Is Russia still trying to persuade Sri Lanka to buy the Gephard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)? The Defence Ministry recently chose to buy Mi-17 helicopters in place of the OPV but a diplomatic source said yesterday that Moscow was still keen to ask Sri Lanka to conclude the controversial deal. This is on the basis that an assurance has been given to Russia to utilise a part of a re-validated credit line.
A private jet bringing a top level delegation led by Niki Alexandrova, head of Rosboronoexport, the state trading arm, is due in Colombo on July 29. According to diplomatic sources, the team is expected to discuss the OPV deal amongst others. Since Sri Lanka is buying 33 units of Russian-built armoured personnel carriers (BTRs), the head of marketing will also arrive with the team.
The final rites of veteran broadcaster, writer, and lyricist Nirmala de Alwis will be held today at Peradeniya.
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