In response to recent attacks on commercial shipping vessels by Houthi rebels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, Sri Lanka has decided to send its navy ships to participate in Operation Prosperity Guardian. This operation, led by the US and its allies, aims to protect ship traffic in the region. The Sri Lankan navy, along with warships from the US, France, and the UK, will patrol the area to ensure the safety of critical maritime routes.
No Set Date or Patrol Area Yet
While the decision to send Sri Lankan ships has been made, no specific date has been set for their deployment, and the exact area they will patrol is yet to be finalized. Navy spokesman Capt. Gayan Wickramasuriya clarified these details, emphasizing the ongoing commitment to maritime security.
Criticism and Defense of the Decision
The decision to send ships has faced criticism from opposition lawmakers within Sri Lanka. Opposition leader Sajith Premadasa expressed concern over the government spending LKR 250 million (USD 777,000) on international operations while the country faces severe economic hardships. In response, State Minister of Defense Pramitha Tennakoon defended the move, citing the government’s commitment to fulfilling “global responsibilities” and emphasizing Sri Lanka’s stance against terrorism.
Economic Challenges in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is grappling with its worst economic crisis, having declared bankruptcy in April 2022 with a staggering debt of over USD 83 billion, more than half owed to foreign creditors. The economic downturn led to shortages of essential goods, public protests, and the ousting of former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. The IMF provided a USD 2.9-billion bailout package in March last year, and Sri Lanka aims to restructure USD 17 billion of its outstanding debt.
Recent Economic Measures
In an attempt to address economic challenges, the Sri Lankan government recently increased the value-added tax rate and extended its coverage to essential items, including cooking gas, fuel, and medicine. While shortages of food, fuel, and medicine have largely improved over the past year, public dissatisfaction persists, particularly regarding increased taxes and electricity bills. The government’s efforts to boost revenues have been met with criticism from various sectors.
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