New Delhi – Reaffirming India’s steadfast ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a comprehensive bilateral meeting with his Sri Lankan counterpart, Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, in the national capital today. The high-level talks focused on accelerating development cooperation, strengthening economic ties, and addressing the long-standing issue of fishermen’s welfare.
The meeting marks PM Amarasuriya’s first official visit to India since assuming office and is seen as a crucial step in charting the future of the India-Sri Lanka relationship. Building on India’s vital support during Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis, the discussion was characterized by a warm, forward-looking tone.
Deepening Development and Economic Cooperation
A key focus of the dialogue was the robust development partnership between the two nations. PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term growth. The leaders discussed fast-tracking Indian-assisted infrastructure projects, especially in:
* Renewable energy
* Connectivity and port development
* Digital public infrastructure and FinTech
Discussions also explored new avenues for collaboration, including upskilling Sri Lanka’s workforce to meet modern economic demands.
Enhanced Connectivity: A Key Bilateral Goal
The vision of enhanced connectivity was a prominent theme. This multifaceted approach includes not only physical infrastructure like the proposed land bridge and the recently launched ferry service but also energy connectivity through a power grid interconnection. Digital linkage through initiatives like India’s UPI payment system, which has seen successful adoption in Sri Lanka, was also highlighted as a success story.
Addressing the Humanitarian Issue of Fishermen’s Welfare
The meeting also delved into the complex and humanitarian issue of fishermen, a recurring point of friction between the two maritime neighbours. Both leaders acknowledged the need for a compassionate and pragmatic approach.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized handling the issue of Indian fishermen, who occasionally stray across the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), with a humane perspective. The conversation centered on creating mechanisms for the early release of arrested fishermen and their vessels. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation between their respective coast guards to prevent such incidents and work towards a sustainable, long-term solution that protects the livelihoods of coastal communities.
A Vision for Shared Progress
In his remarks, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the deep civilizational ties binding the two countries, stating, “India’s partnership with Sri Lanka is guided by a vision of shared progress and prosperity for our people and the entire region.”
Prime Minister Amarasuriya expressed her profound gratitude for India’s timely assistance, noting it was instrumental in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy. She reaffirmed her government’s commitment to deepening the strategic partnership with India as an essential pillar for her country’s development. Today’s meeting has set a constructive agenda, reinforcing the resilience and mutual respect that define the India-Sri Lanka partnership.
