The Finance Ministry has entered into a much-delayed contract with Theekshana, the research and development unit of the University of Colombo, to design and implement an electronic Government procurement (e-GP) system to replace paper.

With last week’s appointment of a special committee to probe alleged corrupt practices of the former State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC) Chairman, the procurement of questionable Russian-made oncology drugs at enormous cost during the then Health Minister’s tenure will come under the microscope, health officials said.

India’s MDMK leader Vaiko on Saturday criticised the Centre’s move to give Sri Lanka Rs 2,800 crore development assistance and Rs 350 crore for counter-terrorism activities.

Parliamentarian Sajith Premadasa says the alleged abduction of a local staff member attached to the Embassy of Switzerland in Colombo has left a black mark on the country’s history of diplomacy.

Reaffirming commitment to the Ottawa Convention, Canada yesterday announced $8.3 million to support mine-affected communities including $2 million for landmine clearance in northern Sri Lanka.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa said he was awaiting a report on the alleged detention and questioning of a staff member of the Swiss Embassy in Colombo recently.

Speaker Karu Jayasuriya, MP, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Constitutional Council has advised Chairman of the Election Commission (EC) Mahinda Deshapriya to remain in office. Speaker Jayasuriya asserted that Deshapriya’s services were required to conduct the forthcoming crucial parliamentary and Provincial Council polls.

India will lend Sri Lanka $400 million for infrastructure projects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday after talks with the island nation’s new President Gotabaya Rajapaksa aimed at improving bilateral ties.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Friday said he would strive to take his country’s bilateral relationship with India to a “very high level”.

The Supreme Court today issued an interim order directing the Controller of Immigration and Emigration to prevent Royal Park murder convict Shramantha Jude Jayamaha, who was released on a presidential pardon, from leaving the country until December 11.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa will hold talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi today.

The President’s Media Division (PMD) yesterday warned the people to be aware of individuals who promise perks including job appointments and tenders by impersonating as close associates of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

International Relations State Minister Susil Premajayantha said all steps will be taken by his ministry to safeguard Sri Lanka’s independence and sovereignty in a manner that would prevent any international interference in its domestic affairs.

Indian Rajya Sabha MP and MDMK Chief Vaiko and his supporters were detained by the Delhi police on Thursday (28) near Jantar Mantar, during protests against the visit of Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa.

President Gotabaya Rajapaksa left for India, making his first overseas visit as the President.

A six-member committee has been appointed on a directive of President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa to submit recommendations on the appointment of qualified and suitable persons to Statutory Boards and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), Presidential Media Unit said.