Articles tagged with “srilanka”

Sri Lanka's Ministry of Public Security website displayed explicit and inappropriate language on Thursday, sparking concerns over possible hacking. A screenshot showed vulgar content appearing under a section meant for official ministerial information. No official statement has been released, but cybersecurity experts warn of the need for immediate investigation and corrective action. The incident has raised questions about the security of government digital platforms.

Sri Lanka's talks with the U.S. to lower a 44 percent reciprocal tariff have shown progress, with both nations expected to release a joint statement soon. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake confirmed the discussions were productive during an election rally in Rathnapura on Wednesday. A Sri Lankan delegation is currently in Washington negotiating with U.S. trade officials to ease tariffs and boost imports, aiming to reduce the trade surplus with America. Deputy Minister of Economic Development Anil Jayantha stated the talks focused on improving trade conditions. President Dissanayake emphasized the potential risks to Sri Lanka's garment exports if the high tariffs remain. He expressed optimism that 2025 could become a record year for exports if the issue is resolved. Experts warn that maintaining the 44 percent tariff could severely harm Sri Lanka's economy, possibly forcing several garment factories to shut down. The government is working to prevent such economic fallout through diplomatic negotiations.

Sri Lanka has opened public viewing of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha for the first time in 16 years. The revered relic, believed to be a tooth of Lord Buddha, was displayed at Kandy's Temple of the Tooth, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists. The relic, usually kept in a secure chamber, is rarely shown outside special occasions. Authorities confirmed the display will continue for several days, allowing pilgrims to pay homage and take part in religious ceremonies. The event holds deep spiritual significance for Buddhists globally. Officials said the exhibition aims to boost cultural tourism and strengthen spiritual connections in the region. The last public viewing occurred in 2008, making this a rare opportunity for worshippers.

The Vatican has recognized 167 Sri Lankan Catholics killed in Islamic State inspired suicide bombings six years ago as witnesses of faith, according to the country's Catholic Church. Hundreds gathered for a vigil on Monday at St. Anthony's Church, one of the attack sites, to honor victims from Christian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic communities. Religious leaders joined the memorial service marking the anniversary of the 2019 Easter Sunday bombings.

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed deep condolences on behalf of the nation following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. The President praised the late pontiff's dedication to peace, compassion, and global unity. He highlighted the Pope's lasting influence and hoped his legacy would inspire future generations toward justice and interfaith harmony. The statement underscored the profound impact of the Pope's work on Sri Lanka and the world.

The Department of Examinations has announced that the G.C.E. Advanced Level results will be released before the end of this month. The results were originally expected by April 20 but faced delays due to practical issues. This year, a total of 333,185 candidates appeared for the examination. Officials assured the public that the results are being finalized and will be available soon.

A new mosquito species endemic to Sri Lanka has been discovered in Mirigama. The insect, named Culex (Lophoceraomyia) cinctellus, was identified by researchers. Entomologist Gayan Kumarasinghe from the Medical Research Institute confirmed the species is a significant vector for viruses. The finding highlights ongoing biodiversity research in the region. Scientists warn the discovery may have implications for public health due to the mosquito's disease carrying potential. Further studies are underway to assess its impact.

Sri Lankan authorities have launched an investigation after a photo allegedly showing a sacred Buddha tooth relic was shared on social media. The relic is currently on display at the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy under strict security, where photography is banned. Police are working to verify if the image was taken during the ongoing exhibition or if it was digitally altered. Devotees undergo security checks before entering the temple, with mobile phones and bags prohibited. Officials called any breach a serious security lapse. The relic, last displayed in 2009, has drawn large crowds, with 125,000 visitors on the first day. The 10day exhibition, which ends on April 27, allows limited viewing hours each day. Plain clothed officers are monitoring the site to ensure compliance with security measures.

Sri Lanka commemorates the sixth anniversary of the Easter Sunday bombings today, reflecting on the 2019 attacks that killed 269 people and injured over 500. The tragedy remains unresolved, with victims' families still awaiting justice amid allegations of political interference and systemic failures. The bombings, carried out by Islamist extremists, shattered national cohesion and damaged Sri Lanka's economy and global reputation. Investigations have stalled, with key figures avoiding accountability despite prior intelligence warnings. Critics accuse successive governments of exploiting the attacks for political gain. For many Sri Lankans, justice means full transparency, accountability for negligence, and reparations for victims. The prolonged delay has eroded trust in institutions, raising concerns about impunity and the country's commitment to truth and reconciliation.

Sri Lankan police have arrested a 38 year old man for shooting at a church in Manampitiya village, Polonnaruwa district. The incident occurred around 7 pm on Friday at the Living Christ Church. Authorities recovered a locally made firearm used in the attack. Preliminary investigations suggest the suspect targeted the church due to a personal dispute with the pastor. The shooting damaged a church window. Police are continuing their investigation into the matter. The suspect resides on Main Road in Manampitiya.