Chinese Ambassador says China-Sri Lanka ties set for key milestones in 2027

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China and Sri Lanka will mark two major diplomatic milestones in 2027, the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 75th anniversary of the historic Rubber-Rice Pact, with Beijing pledging to further strengthen its strategic partnership with Colombo.

Chinese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Wei Huaxiang said China was ready to work with Sri Lanka to deepen cooperation, implement understandings reached by the leaders of the two countries and further advance what he described as a strategic cooperative partnership based on mutual assistance and longstanding friendship.

The Ambassador made the remarks at a reception held in Colombo on Wednesday (23) to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Reflecting on economic ties, Ambassador Wei highlighted major China-backed projects in Sri Lanka, including Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port, saying cooperation between the two countries under the Belt and Road Initiative had produced tangible results.

He also highlighted China’s assistance to Sri Lanka in areas directly affecting the public, including the China-Sri Lanka Joint Research and Demonstration Centre for Water Technology.

According to the Ambassador, China has donated school uniform materials to Sri Lanka for four consecutive years, benefiting more than 4.4 million students across the country.

The Ambassador also announced that China’s intelligent meteorological early-warning solution, “Mazu”, will be deployed in Sri Lanka to support efforts to address climate change and strengthen disaster prevention and mitigation.

Speaking about the historical relationship between the two countries, Wei pointed to the Rubber-Rice Pact signed more than 70 years ago, describing it as an example of solidarity and mutual support between China and Sri Lanka during difficult periods.

He said China and Sri Lanka had continued to respect and support each other since establishing diplomatic relations, while cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and exchanges across various sectors had benefited both countries.

The Ambassador also recalled instances of assistance provided by both countries in recent years. He noted that the Sri Lankan Navy participated in the search and rescue operation for the Chinese fishing vessel Lupeng Yuanyu 028 in 2023, while Sri Lanka provided emergency medical treatment to a crew member of the Chinese research vessel Shiyan 6 in March this year.

He also referred to China’s emergency assistance to Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 pandemic and following Cyclone Ditwah as examples of cooperation between the two countries during challenging periods.

Wei said China was prepared to work with Sri Lanka to uphold multilateralism and international fairness and justice, while noting Sri Lanka’s role as an important founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement.

The Ambassador also spoke about China’s economy, saying the country had become the world’s largest manufacturing nation and second-largest economy, with GDP exceeding approximately US$20 trillion. He said China’s economy recorded 4.7% growth during the first half of 2026.

Full statement:

Remarks by Ambassador Wei Huaxiang at the Reception Celebrating the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China

(23 September, Wednesday, 19:00, Grand Ballroom, Shangri-La Hotel)

Hon. Mr. Anura Karunathilaka,

Distinguished Ministers, Members of Parliament and Members of the diplomatic corps,

Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends,

Good evening! Ayubowan! Vanakkam! Assalamu alaykum!

It is a great pleasure to gather with all of you to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. On behalf of the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka, I would like to extend warm welcome to all the distinguished guests, express heartfelt gratitude to friends from all sectors who have long been caring for and supporting China and China-Sri Lanka relations, and convey festive greetings to our compatriots both in China and Sri Lanka.

I am deeply honored to have been appointed by President Xi Jinping as the 23rd Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Sri Lanka. Since arriving in Sri Lanka, I have called on Sri Lankan leaders and Ministers, engaged candid and in-depth exchanges with leaders of political parties, travelled to local communities, and visited fields and rural areas to listen to the earnest expectations of people from all walks of life for China-Sri Lanka friendship and cooperation.

At the old book market in Colombo, I searched for old books and bought a copy of The Story of the Rubber-Rice Pact, published in 1953. I would like to thank my bookseller friend, whom I have invited to join us this evening. I also performed a song of friendship together with a street singer at the Galle fishing harbour. I have invited him here this evening as well.

In just over a month, I have had the opportunity to appreciate the picturesque scenery, splendid civilization and warm-hearted people of this ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. I have also felt that China-Sri Lanka friendship has flourished, becoming ever stronger through trials and ever deeper with the passage of time. Looking ahead, the mission is glorious and the responsibility is great. I am ready to work with all friends to carry forward China-Sri Lanka friendship and make it flourish further.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

This year marks the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Throughout its magnificent journey of struggle, the CPC has united and led the Chinese people in forging ahead with determination and perseverance, achieving remarkable accomplishments that have attracted worldwide attention. From rebuilding a country devastated by war and poverty to creating a landscape of renewal and vitality, China has undergone profound transformation. Today, the Chinese nation is engaged in the endeavors to build a great country and advance national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization, while creating greater opportunities for the world through its own development.

A Prosperous China

Today, China has become the world’s largest manufacturing country and the world’s second-largest economy, with its GDP surpassing approximately US$20 trillion. This year marks the beginning of the 15th Five-Year Plan. In the first half of the year, China’s economy forged ahead, registering 4.7% growth, equivalent to approximately US$530 billion.

In the field of artificial intelligence, numerous innovations are competing to lead the way. The ‘Tau (τ) Scaling Law’, proposed by Huawei in May 2026 as a new guiding principle for the evolution of semiconductors and electronic systems, has emerged as a new breakthrough. China’s space program has achieved both sea-based and land-based rocket recovery, marking further progress in China’s space exploration. Innovative achievements are empowering development and benefiting the world.

China remains committed to the principle of ‘seeking shared interests with the world’. From the voyages of Zheng He across the seas more than 600 years ago to today’s Belt and Road Initiative connecting oceans and continents, and from the grand vision of strategic planning to meticulous implementation, China-Sri Lanka cooperation has yielded fruitful outcomes. Flagship projects such as Colombo Port City and Hambantota Port are thriving along the coast, while Chinese enterprises have risen to challenges and overcome difficulties, contributing to practical cooperation between our two countries.

A Democratic China

China has explored, established and continuously developed Whole-Process People’s Democracy. It ensures that the people run the country through comprehensive institutional procedures and extensive participation. It is democracy in its broadest, most genuine, and most effective form, vividly embodying the principle that ‘the people’s calls are heard and their needs are addressed’. Deputies to the National People’s Congress come from all ethnic groups and all walks of life. The voices of ordinary people from the streets and neighbourhoods can reach the highest levels of national governance.

Whole-Process People’s Democracy has infused Chinese governance with vigorous vitality and created a new form of political civilization for humanity.

The legislative bodies of China and Sri Lanka maintain close exchanges and are continuously strengthening mutual learning and cooperation in legislation, oversight, democracy and other areas through mutual visits by delegations, exchanges among parliamentarians and other forms.

A Civilized China

China carries forward a cultural heritage spanning 5,000 years and continues to write new chapters in the new era. Traditional Chinese aesthetics and culture have become the hottest trend, while Wukong and Nezha, two iconic figures from Chinese mythology, have gained enormous popularity around the world. The ‘China Travel’ boom is sweeping across the globe, and the phrase ‘becoming Chinese’ has become increasingly popular on social media.

Cultural exchanges are an important pillar of China-Sri Lanka relations. The stories of Master Faxian’s journey to seek scriptures and spread the Dharma, and Master Tissara’s eastward voyage to preach Buddhist teachings have become enduring chapters in our shared history. The millennial Buddhist bond between China and Sri Lanka is deeply rooted in the hearts of our peoples. Today, the China Cultural Centre and Confucius Institutes promote Chinese culture and tell the stories of China-Sri Lanka friendship. Cultural events such as the ‘Happy Chinese New Year’ performances, the ‘Chinese Bridge’ Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign Students, the ‘Tea for Harmony’ Yaji Salon and the Dragon Boat Culture Festival have been warmly embraced by the Sri Lankan people, greatly promoting mutual enrichment between our two civilizations and bringing our peoples closer together.

A Happy China

China demonstrates its deep commitment to putting the people first and ensuring that every family is cared for. China has established the world’s largest education system, social security system and healthcare system, supporting millions of families. China’s historic battle to eliminate absolute poverty has been etched in history. A moderately prosperous society in all respects has been built and shared by all, giving the people a strong and stable sense of happiness and making every household vibrant with warmth and vitality.

Putting people first is also the warmest underlying theme of China-Sri Lanka friendship. The China-Sri Lanka Joint Research and Demonstration Centre for Water Technology is enabling more Sri Lankan people to enjoy safe and clean drinking water. China has donated school uniform materials for four consecutive years, benefiting more than 4.4 million students across the island. Livelihood assistance has made China-Sri Lanka friendship visible, tangible and deeply felt by the people.

A Beautiful China

China is firmly committed to the principle that ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets’ and strives to achieve harmony between humanity and nature. China has built the world’s largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, with total installed power generation capacity exceeding 4 billion kilowatts, ranking first in the world. Renewable energy accounts for 61 percent of total installed capacity.

Advanced technologies in solar power, wind power and energy storage are helping many countries turn their dreams of energy transition into reality. ‘Made in China’ is gaining popularity around the world. In the first half of this year, more than two million new energy vehicles were exported overseas, and electric vehicle brands such as BYD are gradually becoming part of the daily lives of ordinary Sri Lankans. China’s intelligent meteorological early-warning solution, ‘Mazu’, will be deployed in Sri Lanka, providing support for addressing climate change and enhancing disaster prevention and mitigation.

A Peaceful China

China shoulders its responsibilities with courage and follows the right path with steadfast commitment. President Xi Jinping has put forward the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity and the four major initiatives—the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Global Governance Initiative, responding to the fundamental question of our times: ‘Where is humanity headed?’ Head-of-state diplomacy has been vibrant and fruitful. President Xi Jinping has travelled to Kyrgyzstan to attend the SCO Summit and to India to attend the BRICS Summit, is paying a state visit to the United States, and will also attend major events including the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Shenzhen, injecting valuable certainty into the world. In July 2026, the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization was established in Shanghai. China’s proposals are contributing wisdom and strength to international scientific and technological cooperation and global governance.

Sri Lanka is an important founding member of the Non-Aligned Movement. The Fifth Conference of Heads of State or Government of Non-Aligned Countries, held in Sri Lanka in 1976, was also a landmark moment in Sri Lanka’s diplomatic history. China stands ready to work with Sri Lanka to practise true multilateralism and uphold international fairness and justice.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

China and Sri Lanka enjoy a time-honored traditional friendship, which continues to grow stronger over time. Two thousand years ago, the ancient ‘Silk Road’ witnessed ships sailing to and fro, weaving a splendid chapter of friendly exchanges between our two countries. More than 70 years ago, China and Sri Lanka defied pressure and overcame obstacles to sign the historic Rubber-Rice Pact, which bears witness to our solidarity and mutual support in times of adversity. Multilateralism is a precious legacy gained by humanity through the painful lessons of two world wars. The spirit of the Rubber-Rice Pact is also a valuable historical legacy for China and Sri Lanka, enabling our two countries to resist external interference and extend sincere mutual assistance.

China and Sri Lanka have consistently respected each other, treated each other as equals and stood by each other since the establishment of diplomatic ties. High-quality Belt and Road cooperation and exchanges in various fields have yielded fruitful outcomes and benefited the peoples of both countries.

No matter how the international situation evolves, China and Sri Lanka always remain true friends and good partners, standing together through thick and thin and placing trust in each other. In 2023, the Sri Lankan Navy travelled thousands of miles to assist in the search and rescue operation for the deep-sea fishing vessel Lupeng Yuanyu 028, which was a fishing vessel from my hometown. In March this year, Sri Lanka provided emergency medical treatment to a crew member of the Chinese scientific research vessel Shiyan 6 who suddenly fell ill.

China provided emergency assistance to Sri Lanka during the COVID-19 pandemic and in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. All these are vivid examples of our two countries standing together through difficult times. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Sri Lankan friends and hope to learn from you with sincerity.

Next year, we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Sri Lanka and the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Rubber-Rice Pact. In advancing China-Sri Lanka relations in the new era, we need to carry forward our traditions while breaking new ground, and uphold fundamental principles while making innovations. China stands ready to work with Sri Lanka to continue carrying forward the spirit of independence, self-reliance, solidarity and mutual assistance enshrined in the Rubber-Rice Pact, uphold the principles of ‘mutual respect, fairness and justice’, eliminate interference and meet challenges together, and implement the important common understandings reached by the leaders of our two countries with a pragmatic approach. Together, we will continue to advance our strategic cooperative partnership featuring sincere mutual assistance and everlasting friendship and build a China-Sri Lanka community with a shared future.

77 years of glorious endeavour have brought us this far. Let us continue the journey and write new chapters together.

I would like to propose a toast:

To the prosperity and strength of our great motherland,

To the lasting friendship between the peoples of China and Sri Lanka,

To the enduring peace and tranquility of the world,

And to the good health and happiness of all our distinguished guests and your families.

Cheers!

IMF: Sri Lanka shows resilience, but downside risk remains

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Sri Lanka’s economy has continued to show resilience amid successive shocks, but risks remain titled to the downside, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said after completion of its seventh review of the External Fund Facility (EFF) and Article IV Consultation.

IMF staff and the Sri Lankan authorities held discussions relating to the Seventh Review of the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), and the 2026 Article IV Consultation in the past two weeks.

“Discussions will continue in the near term toward reaching agreement on parameters and policies needed to conclude the Seventh Review,” the IMF said in a statement.

Mission Chief Evan Papageorgio said economy has grown for 11 consecutive quarter, inflationary expectations are broadly anchored despite over 8 percent in August, gross reserves have increased, banks remain capitalized, fiscal outturn for the first half of this year is strong, and debt structuring was “largely completed”.

“However, Sri Lanka continues to face downside risks from uncertainty over the duration and intensity of the Middle East war, global trade policy, and the impact of El Niño,” he said in a statement.

“Safeguarding macroeconomic stability in a shock-prone environment requires unwavering commitment to prudent policies and reforms to rebuild fiscal and external buffers, maintain price stability, and advance the governance agenda while strengthening social safety nets to protect the most vulnerable.”

“In this regard, it would be critical to develop and implement a medium-term revenue strategy to sustain revenue mobilization while improving the efficiency and fairness of the tax system. Steadfast efforts are needed to broaden the tax base and rationalize tax exemptions and incentives. Strengthening revenue administration would further improve tax compliance and support durable revenue gains.”

“Upholding cost-recovery energy pricing will help minimize fiscal risks arising from state-owned enterprises. It is also important to address bottlenecks to capital spending execution, including to accelerate cyclone Ditwah-related recovery and reconstruction.”

“Monetary policy should stand ready to address inflationary pressures and ensure price stability within the medium-term period in line with the flexible inflation targeting framework”.

” Greater exchange rate flexibility is key to absorbing shocks and supporting reserve accumulation. At the first statutory review, it would be prudent to maintain the 5 percent inflation target and the current accountability band. The current target preserves the flexibility Sri Lanka needs amid high food and energy price volatility, and once a track record of low and stable inflation is established, convergence toward a lower target could be considered at the next review,” he saiid.

Papageorgio said preserving the integrity of the anti-corruption legislative framework is critical to enhance public trust and said select clauses from the recently tabled amendments could weaken transparency and accountability.

“Shifting from stabilization to transformation requires sustained momentum on structural reforms to foster an enabling business environment and attract investment, including by liberalizing trade, modernizing business and labor regulations, broadening access to finance, and advancing digitalization. Ultimately, establishing a track record of sound policy and reform implementation will help strengthen resilience, durably restore confidence, and lift living standards through strong and inclusive growth as our research suggests.”

“The IMF team visited Jaffna and learned first-hand about the Northern Province’s economic potential. Discussions with the private sector and civil society highlighted opportunities to unlock growth and create jobs through investments in connectivity, skills, and sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and renewable energy, while strengthening social protection so that the benefits of Sri Lanka’s economic transformation are shared more broadly.”

Japan Sees Potential in KKS Port and Northern Economic Corridor

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Japan’s Ambassador to Sri Lanka, ISOMATA Akio, has reaffirmed Japan’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic development, social progress and efforts to further improve the human rights situation during a series of engagements in the Northern Province.

During a meeting with Nagalingam Vedanayagam, Governor of the Northern Province, the Ambassador discussed a range of issues affecting the people of the North, including land-related concerns and the issue of missing persons.

The two sides also exchanged views on the future development of the region and explored ways to stimulate economic growth in the province.

Particular attention was given to the potential benefits that the Northern Province could derive from the proposed Export-Oriented Industrial Corridor promoted by Japan. The Ambassador noted that such initiatives could create new opportunities for investment, employment and economic expansion in the region.

As part of his visit, Ambassador Isomata also met with representatives of families of missing persons and listened to their concerns.

The Japanese envoy further visited several major infrastructure facilities in the Northern Province. During a visit to Kankesanthurai Port, he observed current operations and highlighted the port’s potential to make a greater contribution to the region’s future economic development.

At Jaffna International Airport in Palaly, the Ambassador toured the Plant Quarantine Station, where equipment provided by Japan, including microscopes, laminar flow cabinets, autoclaves and incubators, is currently in use. He noted the facility’s potential to support regional connectivity, agricultural development and economic growth.

The visit also included a stop at the iconic Jaffna Public Library, where Ambassador Isomata was accompanied by Mayor V. Maivadani. He acknowledged the library’s continuing importance as a centre of knowledge, learning and cultural heritage for the people of the North.

The Ambassador also held discussions with representatives of the Jaffna Chamber of Commerce, exchanging views on ways to strengthen private sector activity and promote sustainable economic development in the region.

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SJB stuns critics with massive turnout at anti-22A rally

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Thousands of opposition supporters braved torrential rain to march through Battaramulla on Thursday (24), demanding the government scrap the proposed 22nd Constitutional Amendment.

The protest, organised by the main opposition Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), began this morning at Polduwa Junction and moved towards the parliamentary access road, drawing activists, party members and civil society representatives despite earlier claims that several opposition groups would stay away.

Security forces deployed additional personnel around Polduwa Junction as the protest got under way, and the resulting congestion brought traffic in the surrounding area to a near standstill for much of the morning.

The heavy police presence reflected concerns that the crowd, which had swelled considerably despite the poor weather, could disrupt access to Parliament.

The SJB has stressed that any reform to the Constitution must be preceded by extensive public consultation, input from legal experts and safeguards for democratic norms.

Speaking ahead of the march, Opposition Leader Sajith Premadasa said the proposed amendment threatened to significantly undermine the country’s democratic institutions, judicial independence and the rule of law.

He noted that despite the government commanding a two-thirds majority in Parliament, the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights and the independence of state institutions remained essential pillars of any functioning democracy.

The SJB has maintained that governing power ought not to be concentrated in a single political centre and that the checks and balances built into the Constitution needed to operate as originally intended.

Several described the amendment as a direct challenge to the institutional balance that underpins the country’s governance framework.

SJB members said that the scale of Thursday’s turnout, achieved despite adverse weather and predictions of a limited showing, has strengthened their resolve to escalate its campaign against the 22nd amendment.

2 female Navy officers arrested over 2008 disappearance, sexual harassment charges

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Two female officers of the Navy have been arrested over their alleged involvement in the abduction and disappearance of two Tamil women in Trincomalee in 2008.

The CID is investigating the case of Sasikumar Thenmoli and Mary Delshia of Kinniya, who were reportedly detained and tortured at ‘Gun Site’ underground prison within the Trincomalee Naval Base and subsequently went missing.

The facility was reportedly operated by a special intelligence unit under the command of the then Commadore D.K.P. Dassanayake.

It had been responsible for detaining suspected LTTE members and Tamils abducted in Colombo and elsewhere for ransom, it is alleged.

Complaints received many years ago

The CID had received complaints many years ago about the involvement of the two female officers, Lt. Commander Deepika Sandamali and Petty officer Aruni Dinusha, in the disappearance of the two Tamil women.

Making submissions to the Trincomalee magistrate’s court, the CID said the two accused have been questioned several times over the allegations against them.

Four male Navy officers have also been implicated in the alleged crime as per accounts of another ‘Gun Site’ inmate who has testified.

The two Tamil women had been taken in a white van, and nothing was heard about them since, according to the eyewitness.

Sexual harassment accusations

Brothers and other relatives of the two women too, had been detained and tortured there, according to evidence submitted to courts.

The two female officers have also been accused of sexual harassment of male inmates, who had been taken out of their cells, forced to “remove their sarongs and masturbate”.

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Sri Lanka Easter attacks convicts to challenge 200-year jail terms

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INDIA TODAY – Fifteen people convicted over Sri Lanka’s 2019 Easter Sunday suicide attacks will challenge their jail terms of more than 200 years each, a defence lawyer said on Wednesday. The attacks, carried out by nine suicide bombers from the local Islamist extremist group National Thawheed Jamaat, linked to ISIS, had targeted three Catholic churches and three luxury hotels on April 21, 2019.

Nearly 270 people, including 11 Indians, were killed in the bombings and more than 500 were injured. On Tuesday, a three-judge High Court Trial-at-Bar found 15 of the 24 accused guilty of involvement in the attacks and handed each of them prison terms of more than 200 years.

The bench comprised Judges Navaratne Marasinghe, Ramanathan Kannan and Sujeewa Nissanka. Defence counsel Kneel Maddumage, who appeared for seven of the accused, said the convictions and the record jail terms would be challenged in the Supreme Court after the relevant documents are received.

“Some of the defendants are not represented by counsel, but I requested on behalf of all the convicts that they be provided with copies of the proceedings to file their appeals,” Maddumage said.

Initially, 25 people were charged over their role in the bombings. After one of the accused died, 24 were indicted in October 2021. A total of 23,270 charges were brought against them, and 2,309 witnesses testified for the prosecution.

Catholic Church spokesman Father Jude Krishantha welcomed the verdict and said it had brought a sense of justice to the victims. “We feel satisfied because the relatives of those who died were expecting justice,” Krishantha said.

In July, former defence ministry bureaucrat Hemasiri Fernando and former police chief Pujith Jayasundara were sentenced to death for failing to act on prior intelligence that could have prevented the attacks. The bombings had triggered a political storm, with then President Maithripala Sirisena and then Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe blamed for failing to prevent them despite prior intelligence being available.

A presidential panel appointed by Sirisena after the attacks later found the then president guilty of failing to prevent them, though Sirisena pleaded not guilty in the case filed after the panel’s findings. In 2023, Sirisena and the top defence hierarchy were also ordered to pay multiple millions of rupees as compensation to the families of the blast victims, as the case continues to shape accountability for the Easter Sunday attacks.

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BASL Calls For MPs To Vote Freely On 22A

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The Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL) has called on all political parties represented in Parliament to allow Members of Parliament to vote according to their conscience when theTwenty-Second Amendment to the Constitution Bill is taken up for consideration.

In a statement issued following the Supreme Court’s determination on the Bill, the BASL noted that the Court had ruled that the proposed amendment does not require approval by the people at a referendum.

The BASL stressed that the determination should not be interpreted as a judgment on whether the amendment represents good or bad policy, whether it is desirable or undesirable, or whether Parliament should ultimately enact it.

The Association pointed out that Sri Lanka’s constitutional history has seen numerous amendments that met constitutional requirements but nevertheless had adverse consequences for democracy, constitutionalism, judicial independence and the rule of law.

According to the BASL, the responsibility now rests entirely with Parliament and each individual Member of Parliament to decide whether the proposed amendment should be enacted.

In making that decision, MPs should carefully consider the possible and probable consequences of the amendment, as well as concerns regarding the lack of transparency and the absence of a comprehensive consultative process in its introduction.

The BASL urged all political parties to permit MPs to speak and vote freely on the amendment and stated that lawmakers should adopt a principled position based on their constitutional responsibilities, representative role and duty to the sovereign people of Sri Lanka.

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Sri Lanka tables new anti-terror bill to replace PTA with court oversight, detention limits

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Sri Lanka has gazetted a new Protection of the State from Terrorism Bill, which will repeal its controversial Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and replace it with a legal framework that introduces judicial oversight, detention limits, review mechanisms and safeguards for media, protest and dissent.

The bill was published in a Gazette Supplement dated September 22.

If enacted, offences causing death could carry life imprisonment, while other terrorism offences could attract prison terms of up to 20 years and fines of up to 20 million rupees.

The proposed law criminalises joining or supporting proscribed organisations, recruitment, funding, terrorist training, dissemination of publications intended to induce terrorism and withholding information relating to terrorist offences.

Participation in protests, advocacy, dissent, strikes, lockouts or humanitarian and medical activities would not by itself be sufficient grounds to infer terrorism-related intent.

Arrested suspects must be produced before a magistrate within 48 hours, unlike under the PTA.

Detention orders can be issued for up to two months at a time by the Defence Ministry Secretary, but extension beyond two months needs High Court approval.

The total detention period under detention orders cannot exceed one year from the date of the initial order.

The bill also establishes an Independent Review Committee, chaired by a retired Supreme Court or Court of Appeal judge, to review detention orders and recommend whether they should be confirmed, varied or revoked.

Magistrates would be required to see suspects in camera, monitor their wellbeing and order medical examinations where there are allegations or suspicions of torture or ill-treatment.

Authorities would be required to notify next of kin, the Human Rights Commission and the Inspector General of Police of arrests.

The Human Rights Commission would be entitled to make unannounced inspections of approved detention facilities, while magistrates would be required to visit detention centres monthly.

The bill states that suspects must be treated humanely and granted access to lawyers and relatives.

Statements made to magistrates would be admissible only if procedural safeguards are met, including judicial medical examinations before and after recording statements.

The bill provides exemptions for journalism, academic research, legal proceedings, artistic expression and public-interest communications.

It states that ‘fair’ and ‘accurate’ reporting, commentary or analysis by journalists and media organisations, academic work, civil society advocacy and legitimate political discourse should not in themselves constitute offences under provisions dealing with inducement to terrorism or terrorist publications.

The bill retains powers for the President to proscribe organisations believed to be engaged in acts amounting to terrorism.

The bill formally repeals the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act No. 48 of 1979, though ongoing investigations, trials and prosecutions initiated under the PTA would continue under transitional provisions.

The government says the new legislation seeks to balance national security requirements with constitutional rights, judicial oversight and international human rights standards.

Parliament will have to debate and approve the bill before it becomes law.

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Easter Sunday Convict Claims ‘Real Culprits Are Still Free’ After 200-Year Sentence

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One of the convicts sentenced in the Easter Sunday attacks case told open court that those truly responsible for the 2019 terror attacks remain at large and that he is prepared to provide evidence if given the opportunity to assist in delivering justice.

The statement was made by the sixth accused, Mohamed Anwar Mohamed Riskan alias Abu Thariq, after he was convicted and sentenced to 200 years’ imprisonment in the landmark Easter Sunday attacks case.

Making a plea for leniency after being found guilty, Riskan told the court that those who committed the wrongdoing should be punished, while maintaining that he and his family had not committed any offence.

The verdict in the long-running Easter Sunday case was delivered on Tuesday (22) night by a three-judge bench of the Colombo High Court comprising Navaratna Marasinghe, Ramanathan Kannan and Sujeewa Nissanka. Riskan was found guilty of the charges against him and sentenced to 200 years’ imprisonment.

Throughout the trial, Riskan did not make any statements before the court and was not represented by legal counsel. It was only during his mitigation plea before sentencing that he addressed the court.

During his statement, Riskan said:

“My family has done nothing wrong to the victims. Allah knows we have done nothing wrong. Something happened and we became caught up in it. There is no smoke without fire. The people who should be held responsible for this are still outside enjoying their freedom. Those who are outside and connected to this incident are living with this burden over their heads. If I am given one opportunity to ensure justice, I will speak for the sake of justice. Why have we been placed in this position for something we did not do? A wrong has happened, but we did not do it. Those who committed the crime must definitely be punished. I have never seen a trial like this before. My wife is suffering from cancer. My mother is 75 years old. My sister has completed her Ordinary Level examinations. But I do not think about those things. I am completely at peace. I am willing to give evidence regarding this incident. That means ensuring justice.”

The verdict was delivered unanimously by the three-member High Court bench.

Of the 24 accused who stood trial, 15 were convicted and handed prison sentences ranging from 200 to 260 years, while nine others were acquitted after the court determined that the charges against them had not been proven beyond reasonable doubt.

Explaining the judgment, High Court Judge Navaratna Marasinghe said the indictment alleged that the accused had committed punishable offences under the Prevention of Terrorism Act, including conspiracy to carry out the attacks, aiding and abetting, promoting extremist ideology and creating discord among communities.

The judge noted that the court paid particular attention to evidence relating to extremist sermons delivered before the attacks, weapons training programmes and the maintenance of safe houses used in furtherance of the activities.

The court also observed that individuals involved in a conspiracy do not need to be physically present in the same place. A person may become part of a conspiracy directly or indirectly, at the beginning, middle or end of the operation, and anyone involved in such a manner becomes a participant in that conspiracy.

Judge Marasinghe further stated that the court carefully considered the defence statements made by the accused and rejected the explanations offered by the first, second, third, fourth and fifth accused, observing that those statements appeared to have been made after consideration of the seriousness of the allegations against them.

The trial commenced before the Permanent Trial-at-Bar on October 10, 2023, and concluded on August 24 this year after extensive proceedings.

A total of 23,270 charges were filed against the 24 accused. The prosecution called 2,309 witnesses during the proceedings, making it one of the largest and most complex criminal trials in Sri Lanka’s history.

The court accepted as evidence ten confessional statements made by the accused to police under the Prevention of Terrorism Act after determining that they had been given voluntarily.

The prosecution also submitted Government Analyst reports, DNA reports and judicial medical reports relating to victims who died in the attacks.

In a significant aspect of the trial, the prosecution presented 2,076 productions, including explosives, chemicals used for manufacturing explosives, swords and firearms.

The court also gave significant attention to video footage contained in a pen drive submitted as evidence by the prosecution. The footage showed eight individuals, including Zahran Hashim, and the court heard evidence identifying the persons featured in the recordings.

The videos had been recorded on the day before the Easter Sunday attacks of April 21, 2019. In the footage, individuals were heard making statements including:

“We are coming with bombs strapped to us and smiling. Tomorrow we will do this.”

Evidence was also led relating to the group making a bay’ah declaration while displaying an ISIS flag. The footage had been recorded at a location identified as Span Tower in Mount Lavinia.

The court concluded that the footage demonstrated the extremist ideology held by Zahran and members of his group.

During submissions, Senior Deputy Solicitor General Haripriya Jayasundara recalled the impact of the evidence presented during the trial.

“Your Lordship, we examined the video footage on a large screen in court. The contents alone helped explain why this attack took place. It was a carefully planned series of attacks. During this trial, I often felt as though the hands of the clock should move faster because the evidence was so painful. From the 163rd minute of the footage, witness Anas identified the main individual. He had previously attended Zahran’s training camps. I am happy to see how he changed course completely. During his testimony, he told the court that what was taught in those classes was hatred and anger. Can one group of people take away the happiness of others?”

Under the order of the Permanent Trial-at-Bar, Mohamed Ibrahim Mohamed Naufar alias Naufar Moulavi and 14 other accused were sentenced to prison terms ranging from 200 to 260 years.

The 18th accused, Yaseen Bawa Abdul Rauf, died in prison during the course of the trial.

Following the verdict, the court ordered that parties be provided copies of the proceedings free of charge and informed them of their right to appeal the judgment.

The 15 convicted individuals and the nine acquitted accused were escorted back to prison under heavy security at around 2 a.m. on Wednesday (23).

Authorities said the release of those acquitted would depend on the status of any other legal proceedings pending against them.

Easter attacks verdict not the end, full truth must still be uncovered: Fr. Jude Krishantha

Posted on | by TELO Admin

The Catholic Church has welcomed the court verdict against those convicted in connection with the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, but says the judgment should not be considered the end of efforts to uncover the full circumstances behind the bombings.

Speaking to reporters, Director of Mass Communications for the Archdiocese of Colombo, Rev. Fr. Jude Krishantha Fernando, said the Church was satisfied that a verdict had been delivered after victims and their families had waited for years for justice.

He said the judgment would also send a strong message against religious extremism, stressing that religion should never be distorted to justify violence.

However, Fr. Krishantha said those convicted represented only one part of the case and called for investigations to continue into whether others were involved in facilitating the attacks or allowing them to take place.

He alleged that intelligence and security officials had sufficient information to prevent the attacks but failed to act, and called for investigators to establish whether there was any wider involvement or motive behind that failure.

Previous official inquiries have examined the handling of advanced intelligence, while the Supreme Court has also ruled on fundamental rights petitions concerning failures by senior officials.

Fr. Krishantha also called for further legal action, where supported by evidence, against individuals identified in previous investigations and commission recommendations, saying the Church would consider the justice process complete only after all those responsible for the attacks and any related failures were properly investigated.

The Church has consistently called for investigations to identify whether there were additional individuals behind the attacks and for those responsible to be prosecuted.