PM Modi Becomes First Foreign Leader Hosted by Sri Lankan President Dissanayake

 India and Sri Lanka are set to unveil a series of measures to strengthen bilateral cooperation in key sectors, including digitalization, energy, and defense, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Modi’s visit, following his participation in the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, marks a significant moment as he becomes the first foreign leader to be hosted by Dissanayake since his election victory.


Grand Welcome for PM Modi

Upon his arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport on Friday evening, PM Modi was received with full diplomatic honors. A delegation of six Sri Lankan ministers, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, was present to welcome him, showcasing the importance Sri Lanka places on its relationship with India.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The visit is expected to result in the finalization of seven agreements, spanning multiple sectors. The most anticipated among them is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defense cooperation, which will be the first of its kind between the two nations. This agreement aims to institutionalize joint military exercises, training, high-level exchanges, and possibly even defense industry collaboration. This marks a pivotal shift in India-Sri Lanka relations, helping both nations move past historical tensions linked to India's intervention during Sri Lanka’s civil war.

To honor the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers, PM Modi will also visit the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) Memorial in Colombo to pay tribute to the 1,155 soldiers who lost their lives in Sri Lanka.

Key Economic and Energy Agreements

India and Sri Lanka are set to sign agreements aimed at improving energy connectivity and economic cooperation. One such agreement will link the power grids of both nations, ensuring stable and cost-effective energy supply for Sri Lanka. Additionally, a tripartite deal between India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will see the development of an energy hub in Trincomalee. This project aligns with India’s plans to build an energy pipeline, further integrating the region’s energy infrastructure.

High Commissioner Santosh Jha emphasized India's commitment to Sri Lanka’s economic stability. He highlighted India's efforts in financial assistance, including its role in securing an International Monetary Fund (IMF) package for Sri Lanka. India’s assistance has been crucial in helping Sri Lanka recover from its 2022 economic crisis, with financial aid exceeding $4 billion and ongoing support through debt restructuring and a currency swap arrangement.

Support for Digitalization and Infrastructure Development

India is also extending support for Sri Lanka’s digital transformation. The Indian government will provide grant assistance for the rollout of Sri Lanka’s unique digital identity project, modeled on India’s Aadhaar system. This initiative is expected to enhance governance efficiency and economic transparency in Sri Lanka.

Modi’s visit will also witness the virtual inauguration of the Sampur solar energy project, an India-backed initiative to bolster renewable energy in Sri Lanka. Infrastructure development remains a priority, with both leaders set to launch two India-assisted railway projects to improve connectivity across the island nation.

Cultural and Diplomatic Engagements

On April 6, PM Modi and President Dissanayake will travel together to the historic city of Anuradhapura. They will visit the revered Mahabodhi temple, emphasizing the deep cultural and spiritual ties between the two nations. This visit also serves to reaffirm India’s support for Sri Lanka’s multi-ethnic society, as Modi is expected to meet Tamil political leaders and other stakeholders to discuss issues concerning the Tamil minority.

A New Chapter in India-Sri Lanka Relations

PM Modi’s visit underscores India’s continued commitment to fostering a strong, cooperative relationship with Sri Lanka. With agreements in defense, energy, and digitalization, as well as infrastructure projects and cultural engagements, both nations are poised to embark on a new phase of enhanced bilateral ties. As Sri Lanka recovers from its economic downturn, India’s unwavering support remains a crucial pillar in its path toward stability and growth.

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