Category: Daily Financial Times

HNB PLC signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka (IESL) on 20 May 2026 at HNB Towers, establishing a formal partnership to extend a suite of exclusive financial benefits to IESL’s membership base of over 25,000 engineering professionals across the country.

Under the arrangement, IESL members will have access to customised, pre-approved premium credit cards and pre-approved personal loans, along with special concessions under regular personal financial service facilities. Members who meet the qualifying criteria will also be eligible for HNB Priority Circle, the bank’s premium banking proposition which offers preferential terms. The package has been structured to reflect the profile of engineering professionals, many of whom operate as independent practitioners or consultants, and whose financial service requirements often extend beyond what a standard retail offering addresses.

HNB Chief Operating Officer Sanjay Wijemanne said: ‘Engineers are among the most professionally organised communities in Sri Lanka, yet their banking needs as a segment have rarely been addressed with the specificity they warrant. This partnership with IESL allows us to change that in a meaningful way, offering members financial products that are calibrated to their professional standing and career profile. We see this as a relationship built for the long term, and we are committed to delivering real value to IESL’s membership through it.’

The Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka is the country’s apex professional body for engineers, tracing its origins to the Engineering Association of Ceylon founded in 1906. Incorporated by an Act of Parliament in 1968, IESL today represents professionals across more than twenty engineering disciplines, with eight local chapters spanning all provinces and seven overseas chapters across the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. The institution is the sole body in Sri Lanka authorised to confer the Chartered Engineer designation, a credential widely recognised across both public and private sectors.

IESL President Eng. Kosala Kamburadeniya said: ‘Access to quality financial services is a practical concern for many of our members, particularly those who are early in their careers or managing independent practices. This partnership with HNB reflects our commitment through the Member Benefits Committee to create tangible value for IESL membership. We are confident that this arrangement will be of genuine benefit to engineers across the country.’

The partnership with IESL is part of HNB’s continued focus on segment-led banking, extending institutional relationships that offer members of professional associations structured, preferential access to the bank’s financial products and services. HNB currently serves customers across a broad network spanning retail, priority, and corporate banking, and continues to deepen its presence across key professional and industry communities in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka’s largest printing, packaging and graphic communications exhibition commenced yesterday at BMICH.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Association of Printers (SLAP), ‘Sri Lanka Print Expo 2026’ brings together industry stakeholders, technology providers, manufacturers and policymakers at the Sri Lanka Print Expo 2026, as the sector seeks to accelerate technological adoption, sustainability and industry-wide competitiveness while enhancing opportunities for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The exhibition, regarded as the country’s largest printing, packaging, labelling, signage and graphic communications trade fair, will be held today and tomorrow.

The opening ceremony was attended by Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara as Chief Guest.

International participation will include representatives from the All India Federation of Master Printers (AIFMP) and other global printing organisations.

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia is the Principal Sponsor of the exhibition, while KWO Printing Needs Ltd. and MK Masterworks are Platinum Sponsors. Gold Sponsors are JDC Printing Technologies, Metropolitan and Gestetner of Ceylon PLC. Media sponsorship has been extended by Wijeya Newspapers Ltd. and Express Newspapers Ceylon Ltd.

As Sri Lanka accelerates its transition towards renewable energy, rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming increasingly common across homes, businesses, and industries. While these technologies offer significant benefits in terms of clean energy generation, reduced electricity costs, and improved energy security, experts caution that safety considerations must evolve alongside this rapid growth.

These important issues were discussed at the Technical Forum titled ‘Powering Safety in Rooftop Solar and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) – Mastering DC Risks, Protection Strategies and Modern Safety Practices,’ organised by the Electrical, Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering Sectional Committee (EETESC) of the Institution of Engineers, Sri Lanka (IESL). The forum brought together regulators, utility engineers, renewable energy specialists, technology providers, consultants, academics, and industry professionals. Presentations were delivered by Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka Environment, Efficiency and Renewable Energy Director Eng. Amila C. Rajapaksha, Sungrow Solution Manager Eng. Aaron Li, Huawei Senior Solution Manager Eng. Mo Haiqi, and Electricity Distribution Lanka Chief Engineer Eng. Charith Shanaka.

The widespread adoption of rooftop solar systems has transformed many electricity consumers into energy producers. However, this transformation has introduced new technical challenges related to electrical safety, fire prevention, system reliability, and environmental sustainability. Industry professionals emphasise that renewable energy expansion should not be measured solely by installed capacity, but also by the quality, safety, and long-term sustainability of the systems being deployed.

One of the major concerns associated with solar installations is the risk posed by direct current (DC) electrical faults. Unlike conventional alternating current (AC) systems, DC arc faults can persist for longer periods, increasing the likelihood of overheating and electrical fires. Faulty wiring, damaged cables, loose connections, and poor workmanship are among the most common causes of such incidents. Modern protection technologies, including Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) and Rapid Shutdown Devices (RSD), are increasingly being recognised as essential safety features that can help minimise these risks.

Battery Energy Storage Systems, which are gaining popularity as a means of improving energy independence and enhancing renewable energy utilisation, present another set of challenges. Although modern battery technologies incorporate sophisticated monitoring and protection systems, experts note that thermal runaway-a condition where battery temperatures rise uncontrollably-remains a critical safety concern. Preventing such incidents requires multiple layers of protection, including battery management systems, fire suppression measures, ventilation systems, emergency shutdown arrangements, and strict adherence to installation standards.

Regulatory authorities and utility providers have also raised concerns regarding the growing use of non-compliant equipment, unauthorised system modifications, and installations carried out by unqualified personnel. These practices not only compromise system performance but can also create significant hazards to public safety. Industry stakeholders stress the need for stronger coordination among regulatory bodies, standards organisations, and enforcement agencies to ensure that renewable energy systems meet appropriate quality and safety requirements.

Environmental considerations are emerging as another important aspect of the renewable energy transition. With the increasing use of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries and solar equipment, questions surrounding end-of-life management, recycling, and disposal are becoming increasingly relevant. Experts warn that establishing proper recycling frameworks and traceability mechanisms today will be essential to avoiding future environmental challenges.

Speaking on the evolving renewable energy landscape, Public Utilities Commission of Sri Lanka Environment, Efficiency and Renewable Energy Director Eng. Amila C. Rajapaksha highlighted the importance of adapting safety and regulatory practices to meet the demands of a rapidly changing electricity sector. He noted that as distributed energy resources continue to expand, maintaining public safety and grid reliability will require greater attention to standards, compliance, and technical oversight.

Similarly, industry experts emphasised that advanced technologies alone cannot guarantee safety. Proper engineering design, skilled installation, effective maintenance, and continuous industry awareness remain fundamental to ensuring the long-term success of renewable energy systems.

ANTIGUA: Injury-prone fast bowler Lahiru Kumara returned to competitive cricket with a brilliant spell of bowling to take four wickets for 39 runs off 11 overs to dismiss West Indies Select XI for 205 on the opening day of Sri Lanka’s 3-day warm-up match at Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua on Thursday.

Opting to bowl first after winning the toss Sri Lanka did well to restrict the local side’s batting with spearhead of the bowling unit Asitha Fernando also amongst the wickets taking 2/26.

Jamaican left-hander Kirk McKenzie with 6 Test caps under his belt was West Indies Select XIs top scorer making a passive 58 off 81 balls (5 fours, 2 sixes) and putting together the highest partnership of the innings – 53 with Kevin Wickham (20).

Test all-rounder Keemo Paul shored the innings up toward the fag end of the innings contributing a useful 36 off 51 balls (2 fours, 2 sixes) to push the total beyond 200.

By stumps Sri Lanka had lost the wicket of Lahiru Udara for 7 to finish on 38-1, of which Nishan Madushka had contributed 25*.

This is Sri Lanka’s only warm-up game before taking on West Indies in a two-match Test series of the World Test Championship.

Deputy Finance and Planning Minister Dr. Anil Jayantha Fernando yesterday clarified that the Government’s latest gazette notification on imports is intended to strengthen monitoring of foreign exchange transactions rather than impose restrictions on import and export activities.

Speaking on the measure, Dr. Fernando said the new regulations issued by the Department of Import and Export Control are designed to systematically track payments related to imports and prevent unnecessary outflows of foreign exchange from the country.

‘The objective is not to restrict imports or exports, but to study import-related payments in a more systematic manner and prevent the unnecessary outflow of foreign exchange,’ he said.

The Deputy Minister noted that concerns had recently been raised in Parliament over instances, where certain parties allegedly registered companies and transferred foreign currency overseas under the guise of import and export transactions.

To address such practices, he said the new framework will require the collection and maintenance of detailed information on import transactions, including the importer’s address, bank account details, imported goods, currency of payment and other transaction-related information.

Dr. Fernando said commercial banks will also be required to assign and maintain a unique reference number for each transaction, enabling authorities to improve oversight and traceability of import-related foreign exchange payments.

He reiterated that the new requirements are aimed at enhancing transparency and ensuring that foreign exchange transactions linked to imports are properly documented and monitored, rather than limiting legitimate trade activities.

In the annals of Kotelawala Defence Academy (KDA) and Sri Lanka’s broader military academic heritage, the year 1979 stands as a defining turning point, when vision met purpose with uncommon clarity.

Recognising the imperative to elevate the intellectual and professional calibre of its officer corps, the Armed Forces of Sri Lanka embarked on a bold and forward-looking initiative: to establish an institution that would mould not only disciplined warriors, but well-rounded scholars and leaders of character. To this end, a distinguished delegation led by Maj VSM Jayawardene, and comprising eminent academics such as Prof. Patuwathavithana, Prof. P. W. Epasinghe, and Prof. Fonseka, undertook a seminal fact-finding mission to the renowned National Defence Academy in Pune, the world’s first tri-service military university and a benchmark of excellence.

Upon their return, the vision rapidly crystallised into action. In an extraordinary act of patriotism and foresight, Sir John Kotelawala, a towering statesman and former Prime Minister, gifted his sprawling 48-acre Kandawala Estate, together with all its movable and immovable assets, to the nation. This magnanimous gesture became the cornerstone upon which the academy would be built, igniting a national endeavour of profound significance.

Within days, concrete plans were set in motion to establish the Kotelawala Defence Academy. On 1st October 1980, as Sir John lay ailing at Colombo General Hospital, His excellency J. R. Jayewardene, accompanied by General Dennis Perera and his ADC Capt. TM Bohoran, conferred upon him the honorary rank of General, an honour befitting a man whose final act of service would indelibly shape the future of military education in Sri Lanka. The very next day, Sir John passed away; yet his enduring legacy was immortalised in the academy that would rise upon his beloved estate.

The Kotelawala Defence Academy was formally inaugurated on 11th October 1980, in the distinguished presence of the President, the Tri-Service Commanders, and a host of eminent guests. Though its beginnings were modest, with limited infrastructure, a handful of vehicles, and scarce resources, it was rich in spirit, resolve, and a shared sense of mission. Under the visionary leadership of Brig. CAMN Silva (Mike Silva), supported by Lt. Cdr. IK Lokubalasuriya, and a dedicated cadre including Maj. VSM Jayawardene (Adjutant), later succeeded by Maj. Nalin Angammana, alongside Maj. Lohan Goonewardene (Affectionately regarded as the ‘Father of KDA,’ he devoted his life to nurturing and shaping the pioneers of Intake 1, Intake 2 and 3), and Capt. Raj M. Fernando, the academy commenced its journey with unwavering dedication. Together, they went well beyond the call of duty, nurturing an environment of discipline, intellectual growth, and inspiration, laying a strong and enduring foundation for generations of cadets to come.

Legendary Intake 1 of KDA with three Service Commanders, Commandant and other officer Instructors of KDA in Dec, 1981

The historic first intake of Service Cadets entered the Kotelawala Defence Academy on 3 March 1981 marking the true commencement of its academic and military journey.

Intake Troop Commander was Flt. Lt. Sanka Wijesinghe, later succeeded by Fg. Off. Anura Silva and then Fg. Off. Mohan de Zoysa.

This pioneering batch comprised 34 young men of exceptional promise, 13 proceeding to the University of Colombo to pursue a BSc in Physical Sciences, 19 to the University of Moratuwa for Engineering degrees, and 2 specialising in Architecture. Their early days were defined by simplicity, resilience, and an unwavering spirit of determination. Accommodation was arranged on the upper floor of Sir John’s bungalow, while meals were served in a temporary mess constructed nearby. Service lectures were conducted within the bungalow premises itself, forming the nucleus of their military grounding.

Daily routines demanded both discipline and adaptability. Cadets attending the University of Colombo were transported by a modest TATA 1210, while their counterparts at Moratuwa commuted by bicycles, symbols of both humility and perseverance. Military training unfolded within the grounds of the Kandanala Estate, with the parade square situated adjacent to the hangars of Ratmalana Airport. Swimming training, an essential component of their development, took place on Sundays at the at St Thomas’s pool in Mount Lavinia.

Despite limited facilities, the cadets were moulded under rigorous standards and watchful mentorship, guided by some of the finest instructors drawn from the Army, Navy, and Air Force under the visionary leadership of Brigadier Mike Silva. Training extended beyond fieldcraft, service writing, tactics and academics to include refined aspects such as service etiquette and formal dining. Demonstrating remarkable initiative, this very first intake also organised the inaugural Cadet Ball, an elegant blend of discipline, tradition, and camaraderie, upholding service standards with pride, regardless of constraints.

At university, cadets were required to integrate with civilian undergraduates while maintaining the distinct discipline expected of future officers. Participation in sports was compulsory, and many excelled, bringing distinction to both their universities and the academy.

Notably, in 1984, two cadets from this intake rose to leadership at university level. Former Ananda College Captain of Basketball, Ranil Ranasinghe who captained Basketball, and former Nalanda’s Rugby captain Ajith Perera, who captained Rugby, led their respective teams to Inter-University championship titles, an early testament to the leadership qualities nurtured within KDA.

The culmination of their formative journey came with the first-ever Passing Out Parade, held on 2 May 1984, graced by J. R. Jayewardene as Chief Guest, alongside the Tri-Service Commanders and distinguished military leadership. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Squadron Under Officer Rohith Rajaratne, who also secured first place in the Order of Merit, an extraordinary double distinction.

Recognition for excellence continued with Cadet Sergeant Peminda Jayasinha receiving the award for Military Subjects, while Cadet Corporal Ranil Ranasinghe was honoured as Best Sportsman. Upon commissioning, these officers were duly absorbed into the Army, Navy, and Air Force, embarking on careers of service and sacrifice. Over the years that followed, they would go on to uphold their oath with honour dedicating themselves to and security of the nation, and contributing steadfastly to the safeguarding of the motherland.

As time progressed, the officers of the pioneering first intake of the Kotelawala Defence Academy went on to serve the nation with unwavering commitment and honour. Among them, we pay the highest tribute and deepest gratitude to those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka.

Passing out parade of Officer Cadets of Intake I, on 2nd May 1984 at the SLAF Base in Ratmalana. HE the President JR Jayewardene was the Chief Guest. Chief Guest HE the President inspecting the passing out parade of Intake 1, with Squadron Under Officer Rohitha Rajaratne

With the deepest reverence, we honour the gallant officers of Intake 1 who made the supreme sacrifice Captain Jagath Perera, Wing Commander Kamal Welgama, and Lt. Colonel Kishan Hettiarachchi. Their extraordinary courage, selfless devotion, and unwavering commitment to the nation represent the very highest ideals of service. Their legacy remains eternally enshrined, inspiring generations of officers to uphold the same noble values with pride and dedication.

We also remember with deep respect and heartfelt gratitude the members of Intake 1 who have since passed away due to natural causes: Major Samitha Ubayaratne, Lieutenant SSK Rajapakse, Commodore Nadarajah Kuruparan, and SSP Dharmaweera Chandrasiri (who left KDA in his second year to join the STF and was serving as an SSP at the time of his untimely demise). Each rendered invaluable service to the nation, and their dedication, commitment, and enduring comradeship remain an integral part of the KDA story. They are fondly remembered for the exemplary lives they led, both in and out of uniform.

Together, they represent a generation defined by duty, honour, and selfless service true sons of the soil whose legacy continues to inspire and endure.

Driven by courage, dedication, and perseverance, these five officers rose to the highest levels of their respective servicemen inspiring testament to the excellence fostered at Kotelawala Defence Academy.

Major General Dhammika Weerasekera, an alumnus of Royal College, Colombo, was an exceptional rower renowned for his remarkable stamina and technical excellence. He served the nation with distinction for 35 unblemished years, during which he held the key appointment of Director of Project Management at Defence Headquarters, making significant contributions to major national infrastructure projects.

Rear Admiral Wipula Jasinghe, also a proud product of Royal College Colombo, regular member of Defence services Badminton, Tennis and Table tennis teams, retired after 34 years of dedicated service as Director General of Civil Engineering. Notably, he became the first KDA officer to be awarded the prestigious Vishishta Seva Vibhushanaya (VSV) in recognition of his exceptional, distinguished, and loyal service to the nation.

Rear Admiral Sarath Mohotty, hailing from Rahula College Matara, excelled both in academics and sports, earning university colours in soccer and athletics. He retired as Director Intelligence of the Sri Lanka Navy, leaving behind a commendable legacy of service.

Air Vice Marshal Rohan Pathirage, another distinguished alumnus of Royal College Colombo, was a brilliant sportsman who earned both school and national-level athletic colours. Former Chairman Volleyball in SLAF, Vice President Volleyball federation, also functioned as Chairman Defence services games in 2015.He retired as Director of Project Management at Defence Headquarters, having also served as Director of Electronics and Telecommunications Engineering. Following retirement, he was re-mobilised, extending his exemplary and unblemished service to an impressive 43 years.

Air Vice Marshal Ajantha Silva, a former cricketer of S. Thomas’ College and Science College Matale, held several key appointments including Air Force Spokesman, Military Attaché to Pakistan, and Director of Aeronautical Engineering. demonstrating versatility and leadership throughout his distinguished career. The founding President of the KDU Alumni, a legendary and charismatic Air Vice Marshal, whose unwavering commitment and foresight transformed the Association and guided it to the distinguished standard it enjoys today.

Together, these officers embody the highest ideals of military professionalism and stand as proud ambassadors of KDA’s enduring legacy.

As the academy evolved in stature and purpose, a defining milestone was reached in 1988 when, through a landmark legislative amendment, it was elevated to university status as the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU). This transformation marked the dawn of a new era one that seamlessly blended military discipline with academic excellence, elevating the institution to national and international prominence.

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of Intake 1 and the enduring legacy of the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, it is only fitting that we conclude with a tribute to the visionary whose selfless act made it all possible. General Sir John Kotelawala, with extraordinary foresight and patriotism, gifted his beloved Kandawala Estate to the nation an offering not merely of land, but of opportunity, purpose, and nation building. From that noble gesture has grown an institution that continues to yield immeasurable dividends: generations of disciplined leaders, distinguished officers, and accomplished professionals who serve Sri Lanka and the world with honour.

Today, what once was a private estate stands transformed into a beacon of excellence richly bearing fruit for the nation in the form of knowledge, leadership, and service. The legacy of General Sir John lives on not only in name, but in every cadet who passes through those gates, in every graduate who upholds the values instilled, and in every act of service rendered to the motherland.

As the curtain falls on this tribute to the pioneers of KDA Intake 1, we stand in deep gratitude for their courage, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment. As the very first intake of the Academy, they laid the foundation upon which generations of officers would follow. For 45 proud years, they have carried and cherished the enduring legacy of Kotelawala with honour, dignity, and distinction.

Their story is not merely history; it is a living legacy etched in the annals of the nation’s military heritage. In that legacy, the spirit of Kotelawala endures steadfast, inspiring, resilient, and forever in service to the nation.

The Nations Trust Bank (NTB) Golf Championship 2026 lived up to its billing as one of Sri Lanka’s premier corporate golf tournaments, drawing a record-breaking field of 345 golfers to the historic Royal Colombo Golf Club (RCGC).

The championship, which introduced three shotgun starts for the first time to accommodate the unprecedented number of entries, showcased high-quality golf across multiple divisions and reinforced the tournament’s growing stature on the local golfing calendar.

Competition was intense throughout the two-day event, with players battling for honours in the Ladies, Masters, Seniors and Men’s divisions.

Division Winners

Ladies Seniors: Kumudini Anthony emerged champion with 28 points, edging Kalyani Ranasinghe, who finished runner-up with 27 points.

Ladies Bronze: Liza Rebert claimed the title with 35 points, winning on the back-nine countback after finishing level with Jennifer Northcott.

Ladies Silver: Consistent Jade Jiggers produced one of the best performances in the women’s categories, securing victory with 37 points, ahead of Anouk Chitty’s 35.

Masters: Azad Mansoor impressed with a winning score of 44 points, while Reyaz Mihular settled for runner-up honours on 42 points after a back-nine countback.

Seniors: Rienzie Fernando carded an outstanding 43 points to lift the title, with Tissa Wickramasinghe finishing second on 39 points.

Men’s Division C: Mahesh Wijeratne topped the division with an excellent 45 points, defeating Mahesh Senaratne, who returned 43 points.

Men’s Division B: Ramesh Carvalho captured the title with 42 points, narrowly overcoming Srinath Rajapakse, who also impressed with 41 points after a back-nine countback.

Men’s Division A: The highly competitive top division saw Noordeen Sethwala crowned champion after recording 42 points, prevailing over Manjula Chandrasoma on a back-nine countback after both players finished tied on 42 points.

The championship once again highlighted the strong partnership between Nations Trust Bank and the Royal Colombo Golf Club, combining competitive golf with fellowship among customers, corporate partners and club members. The record participation of 345 golfers reflected the tournament’s continued growth and popularity, further cementing its reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s leading corporate golf events. (SJ)

Sri Lanka yesterday welcomed the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the United States of America and the Islamic Republic of Iran establishing an immediate ceasefire.

‘This ceasefire represents a significant step toward de-escalation and long-term regional and global stability, including through the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and providing for a framework for the continuity of negotiations. Sri Lanka strongly supports the peaceful resolution of disputes through diplomacy and remains optimistic that this step will foster sustainable peace across the region,’ Foreign Affairs Ministry said in a statement.

‘Sri Lanka extends its sincere appreciation to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the State of Qatar for their pivotal roles as mediators, and to all partners whose support was instrumental in arriving at this successful diplomatic outcome,’ it added.

DFCC Bank has relocated its Ratnapura Branch to a new premises at No. 269, Main Street, Ratnapura, offering customers a more accessible, spacious, and convenient banking environment in the heart of the city.

The relocation reflects DFCC Bank’s continued investment in creating banking experiences that are simpler, more comfortable, and better aligned with evolving customer expectations. Strategically located within Ratnapura’s commercial centre, the new branch has been designed to improve accessibility while providing customers with a modern banking environment that supports both traditional and digital banking interactions.

The branch continues to offer the full range of DFCC Bank’s products and services, serving individuals, families, entrepreneurs, and businesses across the region. Customers also benefit from access to the Bank’s growing suite of digital banking solutions, supported by relationship-driven service and personalised financial guidance.

Vice President/Head of Branch Banking and Distribution Duminda Silva said: ‘Banking is becoming increasingly digital, but customers still value accessibility, convenience, and meaningful human interaction when making important financial decisions. The relocation of our Ratnapura Branch reflects our commitment to creating banking environments that bring these elements together. By investing in modern, customer-focused spaces, we are making it easier for customers to access the services, advice, and support they need, while continuing to strengthen our presence within the communities we serve.’

Ratnapura remains an important economic centre, supporting a diverse mix of commercial activity, entrepreneurship, and household banking needs. Through its enhanced presence in the city, DFCC Bank is well positioned to continue supporting customers with solutions that respond to their changing financial requirements.

The relocation forms part of DFCC Bank’s broader efforts to strengthen its service network and create banking experiences that combine accessibility, convenience, and customer-centric service across every stage of the customer journey.

The rupee has appreciated against the US dollar during the week ending 19 June.

According to average LKR/USD indicative rate published by the Central Bank of Sri Lanka (CBSL), the US dollar was quoted at Rs. 333.78 yesterday, down from Rs. 336.39 a week earlier.