Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo on Friday night for a two-day visit to Sri Lanka, marking a significant moment in the relationship between the two nations.
This is Mr Modi’s first visit to the island nation since the formation of the new government under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and comes just after his participation in the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand.
The visit has been marked by a notable expansion of bilateral ties, particularly in the field of defence. Following high-level talks on Saturday, India and Sri Lanka signed a key defence cooperation agreement aimed at bolstering maritime security and overall strategic partnership.
President Dissanayake assured India that Sri Lankan territory would not be used in any way that threatens Indian security interests.
In a joint statement following the talks, Prime Minister Modi emphasised Sri Lanka’s special place in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its broader vision for the Indian Ocean region under “Vision Mahasagar”.
Mr Modi reiterated India’s commitment to regional development and stability, citing New Delhi’s consistent support to Sri Lanka during its recent crises — including the 2019 Easter bombings, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the economic collapse.
He further announced that loans worth over $100 million had been converted into grants to aid Sri Lanka’s recovery and that India would reduce interest rates to provide immediate relief. “India stands shoulder to shoulder with Sri Lanka in every difficult situation,” Mr Modi stated.
On the long-standing issue of fishermen crossing maritime boundaries, both sides agreed to pursue a humanitarian approach, with hopes that the Sri Lankan government would also fulfil the aspirations of the Tamil community living in the north and east of the country.
In recognition of his efforts to deepen the bond between India and Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Modi was conferred the Mithra Vibhushana award — one of the highest civilian honours given to foreign dignitaries by the Sri Lankan government.
The award is a testament to Mr Modi’s role in enhancing people-to-people and cultural ties between the two nations. Accepting the honour, Mr Modi said it was a matter of pride and a reflection of the deep historical and spiritual connections shared by both countries.
President Dissanayake, in his address, expressed his gratitude to India for its continuous support, particularly during Sri Lanka’s economic downturn. He also requested India’s assistance in initiating bilateral technical discussions regarding Sri Lanka’s claim at the United Nations to establish the outer limits of its continental shelf beyond the exclusive economic zone.
Describing India as a steadfast friend, President Dissanayake said the bilateral discussions had further strengthened the foundation for future collaboration. He noted that the defence partnership was not only timely but necessary for mutual regional security.
He also highlighted India’s support in past critical moments and the shared values, culture and history between the two neighbours.
The Sri Lankan President assured Prime Minister Modi that his government would ensure Sri Lankan soil is never used against India’s security interests.
He acknowledged that although the Servants of India Society originally established certain institutions, the present context demands a fair and collaborative approach driven by mutual interests and shared responsibilities.
Follow us
