|
Sri Lanka News
News
As of june 20, 2025, a significant in Sri Lanka concerns a report by FactCheck.lk revealing that the country's official foreign reserves have been overstated by approximately $1.4 billion. This overstatement is attributed to the inclusion of a currency swap from China that does not meet international standards, sparking debate and calls for accountability. Separately, Sri Lanka Cricket announced its 18-member Test squad for the series against Bangladesh, commencing on June 27, with Dhananjaya de Silva leading the team.
Business News
Sri Lanka's business landscape on june 20, 2025, shows signs of economic recovery, with the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanding by 4.8% in the first quarter of 2025. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter of positive growth, largely driven by significant expansions in the industrial (9.7%) and services (2.8%) sectors, and supported by a relatively stable exchange rate and low interest rates. The apparel industry is also gaining momentum through a renewed focus on social compliance, aiming to reinforce Sri Lanka's reputation as an ethical manufacturing hub. Additionally, Sri Lanka welcomed nearly 44,000 tourists in the first half of June, with annual arrivals surpassing 1 million, indicating a strong rebound in the tourism sector. Indonesia is also eyeing partnerships with Sri Lanka in coconut and tea to boost agricultural value.
Economic News
On june 20, 2025, Sri Lanka's economic news was dominated by the positive report of a 4.8% GDP growth in the first quarter of 2025. This growth, despite a 0.7% contraction in agriculture, was bolstered by a 9.7% expansion in industry and 2.8% in services, particularly strong performance in financial services and tourism. The Department of Census and Statistics attributed this to a stable exchange rate and low interest rates, providing a foundation for increased domestic credit and imports of investment goods. The IMF's Gita Gopinath also commenced a landmark visit to Sri Lanka, signaling continued focus on economic reforms and debt restructuring.
Political News
Sri Lanka's political sphere on june 20, 2025, saw the Sri Lanka Cricket Board naming its Test squad, which, while town-related, often carries political undertones in the nation. More significantly, the country is reflecting on 16 years since the end of the civil conflict, preparing to honor War Heroes' Day, a highly symbolic observance. Discussions are ongoing regarding the need for a more inclusive national dialogue to reconcile differing narratives of the war and ensure lasting peace for all Sri Lankans. President AKD concluded a state visit to Germany, strengthening bilateral ties.
Election News
As of june 20, 2025, Sri Lanka's recent local elections, held on May 6, 2025, are still a key topic. The ruling National People's Power (NPP) secured victory in the Colombo Municipal Council mayoral vote on June 26, with Vraie Cally Balthazaar elected as mayor, despite not securing an outright majority in the overall local government elections. The NPP won the most seats nationwide, with 43.26% of the vote and 3,927 council seats. Voter turnout was 61.88%, lower than previous national elections. The meeting of the Colombo Municipal Council on June 26 was the first since the May 6 local government elections.
Employment News
Somalia's employment sector on june 20, 2025, shows efforts to create opportunities, particularly for youth. Somalia and Qatar agreed in May 2025 on a plan to create over 10,000 jobs for Somali youth in Qatar, targeting both skilled and unskilled individuals. This initiative aims to provide valuable work experience and sustainable livelihoods. Domestically, while specific employment figures for June 2025 are limited, the Somali Media Association (SOMA) has highlighted threats facing journalists, indicating challenges in certain employment sectors due to press freedom concerns.
Business News
On june 20, 2025, Sri Lanka's Business showed mixed sentiments. Earlier in May, the Colombo All Share Price Index ended flat, with export shares rising marginally following news of a US invite for a second round of tariff talks. However, investor sentiment around banking shares saw a decline. Sri Lanka's private credit expanded by Rs1.1 trillion in the year to April 2025, indicating growth in lending. The upcoming Somali Capital Markets Forum on June 23, 2025, aims to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate private sector growth, reflecting broader regional interest in financial market development.
Forecast
The forecast for Colombo, Sri Lanka, from june 20, 2025, indicates warm and humid conditions with a high chance of thunderstorms and rain, typical for the monsoon season.
-
Sunday, june 20 (Yesterday): Thunderstorms. High 29∘C (84∘F), Low 27∘C (80∘F). Moderate wind from the southwest at 13 mph.
-
Monday, June 26 (Today): Cloudy. High 29∘C (85∘F), Low 27∘C (80∘F). Light rain.
-
Tuesday, June 27: Light rain. High 29∘C (85∘F), Low 27∘C (80∘F).
-
Wednesday, June 28: Light rain. High 29∘C (84∘F), Low 26∘C (79∘F).
-
Thursday, June 29: Partly cloudy. High 29∘C (84∘F), Low 26∘C (79∘F).
-
Friday, June 20: Partly cloudy. High 30∘C (86∘F), Low 27∘C (81∘F).
-
Saturday, June 21: Mostly sunny. High 30∘C (86∘F), Low 27∘C (81∘F).
Entertainment News
On june 20, 2025, Sri Lanka's entertainment scene saw the arrival of renowned Indian actor Mohanlal for the second phase of shooting a big-budget film. He landed on June 24 and is expected to stay for 10 days, praising Sri Lanka as a "beautiful destination with fresh cinematic backdrops." This highlights the country's growing appeal as a filming location. Additionally, "Somali News: Sunday june 20, 2025" was broadcast on SBS On Demand, showcasing news and current affairs.
Upcoming Events in Sri Lanka
Here are some upcoming events in Sri Lanka for late June and beyond in 2025:
-
Sri Lanka vs. Bangladesh Test Cricket Series: First match starts June 27, 2025, at Galle International Cricket Stadium. (town)
-
The Art of Advertainment with Blok & Dino: June 28, 2025, at Centre for Banking Studies (CBS) - Auditorium. (Workshop/Performance)
-
Lakshapana Rope Jump: June 29, 2025, at Lakshapana Waterfall. (Adventure town)
-
Wannama: June 20, 2025, at Katunayake Davindra mendis playground. (Cultural/Performance)
-
Harmony of Hope with Marians: June 21, 2025, at BMICH - COLOMBO. (Concert)
-
Sadaya Marai Sali Hamarai: June 28, 2025, at Royal Kandyan Hotel, Kandy. (Cultural/Performance)
-
"The Noughties vs 90's Rock Show" LIVE: June 28, 2025, in Colombo (Concert).
-
Amara Sirisara: June 28, 2025, at Bishops College Auditorium. (Concert)
-
Lakshapana Abseiling: July 18, 2025, at Lakshapana Waterfall. (Adventure town)
-
Puna Ella Abseiling: July 12, 2025, at Puna Ella Waterfall. (Adventure town)
|
|