COLOMBO, Aug. 23 -- The United Nations on Saturday (22) welcomed Sri Lanka's decision to simplify immigration procedures to facilitate the voluntary return of Sri Lankan refugees who have been living in India for decades after fleeing the country during the civil conflict.

The Sri Lankan government introduced special arrangements earlier this month to streamline the process and expedite the return of refugees from India, including those who had left Sri Lanka without valid travel documentation.

UN Resident Coordinator and Representative of the UN Secretary-General in Sri Lanka Marc-Andre Franche welcomed the Cabinet decision, describing it as an important step towards enabling refugees to return home safely and with dignity.

"I welcome...