International

At least 21 people have died in a fire at a hotel in South Delhi's Malviya Nagar this morning. According

Zhang Yiming, the founder of ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, has overtaken Indian business magnate Mukesh Ambani to become Asia's

Air traffic at Kuwait International Airport was suspended and flights diverted to nearby airports after Iranian missiles and drones struck

Iran said it targeted American bases in the region and a vessel near the Strait of Hormuz in response to

More commonly known as the home of Santa Claus and for its landscapes reminiscent of the magical world of Narnia,

Sri Lanka is set to establish direct air connectivity with Australia through Jetstar Airways beginning in August 2026.Foreign Minister Wijitha Herath announced the development following his official visits to Australia and New Zealand.The introduction of direct Jetstar flights between Colombo and Australia is expected to significantly boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges.Jetstar Airways Pty Ltd, trading as Jetstar, is an Australian low-cost airline headquartered in Melbourne, Victoria.

Sri Lanka has successfully advanced diplomatic efforts to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest free trade agreement, according to Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.The announcement came following his official visits to Australia and New Zealand, where both nations expressed full support for Sri Lanka's membership bid.Speaking after concluding his tour and visiting the Sri Lankan High Commission in Canberra, Minister Herath highlighted that the discussions marked a significant step forward in the country's path to integration with the Asia-Pacific's economic framework. Australia and New Zealand, both founding members of RCEP, pledged to back Sri Lanka's accession to the bloc.RCEP, established with the participation of 15 nations, represents nearly half of the global population and a major share of world economic output.The agreement includes the 10 ASEAN countries, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, alongside economic powerhouses Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China, and South Korea.Sri Lanka's entry into RCEP is expected to open new avenues for trade, investment, and regional cooperation, strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific economic landscape.

The Indian Naval Ship INS Airavat arrived at the Port of Colombo on June 1, 2026, for an Operational Turnaround, where it was ceremonially welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in line with longstanding naval traditions.INS Airavat, a Landing Ship Tank commanded by Commander I.P. Patil, is designed for amphibious operations and logistical support.Its arrival highlights the continuing cooperation and goodwill between the Indian Navy and the Sri Lanka Navy.During their stay, the ship's crew will participate in a series of professionally enriching engagements and camaraderie-building programs organized by the Sri Lanka Navy.In addition, Indian naval personnel are scheduled to tour several historic and prominent tourist attractions across the island, further strengthening cultural and people-to-people ties.

The Sri Lanka Navy formally welcomed three Pakistan Navy units, the frigates PNS Taimur and PNS Aslat, along with the submarine PNS/M Hangor, as they arrived at the Port of Colombo on June 1, 2026.The visit is part of a goodwill mission and replenishment stop.The visiting vessels are commanded by senior officers: Captain Niamat Saeed Khan aboard PNS Taimur, Captain Nadir Mateen Afridi aboard PNS Aslat, and Captain Uzair Farooq aboard PNS/M Hangor.During their stay, crew members are scheduled to tour key cultural and historical sites across Sri Lanka, fostering people-to-people connections alongside naval cooperation.The visit will conclude with a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) conducted off Sri Lanka's western coast, where the Pakistan Navy units will engage in joint maneuvers with the Sri Lanka Navy. This exercise is expected to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime security collaboration between the two nations.

Australia's AirTrunk has signed a letter of intent for land ​allotment in India's western state ‌of Maharashtra for a data

India has introduced some key changes in immigration rules, aimed at easing compliance while tightening procedural clarity. The Ministry of

Meta, owner of Instagram, Facebook and WhatsApp, announced it resolved a major security flaw in its artificial intelligence support assistant

Food sellers on Chinese delivery platforms must have physical shopfronts and indicate if they do not offer dine-in services under

Sri Lanka must undertake deep and sustained structural reforms to break free from its long-standing middle-income trap and transition into an upper-middle-income economy, according to the International Monetary Fund's Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou.Speaking in response to a question raised by News 1st journalist Zulfick Farzan on the country's long-term economic trajectory, Papageorgiou emphasized that the challenge extends far beyond short-term recovery and requires a fundamental transformation of the country's economic structure.He noted that boosting Sri Lanka's growth potential will depend heavily on improving productivity and driving higher levels of investment across key sectors of the economy.Papageorgiou highlighted that reforming the business environment stands as a top priority, stressing the importance of simplifying regulations, strengthening property rights, and fostering greater market competition to attract both local and foreign investors."Lifting the country's growth potential and moving toward upper-middle-income status requires deep structural reforms that address productivity and investment," he said.A key factor identified by the IMF is the need to expand foreign direct investment (FDI), which Papageorgiou stated remains relatively low in Sri Lanka. He warned that limited FDI inflows continue to hinder technology transfer, innovation, and job creation, all critical components of sustainable economic growth.Another major reform area outlined is economic diversification. Currently, Sri Lanka's export base is heavily reliant on sectors such as textiles and agriculture. Papageorgiou stressed the necessity of moving toward high-value industries, supported by improved skills development and innovation capacity.Governance reforms were also pointed out as essential, with Papageorgiou pointing to the need to reduce corruption risks and strengthen institutional frameworks in order to build investor confidence and improve economic stability.He further highlighted the importance of modernizing key sectors such as electricity, noting that although legislative changes, including the amended Electricity Act, have laid the groundwork, further improvements in efficiency and reliability are required to support long-term growth.Infrastructure development was identified as another critical pillar, with Papageorgiou emphasizing the role of enhanced public financial management practices in ensuring efficient use of resources and better outcomes for large-scale projects.Reflecting on Sri Lanka's progress, Papageorgiou acknowledged that important groundwork has already been laid by authorities, who continue to receive guidance from the IMF and other development partners.However, he stressed that sustained commitment and strong policy implementation will be vital to achieving the desired economic transformation."These reforms collectively will help break historical constraints and set a foundation for higher, more inclusive growth. But there needs to be strong commitment and effort," he said.

Sri Lanka has renewed its push to attract global investment, with Western Province Governor Hanif Yusoof engaging in high-level discussions in Washington D.C. aimed at strengthening economic ties with the United States and positioning the country as a competitive investment destination.In a statement shared following the meeting, Governor Yusoof said he met with US Under Secretary of State Jacob Helberg at the US Department of State, marking his first official engagement during his visit to the United States focused on promoting Sri Lanka's investment potential.Describing the discussions as "substantive and forward-looking," Yusoof said the talks centered on deepening bilateral economic cooperation and exploring opportunities for US investment in key sectors critical to Sri Lanka's next phase of growth.He highlighted strategic areas such as ports, logistics, energy, and data centres as sectors where American investment and technological expertise could play a transformative role in accelerating Sri Lanka's economic recovery and long-term development.Emphasizing lessons from Sri Lanka's 2022 economic crisis, Yusoof noted that the country's path forward depends on greater openness and stronger international engagement. He said President Anura Kumara Dissanayake remains committed to building a more open, competitive, and investment-ready economy, aimed at restoring confidence among global investors.Yusoof, who also serves as the President's Special Envoy for Foreign Investment, stated that his role is to clearly communicate Sri Lanka's economic potential to international partners, investors, and stakeholders.He acknowledged that Sri Lanka has historically been overlooked on the global stage due to its size but stressed that the country's strategic location, institutional strengths, and ability to connect regional economies offer advantages that go beyond geography and population.The Governor expressed optimism following his meeting, noting that Under Secretary Helberg demonstrated a strong understanding of Sri Lanka's opportunities and showed interest in advancing cooperation to fast-track investment and growth.He further underscored that the United States and Sri Lanka have a unique opportunity to build a stronger economic partnership rooted not only in trade and investment but also in shared values and mutual confidence.Looking ahead, Yusoof said he is keen to continue engagement with U.S. counterparts in a "practical and results-oriented way," while expressing hope that Under Secretary Helberg would visit Sri Lanka to witness firsthand the country's economic potential.

Ten TH-57 'Sea Ranger' multi-role helicopters granted by the United States Government have arrived in the country by sea.These helicopters are a grant by the Government of the United States of America to the Sri Lanka Air Force.The arrival of the helicopters represents a key step in enhancing the operational strength and training capacity of the Sri Lanka Air Force, while further strengthening bilateral ties between Sri Lanka and the United States in the areas of security cooperation.According to officials, the aircraft are currently undergoing configuration and technical preparations at the Sri Lanka Air Force Base in Ratmalana.Once the necessary inspections, acceptance procedures, and test flights are completed, the helicopters will be formally inducted into active service.The newly acquired TH-57 'Sea Ranger' fleet is expected to play a vital role in modernizing the Air Force's aviation training programmes, particularly in the development of new pilots and strengthening overall flight readiness.Beyond training purposes, the helicopters will also be deployed for a wide range of national operations, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR), search and rescue (SAR) missions, and other public service duties carried out by the Sri Lanka Air Force.

Sri Lanka has identified 23 high-profile individuals involved in organized crime and international drug trafficking operations who are currently evading arrest while residing overseas, Public Security Minister Ananda Wijepala revealed.The Minister stated that intelligence findings indicate these narcotics traffickers are primarily based in countries across the Middle East, operating extensive criminal networks that extend into Sri Lanka.According to the minister, while these top-tier figures remain abroad, their second and third-level operatives continue to function within the country, facilitating drug distribution and coordinating underworld activities."Twenty-three leading drug traffickers involved in narcotics operations have now been identified. These individuals are not residing in our country; they are living overseas, particularly in Middle Eastern countries. Their second and third-level operatives are the ones operating within Sri Lanka," said the Minister.He said that law enforcement agencies have gathered comprehensive intelligence on these high-level traffickers, including the nature of their operations and their links to organized crime."We have conducted in-depth analysis and are taking all necessary steps to bring them within the reach of the law. A significant number have already been brought back to the country, and legal action is currently being taken against them," he added.According to the Minister, in the coming days and in the future, special investigative teams will be deployed even to those foreign countries to ensure these individuals are apprehended.

Sri Lanka's Minister Vijitha Herath met with the Speaker of the Parliament of Australia, Milton Dick, during an official engagement aimed at strengthening parliamentary cooperation and bilateral relations between the two nations.Sharing details of the meeting, Herath said he was honoured to pay a courtesy call on the Australian Speaker, describing the discussions as constructive and forward-looking."I was honoured to pay a courtesy call on the Speaker of the Parliament of Australia, Hon. Milton Dick. We had an engaging discussion on strengthening parliamentary relations between Sri Lanka and Australia and enhancing bilateral ties on areas of mutual interest. Looking forward to observing the Question Time at the Parliament shortly," he stated.The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to deepen diplomatic engagement and collaboration between Sri Lanka and Australia, particularly through parliamentary exchanges and shared interests.

Sri Lankan families living legally in the UK are among those who have received letters from the United Kingdom (UK)

Sri Lanka has issued a strong call for global cooperation and stability amid rising geopolitical tensions, warning that the rapidly emerging multi-polar world order presents both opportunities and serious risks to international peace and security.Speaking on the evolving global landscape, Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), pointed out that the international system is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the rise of multiple centres of power. He noted that this shift is significantly reshaping political, economic, technological and security dynamics across the world.While the transition toward a multi-polar framework could potentially foster greater global balance and inclusivity, he cautioned that intensifying competition among major powers, increasing geopolitical rivalries and the erosion of multilateral cooperation are contributing to heightened uncertainty in the global security environment.The Defence Secretary stressed that modern security challenges are no longer limited to traditional military threats. He pointed out that non-traditional risks such as cyber attacks, terrorism, violent extremism, transnational crime networks, disinformation campaigns and the misuse of emerging technologies are increasingly influencing global stability. These threats, he said, are further compounded by economic volatility, food and energy insecurity, and climate-related disasters, particularly affecting developing nations and smaller states.He underscored that the interconnected nature of these challenges demands a broader understanding of security that goes beyond conventional defence frameworks.Highlighting Sri Lanka's strategic geographic position, Thuyacontha emphasized that developments in the Indian Ocean region are of particular importance. He noted that the region is rapidly gaining geopolitical and economic significance as global power competition expands into the Indo-Pacific.Amid these developments, Sri Lanka has reiterated its longstanding position that the Indian Ocean must remain a zone of peace, cooperation and shared prosperity. The Defence Secretary stressed the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and upholding international law as essential components of both regional and global stability.He further called for constructive engagement, mutual respect and dialogue among nations to prevent escalating tensions from leading to conflict. According to him, no single country can effectively address the complex and evolving security challenges of today.Issues such as maritime security, cybercrime, terrorism and climate-related risks, he said, require strengthened international cooperation, intelligence sharing and coordinated global action.Reaffirming Sri Lanka's foreign policy stance, the Defence Secretary noted that the country remains committed to principles of non-alignment and peaceful coexistence while maintaining balanced and friendly relations with all nations.He also highlighted the critical role smaller states can play in promoting dialogue, building trust and supporting stability in an increasingly fragmented global environment.Thuyacontha emphasized that the rise of a multi-polar world should not divide the international community but instead serve as an opportunity to build a more inclusive and cooperative global order based on mutual respect, shared responsibility and solidarity.

Sri Lanka has achieved a critical milestone in its economic recovery programme, with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) confirming that the country has successfully met cost recovery pricing for both electricity and fuel, aligning with key reform targets under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF).The confirmation came in response to a question raised by News 1st's Zulfick Farzan, who sought clarity on whether the Central Bank's recent assertion on electricity pricing aligns with IMF programme benchmarks.Responding directly, IMF Mission Chief for Sri Lanka, Evan Papageorgiou, affirmed that cost recovery has indeed been achieved, describing it as a core commitment under the ongoing IMF-supported reform programme. He stated that restoring cost-reflective pricing mechanisms for both electricity and fuel has been a central pillar of Sri Lanka's economic adjustment efforts and confirmed that authorities have fulfilled the required conditions.Papageorgiou further noted that the implementation of these pricing adjustments was a key precondition for the IMF to proceed with its latest Executive Board review.According to him, Sri Lankan authorities have demonstrated full commitment to ensuring that energy pricing reflects actual costs, marking a significant step toward stabilizing public finances.He acknowledged that earlier this year, global economic pressures, particularly rising commodity and oil prices, delayed necessary adjustments, creating a temporary gap between actual costs and consumer tariffs. This resulted in a short-lived subsidy burden on both electricity and fuel sectors.However, he explained that corrective actions taken in recent months successfully addressed this imbalance. Fuel prices were revised upward in line with global market rates, while electricity tariffs underwent a second increase, averaging around 11 percent, as part of prior actions tied to the combined fifth and sixth reviews of the IMF programme."These measures together have brought both fuel and electricity tariffs back in line with cost recovery levels," Papageorgiou said, emphasizing that Sri Lanka is now back on track with its pricing reforms.Looking ahead, the IMF has underscored the importance of maintaining transparent and cost-reflective pricing mechanisms. Papageorgiou stated that the government has committed to continuing timely adjustments to fuel prices, including petrol and diesel, and electricity tariffs to reflect fluctuations in global energy costs.He confirmed that current pricing formulas are now being applied as intended, ensuring sufficient revenue generation to cover production, import, and operational expenses within the energy sector.Addressing concerns about the public impact of rising energy costs, Papageorgiou noted that a temporary fuel subsidy introduced in April remains in place to cushion the effects of recent price increases. He clarified that this subsidy is time-bound and has been factored into the national budget.

Malaysia on Monday began enforcing rules barring millions of children younger than 16 from owning social media accounts, joining a

The United States bombed Iranian radar and drone control sites in Iran after Tehran shot down an American MQ-1 Predator

A devastating explosion has killed at least 55 people and wounded dozens more in a village in a region of Myanmar under insurgent control.A source familiar with the situation on the ground in Kaung Tat, a village in Namkham Township in Shan State, near the Chinese border, said 25 women and 30 men had died. Other reports gave slightly different figures.A huge cloud of smoke could be seen billowing over the village shortly after the blast occurred on Sunday.The Ta'ang National Liberation Army (TNLA), which controls the area and has been fighting the military junta, said explosives used in mining and quarrying had gone off.The "accidental explosion" occurred around 12:00 local time (05:30 GMT) on Sunday, according to a TNLA statement quoted by news agency AFP.Source: BBC

An 18-year-old Sri Lankan Tamil refugee was killed after a bar brawl escalated into a fatal hit-and-run in Chennai's Koyambedu