Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, as he becomes the first foreign head of government hosted by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake since his inauguration in September 2024. The visit underscores the shared vision of “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” and reaffirms the strong ties between the two nations.
At the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo, PM Modi held extensive discussions with President Dissanayake on key issues, including regional stability, energy cooperation, and developmental projects. In a notable gesture of goodwill, he was awarded the Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushan, one of Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honors, symbolizing the deep friendship between the countries.
The leaders also participated in the virtual groundbreaking ceremony for the Sampur Power Project, a collaboration between NTPC and the Ceylon Electricity Board, aimed at boosting Sri Lanka’s energy security and future electricity exports. Additionally, India’s development aid has facilitated the construction of a temperature-controlled warehouse in Dambulla and the installation of rooftop solar systems in 5,000 religious institutions, adding 25 MW to the national grid. These projects were formally inaugurated during the visit.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri hailed the visit as “substantive and outcome-driven,” emphasizing its continuity with President Dissanayake’s first overseas visit to India.
PM Modi also met with Tamil political leaders and Leader of the Opposition Sajith Premadasa, reaffirming India’s commitment to equality, dignity, and justice for the Tamil community within a united Sri Lanka. He paid tribute to late Tamil leaders I. Sampanthan and Mavai Senathirajah, emphasizing the socio-economic benefits of India-backed projects for Tamil communities.
In a solemn tribute, PM Modi laid a wreath at the Indian Peace Keeping Force Memorial in Colombo, honoring the sacrifice of Indian soldiers deployed from 1987 to 1990.
Key announcements included India’s support for Sri Lanka’s Unique Digital Identity project, conversion of a $100 million loan into grants, a 2.4 billion LKR development package for the Eastern Province, and the inauguration of the Maho-Omanthai railway line. Defence cooperation was also strengthened, with PM Modi advocating for a humanitarian approach to the fishermen issue and urging the implementation of the 13th Amendment and timely provincial elections.
The visit concluded with a state banquet in PM Modi’s honor, celebrating the deepening ties between India and Sri Lanka.
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