Top EU and Mercosur officials signed the free trade pact in Paraguay, marking the culmination of a 25-year negotiation process. The agreement aims to become the European Union’s largest-ever trade deal, highlighting a landmark milestone in regional economic integration. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117259
A bus en route from Colombo to Welimada overturned in Uvathenna, Haldummulla. The driver was killed and three others injured. Report from AdaDerana RSS, January 18, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117258
Two suspects were arrested by the Colombo South Criminal Investigation Bureau in Maradana for possessing a foreign-made revolver and ammunition. The incident, reported by Ada Derana via RSS on January 18, 2026, highlights ongoing firearms-related investigations in Colombo. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117257
Politician Nandana Gunathilake (also spelled Gunatilleke) has died at 64 while receiving treatment at Ragama Hospital, according to family sources. Report from AdaDerana RSS dated January 18, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117256
European leaders condemned President Trump’s threat to impose new tariffs on eight allies opposing his Greenland takeover, deeming the move unacceptable. The proposed tariffs target nations aligned against the Greenland bid, drawing sharp criticism from Europe. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117255
The Department of Meteorology forecasts mainly dry weather for most parts of the island today, January 18, 2026. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117254
Janani Imathma was crowned winner of Derana Dream Star Season 12 at the Grand Finale held at Sugathadasa Indoor Stadium on Saturday night (17). source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117253
President Donald Trump said he would impose a 10% import tariff starting in February on goods from eight European countries due to their opposition to U.S. control of Greenland. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117252
A 3,563-carat purple star sapphire, claimed to be the world’s largest of its kind, was unveiled on Saturday in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The owners say they’re willing to sell, with the gem valued at roughly $300 million or more. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117251
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed President Donald Trump for weeks of protests following a violent crackdown by security forces that rights groups say claimed thousands of lives. The remarks frame the unrest as incited by Trump, tying U.S. actions to the demonstrations. source http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?nid=117250