Global Outlook

 Cash-strapped Sri Lanka has announced plans to halve its military by 2030 as part of efforts to cut costs in light of the country's financial crisis. Under new proposals, the number of approved military personnel would be reduced from 200,783 to 135,000 by 2024, and further reduced to 100,000 by 2030. There are also plans to modernize the defense force by making it technically and tactically sound. Experts have welcomed the downsizing move, saying it could result in better long-term security "if done the right way." They believe reduced expenditure on wages would introduce more economic stability and help the country focus on getting out of its financial crisis. However, they have also warned that downsizing has to be done strategically to support efforts to get out of the crunch. Downsizing the military would not be done "haphazardly", said Army spokesman Brigadier Ravi Herath, adding "it will be done through restrictions in recruitment and natural retire...