to Pillayan’s network had been unofficially maintained through state-funded payments under military intelligence operations.

Prosecutors further stated that after the Easter attacks, Maulana’s family had allegedly been relocated to a hotel in Ahungalla with assistance linked to Salley, while promises of diplomatic employment had also reportedly been made. Investigators said hotel documentation connected to the claims had been obtained during the inquiry.

Representing Salley, President’s Counsel Shavindra Fernando strongly rejected the accusations, arguing that Maulana’s claims remained unverified and could not be treated as credible evidence unless subjected to proper judicial scrutiny and cross-examination.

Following lengthy submissions from both sides, the Magistrate announced that decisions regarding several legal applications, including matters connected to Salley’s appearance before court and requests to record a statement under Section 127, would be delivered on 1 July.

Salley continues to remain under detention orders while investigations proceed.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has taken a step towards strengthening its engagement with the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) following high-level discussions between Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and SCO Secretary-General Nurlan Yermekbayev during the latter’s official visit to Colombo.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the visit marks the first occasion on which an SCO Secretary-General has travelled to Sri Lanka, signalling growing diplomatic and economic engagement between the island nation and the Eurasian regional bloc.

Talks held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism focused on expanding cooperation in several strategic sectors, including tourism, agriculture, transport connectivity and logistics. Both sides reportedly explored opportunities for greater collaboration between Sri Lanka and SCO member and partner countries in areas linked to trade, investment and regional development.

Minister Herath highlighted Sri Lanka’s interest in participating more actively in SCO-related initiatives and programmes, while also promoting the country as an emerging destination for tourism, maritime services and foreign investment.

Discussions also touched on Sri Lanka’s geographical advantage as a key shipping hub in the Indian Ocean and the potential for enhanced regional connectivity through ports and aviation partnerships.

During the visit, Secretary-General Yermekbayev additionally met several senior government representatives, including Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Anura Karunathilaka, Agriculture Minister K.D. Lal Kantha and Deputy Tourism Minister Professor Ruwan Ranasingha. The meetings reportedly centred on strengthening economic cooperation, food security initiatives and tourism promotion.

May 21, Colombo (LNW): Engineers attached to Sri Lanka’s Road Development Authority (RDA) have commenced an indefinite trade union campaign from today, escalating tensions with authorities over unresolved salary disputes and administrative concerns.

The Engineers’ Association of the RDA said the decision was taken after repeated discussions with relevant officials failed to produce meaningful progress on key demands, particularly issues relating to salary anomalies and professional recognition.

Speaking on the matter, Association President Umesh Aluthapala stated that engineers would immediately withdraw from participating in several external government coordination bodies, including District and Divisional Coordination Committees, which play a major role in overseeing infrastructure and development activities.

He further explained that engineers had also decided to suspend involvement in duties falling outside the legal scope of the RDA Act, even in instances where such responsibilities had previously been carried out to support broader national development needs.

According to union representatives, many engineers have long raised concerns about increasing workloads, unequal salary structures and the growing expectation to handle responsibilities beyond their official mandate without adequate compensation or institutional support.

The association warned that the industrial action could disrupt planning, supervision and coordination work linked to road construction and public infrastructure projects across the country if a prompt resolution is not reached.