April 20, Colombo (LNW): Showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Central, Sabaragamuwa, Uva and Eastern provinces and in Polonnaruwa, Hambantota and Mullaittivu districts during the afternoon or night, with fairly heavy falls about 50 mm being likely to occur at some places in these areas, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (20).

Showers may occur in Western province and in Galle, Matara and Puttalam districts in the morning.

The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimise damages caused by temporary localised strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.

Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central, Sabaragamuwa and Uva provinces and in Ampara and Batticaloa districts during the morning.

Marine Weather:

The Studio

Hollywood is an easy target, but this satire is so sharp, astute and sometimes absurd that it may be the funniest show of the year. Seth Rogen, who co-created the show, plays Matt Remick, the newly appointed head of Continental Studios, a lover of high-art films with a mandate to make commercial hits based on IP including Kool-Aid. A flood of actors and directors – including Ron Howard, Olivia Wilde and Zoe Kravitz – make cameo appearances, gleefully spoofing their own images, none funnier than Martin Scorsese in the hilarious opening episode. The series regulars are ideally cast, with Ike Barniholtz as Sal Saperstein, Matt’s second-in-command, Catherine O’Hara as the previous studio head and Kathryn Hahn as the loud, wackily-dressed head of publicity. Taking us into the Golden Globes and marketing meetings, The Studio suggests that everyone is just bumbling along at a moment when the entire movie industry is in crisis. The industry might not know where it’s going, but this behind-the-scenes comedy is a pure delight. (CJ)

Available on Apple TV+ internationally

The White Lotus

One thing’s for sure: if Mike White’s first-world-problems satire about rich holidaymakers was admired by many for its first two seasons, it broke out to become a true cultural phenomenon in its third, with a huge ratings boost. This time round, it sent its dysfunctional groupings – a corrupt financier and his family, three clashing female friends, a vengeful man and his younger girlfriend – to a Thai wellness retreat, and every week, you could not move online (metaphorically) for the discourse it generated and debate it stirred. Some complained that this season was too slow and lacked suitable plot momentum, while others pointed out, sagely, that the problem was that it was a character-led drama that was never meant to be dissected like Game of Thrones, but for its unexpected blockbuster popularity. Personally? I enjoyed it as both the darkest and most reflective series so far, but one which again thrived off a magisterially cast ensemble, in which Parker Posey, Carrie Coon, Aimee Lou Wood and Patrick Schwarzenegger were standouts, but no one was a weak link. (HM)

Available on Max in the US and Now in the UK 

Adolescence

It’s no wonder that this uncompromising British series about a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a girl in his school has become a cultural flashpoint, praised by UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, made available to be shown in schools and sparking conversations about young men and the toxic influence of social media. The social issue is wrapped in a drama brilliantly personalized and brought to life by the actors. Stephen Graham, who created the show with Jack Thorne, plays the boy’s father and conveys the shock and grief of a parent forced to consider the unthinkable possibility that his son might be a killer. Owen Cooper gives a remarkably sophisticated performance as the accused boy, who seems guileless until he explodes in anger. And Ashley Waters plays a detective who struggles to understand his own teenage son, expanding the theme beyond one family. Each episode was shot in a single, real-time take, which sounds like a gimmick, but director Philip Barantini handles that approach so smoothly that it fades into the background, even while adding intensity to a piercing drama that offers no comfortable resolution. (CJ)

Available on Netflix internationally

Severance 

Fairly or not, Apple TV+ has become a streamer known for ploughing huge resources (

over $20bn, reportedly

) into a range of starry shows that not very many people watch – but with the second series of this dystopian workplace drama, it became clear it had a genuine watercooler hit on its hands. Which is even more surprising, when you consider just how strange Severance is. Its compelling high-concept premise – in which employees of the sinister Lumon corporation have their consciousness separated into office selves, or “innies”, and home selves, or “outies” – is one thing, but beyond that, it is constantly taking the story down surreal rabbit holes, involving for example, mysterious “macrodata refinement” work or a herd of goats. In truth, as this series progressed through its second half, it felt a little too meandering for its own good, and its climactic payoff couldn’t match that from the first season. But it’s still an exquisite work in all areas, from the clever dual-identity acting (especially from shining star Britt Lower) to the stark visuals. Bring on season three, and perhaps a few more solid answers as to what’s

really

going on at Lumon. (HM)

Available on Apple TV+ internationally 

The Pitt

It might sound like just another medical drama, but this show about a trauma centre in Pittsburgh revitalises the genre with its attention to the psychological stress on caregivers. Noah Wyle gives a shattering performance as the department head, the dedicated, harried, emotionally wracked Dr Robbie, still traumatised after failing to save his mentor during the Covid-19 pandemic. He is surrounded by other doctors and a group of students and interns, each adding a different dimension, from Supriya Ganesh as a brilliant medical prodigy to Isa Briones as an abrasive intern and Taylor Dearden as the caring Dr Mel, whose neurodivergence makes her especially empathetic with her patients. Unlike most medical shows, The Pitt never lets their personal melodrama overwhelm the focus on their work. Each absorbing, fast-paced episode takes place in real time during one 15-hour-long shift, and each veers between the devastation of losing patients and the relief of saving them. You’d think a series so blunt about death would be depressing, but instead The Pitt is exhilarating in its focus on people for whom life and death are everyday events. (CJ)

Available on Max in the US

Paradise

It’s difficult to discuss the power of this show without giving away the key twist that comes at the end of episode one. But safe to say, it turns what starts as a relatively conventional political thriller on its head. Sterling K Brown is the head of the US president’s security detail, who finds himself accused of murder of his boss – but above and beyond the killing itself, not everything seems quite right with the world. Created by Dan Fogelman, the man behind the equally rug-pulling TV weepie This is Us, this is solid entertainment in the very best sense, with sharp plotting matched by some strong performances, from Brown’s tortured hero to Julianne Nicholson as a sinister tech billionaire. Plus, later on in the series, one particular episode which deals with truly monumental matters is simply breathtaking – but again, that’s all that can be said without spoiling things for those yet to watch. The good news for those that have is that it’s already been recommissioned. (HM)

Available on Hulu in the US and Disney+ internationally 

Wolf Hall: The Mirror and the Light

The sumptuous conclusion to this adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy blends a beautifully shot escape into the luxurious past of Henry VIII’s court with an evergreen depiction of the high personal cost of manoeuvring for power and influence. Mark Rylance is poignant as the king’s advisor, Thomas Cromwell, who questions his own decisions, while the mercurial Henry is losing confidence in him. And Damian Lewis’s fresh interpretation of Henry is dazzling, his voice and manner chillingly subdued even as he issues the most ruthless commands. Henry’s wives come and go, but the unravelling bond between these men, and their opposite trajectories – Cromwell’s self-doubts and decline and Henry’s iron will that eliminates anyone in his way – shape the story. Written by Peter Straughn, a recent Oscar winner for his screenplay of Conclave, The Mirror and the Light is more resonant today than the original Mantel book was when it was published in 2020. It feels entirely relevant in a world where creeping authoritarianism is a global concern. (CJ)

Available on PBS in the US and BBC iPlayer in the UK

The Narrow Road to the Deep North

Since breaking out in HBO teen drama Euphoria, rising star Jacob Elordi has chosen his roles well – but perhaps nothing has served him better so far than returning to his home country of Australia to play the protagonist in this searing war drama. An adaptation of Richard Flanagan’s Booker Prize-winning novel, it explores the life of World War Two army surgeon Dorrigo Evans across three time periods: his stint stationed in Adelaide for military training, his hellish experiences as a prisoner of war in the Thai jungle, and then his existence as a professionally successful but emotionally deeply troubled veteran (now played by Ciarán Hinds), still unable to truly process the events of decades ago. Brought to impactful visual life by Justin Kurzel, known for his visceral studies of male violence on the big screen like Snowtown and The Order, it is simply one of the best evocations of the horrors of conflict that has been committed to screen. But at the same time, it takes as much care in its exploration of passion as violence, with the chemistry between Elordi’s young Dorrigo and his uncle’s wife Amy (a superb Odessa Young) burning up the screen. Given some of the scenes of sadistic brutality, it is of course a difficult watch, as it should be, but also one whose sheer artistry offers a kind of transcendence. (HM) 

Available on Prime Video in the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada

Your Friends and Neighbors

Jon Hamm has never been better, expertly mixing comedy and drama in this series about a hedge-fund manager called Coop, who loses his job. He schemes to keep up appearances in his wealthy community, only to discover a new sense of himself. The show has a broad comic element, as Coop turns cat burglar, solving his financial problems by stealing luxury items from his neighbours. But the series is best in its bold take on what he calls in one of his mordant voiceovers, “the quiet desperation of rich middle-aged men”, and in its depiction of his complicated relationships. He is still emotionally attached to his ex-wife (Amanda Peet), who left him for one of his friends, and struggles to connect with his two teenage children. He has a tender, supportive bond with his emotionally fragile sister (Lena Hall, a standout in the cast). Hamm hasn’t had a role this rich since Don Draper in Mad Men, another flawed but sympathetic charmer who makes some wildly bad decisions, and defines the character so perfectly that it’s hard to imagine anyone else at the centre of this sleek but penetrating series. (CJ)

Available on AppleTV+ internationally

Big Boys

It might have created a little less noise than Adolescence, but here is another British show about masculinity that really deserves to be seen. Jack Rooke’s semi-autobiographical show about two university students who form an odd-couple friendship – nerdy gay man Jack and straight jack-the-lad Dan – has been an incredibly deft mix of laugh-out-loud humour, complete with delightfully niche pop culture references, and poignant drama – covering sexual awakening, depression, dementia and more besides – since it started in 2022. But this third and final series was undoubtedly its most powerful, kicking off with a hilarious episode on a package holiday in Greece but getting more serious as it continued, and handling Danny’s spiralling mental health problems with particular skill. And boy, does Rooke know how to shatter audience hearts – the final episode is an emotional masterclass, including a significant cameo from the man himself. Here’s hoping that it launches its extremely talented creator into the big time. (HM)

BBC

Sri Lanka’s manufacturing and services sectors showed growth in March, according to the Central Bank’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). While this signals economic recovery, the country simultaneously faces mounting cybersecurity threats.

In 2024, Kaspersky’s cybersecurity systems detected and blocked 2,803 ransomware incidents targeting Sri Lankan businesses. This represents a 6% increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing risks posed by ransomware across all industries. Experts emphasize the urgency for organizations—regardless of size—to adopt stronger cybersecurity strategies, as attackers become more sophisticated and capable of causing significant financial and reputational damage.

Sri Lanka experienced major cyberattacks on corporations and government institutions in November 2024, revealing critical weaknesses in the nation’s digital defenses. These breaches exposed sensitive data and risked unauthorized access to key systems, prompting cybersecurity professionals to stress the need for proactive risk management.

Sam Yan, Head of Sales for Asia Emerging Countries at Kaspersky, stated that ransomware attacks are widespread in Sri Lanka, and even one successful incident can result in severe losses. He advised businesses to invest in cybersecurity tools that guarantee high effectiveness against ransomware, noting that not all solutions offer equal protection.

Kaspersky’s products—such as Endpoint Security for Business, Small Office Security, and Kaspersky Standard—demonstrated complete protection against ransomware in various real-world attack tests conducted by AV-TEST.

To assist victims and reduce ransomware damage, Kaspersky remains a core partner in the global “No More Ransom” initiative, launched in 2016 with Europol and the Dutch National Police. This platform offers free decryption tools, reporting guidelines, and recovery resources.

By the end of 2024, Kaspersky celebrated eight years with the No More Ransom project. Its free tools now address 42 ransomware variants and have helped over 2.3 million victims globally, as reported by Europol—showcasing its dedication to global cybersecurity resilience.

To guard against ransomware, Kaspersky advises against exposing remote services like RDP or MSSQL to public networks.

If necessary, secure them with strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and firewalls. Ensure VPN solutions are patched promptly and keep all software updated. Detecting lateral movement and data exfiltration early is critical, and monitoring outbound traffic can help identify breaches. Businesses are urged to maintain frequent offline backups and develop a crisis plan in case of data leaks.

Organizations should also avoid pirated or unverified software, audit supply chain access, and educate employees through security training. Kaspersky recommends using its Threat Intelligence Portal to stay informed about current cyberattack tactics and improve preparedness.

UNESCO has officially added two significant Sri Lankan cultural records to its Memory of the World Register — the Trilingual Inscription and documents related to the Panadura Vādaya (The Great Debate of Panadura).

The Trilingual Inscription, a joint submission by Sri Lanka and China, is a stone slab engraved with texts in Chinese, Tamil, and Persian, paying homage to Buddha, Vishnu, and Allah. It was originally erected by Chinese Admiral Zheng He in 1409 and discovered in Sri Lanka in 1911 by a British engineer.

Today, it is housed at the Colombo National Museum, with a replica displayed in Galle. According to UNESCO, it is the only known inscription featuring these three languages, representing diverse cultural and geographical regions.

Also recognized are four historical documents linked to the Panadura Debate of 1873, preserved at Rankot Viharaya in Panadura. These include letters exchanged between Christian and Buddhist leaders and a full transcription of the 27.5-page interfaith dialogue, handwritten in ink.

The debate took place during a period of religious tension and is celebrated for fostering mutual respect and understanding between the two faiths. Its English translation later influenced religious scholars and reformers in Europe and the United States, contributing to Buddhism’s global recognition.

 UNESCO emphasized the importance of safeguarding such fragile yet vital records that reflect humanity’s shared memory. With these latest entries, the Memory of the World Register now holds 570 documentary collections from around the world, covering diverse themes such as scientific achievements, women’s history, and major global developments.

Launched in 1992, the Memory of the World Programme works to preserve and provide universal access to important documentary heritage, supporting regional and national registers across over 100 countries.

Sri Lanka’s economy showed strong momentum in March 2025, with both the Manufacturing and Services Purchasing Managers’ Indexes (PMIs) signaling significant expansions.

The Manufacturing PMI surged to 63.9, marking the highest index value in four years. This growth was fueled by month-on-month improvements across all sub-indices, primarily driven by seasonal demand. For context, the PMI values were 56.8 in February and 59 in January, compared to 57.2 in December 2024—highlighting a steady upward trend.

Key drivers behind this robust performance were manufacturers in the food & beverages and textile and apparel sectors. These industries led strong increases in both New Orders and Production, underlining their responsiveness to heightened consumer demand. Additionally, increases in Employment and Stock of Purchases reflected firms’ proactive measures to meet production needs.

However, not all indicators were entirely positive. Suppliers’ Delivery Time continued to lengthen, suggesting that supplier networks are under mounting pressure due to the surge in demand.

Despite logistical challenges, the outlook for manufacturing remains optimistic over the next three months. That said, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL) noted concerns among export-oriented firms regarding ongoing global trade uncertainties.

The Services PMI also recorded strong growth, reaching 69.8 in March—up from 56.5 in February and 58.5 in January. While slightly below December’s 71.1, this still indicates robust expansion, particularly during the festive period.

Several sectors contributed to this growth. Wholesale and retail trade activities expanded sharply, bolstered by seasonal shopping trends. Financial services also performed well, aided by increased lending, while sectors such as professional services, personal care, insurance, and hospitality reported notable gains.

New business generation was on the rise, especially in finance, retail, insurance, and hospitality-related services. Reflecting this, many firms increased hiring to support the seasonal surge, which in turn contributed to improved employment figures.

Meanwhile, backlogs of work continued to decline, though the rate of reduction was slower in March—possibly indicating a balance between improved operational capacity and sustained demand.

Looking ahead, business sentiment remains generally positive, although expectations are slightly tempered by concerns over US-imposed import tariffs and their potential ripple effects on local service providers and exporters.

In summary, March 2025 was a standout month for Sri Lanka’s economy, characterized by a resurgence in manufacturing and services, underscored by seasonal demand and cautious optimism for the quarter ahead.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has commended Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF), highlighting notable progress in growth, inflation control, and foreign reserves. However, the IMF also emphasized that global economic uncertainty, limited fiscal flexibility, and incomplete structural reforms pose significant threats to sustaining these achievements. Strong policy implementation and focused support for vulnerable groups remain critical.

These insights followed an official IMF mission led by Evan Papageorgiou, which visited Colombo from April 3 to 11. After a series of productive discussions, Papageorgiou issued a statement praising the outcomes of Sri Lanka’s ambitious reform strategy under the EFF.

He noted that the nation is rebounding from its recent economic crisis, with a projected growth rate of 5% for 2024. Inflation has dropped significantly, reaching 2.6% by the end of March 2025. The Central Bank’s proactive foreign currency acquisitions have helped increase gross official reserves to $6.5 billion by the same period. Additionally, comprehensive fiscal reforms have helped strengthen public finances.

Despite these successes, the IMF expressed caution regarding recent global developments that could disrupt Sri Lanka’s economic stability. The external environment, coupled with domestic challenges, requires close monitoring and swift responses to avoid reversing progress.

The IMF emphasized the importance of the government’s continued commitment to the reform agenda. Maintaining this momentum is essential to preserving gains and achieving long-term macroeconomic stability and inclusive growth.

The Fund called for enhanced revenue generation, especially through improved tax compliance. One proposed step includes restoring a prompt and efficient VAT refund mechanism, which would increase revenue without the need for new tax hikes.

 The IMF also warned against introducing new tax exemptions, which could lead to revenue losses and heightened corruption risks. Instead, creating fiscal buffers to protect the most vulnerable should be prioritized.

Another recommendation was to return to cost-recovery pricing in the electricity sector, which would reduce the financial burden on state-owned enterprises and the national budget. Furthermore, the IMF stressed the importance of strengthening social safety nets. Assistance programs must be accurately targeted, adequately funded, and time-bound to ensure efficient use of limited resources.

While inflation is currently under control, continued surveillance is necessary to ensure long-term price stability. The IMF also encouraged the Central Bank to keep building external reserves to buffer against potential shocks.

The delegation held high-level meetings with President and Finance Minister Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and other key government figures, including Central Bank Governor Dr. Nandalal Weerasinghe and Treasury Secretary Mahinda Siriwardana. They also consulted with parliamentarians, private sector leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners.

Concluding the visit, the IMF team expressed appreciation for the government’s cooperation and reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka. Ongoing discussions aim to reach a staff-level agreement soon, which would pave the way for completing the fourth review of the EFF program. The IMF underscored its continued commitment to aiding Sri Lanka during this critical period.

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to transparent governance, economic revival, and rural development, while assuring the public that corruption, fraud, and mismanagement have been decisively halted.

Speaking at a public event at the Pullman Grand Hall in Kolonnawa on Wednesday (April 16), the Prime Minister emphasized that the current administration and Cabinet are fully capable of fulfilling their duties without burdening the nation.

“It is now time for all of us to work together to rebuild the country. I wish you the strength and courage for this shared mission,” she said.

Six Months of Transformation

Reflecting on the Government’s first six months in office, Dr. Amarasuriya noted the difficult conditions under which the NPP-led administration assumed power, and highlighted the urgent need for systemic change following decades of political stagnation.

“The people elected us because they believed in the need for a new political culture,” she said. “Our first priority was stabilising the economy – a task we took on despite warnings from opponents that our leadership would lead to collapse. Today, we’ve proven otherwise.”

She highlighted that fears among business leaders and international institutions about economic instability have subsided, with investor confidence steadily growing and new projects being introduced.

“Our goal this year is to bring in three million tourists. During my recent visit to Europe, there was strong interest in investment opportunities in Sri Lanka,” she said.

Budget Focused on Rural Development

The Prime Minister also pointed to the recent budget as a turning point in delivering tangible benefits to rural communities. A significant portion of funding has been allocated to districts and provincial councils, she said, under strict accountability.

“Development funds should benefit the people – not end up in private pockets. That’s why this election is so critical. We need strong, transparent local leadership to ensure these funds are properly utilised,” she stressed.

She also noted that NPP candidates are held to strict disciplinary standards, ensuring integrity and accountability.

“If any group can ensure that Kolonnawa’s development funds are used for the people, it is the NPP. That assurance cannot be given by any other party,” she added.

Economic, Social and Law Enforcement Reforms

While acknowledging the ongoing economic challenges — including high prices and limited job opportunities — Dr. Amarasuriya expressed confidence that the Government’s production-based economic strategy and foreign investment efforts are beginning to yield results.

She also spoke candidly about organised crime and narcotics, noting that long-standing protection networks are being dismantled.

“We’re ending the political protection that allowed drug networks to thrive. Even within the Police, those involved are being identified and stopped. We will not let our youth be destroyed by drugs,” she said.

The Importance of the Upcoming Election

The Prime Minister concluded by underscoring the significance of the upcoming local government election on May 6, which she described as a key moment in the country’s transformation journey.

“This election is about more than local councils. It’s about ensuring that the path we’ve begun—towards transparency, accountability, and real progress—is protected and continued.”

China is committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s development and strengthening bilateral ties, Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Qi Zhenhong stated in a recent release, as global trade tensions intensify.

Addressing growing concerns over protectionism and unilateral tariff measures, Ambassador Qi emphasized the importance of multilateralism, economic cooperation, and a fair global trading system. He reaffirmed China’s readiness to collaborate closely with Sri Lanka to resist economic coercion and promote mutual development.

“China-Sri Lanka relations are a model of South-South cooperation,” he said. “Both nations are well-positioned to build a shared future based on mutual benefit, respect, and stability.”

Criticism of US Tariff Policies

Ambassador Qi strongly criticized the United States’ tariff actions, warning of their potential to destabilize the global economy, particularly in developing nations. He referred to the U.S. decision to impose “reciprocal tariffs” on all trading partners, including China and Sri Lanka, as a reckless move that defies market principles and undermines international trade norms.

“The U.S. has long profited from international trade, occupying the high end of the industrial chain. Meanwhile, developing countries like China and Sri Lanka have provided high-quality, low-cost goods, often under Western company brands. Weaponizing tariffs for selfish interests contradicts the very principles the U.S. once championed,” Qi noted.

He warned that such policies risk triggering global economic uncertainty and even recession, particularly harming Global South economies that rely on stable trade access.

China’s Vision for Multilateralism

Reaffirming China’s commitment to openness, Qi stated that Beijing will continue to expand high-standard opening up, promote trade and investment liberalization, and share development opportunities with global partners.

“Multilateralism is the only path to overcome global challenges. China, as the second-largest economy and market for consumer goods, will remain a firm supporter of the international trading system,” he said.

He stressed that China and Sri Lanka’s partnership, rooted in historical friendship and shared development goals, will continue to flourish. Under the guidance of Presidents Xi Jinping and Anura Kumara Dissanayake, he said the two nations will work to build a “China–Sri Lanka community with a shared future,” enhancing regional cooperation and prosperity.

Sri Lanka welcomed 816,191 tourists from January 1 to April 15, 2025, reflecting a strong recovery in the tourism sector following the country’s unprecedented economic downturn.

According to statistics from the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), India emerged as the top source market, contributing 136,535 visitors. Russia followed closely with 102,273 tourist arrivals during the same period. These two countries also led the tourist arrival figures for March, securing market shares of 17.1% and 12.7% respectively.

Tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom reached 22,447 in March 2025, up from 21,540 during the corresponding period last year. For the first fifteen days of April, Sri Lanka recorded 93,915 arrivals. Of these, 18,220 were from India, accounting for 19.4% of the total, while the UK, Russia, Australia, and Germany contributed 11,425, 8,705, 6,604, and 7,746 arrivals respectively.

From January to March, the data shows dynamic growth across several source markets. India continued to dominate with 118,315 arrivals—representing a 22.9% year-over-year increase—driven by geographic proximity and cultural ties. Russia retained a strong position with 93,568 visitors, though its growth was more modest at 2.6%.

European markets showed mixed but largely positive trends, with France and the Netherlands recording significant growth of 30.0% and 38.0% respectively. This surge is likely attributed to improved flight connectivity, higher disposable incomes, and successful promotional campaigns.

Tourist arrivals from the United Kingdom and Australia also surged, growing by 18.5% and 25.7% respectively, indicating growing appeal across diverse demographics. However, arrivals from China declined by 7.3%, pointing to ongoing post-pandemic recovery challenges or intensified competition from alternative destinations.

Emerging markets such as Poland (11.6% growth) and the United States (11.3%) also posted promising gains, signaling a broader diversification of Sri Lanka’s tourism base.

Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuiyakontha convened a special meeting on April 17, instructing the Commanders of the Tri-Forces to implement a comprehensive security programme ahead of Easter Sunday.

The measures, he said, must be carried out in close coordination with the Ministry of Public Security to ensure effective execution.

Emphasizing the need for a peaceful and secure environment for religious observance, the Defence Secretary noted that the initiative is aimed at preventing any disruptions similar to the tragic Easter Sunday attacks of 2019.

He stressed that Christians must be able to attend services without fear or inconvenience.