Danish Shaikh
New Delhi, December 16, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at Hyderabad House, marking a significant step in strengthening India-Sri Lanka bilateral ties. This visit is President Dissanayake’s first state visit to India since assuming office in September 2024.
The leaders engaged in discussions covering a wide range of issues, including economic cooperation, investment opportunities, regional security, and collaboration in tourism and energy. The talks emphasized mutual commitments under India’s “Neighbourhood First” and “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policies.
Earlier, President Dissanayake paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat, underscoring his admiration for Gandhi’s values of truth and non-violence. He was also accorded a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he inspected the Guard of Honour and interacted with Indian officials alongside President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi.
President Dissanayake’s visit comes at a time of growing emphasis on regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean. During his engagements, he met Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The discussions centered on enhancing economic partnerships and addressing shared challenges like regional security.
In a social media post, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated Sri Lanka’s importance in India’s strategic vision, stating, “Sri Lanka remains central to our Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR outlook. Confident that the talks with PM Modi will deepen trust and cooperation.”
The Sri Lankan President’s visit concludes on December 17 and includes participation in a business forum and a visit to Bodh Gaya. Officials expect this visit to pave the way for deeper economic and strategic ties between the two nations.
