Discontinuing the former government's development work was the reason for the economic crisis at present, former President Mahinda Rajapaksa claimed.

Speaking at an event in Kurunegala, Rajapaksa said that he advised the present government not to stop the work started by him. The government failed to heed to this advise, he said.

He also maintained that the Sri Lankan government should not compromise on its friendship with China.

Rajapaksa further claimed that his government was able to obtain aid from all countries including the west.

The former President pointed out that the increase of the VAT will affect people's lives directly. The people are now forced to face the consequences of the government's mistakes, he added.