In a landmark moment reflecting deepening bilateral ties, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday assured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Sri Lanka will not allow its territory to be used in any manner that threatens India’s security or regional stability. The two leaders held wide-ranging bilateral talks during Modi’s visit to Colombo following the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok.
Marking a historic gesture, President Dissanayake conferred Sri Lanka’s highest civilian award for a foreign head of state—the Mitra Vibhushana—on Prime Minister Modi, lauding India’s steadfast support during Sri Lanka’s crises and its ongoing commitment to regional peace and cooperation.
“I reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s stand that it will not permit its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India as well as towards regional stability,” said President Dissanayake during a joint media statement with Modi.
Broad Agreements Signed Across Key Sectors
The visit saw the signing of multiple pacts in defence cooperation, power and energy, digital technology, health, and a special aid package for the eastern provinces of Sri Lanka, amounting to approximately 2.4 billion Lankan rupees.
Modi highlighted the strategic importance of these agreements and welcomed the outcomes of the talks.
“We believe that we have shared security interests. The security of both countries is interconnected and codependent… We have agreed to work together on the Colombo Security Conclave and Indian Ocean cooperation,” Modi stated.
One of the most significant agreements includes a framework for developing Trincomalee as a regional energy hub, with plans for a multi-product pipeline and Sampur solar power project, which the two leaders jointly inaugurated virtually.
Support for Tamil Reconciliation and Inclusive Development
Touching on Sri Lanka’s domestic concerns, particularly regarding ethnic Tamil minorities, Prime Minister Modi reiterated India's hope that Sri Lanka would uphold constitutional commitments and hold provincial council elections.
“We discussed reconstruction and reconciliation… We hope the Sri Lankan government will meet the aspirations of the Tamil people,” he said.
President Dissanayake in turn assured that his government’s transformation efforts were grounded in social justice, equality, and a forward-looking economic model.
“We are on a journey towards change—towards a country with economic progress and social justice where every citizen has a path to prosperity. As historical friends and neighbours, we should work together for our peoples,” Dissanayake said.
Fisheries and Environmental Commitments
On the long-standing fisheries issue, both leaders agreed on a humane approach to resolve tensions, including the release of detained fishermen and vessels.
Dissanayake emphasized Sri Lanka’s environmental concerns, requesting India’s intervention in banning bottom trawling, a practice outlawed in both countries but still commonly practiced.
“Recognising the irreparable ecological damage caused by bottom trawling, we requested Prime Minister Modi’s intervention to stop this practice,” Dissanayake stated.
Debt Relief and Economic Cooperation
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that India has concluded a bilateral debt restructuring agreement with Sri Lanka. The agreement includes converting over USD 100 million in loans into grants, along with interest rate reductions to ease Sri Lanka’s recovery from its recent economic crisis.
“India stands with the people of Sri Lanka. This restructuring reflects our long-term commitment to ensuring Sri Lanka’s stability,” Modi said.
The assistance aligns with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its Vision MAHASAGAR, an initiative focused on maritime cooperation and regional connectivity in the Indian Ocean.
Symbolic and Strategic Projects Launched
During the visit, the two leaders virtually launched:
- The Sampur Solar Power Project, advancing Sri Lanka’s energy independence.
- A temperature-controlled warehouse in Dambulla, enhancing food storage and logistics.
- A rooftop solar initiative for 5,000 religious institutions, promoting clean energy at the grassroots level.
India also reaffirmed support for electrical grid interconnectivity, paving the way for potential electricity exports from Sri Lanka to India, a move seen as boosting regional energy trade.
Modi’s Fourth Visit to Sri Lanka
This marks Prime Minister Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka. He was received with full ceremonial honours at Independence Square, becoming the first foreign leader to be welcomed with such a gesture at the historic site.
“In every crisis—from the 2019 Easter attacks to the pandemic and the economic collapse—India stood with Sri Lanka. Today, I am happy to see Sri Lanka on the path to progress,” Modi said.
Citing the Tamil philosopher Thiruvalluvar, Modi concluded, “In the face of challenges and enemies, there is no stronger assurance than a true friend and the shield of his friendship.”
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