RESTRICTIONS ON IMPORTS ON SEVERAL ITEMS RELAXED

Import restrictions on several items eased

The government has eased import restrictions on several items with effect from yesterday (23).

Accordingly, import restrictions on tiles, ceramics, perfume, air conditioners, refrigerators, washing machines among other items were eased.

A Gazette Notification in this regard has been issued by State Minister of Finance Ranjith Siyambalapitiya.

NEWS

Bhanuka released from ODI squad

All-rounder Bhanuka Rajapaksa has decided to withdraw from the Sri Lankan ODI squad named for the series against Afghanistan.

“Decided to withdraw from the ODi squad in hope to recover and refresh both physically and mentally,” had Tweeted.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced a list of 16 players that will take part in the upcoming ODI series against Afghanistan beginning November 25, with all three games set to take place at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy. However, the squad is still pending approval from the country’s Ministry of Sports and Youth Affairs.

Sri Lanka’s squad for Afghanistan ODI series: Dasun Shanaka (C), Pathum Nissanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Charith Asalanka, Dinesh Chandimal, Kusal Mendis, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dunith Wellalage, Dananjaya Lakshan, Kasun Rajitha, Maheesh Theekshana, Pramod Madushan, Asitha Fernando, Ashen Bandara, Lahiru Kumara, Bhanuka Rajapaksa*

In a Tweet, the SLC has said that Bhanuka’s name will be released from the squad following his request.

NEWS

Oman embassy official’s diplomatic passport, revoked

The diplomatic passport of the third secretary of the Sri Lanka Embassy in Oman, who has been accused of his involvement in the human trafficking racket to Oman, has been revoked.

The move was confirmed by the Sri Lanka Foreign Employment Bureau.

Steps have been taken to bring down the individual.

Doubts raised over interview of suspended Oman embassy official