Sri Lankan President Thanks India during his first bilateral visit to New Delhi after assuming office, acknowledging India’s crucial role in helping Sri Lanka navigate its worst economic crisis. President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed gratitude for India’s unprecedented $5 billion economic assistance, reaffirming strong bilateral ties and Sri Lanka’s commitment to protecting India’s interests.
India’s Support During Sri Lanka’s Crisis
Addressing a joint press conference alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Dissanayake highlighted the critical role played by India during Sri Lanka’s financial meltdown two years ago.
“We faced an unprecedented economic crisis some 2 years ago, and India supported us immensely to come out of that quagmire. It has also helped us immensely after that, especially in the debt restructuring process,” Dissanayake stated.
India’s support came in the form of:
- $5 Billion Line of Credit and Grants: Direct financial aid to stabilize Sri Lanka’s collapsing economy.
- Debt Restructuring Assistance: Helping Sri Lanka negotiate a structured debt repayment strategy.
PM Modi reaffirmed that all Indian initiatives in Sri Lanka align with Colombo’s development priorities, further solidifying the relationship between the two nations.
New Projects Announced By PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a series of new projects aimed at Sri Lanka’s economic and infrastructural revival:
- Railway Rehabilitation: India will assist in upgrading the signalling system at the Maho-Anuradhapura railway section.
- Port Development: Support for the modernization of Kankesanthurai Port.
- Scholarships for Students: Monthly scholarships for 200 students in Jaffna and the Eastern Province.
- Training Civil Servants: India will train 1,500 Sri Lankan civil servants over the next five years.
Modi emphasized collaboration in agriculture, dairy, fisheries, renewable energy, and housing sectors, while also extending India’s participation in Sri Lanka’s digital identity project.
Sri Lanka’s Assurance: Protecting India’s Interests
President Dissanayake reassured India that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used for activities harmful to India’s security or interests.
“The cooperation with India will certainly flourish, and I want to reassure our continued support for India,” said Dissanayake. He added that Prime Minister Modi assured full support for Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, signaling a renewed mutual trust.
Defence And Regional Security Cooperation
Prime Minister Modi also underscored the growing importance of regional security under the Colombo Security Conclave framework. Key areas of cooperation include:
- Maritime Security: Ensuring safe trade routes and combating piracy in the Indian Ocean.
- Counter-Terrorism: Strengthening joint efforts to prevent terrorism and organized crime.
- Cyber-Security: Addressing digital threats and enhancing technological collaboration.
- Humanitarian Assistance: Improving disaster relief and emergency response mechanisms.
India also aims to finalize a defence cooperation agreement with Sri Lanka soon, further enhancing regional peace and stability.
India’s Role In Sri Lanka’s Economic Revival
India’s proactive support during Sri Lanka’s economic turmoil stands as a testament to its role as a dependable regional partner. By providing food, fuel, medicines, and credit lines, India helped Sri Lanka avert a deeper humanitarian crisis during its economic meltdown.
The strong bilateral ties also include significant investments across all of Sri Lanka’s 25 districts. PM Modi reiterated that India remains committed to supporting Sri Lanka’s growth through sustainable and equitable projects.
Strengthening People-To-People Ties
India and Sri Lanka share deep cultural and historical ties, with ongoing efforts to enhance people-to-people connections:
- Scholarships for Sri Lankan students aim to bolster educational exchange.
- Tourism and pilgrimage initiatives are being strengthened to deepen cultural understanding.
Mutual Trust For Future Growth
The strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka reflects a shared vision for regional growth, security, and cooperation. President Dissanayake’s emphasis on safeguarding India’s interests and PM Modi’s focus on inclusive development mark a new chapter in bilateral relations.
With economic assistance, infrastructure development, and defense collaboration, India’s continued support positions it as a key ally in Sri Lanka’s path toward recovery and growth. Both nations remain committed to strengthening regional stability and mutual prosperity.