Colombo [Sri Lanka], April 5 (ANI): In a strong reaffirmation of Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional peace and India’s security, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday declared that Sri Lanka will not allow its territory to be used in any manner inimical to India or regional stability.
“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,” he stated following delegation-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is currently on a State visit to Sri Lanka.
Bilateral Maritime & Digital Cooperation
President Dissanayake also sought India’s assistance on a key maritime boundary issue.
“I requested Prime Minister Modi’s intervention in convening early bilateral technical discussions pertaining to Sri Lanka’s claim to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf…”
On technology and governance, he emphasized the need for collaboration:
“Sri Lanka recognises the importance of developing a digital economy to drive growth, innovation and efficiency… We discussed possible collaboration in digitalisation across multiple domains.”
He extended gratitude to India for its support:
“I thank the Government of India for the financial grant of INR 300 crore to implement Sri Lanka’s unique Digital Identity Project.”
PM Modi Honoured with Sri Lanka’s Highest Civilian Award
President Dissanayake also officially announced the conferring of the “Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana” – the highest civilian award for a foreign head of state – to PM Modi.
“Prime Minister Modi highly deserves this honour; that is what we firmly believe.”
Strengthening a Historic Bond
President Dissanayake praised the long-standing ties between the two countries:
“The friendship between India and Sri Lanka is very close… built on shared values, mutual respect and common interests.”
PM Modi’s visit from April 4–6, his first since 2019, includes reviewing progress under the Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future, adopted during the Sri Lankan President’s previous visit to India.
Key Highlights of the Visit:
- Formal delegation-level talks were held Saturday, attended by EAM S. Jaishankar, NSA Ajit Doval, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, and others.
- A trilateral MoU was signed between India, Sri Lanka, and the UAE in the presence of both heads of state.
- PM Modi was welcomed with a historic ceremonial reception at Independence Square — the first-ever for a visiting leader.
- Despite heavy rains, six senior ministers welcomed PM Modi at the airport.
- Modi also interacted with the Indian diaspora and enjoyed a traditional puppet show.
- He is scheduled to visit Anuradhapura to inaugurate India-funded development projects.
“Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka,” PM Modi posted on X.
This visit further cements the robust, time-tested partnership between India and Sri Lanka, especially amid shared regional challenges and opportunities. (ANI)
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