Srilanka, Nov. 23 -- Sri Lanka and Thailand are working through delicate diplomatic channels after concerns resurfaced over the welfare of two Thai elephants gifted to Sri Lanka decades ago. The issue - involving Plai Srinarong (Kandula) and Plai Pratu Pha (Thai Raja) - has revived scrutiny following last year's high-profile repatriation of Plai Sak Surin, another Thai elephant ambassador sent back amid health complications.

Both countries said the priority remains the animals' well-being, though the matter has exposed cultural sensitivities, public pressure, and questions over the treatment of elephants in captivity.

The two elephants - Plai Pratu Pha (later named Thai Raja), gifted in 1980, and Plai Srinarong (Kandula), presented in 2...