COLOMBO, March 3 (Xinhua) -- Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Tuesday warned that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could spill over into Sri Lanka's economy and daily life through disruptions to energy supplies and external earnings.
Speaking in parliament as he outlined the government's position, Dissanayake said the conflict benefits no community and cautioned that modern weapons and military technology make conflicts increasingly destructive.
He said Sri Lanka cannot insulate itself from the fallout and that the government will draw up a national response plan, stressing that a durable solution depends on international commitment to a peaceful world.
The president said a prolonged conflict could disrupt oil and gas supplies and create serious difficulties for Sri Lankans overseas. He added that Sri Lanka's tourism industry, foreign remittances, and the maritime and aviation sectors could also face pressure.
Dissanayake said the government is monitoring developments and that the central bank is reviewing the situation, with a report on potential impacts on the economy expected by Tuesday or Wednesday. He said the Ministry of Finance is also preparing an assessment of possible effects on people's daily lives and is working on plans to ensure essential services for Sri Lankans abroad and at home. ■
