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USCIRF Releases Report on Religious Freedom in Sri Lanka

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) focuses on defending religious rights globally. They’ve released a report on Sri Lanka’s religious freedom. This comes at a time when there’s worry about sectarian violence and the need for government accountability in Sri Lanka. The report highlights issues like religiously motivated land disputes, challenges in registering religious minorities, and laws that unfairly target minority religions.

USCIRF Releases Report on Religious Freedom in Sri Lanka

USCIRF’s thorough evaluation led to Sri Lanka being added to the U.S. Department of State’s Special Watch List. This move shows the country needs careful observation for serious violations of religious freedom. A May 2024 hearing by USCIRF brought these concerns forward. The UK travel advisory also suggests travelers should be cautious. It reflects concerns similar to those identified by USCIRF about religious freedom.

Key Takeaways

USCIRF’s report exposes the complexities surrounding religious freedom in Sri Lanka.
Sri Lanka’s status on the U.S. Special Watch List underscores the gravity of such issues.
The report elucidates specific cases of sectarian violence and discrimination.
Potential impacts of legislative changes on minority rights are brought to the forefront.
USCIRF’s role in global human rights and religious freedom is further affirmed by their comprehensive analysis.
Travel advisories echo the need for vigilance amidst Sri Lanka’s current religious freedom challenges.

Understanding the USCIRF and Its Role in Global Human Rights

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is a key bipartisan federal group. It was created by Congress to protect religious freedom worldwide. USCIRF watches, studies, and reports on when and where this important freedom is at risk.

It offers advice to shape America’s foreign policy. This advice highlights USCIRF’s commitment to global human rights.

USCIRF: A Bipartisan Federal Entity

USCIRF was set up to give expert, unbiased reports on religious freedoms across the world. It uses a bipartisan method. By looking at religious conflicts and persecution globally, it aims to offer fair policy advice. This advice goes straight to top U.S. leaders.

USCIRF’s Mission to Promote International Religious Freedom

At the heart of USCIRF’s mission is ensuring freedom of religion globally. It speaks out against religious persecution. The goal is to make a world where everyone can practice their faith freely.

Key Functions of USCIRF in Addressing Religious Persecution

USCIRF’s work includes pointing out specific instances and patterns of faith-based persecution. Besides reporting, it helps develop policies to fight religious discrimination. It aims to build better understanding among people of different faiths.

Religion	Percentage in Sri Lanka
Buddhist	70%
Hindu	12.6%
Islam (mostly Sunni)	9.7%
Roman Catholic	6.1%
Other Christians	1.3%
Other Religions	0.05%

USCIRF Releases Report on Religious Freedom in Sri Lanka

The 2023 USCIRF report sheds light on how religious minorities in Sri Lanka are struggling. It talks about the need for laws to protect these minorities. It also suggests more people should get involved in these issues. The report looks at unfair practices that prevent religious peace and unity.

According to the report, incidents against Christians decreased from 80 in 2022 to 43 in 2023. Still, these incidents show a worrying pattern of threats, violence, and blockages against Christians. Often, the police are either involved or unfairly blame religious leaders.

Another concern mentioned is the Department of Archeology. They tried to build Buddhist temples on lands owned by Tamil communities 37 times. This has caused more tension in the north and east of Sri Lanka.

To solve these issues, the report recommends that civil society should have a bigger role. It also says the constitution should protect everyone’s rights equally. The USCIRF emphasizes the need for the world to watch and help Sri Lanka solve these problems.

Year	Anti-Christian Cases Reported	Incidents involving law enforcement	Attempted Buddhist constructions on Tamil land
2022	80	Several noted	–
2023	43	Often involving police blame on pastors	37 cases

There’s a slow improvement in handling religious intolerance. But the government’s actions and police bias still need serious work. More efforts from both the government and the people are needed.

President Wickremesinghe plans to declare 11 more Buddhist temples as cultural sites by February 2024. This will bring the total to 142. This move shows there’s still a long way to go towards religious equality. The USCIRF wants the U.S. government to work harder on promoting religious freedom worldwide.

The 2023 USCIRF report underlines the need for strong legal protections and active civil involvement. This is to ensure that everyone in Sri Lanka can practice their religion freely.

Key Observations and Concerns Highlighted in the USCIRF Report

The USCIRF report carefully studies religious freedom in Sri Lanka. It highlights significant worries for religious minorities. Issues like discriminatory laws and land disputes show bias and exclusion.

Detecting Discriminatory Legislation: PTA and ICCPR Act

The Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) Act are used for control, not protection. This is concerning. Reports show 21 people detained under the PTA, with others facing unfair repression. Muslim communities, in particular, are badly affected by these acts, hurting their rights.

Religiously Motivated Land Disputes and Expropriation

Land disputes and expropriation hit Hindu and Muslim groups hard. In 2023, 68 land conflict incidents were documented in Batticaloa. These conflicts hint at attempts to change the area’s demographic, showing broader societal biases.

Challenges in Religious Minorities’ Registration

Religious minorities find it tough to register, affecting their worship and civil operations. These bureaucratic obstacles act as a soft form of exclusion, pushing towards a more uniform religious expression.

Legislative Amendments: Potential Impacts on Minority Rights

Amending laws could either help or hurt minority rights. It’s crucial that changes consider their effects on these groups, to not worsen their situation.

The USCIRF’s detailed report pushes for action against discriminatory laws. It’s vital to tackle blasphemy laws and registration hurdles for religious minorities, to aid human rights progress in the region.

Year	Detentions under PTA	Reported Land Disputes in Batticaloa
2023	21	68
Historical Avg.	Data Unavailable	Data Unavailable

USCIRF’s Recommendations and Sri Lanka’s Place on the Special Watch List

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) checks on religious freedom worldwide. It’s worried about religious freedom in Sri Lanka. Recent events, such as limited access to Hindu temples and efforts to build Buddhist temples on Tamil lands, are concerning. USCIRF suggests putting Sri Lanka on the Special Watch List. This suggests serious issues with religious freedom that need fixing to help different faiths get along.

USCIRF’s work shows some policies support or ignore sectarian violence and discrimination. The forced resignation of Judge T. Saravanaraja, for example, shows the need for judges to make decisions freely on religious issues. Moves to require religious groups to register hint at a desire for more control. This raises questions about Sri Lanka’s support for religious variety and could lead to more targeting of religious minorities.

Globally, many governments see religious freedom as key to their foreign policies. The situation in Sri Lanka is getting international attention. Groups like the Religious Freedom contact group watch and guide policies to meet global standards. The US has suggested India for a CPC designation because of its religious freedom issues. This serves as a warning for Sri Lanka. By considering USCIRF’s recommendations, Sri Lanka has a chance to show its dedication to justice and equal rights for all communities.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Discuss Enhancing Air Connectivity

Sri Lanka and Pakistan are exploring ways to boost air connectivity. Both nations are key members of SAARC. Improved aviation cooperation could significantly boost economic growth and bilateral ties.

The SAARC region has 1.936 billion people, 24.1% of the global population. Its combined GDP is $4.491 trillion. These factors make air connectivity crucial for the region’s development.

The seventh Round of Bilateral Political Consultations took place in Islamabad. It highlighted the need for stronger air travel agreements. Both countries see potential benefits in increased connectivity.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Discuss Enhancing Air Connectivity to Boost Tourism

Sri Lanka’s tourism industry peaked in 2018 with 2.5 million visitors. These tourists spent US$5.6 billion. The country aims to attract more foreign investment in tourism.

Sri Lanka faced challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and past civil war. Yet, it remains committed to developing its tourism sector. Enhancing air connectivity with Pakistan is part of this strategy.

Pakistan has been a top source of tourists for Sri Lanka. In 2018, 9,774 Pakistani tourists visited. The numbers rose to 10,744 in 2019. Even in 2020, 6,260 Pakistani tourists came to Sri Lanka.

Better aviation links could encourage more travel between the two nations. This would benefit both economies. It would also strengthen bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

High-Level Pakistani Delegation Meets Sri Lankan Prime Minister

A top Pakistani business team met with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya this week. They discussed ways to boost economic ties between their countries. The focus was on improving air travel, tourism, and trade.

Prime Minister Amarasuriya praised the strong partnership between Sri Lanka and Pakistan. She noted the benefits of better air links. These could boost tourism and create new economic opportunities.

Exploring Possibilities of Strengthening Aviation Links

The Pakistani team stressed the need for better air connections. More flights and new routes could help business and personal travel. This fits with Sri Lanka’s recent agreements to boost tourism with other countries.

Potential Benefits for Sri Lanka’s Tourism Industry

Better air links could greatly help Sri Lanka’s tourism. Pakistan is a key source of visitors to Sri Lanka. Improved flights could bring more tourists to the country.

This comes at a crucial time for Sri Lanka’s tourism sector. The industry has faced recent challenges and is looking to recover.

The meeting set the stage for more teamwork in tourism and trade. Both countries aim to strengthen their relationship. Improved connections and trade are expected to help both nations grow.

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Discuss Enhancing Air Connectivity to Boost Tourism

Sri Lanka and Pakistan held their seventh Bilateral Political Consultations in Islamabad. Foreign Secretaries Aruni Wijewardane and Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi co-chaired the meeting. They reviewed relations in economy, trade, defense, security, education, culture, and more.

Seventh Round of Bilateral Political Consultations in Islamabad

Both sides stressed the importance of high-level political exchanges. They agreed to tackle transnational organized crime, including drug trafficking. The talks highlighted potential for better air links between Colombo and Islamabad.

Pakistan is Sri Lanka’s second-largest SAARC trading partner after India. Improved air connectivity could boost trade under the 2005 free trade agreement.

Increasing Connectivity and Bilateral Trade for Economic Growth

Tourism is vital to Sri Lanka’s economy. Better air links could attract more Pakistani tourists to Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes. It may also lead to more business exchanges and stronger economic ties.

Sri Lankan exports already have a significant share in Pakistan. Direct flights could further increase bilateral trade. This focus on air connectivity shows a vision for stronger economic cooperation.

Enhancing Tourism and People-to-People Contacts through Cultural, Religious, and Sports Links

The talks emphasized air connectivity’s role in boosting tourism and cultural exchanges. At the meeting’s end, Sri Lanka donated five eye corneas to Pakistan. This gesture shows the strong ties between the two nations.

Improved air links could further strengthen these connections. It would make travel easier for tourism, cultural events, and sports exchanges.

Rajapaksa Returns to Sri Lanka After Self-Imposed Exile

On September 2, 2022, Sri Lanka welcomed back former President Rajapaksa after his self-imposed exile. He had left due to a painful economic crisis and civil unrest. During his exile, Rajapaksa visited countries like the Maldives, Singapore, and Thailand. He returned with tight security but without public media at the airport. A defense ministry spokesperson confirmed his return and assured he would receive proper security. Rajapaksa Sri Lanka return happens as the nation faces tough economic problems.

Key Takeaways

Sri Lanka’s economic crisis has led to an inflation rate of around 65%.
The country is facing a staggering $51 billion debt, with the IMF proposing a $2.9 billion loan subject to stringent fiscal reforms and debt restructuring.
Privatization of certain public sector units is under consideration, which might ignite resistance from trade unions worried about job security.
An innovative system requiring vehicles to have a QR code for fuel purchases has been implemented, though resulting in long queues.
Mahinda and Gotabaya Rajapaksa have been pivotal in the nation’s politics, the former president and the latter as both President and Defence Secretary.
With just over a month spent abroad, former President Rajapaksa returns to Sri Lanka after self-imposed exile, stepping into a climate of continued public frustration.
Rajapaksa latest updates are significant in the context of Sri Lanka’s ongoing struggle with economic hardship and political stability.

The Circumstances Around Former President Rajapaksa’s Departure and Exile

Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s time as president happened during Sri Lanka’s worst economic crisis. His leaving the country shows a crucial time in its history. Bad management led to this crisis and increased public anger.

Escalation of Protests and Economic Crisis Preceding the Exodus

Sri Lanka faced a severe downturn, with not enough basic goods and high inflation. Rajapaksa’s policies made the economy worse, leading to bankruptcy. This was a first for the country since becoming independent in 1948. As life got harder, more people protested against Rajapaksa, asking for accountability and change.

Fateful July: Presidential Evacuation and Public Uprising

July 2022 was a crucial time for Sri Lanka because of constant protests. Gotabaya Rajapaksa had to leave the presidential home when protesters got in. This showed how serious the unrest was. It led to Rajapaksa’s resignation, which he gave from abroad.

Rajapaksa’s International Haven: From Maldives to Singapore and Thailand

After leaving Sri Lanka suddenly, Rajapaksa first went to the Maldives, then to Singapore where he resigned. Then he moved to Thailand, always looking for safety. Each stop was part of his journey after losing power. It shows his fall while his country was in economic and governance crises.

The economic meltdown in Sri Lanka shows deeper issues. For instance, reversing an organic farming policy is crucial to see the impact of such decisions during crises. Abrupt changes without solid planning or support can cause problems, as seen in Sri Lanka’s shift from organic farming.

Former President Rajapaksa Returns to Sri Lanka After Self-Imposed Exile

Ex-President Rajapaksa is back in Sri Lanka after 52 days away. His return brings tight security and lots of questions about its impact. This part talks about his arrival, people’s reactions, and Sri Lanka’s economic issues.

Enigmatic Arrival Under Tight Security

Rajapaksa’s arrival was closely watched due to safety and unrest fears. He returned with high security. This included a new army and police squad, ensuring his safe trip to Colombo.

Public Response and Political Implications

People’s reactions to Rajapaksa’s return are mixed. Some don’t mind his return, seeing it as his right. But, others want him to face charges for corruption and mismanagement. Politicians too are split, affecting Sri Lanka’s stability and public trust.

Sri Lanka’s Ongoing Struggle with Economic Hardships

Rajapaksa comes back to a country facing an economic crisis. Despite an IMF bailout promise, Sri Lanka struggles with GDP shrinkage and item shortages. Inflation over 65% worsens these issues, impacting people’s lives and causing dissatisfaction.

This situation raises questions about Sri Lanka’s recovery and stability with Rajapaksa back. Looking ahead, his role in the country’s future is crucial to watch.

Examining the Impact of Rajapaksa’s Return on Sri Lankan Politics

Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s comeback has stirred the political scene in Sri Lanka, highlighting ongoing issues since he left office. His time as president saw economic challenges grow, with foreign reserves dropping dramatically. In less than two years, reserves went from USD 8 billion to USD 2 billion. This situation has led to severe power outages and a worrying increase in child malnutrition.

India has been a key helper since January 2022, providing over USD 3.5 billion in aid. Yet, moving towards organic farming has hurt the economy, especially in tea and rice production. This shift has made economic stability harder to achieve. The effects of Rajapaksa’s return could either quicken recovery or deepen the chaos. His resignation, driven by public outcry, has left a lasting mark on political accountability in Sri Lanka.

Citizens are concerned that Rajapaksa’s return might reignite past problems. Discussions are ongoing about the potential for legal actions to address previous issues. The government’s handling of fuel and food shortages is critical to either stabilizing the country or sparking more protests. With OMP Sri Lanka providing vital updates, the public stays informed about their nation’s developments.

UNESCO Recognizes Sri Lanka’s Traditional “Kolam” Dance as Intangible Cultural Heritage

UNESCO has officially recognized Sri Lanka’s traditional Kolam dance as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. This honor highlights the importance of preserving Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Kolam is a unique art form that showcases the country’s vibrant traditions.

Kolam is a masked dance drama that represents Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural tapestry. This recognition underscores Kolam’s significance in representing Sri Lankan identity globally.

UNESCO Recognizes Sri Lanka's Traditional "Kolam"

UNESCO encourages countries to nominate elements of their intangible cultural heritage for inscription. This effort aims to safeguard and promote cultural diversity worldwide. The inclusion of Kolam celebrates its artistic value and ensures its preservation for future generations.

The Significance of UNESCO’s Recognition of Kolam Dance

UNESCO’s recognition of Sri Lanka’s kolam dance as intangible cultural heritage is a major milestone. Kolam blends intricate rice flour patterns with graceful dance moves. This Tamil tradition is now protected for future generations.

The UNESCO nod safeguards this ancient art form. It also promotes cultural diversity and human creativity globally. Kolam’s unique artistic elements and traditional significance are now showcased worldwide.

Preserving Sri Lanka’s Rich Cultural Heritage

UNESCO’s recognition highlights the importance of preserving Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture. The 2024 International Conference on “Art and Culture of Tamils” drew over 500 delegates. Eleven countries participated, showing growing interest in Tamil art.

The conference proceedings were compiled into a 188-page volume. It features 82 papers, serving as a valuable resource for researchers and policymakers.

Promoting Cultural Diversity and Human Creativity

UNESCO’s acknowledgment celebrates the diversity of human creativity. It spotlights Sri Lanka’s cultural richness and encourages appreciation of traditional art forms. This recognition fosters cultural exchange and inspires exploration of decorative folk art.

Ensuring the Continuity of Traditional Art Forms

UNESCO’s listing helps ensure kolam dance’s continuity for future generations. It encourages the transmission of knowledge and skills associated with the art form. Young artists can now learn from experienced practitioners.

UNESCO provides a platform for showcasing and celebrating kolam dance. This contributes to its preservation and maintains the vibrancy of Tamil tradition.

The History and Evolution of Kolam Dance

Kolam dance is a captivating Sri Lankan art form. It has evolved over centuries, blending history, beliefs, and artistic expressions. This unique performance art showcases the ingenuity of Sri Lankan artists.

Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage features diverse art and crafts. Traditional dances like Kolam have been shaped by Buddhism and Hinduism. The intricate masks in Kolam performances are stunning and believed to have curative powers.

Origins and Traditional Significance of Kolam

Kolam dance has ancient roots in Sri Lankan rituals and ceremonies. It has been practiced for centuries during religious festivals and social gatherings. The dance serves as storytelling, entertainment, and spiritual expression.

Kolam masks hold great significance in Sri Lankan culture. They represent human, supernatural, and demonic characters. Dancers wearing these masks are believed to channel spiritual energy during performances.

Unique Features and Artistic Elements of Kolam Dance

Kolam dance blends intricate masks, vibrant costumes, and symbolic movements. Skilled artisans craft masks from wood, clay, or paper mache. Each mask represents a specific character or emotion.

Kolam costumes feature colorful fabrics, embroidery, and ornate jewelry. Dancers’ movements convey complex narratives through gestures and rhythmic patterns. Traditional instruments like the Geta-bera drum accompany the performances.

Kolam dance is part of Sri Lanka’s art and crafts heritage. It showcases the country’s rich cultural tapestry alongside handicrafts, architecture, and sculptures. These artistic expressions contribute to Sri Lanka’s diverse cultural landscape.

UNESCO Recognizes Sri Lanka’s Traditional “Kolam” Dance

UNESCO has recognized Sri Lanka’s Kolam dance as Intangible Cultural Heritage. This milestone helps safeguard cultural heritage worldwide. The UNESCO Convention protects traditional art forms and promotes cultural diversity.

Sri Lanka proposed Kolam dance for the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The country has worked hard to preserve this art form. They’ve documented it and taught it to new generations.

UNESCO’s efforts align with Sri Lanka’s initiatives to protect its cultural heritage. These include inventorying practices and ensuring access to related materials and places.

The Process of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage Listing

UNESCO encourages countries to submit elements together. They prioritize submissions from more than 10 countries. The listing process evaluates an element’s significance, authenticity, and preservation measures.

Currently, 364 elements are on the ICH Representative and Urgent Safeguarding Lists. There are 12 elements on the Best Practices List. Sri Lanka’s success shows its rich cultural tapestry.

Sri Lanka’s Efforts in Safeguarding Kolam Dance

Kolam dances are famous in Sri Lanka’s coastal areas, especially the southwest. They feature masked dancers and puppetry depicting folklore and historical stories. Sri Lanka has taken steps to protect this art form.

The country has documented Kolam dance and taught it to younger generations. They’ve also worked to raise public awareness about its importance. The partnership between FAO, USAID, and Sri Lanka’s Ministry shows how culture and development are linked.

Global Appreciation for Sri Lankan Traditional Arts

UNESCO’s recognition has brought global attention to Sri Lankan arts. It highlights the country’s diverse artistic expressions, from wood carvings to handloom weaving. This recognition celebrates Sri Lanka’s unique culture.

It also shows the importance of protecting intangible cultural heritage worldwide. Sri Lanka continues to promote its arts on international platforms like the Colombo Art Biennale.

Sri Lanka Names Hans Wijayasuriya as Digital Economy Lead

OMP Sri Lanka has announced a significant step in the country’s digital journey. Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has been chosen as the Chief Advisor on Digital Economy by the president. This key appointment by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlights the country’s dedication to leading in technology. It also shows its efforts to transform its digital space.

Sri Lanka Appoints Axiata GED Hans Wijayasuriya as Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Dr. Wijayasuriya brings a wealth of experience from his time as Axiata Group’s General Executive Director. His global recognition, including the top GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024, will greatly benefit his new position. With this role, Sri Lanka is starting a new chapter in its digital journey. The aim is to boost growth and improve public services with new technology.

Work on economic recovery is moving forward, and Dr. Wijayasuriya’s vision is expected to be key for empowering Sri Lankans digitally. By taking on this important advisory role, he will wrap up his successful time with Axiata by January 2025. This move marks a major shift from his corporate achievements to serving the nation in the technology field.

Sri Lanka Appoints Axiata GED Hans Wijayasuriya as Chief Digital Economy Advisor

Sri Lanka has made a key move by naming Hans Wijayasuriya the Chief Digital Economy Advisor. This important step is set to boost the country’s role in the digital world and enhance its global standing. It shows Sri Lanka’s eagerness to lead in tech among developing countries.

Appointment Marks a Transformational Shift for Sri Lanka’s Digital Landscape

Dr. Wijayasuriya starts his role on November 1, 2024. He brings vast knowledge, especially from the financial world. This matches well with Sri Lanka’s goals of promoting tech and innovation in telecom. On his first day, the local currency strengthened, showing more investor confidence, particularly in finance.

Empowering a National Vision: Toward a Digitally Advanced Sri Lanka

With Dr. Wijayasuriya’s leadership, Sri Lanka aims to launch major digital updates. These plans are to upgrade infrastructure and make tech widely available, improving living standards and job chances for everyone. His experience in emerging markets and digital fields will likely lead to significant progress.

Public-Private Synergy: Wijayasuriya’s Role in Digital Policy and Advisory

Advancing digitally needs teamwork between the government and private companies. Dr. Wijayasuriya will head the ICTA of Sri Lanka, focusing on starting strong and creating solid policies. His role aims to synchronize Sri Lanka with global digital developments, promoting growth and tech empowerment.

Sri Lanka has also gained major global support, for example, a $1 billion World Bank loan. This shows the world’s trust in Sri Lanka’s recovery and growth plans. It’s a step towards building a vibrant digital economy.

Having Hans Wijayasuriya as the Chief Digital Economy Advisor is crucial for Sri Lanka. His insight and strategy are key to bringing in a digital age of success. He’s expected to blend economic strength with tech innovation seamlessly.

Hans Wijayasuriya’s Legacy in Telecommunications and Digital Solutions

Dr. Hans Wijayasuriya has led for over 30 years in the Axiata Group. He has made a big impact on global mobile communication. This is shown by his GSMA Chairman’s Award in 2024. He now focuses on Sri Lanka’s digital economy growth. By being the Chief Advisor to the President on Digital Economy, his telecommunications expertise will help the country. Sri Lanka faces challenges like the need for skilled software experts which it currently lacks. Dr. Wijayasuriya is key in meeting the IT industry’s growing demands.

To improve the IT workforce, there is a focus on digital innovation. This aims to boost the economy and stop the brain drain by offering good jobs to the young and encouraging them to start businesses. Dr. Wijayasuriya’s work is seen in Dialog Axiata and Axiata Digital Labs. These efforts show his lasting effect on Sri Lanka’s telco and digital areas. He advises the nation to use innovation to enhance international trade. This will help with currency issues and reduce the banking sector’s reliance on the falling rupee.

Sri Lanka is changing its laws, with the 21st Amendment passed. This shows its commitment to fair laws and chances for everyone. The nation is trying to improve in areas like banking and IT. Groups like the Commonwealth Union Ltd. and Appé Lanka help poor communities in Sri Lanka. The President’s Media Division says Dr. Wijayasuriya’s role is very important. As Sri Lanka plans to dissolve its Parliament for elections, it looks forward to new laws and policy changes.