The Indian High Commission categorically denied baseless and speculative media reports that India facilitated President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ex-Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa’s recent departure from Sri Lanka.
In addition, it is reaffirmed that India will continue to support the Sri Lankan people as they work to realize their aspirations for prosperity and progress through democratic means and values, established democratic institutions, and a constitutional framework.
The Office of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka has confirmed that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has left the country.
On Wednesday (13) morning, it was reported that Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa had departed the country on a military jet, amidst protests over the country’s economic crisis.
The President, who is 73 years old, arrived in Male, the capital of the Maldives, at approximately 3:00 local time (22:00 GMT).
A family dynasty that has ruled Sri Lanka for decades has ended with Rajapaksa’s departure.
The president had previously announced that he would resign on July 13th.
The President reportedly departed the country with his wife and two security officers.
The Sri Lanka Air Force stated that it provided a SLAF aircraft for the President, First Lady, and two security personnel to depart the country for the Maldives.
According to the statement, the action was taken based on the Executive President’s authority and the Government’s request, subject to the approval of the Ministry of Defence.
It added that all Immigration and Emigration laws, as well as customs laws, were observed when the aircraft was provided.
