Sri Lanka, Dec. 24 -- The number of Sri Lankans seeking foreign employment has declined sharply, the Association of Licensed Foreign Employment Agencies (ALFEA) said yesterday, blaming fraud and mismanagement by politicians of the previous government.

ALFEA member Muhammad Azam said prospects for foreign employment have been "blurred" due to past fraudulent practices, discouraging many job seekers. The issue was discussed at a recent meeting of the Association of Registered Foreign Employment Agents in Colombo.

He said the downturn has led to a noticeable reduction in workers being sent to destinations such as the Middle East. However, the association plans to work closely with the government next year to streamline and formalise foreig...