Sri Lanka’s External Affairs ministry has confirmed that a visa for US journalist Gardiner Harris has been “put on hold” following advice from the Sri Lankan High Commission in India, reports the Sunday Leader.
Harris, South Asia Correspondent for The New York Times, tweeted that he had applied for a visa more than 50 days ago, yet was still waiting to hear from Sri Lankan authorities.
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“The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson said it was the opinion of the ministry that allowing foreign journalists to visit Sri Lanka to report against the country at this particular time cannot be allowed,” said The Sunday Leader.
Earlier this month an editorial from the Sri Lankan state-owned Daily News called for authorities to reject Harris’ visa application, labelling him an "inveterate liar" with “vituperative and sinister intent”.
See the full piece, entitled "They are welcome to keep out", here.