News
Foreign Minister Herath reiterates Lanka’s one China policy
“Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory …”
China has supported Sri Lanka during its struggle against separatism, and Sri Lanka opposes any separatist movements targeting China, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath said during a press conference on Wednesday. The briefing was held to update the media on President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s recent visit to China.
A joint statement issued after the President’s visit emphasised Sri Lanka’s position, stating, “Taiwan is an inalienable part of China’s territory. Sri Lanka firmly supports all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification and opposes ‘Taiwan independence’ in any form.”
During the press conference, when a journalist asked whether this stance implied that Sri Lanka would support China in the event of a military invasion of Taiwan, Herath responded that Sri Lanka has consistently adhered to the One-China Policy and does not recognise Taiwan as a separate country. “By that logic, it is impossible for China to ‘invade’ a part of its own country,” he said.
“This has always been Sri Lanka’s position. If you review all the joint statements issued following visits by Sri Lankan leaders to China, they consistently reiterate our commitment to the One-China Policy,” he added.
The Foreign Minister said that China has faced persistent efforts to promote separatism and affirmed Sri Lanka’s unwavering support in combating such activities.
“Of course, we cannot assist China materially in the way they have supported us. However, we will back them in international forums and ensure that no separatist activities against China—whether related to Taiwan, Xizang, or Xinjiang—occur on Sri Lankan soil,” Herath said. (RK)
The Pakistan Navy Ship (PNS) TAIMUR and ASLAT arrived at the Port of Colombo on a goodwill visit on 12 Apr 26.
The visiting ships were welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in
compliance with naval traditions.
The duo of ships is commanded by Captain NIAMAT SAEED KHAN (PNS TAIMUR) and Captain NADIR MATEEN AFRIDI (PNS ASLAT).
Meanwhile, the ships are expected to conduct a Bilateral Naval Exercise LION STAR V with the Sri Lanka Navy in Colombo seas.
Latest News
Heat index likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district
Warm Weather Advisory
Issued by the Natural Hazards Early Warning Centre at 3.30 p.m. on 11 April 2026, valid for 12 April 2026
The Heat index, the temperature felt on the human body is likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district.
The Heat Index Forecast is calculated by using relative humidity and maximum temperature and this is the condition that is felt on your body. This is not the forecast of maximum temperature. It is generated by the Department of Meteorology for the next day period and prepared by using global numerical weather prediction model data.
Effect of the heat index on human body is mentioned in the above table and it is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.
ACTION REQUIRED
Job sites: Stay hydrated and takes breaks in the shade as often as possible.
Indoors: Check up on the elderly and the sick.
Vehicles: Never leave children unattended.
Outdoors: Limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.
Dress: Wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.
Note: In addition, please refer to advisories issued by the Disaster Preparedness & Response Division, Ministry of Health in this regard as well. For further clarifications please contact 011-7446491.
Latest News
Sun directly overhead Cheddikulam, Kebithigollewa, Gomarankadawala and Nilaveli about 12:11 noon. today [12]
On the apparent northward relative motion of the sun, it is going to be directly over the latitudes of Sri Lanka from 05th to 15th of April in this year.
The nearest areas of Sri Lanka over which the sun is overhead today (12th) are Cheddikulam, Kebithigollewa, Gomarankadawala and Nilaveli about 12:11 noon.
PNS TAIMUR & ASLAT arrive in Colombo
Sanju Samson and Jamie Overton deliver first points for Chennai Super Kings
Arya, Prabhsimran and Shreyas help Punjab Kings ace another 200-plus chase
Beauty of Sri Lanka in focus: Global showcase blends art, diplomacy and conservation
Showers expected in the Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Southern, North-western and Uva provinces and in Ampara, Batticaloa and Polonnaruwa districts after 1.00 p.m.
Heat index likely to increase up to ‘Caution level’ at some places in the Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Sabaragamuwa, Southern and Eastern provinces and Monaragala district
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