SriLanka, Sept. 21 -- President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has said the government hopes to relieve the public of some taxes through the upcoming Budget. Addressing a rally in Akuressa yesterday (20), he said the government's attention must remain on the economy, people's livelihoods, food and economic opportunities. "We know some taxes are a burden, and we expect to lift a certain portion of them in the coming Budget," he said.

On fuel, the President said the Middle-East war had pushed world oil prices back to April levels, putting heavy pressure on the country.

The government had absorbed Rs.100 on every litre of diesel from April to July, at a cost of Rs. 60 billion. In line with world market rates, fuel prices would have to rise in Oc...