India did not facilitate Gota's exit - HC

COLOMBO (News 1st); The Indian High Commission categorically denied baseless and speculative media reports that India facilitated the recently reported travel of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and Ex-Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa out of Sri Lanka.

Also, It is reiterated that India will continue to support the people of Sri Lanka as people seek to realize their aspirations for prosperity and progress through democratic means and values, established democratic institutions, and a constitutional framework.

The Sri Lankan Prime Minister's Office confirmed that President Gotabaya Rajapaksa has left the country.

It was reported on Wednesday (13) morning that Sri Lanka's President Gotabaya Rajapaksa left the country on a military jet, amid mass protests over its economic crisis.

The 73-year-old President arrived in the capital of the Maldives, Male, at around 03:00 local time (22:00 GMT).

Rajapaksa's departure ends a family dynasty that has ruled Sri Lanka for decades.

The president had earlier pledged to resign on Wednesday 13 July.

It is reported that the President left the country with his wife and two security officers.

The Sri Lanka Air Force said it provided a SLAF plane for the President, the First Lady and Two Security Personnel to leave the country for the Maldives.

The statement said that it was done based on the powers vested with an Executive President, and as per request made by the Government, subject to the approval of the Ministry of Defence.

It added that all Immigration and Emigration, and customs laws were followed when providing the aircraft.