Tuesday Mar 03, 2026
Tuesday Mar 03, 2026
Tuesday, 3 March 2026 06:12 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
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| Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa |
The Government is keeping close watch on escalating tensions in the Middle East and has reiterated that it does not support armed conflict, Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said yesterday.
Speaking at a special media briefing, the Minister said Sri Lanka has appealed to all sides involved to halt hostilities and prioritise efforts towards maintaining international peace and stability.
He noted that the Middle East holds strategic and economic significance globally and has direct implications for Sri Lanka’s economy. “The Middle East is an important region in the world and is directly tied to our economy. It must not be undermined,” he said.
Dr. Jayatissa said nearly one million Sri Lankan migrant workers are employed across Middle Eastern countries. He added that Sri Lanka’s diplomatic missions in the region are tracking developments closely and are prepared to provide necessary assistance to citizens.
However, he said a large-scale evacuation is not feasible at this stage, as many airports in the affected region remain closed due to the ongoing conflict.
The Government has issued the following contact details for consular support:
No immediate need for fuel QR system; CPC releases stocks to curb panic buying
Cabinet Spokesperson and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa yesterday said there is no immediate requirement to reintroduce the QR-based fuel distribution system, emphasising that national fuel stocks remain adequate despite a sudden surge in demand.
He noted that the QR mechanism had been introduced during the height of the fuel crisis to ration limited supplies, but stressed that current conditions do not justify its reinstatement. The Government, however, would review the position if circumstances change.
Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) Chairman D.J. Rajakaruna said the Corporation had released over 5.2 million litres of fuel by 9.44 a.m. yesterday in response to panic buying.
He told a special Government media briefing that 2,325,349 litres of diesel and 2,904,000 litres of petrol were issued during the morning alone.
Rajakaruna added that on the previous day, the CPC had distributed 3,018,349 litres of diesel and 3,920,400 litres of petrol.
