Tissa Attanayake, Member of Parliament who joined the government from the UNP said that he cannot agree with the decision of the UNP because they would not achieve what they expect.   In particular, the decision to assist Maithripala to win the Presidential Election as it will not be of any benefit to the country.  The clauses in the agreement that the Opposition had made with different parties are contrary to each other and will result in political instability.

Pakistan and Iran have signed five memorandums of understanding to boost cooperation in diverse sectors.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa left for India on a private visit last evening, Presidential Spokesman Mohan Samaranayake said.