Amid severe economic crisis, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has appealed to citizens to use fuel and gas sparingly, as the next three weeks would be tough.

“The next three weeks will be a tough time for us in regards to fuel. It is time we all must use fuel and gas carefully,” Mr Wickremesinghe said.

Addressing the parliament, Mr Wickremesinghe said the government’s main priority was economic stability, stressing that it could be achieved only by implementing intelligently thought-out projects through hard work and dedication.

The prime minister said Sri Lanka spent $500 million per month on fuel and required $40 million a month to import gas.

“Unessential travel should be limited as much as possible. Therefore, I urge all citizens to refrain from thinking about hoarding fuel and gas during this period,” explained. “After those difficult three weeks, we will try to provide fuel and food without further disruptions. Negotiations are underway with various parties to ensure this happens.”

According to the prime minister, Sri Lanka also needs to pay close attention to its foreign relations to rally more international support as the country was becoming marginalised in the world due to its poor foreign policies.

Sri Lanka is currently in the middle of its worst-ever economic crisis due to a foreign exchange shortage, leading to a shortage of essentials such as medicines, fuel, and food. 

(Xinhua/NAN)