By: Isuru Parakrama

September 26, Colombo (LNW): India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, has asserted that India does not seek to control the political decisions of its neighbouring countries, nor does it expect their internal dynamics to align with its own preferences.

Instead, India is confident that the region’s fundamental interdependence will ensure that its relationships with neighbours like Sri Lanka and Bangladesh remain constructive.

Speaking at a discussion in New York hosted by the Asia Society, Jaishankar addressed concerns raised following political changes in both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The recent electoral victory of Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Sri Lanka and political turmoil in Bangladesh have prompted questions regarding India’s regional influence and its approach to neighbours experiencing regime changes.

While some observers speculated that India’s role in the region may be diminishing, Jaishankar reiterated India’s stance of economic regionalism, which focuses on mutual benefit rather than political dominance.

“It is not our intention to impose political conditionality or to suggest that our neighbours’ political choices must align with our own interests,” he remarked.

Jaishankar also underlined that India’s engagement with Sri Lanka, particularly during its economic crisis, was driven by goodwill and concern for regional stability rather than political leverage.

Hr emphasised that while Colombo’s approach may shift, India remains open to collaboration. The minister highlighted India’s timely intervention in stabilising Sri Lanka’s economy when others hesitated, pointing out that this assistance was provided without political strings attached.

In contrast, Jaishankar acknowledged that Bangladesh’s political scenario presents a different set of concerns. Widespread protests and political upheaval against Sheikh Hasina’s government have introduced instability, with growing fears of radicalisation and religious intolerance.

India has traditionally supported Hasina’s Awami League, and her downfall has raised questions about India’s future relations with the new administration in Dhaka.

Jaishankar met Bangladesh’s interim foreign advisor, Touhid Hossain, as both countries navigate this changing landscape.

India remains particularly concerned about the security implications for its northeastern states, given the rise of Islamist factions in Bangladesh’s new government.

However, Jaishankar expressed optimism about the future, noting that despite shifts in leadership, the realities of interdependence between India and its neighbours would prevail.

He urged against a deterministic view of regional politics, assuring that India’s relationships with both Sri Lanka and Bangladesh would continue to be shaped by mutual benefit and shared regional interests.

Reflecting on India’s broader foreign policy approach, Jaishankar concluded, “We have seen ups and downs, but the fundamentals of cooperation and common goals always reassert themselves. Our region’s history shows that, even in moments of tension, the corrective mechanisms come into play, ensuring stability.”

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 26, Colombo (LNW): The Election has sought the Treasury to receive Rs. 11 billion for the conduction of the 2024 General Election.

The requirement follows President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent decision to dissolve Parliament, prompting the holding of an election on November 14.

The aforementioned amount is needed to cover the expenditure related to the holding of the General Election, according to Commission Chief R.MA.L. Ratnayake.

Previously, the Treasury allocated Rs. 10 billion for the holding of the 2024 Presidential Election.

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 26, Colombo (LNW): The Consumer Affairs Authority (CAA) has urged that prices of egg-based bakery products should reflect the recent reduction in egg prices.

The price of eggs, which previously soared to high levels, has now stabilised between Rs. 28 and Rs. 35, CAA Chief Thusitha Indrajith highlighted.

With this decrease, the CAA expects the cost of baked goods, which heavily rely on eggs, to be adjusted accordingly.

Indrajith stressed the importance of ensuring consumers benefit from the price drop, calling on bakery operators and retailers to align their pricing with current market conditions.

Egg prices had experienced a significant surge due to supply chain disruptions, including rising feed costs and transportation challenges.

However, recent improvements in the supply chain have contributed to the reduction, allowing eggs to return to more reasonable prices.

Indrajith emphasised that authorities will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure these savings reach customers across the country.

In light of this development, the CAA may explore enforcement measures to ensure compliance with pricing guidelines, particularly in the bakery sector, which often uses eggs as a primary ingredient in its products.

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 26, Colombo (LNW): Efforts are underway to form a political alliance among the parties and groups that supported former President Ranil Wickremesinghe in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

Whilst no final decisions have been made, further discussions are planned for today (26), as key players seek to shape their election strategy.

A significant meeting is set to take place this morning between representatives of the United National Party (UNP) and Ranil Wickremesinghe himself. The discussions will centre around the format of their participation in the forthcoming election, including the symbol under which they will contest.

Should an alliance be established, they will also explore the groundwork needed to formalise this coalition.

Later today, another crucial meeting is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. between Wickremesinghe and members of the Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP), who supported him during the last presidential race.

It is anticipated that this gathering will finalise the alliance’s strategy for contesting the parliamentary elections.

Meanwhile, the recently formed ‘Podujana Eksath Nidahas Peramuna,’ a breakaway faction of SLPP loyalists backing Wickremesinghe, is yet to receive approval from the Election Commission to contest under the “trophy” symbol.

Without this clearance, they are considering using the “chair” symbol of the Podujana Eksath Peramuna as an alternative.

Approval from the Election Commission is essential for the alliance to contest under their desired emblem, and discussions today may determine the next steps.

By: Isuru Parakrama

September 26, Colombo (LNW): The atmospheric conditions are getting favourable for afternoon thundershowers in most parts of the island for the next few days starting tomorrow (27), and several spells of showers, therefore, will occur in Western, Sabaragamuwa and North-western provinces and in Kandy, Nuwara-Eliya, Galle and Matara districts, the Department of Meteorology said in its daily weather forecast today (26).

Showers or thundershowers may occur at several places in Eastern and Uva provinces and in Mullaitivu district during the evening or night.

Strong winds about (40-45)kmph can be expected at times over the western slopes of the central hills and in Northern, North-central and North-western provinces and in Matale, Hambantota and Monaragala districts.

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

Marine Weather:

1. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasises stabilising Sri Lanka’s economy is a priority before implementing structural changes: His government will resume discussions with the IMF and advance debt restructuring efforts to build stability and trust: also highlights plans for economic reforms, public service improvements, and social justice, aiming to enhance the nation’s future and restore confidence in governance.
   
2. Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya emphasises public trust in political authority and public services is essential for nation-building: Addressing her office staff, she acknowledged negative perceptions towards politicians and public services but stressed the government’s commitment to fostering a strong, efficient, and people-focused public service, which is vital for the country’s development.
   
3. Former Minister and SLPP stalwart S.B. Dissanayake expresses confidence that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and his government will likely win the upcoming general elections: praises the president’s leadership and progress since taking office, predicting the National People’s Power (NPP) will secure 6.5 million votes: also suggested other parties unite to form a strong opposition for the elections.
   
4. International credit agency Moody’s warns Sri Lanka’s credit risks may remain high despite President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s tax cut pledges and potential IMF bailout changes: While reform disruption is unlikely, fiscal challenges may slow progress: Although revenue improvements have reduced the fiscal deficit, debt affordability remains weak, with interest payments expected to consume 40%-50% of revenues in the coming years.
   
5. Former MP Dilum Amunugama condemns NPP member Wasantha Samarasinghe’s remarks about vehicles at Galle Face, clarifying they were used by coordinating committee chairmen, not misused by MPs or Ministers: emphasises that all official vehicles were handed over, and any claims of theft should be investigated: criticises displaying the vehicles after their official return as unfair: Samarasinghe claimed hundreds of vehicles used by former ministry secretaries were found abandoned at Galle Face after Parliament’s dissolution: The NPP member condemned this as evidence of public asset misuse, highlighting missing vehicles and improper use of others, and praising the NPP government for addressing corruption and waste, emphasising efforts to hold those responsible accountable, including recovering misappropriated public funds.
   
6. The All Share Price Index (ASPI) of the Colombo Stock Exchange on September 25th surges by 325.59 points, closing at 11,659.71, a 2.87% rise from the previous day: This is the third consecutive time has the ASPI index indicated surge: The market turnover reached Rs. 3.96 billion, indicating robust trading activity.
   
7. The Election Commission releases details for the 2024 General Election, outlining the number of MPs to be elected per district: Gampaha District will elect 19 MPs, the highest number: The statement also provides information on candidate nominations, required deposits for independent groups, and the number of MPs per electoral district.
   
8. The Supreme Court remands Controller General of Immigration and Emigration Harsha Illukpitiya on contempt of court charges for failing to follow an interim order suspending the electronic visa system: This follows petitions by opposition MPs: The case will resume on January 22, 2025: The interim order halted a contract with private companies for visa issuance.
   
9. All Island Poultry Association President Ajith Gunasekara says Sri Lanka is now self-sufficient in chicken and egg production: Egg production has risen, but consumption has significantly dropped, affecting small and medium-scale producers: Egg prices range from Rs. 30 to Rs. 40, with production costs causing instability for smaller farms despite the market’s price decline.
   
10. The Sri Lanka U19 women’s team, captained by Manudi Nanayakkara, narrowly lost to Australia by 4 runs in their third match of the U19 Women’s T20 Tri-Series in Brisbane: Australia set a target of 116 runs, led by Samara Dulvin’s 45: Despite solid performances from Sanjana Kavindi and Vimoshka Balasuriya, Sri Lanka managed only 112 runs: Sri Lanka remains in second place and will face New Zealand again today.

September 25, Colombo (LNW): Russian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Levan Dzhagaryan, extended his congratulations to newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, expressing hopes that the new leader will adopt a neutral foreign policy. Ambassador Dzhagaryan, along with Russian Election Commission member Evgeny Shevchenko, met with Election Commission (EC) Chairman R.M.A.L Rathnayake in Colombo.

Shevchenko, who was in Sri Lanka as an observer during the recent Presidential Election, joined the Ambassador in congratulating Rathnayake for overseeing a successful and well-organized election.

During the meeting, Ambassador Dzhagaryan highlighted Rathnayake’s visit to Moscow in March 2024, where the EC Chairman gained firsthand insight into the preparations for Russia’s upcoming Presidential Election.

The discussion between the Russian officials and Rathnayake also focused on enhancing cooperation between the two countries’ Election Commissions, with an emphasis on the potential introduction of Russian electronic voting technology in Sri Lanka.

September 25, Colombo (LNW):In a strategic effort to accelerate private sector development in Sri Lanka, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake held an in-depth dialogue with Macksons Chairman Milfer Makeen in Colombo. The discussion focused on advancing the nation’s industrialization and export promotion goals, both seen as key drivers for enhancing Sri Lanka’s economic prospects.

During the meeting, President Dissanayake reiterated his strong commitment to supporting industrial growth and empowering local industries to achieve global competitiveness. He emphasized the critical role these sectors play in uplifting the national economy and positioned them as central to the government’s long-term economic strategy.

Milfer Makeen, representing Macksons Holdings, shared the company’s ongoing initiatives aimed at contributing to the national vision, particularly in sectors where Sri Lanka has the potential to lead through innovation and quality manufacturing.

The President assured the private sector of his unwavering support for initiatives that enhance export capabilities, fostering a business environment where Sri Lankan industries can thrive on the global stage. He highlighted the necessity of close cooperation between the public and private sectors to drive sustainable economic development.

This meeting underscores the government’s dedication to strengthening ties with industrialists and entrepreneurs, as both parties agreed that collaboration is essential to achieving the broader goal of economic stability and growth for Sri Lanka.

September 25, Colombo (LNW):The Commonwealth Observer Group has deemed the 2024 Sri Lankan Presidential Election, held on September 21, as peaceful and well-organized. However, the Group highlighted that many voters and polling staff appeared to have a limited understanding of the country’s preferential voting system.

Sri Lanka’s preferential voting system allows voters to rank candidates by preference, with the option to select up to three preferences on their ballot. In light of the confusion observed, the Commonwealth Observer Group recommended greater efforts to educate the electorate on the voting system throughout the electoral cycle.

Led by former Seychelles President Danny Faure, the Group presented its preliminary findings during a press conference in Colombo. Faure commended the Election Commission of Sri Lanka for implementing key reforms, including campaign finance regulations, tactile frames for visually impaired voters, and sign language services at polling stations.

Praising the election procedures, the Group noted:
“The pre-poll and opening procedures were meticulously followed at the stations observed. Polling stations opened on time, with few queues at the start of the poll. Voting proceeded peacefully and in an orderly atmosphere, with separate queues for men and women in some locations and clear signage inside and outside polling stations.”

The report also acknowledged the professionalism, transparency, and diligence of polling officials, especially in assisting elderly and disabled voters.

Overall, the Group concluded that the election was credible and transparent, applauding the high voter turnout and the peaceful conduct of the electorate. It expressed hope that the post-election phase would remain as peaceful as the voting process.

The Commonwealth Observer Group is expected to release a final report with detailed analysis and recommendations to further improve Sri Lanka’s electoral processes in the future.

September 25, Colombo (LNW): The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced its willingness to cooperate with newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in supporting Sri Lanka’s ongoing economic recovery. An IMF spokesperson stated that the organization looks forward to collaborating with President Dissanayake and his team to build on the hard-won gains that have placed Sri Lanka on the path to recovery following its severe economic crisis in 2022.

The timeline for the third review of the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, which involves a comprehensive US$ 3 billion loan to Sri Lanka, will be discussed with the new administration at the earliest practical opportunity, according to the IMF.

Additionally, the IMF welcomed the announcement of an agreement in principle between Sri Lanka and international bondholders’ representatives, pending certification by Sri Lanka’s Official Creditors Committee. The committee is expected to review and confirm the agreement, a crucial step in the debt restructuring process.

Sri Lanka’s progress under the IMF’s EFF program has been significant, with the country receiving the third tranche of US$ 336 million in June 2024 following the successful second review of the program.