Srilanka

Prosperity requires us to move even more decisively in the direction of more democracy, more reconciliation, more rule-of- law, more depoliticization, more openness, more competition and more reform.said Minister of Finance Mangala Samaraweera today.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) will review the security arrangements put in place in Pakistan before appointing the match officials for the upcoming home series against Sri Lanka beginning September 27.According to a Pakistan Urdu daily 'Daily Jang', the ICC will analyse the security plans to be put in place by the Pakistan government before appointing neutral umpires and match referees.

Sri Lankarank has slipped five places to 72 among 163 countries on the Global Peace Index 2019, while Iceland remains the most peaceful country and Afghanistan the least peaceful nation, says a report.Although Sri Lankascores for terrorism impact, the incarceration rate and military expenditure improved, with the recent attack there are some worrying signs for the future, the GPI report noted.

Prevailing showery condition over the island is expected to continue during next few days. Showers or thundershowers will occur at times in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Central, Northern and North-western provinces and heavy falls about 100-150 mm are likely at some places in these areas. Showers or thundershowers will occur elsewhere over the island after 2.00 p.m and fairly heavy falls above 75 mm are likely at some places. General public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning.