The long-awaited mutual recognition agreement on driving licences between Sri Lanka and Italy has come into effect from April, offering a permanent solution to longstanding licensing issues faced by Sri Lankans residing in Italy, Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath announced.

In a statement, the Minister said the agreement—finalised following sustained diplomatic engagement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Transport and Highways—has now fulfilled all technical requirements for implementation.

Under the arrangement, Sri Lankan nationals who have resided in Italy for at least six years are eligible to convert their Sri Lankan driving licences into Italian licences without the need to sit written or practical examinations.

Minister Herath noted that the initiative has been widely welcomed by the Sri Lankan expatriate community in Italy, adding that it is expected to enhance employment prospects and further strengthen their contribution as a productive diaspora.

A proposal to establish a tobacco-free generation by prohibiting tobacco use among all individuals born after 2010 has been formally submitted to the Minister of Health, marking a significant step in Sri Lanka’s efforts to curb tobacco- and alcohol-related harm.

The National Authority on Tobacco and Alcohol (NATA) presented the research-backed concept paper to Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa and the Ministry of Health, calling for legislative action.

The document, prepared under the guidance of NATA Chairman Specialist Dr. Ananda Ratnayake and L.L. Amila Isuru of the Faculty of Medicine at Rajarata University, also outlines recommendations to amend and strengthen the NATA Act.

Key proposals include updating existing regulations under the Act and restricting access to tobacco products for individuals born after a specified year, in line with emerging global trends where similar policies have been introduced.

Minister Jayatissa welcomed the initiative, noting that tobacco and alcohol remain major barriers to ensuring a healthier future for children. He directed NATA to submit detailed provisions for the proposed legislative amendments.

Dr. Ratnayake highlighted the urgency of the issue, pointing out that nearly 80 percent of deaths in Sri Lanka are due to non-communicable diseases, with tobacco and alcohol among the leading contributors. Globally, tobacco use accounts for around 8 million deaths each year, including approximately 7 million from direct use and a significant share from exposure to second-hand smoke. Alcohol consumption also contributes substantially to mortality and disease burden.

Sri Lanka records an estimated 22,000 deaths annually linked to tobacco and alcohol, along with considerable economic and social costs. Both substances are also regarded as gateway factors for the use of other drugs.

L.L. Amila Isuru warned of increasing cigarette use among schoolchildren and its growing impact on public health expenditure, emphasizing that reducing prevalence and limiting access are among the most effective strategies to safeguard future generations.

President of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, is scheduled to undertake a State Visit to Sri Lanka from May 4 to 5, 2026, at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism in Colombo, the visit marks President Muizzu’s first trip to Sri Lanka since assuming office in 2023.

During the visit, President Muizzu is expected to hold bilateral discussions with President Dissanayake, focusing on further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) are also expected to be signed, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to deepen collaboration across multiple sectors.

President Muizzu will be accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, along with senior Cabinet ministers, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other high-ranking government officials.