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British MP Gareth Thomas has launched a petition calling for a direct flight service between London and Jaffna International Airport, highlighting travel difficulties faced by British Tamil families.
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The National People’s Power (NPP) government will mark its second anniversary in power with a major rally in Akurassa on September 20 at 2.00 p.m. Minister Sunil Handunneththi announced that President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is scheduled to participate in the event. In a statement, he said that the rally will be held under the theme “Our government – two years. Blessings to the country.”
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Around 4,000 metric tonnes of diesel have arrived at the Parbatipur Receiving Terminal Depot through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
Sri Lanka defeated Malaysia by 86 runs after posting 160/4 and restricting Malaysia to 74/7.
A petition launched by Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas calls for authorities, airlines and London airports to explore a viable direct service between London and Jaffna.
vows to stand by Sri Lankans overseas
performance in first half of 2026
𝗪𝗘𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦 𝗧𝗢 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗔
has made history by securing second place
Marked in Colombo
Offers Support for Anojan Sivarasa
to Administer Jaffna Thiruvalluvar Cultural Centre
anniversary rally
flight petition
Asian Games semi-finals
diesel to Bangladesh
Province’s Tourism and Investment Potential
Saudi Arabia Case Involving Anojan Sivarasa
Tourism at Global Bird Fair 2026
Potential of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province
the Island at WTM London 2026
for 90th Know India Programme
Labour Cooperation
Clemency for Anojan Sivarasa
Across Several Parts of Sri Lanka
SLINEX-26 Maritime Exercise
Games Gold Medal Match
Across Several Areas of Sri Lanka
Series Sweep Over Sri Lanka
Moragahakanda Bridge in Matale
Appointed in Sri Lanka
Targeting Maitreyi Ramakrishnan
and Legal Relief for Anojan Sivarasa in Saudi Arabia
an AI-generated video
Meeting in India
எதிராக பாவிக்க ஒருபோதும் அனுமதிக்கமாட்டோம் !
greeted Nimesha Premachandra
A petition launched by Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas calls for authorities, airlines and London airports to explore a viable direct service between London and Jaffna.
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Sri Lanka defeated Malaysia by 86 runs after posting 160/4 and restricting Malaysia to 74/7.
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President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has welcomed the decision by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia to set aside the death sentence imposed on Sri Lankan national Anojan Sivarasa. In a statement, the President said the decision had brought immense relief to Sivarasa, his family and Sri Lankans who had followed the case with deep concern. He said the outcome reflected the importance of patient diplomacy, respect for the legal processes of a friendly nation and the tireless efforts of those who supported the Sri Lankan national. The President expressed his appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia for the decision and thanked Saudi Arabian and Sri Lankan diplomats, civil servants and legal teams for their contributions. President Dissanayake also assured that the Sri Lankan government would continue to provide all necessary assistance to Sivarasa and his family until the remaining legal proceedings are concluded. “No Sri Lankan who leaves our shores in search of a livelihood should ever feel that they stand alone,” the President said. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting Sri Lankan nationals facing difficulties overseas.
US President Donald Trump has posted an AI-generated video showing himself wrestling with and hugging a tiger, hours after sharing graphic footage of a man being fatally attacked by a tiger at a UK wildlife park. The earlier video showed the attack on 23-year-old William Chapman, who died after entering a tiger enclosure in Yorkshire. The posts have drawn criticism amid appeals from the victim's family to stop circulating distressing footage.
Sri Lanka’s total exports surpassed USD 9 billion during the first half of 2026, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has stated, highlighting positive signs in the country’s economic performance. The Prime Minister made the remarks in connection with the 26th Sri Lanka Economic and Investment Summit (SLEIS) 2026, held on October 12 and 13. According to the Prime Minister’s Media Division, PM Amarasuriya participated in the summit on Tuesday (13), addressing a session titled “Nation Building in the Digital Age.” During her address, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s ambition to expand Sri Lanka’s digital economy to USD 15 billion by 2030, increase digital exports to USD 5 billion and develop a workforce of 200,000 digital professionals. She said the government was committed to transforming Sri Lanka from a consumer of technology into a creator of innovation. The Prime Minister further revealed that approximately Rs. 30 billion had been committed towards foundational digital transformation initiatives through the Ministry of Digital Economy. Highlighting progress in digital public services, she said the GovPay platform had processed over Rs. 6 billion in payments, with more than 300 organisations connected to the system. PM Amarasuriya also highlighted the potential of digital technologies to improve healthcare, agriculture, energy and transport services, while stressing the importance of ensuring equal access to digital opportunities. Meanwhile, she revealed that a five-year plan had been developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy to improve digital readiness across Sri Lanka’s education system. The Prime Minister also called for stronger cooperation between the government, private sector and educational institutions to expand vocational training and prepare the workforce for emerging employment opportunities. She emphasised that the integration of artificial intelligence into education must be carefully managed to avoid widening existing inequalities and negatively affecting students’ critical thinking and cognitive development. The summit brought together policymakers, investors, business leaders and other stakeholders to discuss Sri Lanka’s economic prospects and investment opportunities.
Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau successfully concluded the Destination Wedding Country Promotion Programme across Hyderabad, Surat and Pune, showcasing Sri Lanka as the perfect destination for dream weddings and unforgettable celebrations. The vibrant programme brought together Sri Lankan tourism industry partners, Indian wedding planners, travel professionals and media through B2B meetings, media engagements and networking dinners. From breathtaking beaches and luxury resorts to rich culture, spectacular traditional dances and energetic Bollywood performances, Sri Lanka showcased the perfect blend of romance, celebration, culture and hospitality.
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Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath greeted Nimesha Premachandra, crowned Mrs. Tourism World 2026 in Manila, Philippines, alongside Deputy Minister of Tourism Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe. Discussed how can use the international recognition and the Mrs. Tourism World crown to promote Sri Lanka as a tourism destination, showcase our rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and introduce the country’s unique attractions to a wider global audience. Nimesha's achievement offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen Sri Lanka’s international tourism profile. I look forward to working with her to make the most of this platform to bring greater international attention to Sri Lanka and its tourism potential. Minister congratulate Manisha on this remarkable achievement and wish her continued success.
Sri Lanka’s Minister of Public Security, Ananda Wijepala, participated in the first BIMSTEC Home Ministers’ Meeting held in New Delhi, India, on Wednesday (Oct. 14). The meeting was hosted by India under the chairmanship of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, bringing together ministers from member countries of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC). The discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation to address evolving security threats and promoting a safer, more secure and resilient Bay of Bengal region. The initiative reflects a shared commitment among BIMSTEC member states to enhance cooperation in addressing regional security challenges. Minister Wijepala expressed appreciation to Indian Home Minister Amit Shah and the Government of India for hosting the inaugural meeting and bringing regional partners together to advance common security objectives. BIMSTEC comprises seven member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
IAME Bambino Cup UAE, becoming the first Sri Lankan driver to achieve a podium finish in the international karting championship. According to the championship organisers, Avish is the first Sri Lankan driver to secure a podium finish in the IAME Bambino Cup. Competing against 13 young drivers from different countries, including several European competitors, Avish delivered an impressive performance throughout the event. He finished third in Time Trial 1 and Time Trial 2 before winning Time Trial 3, eventually securing second place in the final race. The IAME Bambino Cup is an international karting championship for children aged between five and eight years. Avish’s achievement at just seven years old marks a significant milestone for Sri Lankan motorsport, highlighting the potential of young Sri Lankan drivers to compete on the international stage.
எமது பூமி மற்றும் ஆகாயத்தை இந்தியாவிற்கு எதிராக பாவிக்க ஒருபோதும் அனுமதிக்கமாட்டோம் என்பதில் தாம் உறுதியாக உள்ளதாக ஜனாதிபதி அனுரகுமார திசாநாயக்க குறிப்பிட்டுள்ளார். இன்று (14) குருநாகலில் இடம்பெற்ற ஜேவிபி தேசிய மக்கள் சக்தி பொதுக்கூட்டத்தில் உரையாற்றிய அவர் பிராந்தியத்தில் மிக முக்கிய பலமான இந்தியாவிற்கு எதிராக எமது பூமி மற்றும் ஆகாயத்தை பாவிக்க ஒருபோதும் அனுமதிக்கமாட்டோம் எனக்கூறினார்.
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Foreign Affairs and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath greeted Nimesha Premachandra, crowned Mrs. Tourism World 2026 in Manila, Philippines, alongside Deputy Minister of Tourism Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe. Discussed how can use the international recognition and the Mrs. Tourism World crown to promote Sri Lanka as a tourism destination, showcase our rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and introduce the country’s unique attractions to a wider global audience. Nimesha's achievement offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen Sri Lanka’s international tourism profile. I look forward to working with her to make the most of this platform to bring greater international attention to Sri Lanka and its tourism potential. Minister congratulate Manisha on this remarkable achievement and wish her continued success.
Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has expressed his gratitude to the Saudi Arabian Government and all those involved in securing the reversal of the death sentence imposed on Sri Lankan engineer Anojan Sivarasa. Premadasa said he was extremely pleased that Sivarasa’s life had been saved following the Saudi Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the death sentence. He thanked the legal team, including President’s Counsel Faizer Mustapha and Upul Kumarapperuma, as well as the Saudi Ambassador to Sri Lanka and others who contributed to the efforts. The Opposition Leader said he and his team had also made every possible effort to protect Sivarasa’s right to life. Premadasa extended his appreciation to the Saudi Supreme Court and the King of Saudi Arabia for the outcome. He said the decision was a source of great relief and expressed his respect and gratitude to everyone who played a role in securing it.
ஜெர்மனியில் மேற்கு பகுதியில் உள்ள கொலோன் என்ற நகரில், ரொபோ ஒன்றைப் பயன்படுத்தி 16 வயதுடைய சிறுமியின் மீது பாலியல் ரீதியாக அத்துமீறல் சம்பவம் ஒன்று இடம்பெற்றுள்ளது. மிகவும் வேதனை அளிக்கின்ற இந்த பாலியல் வன்முறை தொடர்பாக அந்நாட்டு பொலிஸ் அதிகாரிகள் தீவிர விசாரணைகளை ஆரம்பித்துள்ளனர்.
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Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa has expressed his gratitude to the Saudi Arabian Government and all those involved in securing the reversal of the death sentence imposed on Sri Lankan engineer Anojan Sivarasa. Premadasa said he was extremely pleased that Sivarasa’s life had been saved following the Saudi Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the death sentence. He thanked the legal team, including President’s Counsel Faizer Mustapha and Upul Kumarapperuma, as well as the Saudi Ambassador to Sri Lanka and others who contributed to the efforts. The Opposition Leader said he and his team had also made every possible effort to protect Sivarasa’s right to life. Premadasa extended his appreciation to the Saudi Supreme Court and the King of Saudi Arabia for the outcome. He said the decision was a source of great relief and expressed his respect and gratitude to everyone who played a role in securing it.
The National People's Power government is scheduled to mark its second anniversary with a major rally in Akuressa on September 20. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is scheduled to participate.
Around 4,000 metric tonnes of diesel have arrived at the Parbatipur Receiving Terminal Depot through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
Sri Lanka defeated Malaysia by 86 runs after posting 160/4 and restricting Malaysia to 74/7.
A petition launched by Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas calls for authorities, airlines and London airports to explore a viable direct service between London and Jaffna.
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Stay connected with the latest Sri Lanka, India, World and Diaspora news.
The 11th Ayurveda Day was marked in Colombo by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in Sri Lanka in collaboration with the Faculty of Indigenous Medicine, University of Colombo. The event also honoured pioneers who have contributed to the advancement of Ayurveda education in Sri Lanka and the preservation of its traditional knowledge and holistic approach to wellbeing.
Sri Lanka and India have marked the start of construction of the Moragahakanda Bridge in Matale, the first of 13 permanent bridges planned under India’s grant assistance. The project forms part of India’s US$450 million reconstruction and rehabilitation package following Cyclone Ditwah, supporting the shift toward permanent and resilient infrastructure.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake formally handed appointment letters to three new High Court Judges on 23 September 2026. The appointees are Perumal Sivakumar, Anandi Kanagaratnam and Gnanesa Lalith Kannangara, all Special Grade officers of the Judicial Service.
Jaffna District MP Ramanathan Archchuna has urged Sri Lankans to recognise actress Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s international achievements and called for an end to racist comments reportedly directed at her on social media. His remarks in Parliament followed an online backlash surrounding the Sri Lankan Tamil–Canadian actress and her latest Netflix film, Best of the Best.
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India has extended its Viability Gap Funding support for the Nagapattinam–Kankesanthurai passenger ferry for another year, marking the third consecutive year of support. Since services resumed in August 2024, the ferry has carried more than 52,000 passengers, strengthening connectivity and people-to-people links between India and Sri Lanka.
Heads of foreign diplomatic missions based in Colombo have begun a three-day study tour of Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. The programme includes visits to Pasikuda, Eravur, Seruwila and Trincomalee, highlighting the region’s tourism, cultural heritage and investment opportunities.
Sri Lanka and Thailand have signed agreements to strengthen labour cooperation and expand employment opportunities for Sri Lankan workers. Thailand has approved the initial recruitment of 10,000 Sri Lankan workers, with opportunities expected in areas including IT, tourism and other skilled sectors.
A petition launched by Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas calls for authorities, airlines and London airports to explore a viable direct service between London and Jaffna.
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Sri Lanka is pursuing legal and diplomatic measures following reports that Sri Lankan national Sivarasa Anojan has been sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia. The Foreign Ministry says it remains engaged with Saudi authorities, while the government is pursuing further legal avenues and seeking clemency.
Former Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed has pledged humanitarian support for efforts to seek relief for Sri Lankan national Anojан Sivarasa, who is reportedly facing a death sentence in Saudi Arabia. President’s Counsel Faiszer Musthapha and Upul Kumarapperuma met Nasheed as part of Sri Lanka’s ongoing legal and diplomatic efforts.
Former Foreign Minister Ali Sabry has called on Saudi authorities to grant clemency to Sri Lankan national Anojан Sivarasa, amid the reported death sentence in Saudi Arabia. Sabry urged urgent legal and diplomatic intervention, emphasizing the need for a compassionate resolution. Sri Lanka’s government is continuing diplomatic and legal efforts in the case.
Sri Lanka’s Meteorology Department has warned of heavy showers, strong winds and thunderstorms across several provinces. Rainfall above 100 mm was expected in some areas, while winds of around 40–50 km/h were forecast in parts of the Central Hills, North Central, North Western, Trincomalee, Hambantota and Matale districts. The Bay of Bengal system was not expected to directly affect Sri Lanka.
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Sri Lanka has showcased its wildlife and nature tourism experiences at the Global Bird Fair 2026 in Rutland, United Kingdom. The country highlighted its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, endemic birds, whales and dolphins, while promoting national parks, photography, nature travel and sustainable tourism.
Applications are open for the 90th Know India Programme (KIP), offering participants an opportunity to experience India’s rich heritage, culture and contemporary development. Interested applicants can submit their applications by 28 September 2026 through the High Commission of India in Colombo.
The 13th India–Sri Lanka bilateral maritime exercise, SLINEX-26, is underway in Visakhapatnam from 17–21 September 2026. The exercise involves Indian Navy ships INS Kavaratti and INS Jyoti, along with Sri Lanka Navy ship SLNS Sindurala, with harbour and sea phases focused on maritime cooperation, interoperability and professional exchanges.
Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team defeated Pakistan by eight wickets in the Asian Games semi-final, securing a place in the gold medal match. Sri Lanka chased down Pakistan’s 114 with 115/2 in 15.4 overs.
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The petition highlights the travel challenges faced by British Tamil families travelling to Northern Sri Lanka and calls for a commercially viable direct flight service.
Sri Lanka | India | World | Diaspora
Sri Lanka defeated Malaysia by 86 runs after posting 160/4 and restricting Malaysia to 74/7.
Sri Lanka | India | World | Diaspora
Around 4,000 metric tonnes of diesel have arrived at the Parbatipur Receiving Terminal Depot through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
Sri Lanka | India | World | Diaspora
The National People's Power government is scheduled to mark its second anniversary with a major rally in Akuressa on September 20. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake is scheduled to participate.
Sri Lanka | India | World | Diaspora
British MP Gareth Thomas has launched a petition calling for a direct flight service between London and Jaffna International Airport, highlighting travel difficulties faced by British Tamil families.
Sri Lanka's NPP government to mark its second anniversary with a major rally in Akuressa on September 20.
Campaign Calls for Direct London–Jaffna Flight Service
India Sends Additional Diesel Supplies to Bangladesh
Sri Lanka defeated Malaysia by 86 runs after posting 160/4 and restricting Malaysia to 74/7.
Sri Lanka's NPP government to mark its second anniversary with a major rally in Akuressa on September 20.
A petition launched by Harrow West MP Gareth Thomas calls for authorities, airlines and London airports to explore a viable direct service between London and Jaffna.
Around 4,000 metric tonnes of diesel have arrived at the Parbatipur Receiving Terminal Depot through the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
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Sri Lanka’s economy recorded 4.2% year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2026, according to the Department of Census and Statistics. The latest figures indicate continued economic expansion amid challenging global conditions.
Sri Lanka has connected its first grid-scale battery energy storage facility to the national electricity network in Anuradhapura. The project is part of efforts to strengthen the country's energy infrastructure and support renewable-energy integration.
Sri Lanka has reported 98,427 dengue cases so far in 2026, with 2,758 cases recorded during the first 17 days of September, according to health authorities. Officials have also reported 74 dengue-related deaths this year.
Sri Lanka’s Inspector General of Police says a nationwide survey has identified 712 accident-prone and hazardous locations across the country. Authorities are assessing the locations as part of efforts to address road-safety risks.
Air tickets have been provided to 204 Sri Lankan migrant workers selected for employment opportunities in Israel. The presentation took place at the Sri Lanka Bureau of Foreign Employment auditorium.
The United States, Denmark and Greenland have reached an agreement concerning US security arrangements and development in Greenland, according to reporting citing US President Donald Trump. The parties are expected to formalize the agreement during the UN General Assembly next week.
Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains significantly below its recent average amid the ongoing regional conflict. Preliminary shipping data recorded four commodity vessels transiting the strait on Thursday, compared with a 10-day average of about 16.
A large plume of smoke was reported near Riyadh's main airport after Saudi authorities issued warnings about potential danger around the capital. Yemen's Houthis said they had launched attacks against what they described as sensitive sites in Riyadh.
China's Vice Premier He Lifeng is visiting the United States for economic and trade discussions from September 19–23. Talks are expected to cover issues including tariffs, artificial intelligence and rare-earth materials.
US President Donald Trump has signed legislation giving his administration new authority to impose tariffs of up to 100% on certain countries buying Russian oil and gas or helping evade sanctions. China and India are among the major buyers potentially affected by the legislation, although the law does not name specific countries for the tariffs.
The 20th Asian Games officially opened in Nagoya, Japan, on September 19, with athletes from 45 nations and regions participating. India has sent a strong contingent across multiple sports, with competitions beginning across the Games programme.
India replaced shot-putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as its male flagbearer for the Asian Games opening ceremony after his official ceremonial kit failed to arrive in time. Kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat was named as his replacement, while shooter Manu Bhaker remained the female flagbearer.
India’s annual retail inflation increased to 4.82% in August 2026, up from 4.45% in July, according to government data reported by Reuters. The increase reflected broader price pressures beyond food and fuel.
Indian and Nepalese officials held discussions covering trade, transit, customs, market access, food safety and border infrastructure, alongside cooperation on road and rail connectivity. The discussions came during Nepal’s Finance Minister’s visit to India.
Renault India has resumed exports to Sri Lanka, with a shipment of 100 vehicles — including Triber, Kwid and Kiger models — sent from its Chennai plant. The development marks a restart of the company's vehicle exports to the Sri Lankan market.