In a grand display of camaraderie and regional solidarity, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial guard of honour in Sri Lanka on Saturday, marking the beginning of his first visit to the island nation in his third term. The visit, rich with symbolism and strategic significance, underlined a renewed chapter of cooperation as India and Sri Lanka signed seven critical Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) across defence, energy, digital infrastructure, health, and trade sectors.
The ceremony, held with full military honours at Colombo’s Presidential Secretariat, was a spectacle of tradition and diplomatic warmth. Prime Minister Modi’s arrival heralded not only a reaffirmation of old friendships but also a determined push against rising Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean region.
In a historic gesture, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake conferred upon PM Modi the Mithra Vibhushana, Sri Lanka’s highest civilian award, recognizing his unwavering commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and preserving the shared spiritual and cultural heritage of the two nations.
“This honour is a testament to the deep bonds between our peoples,” Modi said, visibly moved by the accolade. “India stands shoulder to shoulder with Sri Lanka, not only as a neighbour but as a true friend.”
New Era of Cooperation
The seven MoUs signed during the visit span pivotal sectors that are set to deepen Indo-Lankan cooperation. Notably, India and Sri Lanka have agreed on a new framework for defence collaboration, promising greater maritime security, joint exercises, and enhanced military-to-military engagement.
In the field of digital technology, India’s Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology and Sri Lanka’s Digital Economy Ministry inked a landmark agreement to share India’s success in large-scale digital solutions, aiming to accelerate Sri Lanka’s digital transformation.
Energy partnerships were also expanded, with agreements on renewable energy projects, electricity grid connectivity, and collaborative research in green technologies, marking a significant step toward sustainable development in the region.
Standing By Sri Lanka
In his joint statement with President Dissanayake, PM Modi praised the “resilience and spirit” of the Sri Lankan people. “India has always stood by Sri Lanka – be it during the pandemic, in the aftermath of terror attacks, or the recent economic hardships,” he said.
The Prime Minister’s visit comes at a crucial time, as Sri Lanka navigates a challenging economic recovery. Modi’s message of solidarity was seen as a crucial endorsement of Sri Lanka’s path to stability and growth.
Addressing Tamil Concerns
The sensitive issue of Tamil rights and reconciliation also featured prominently in Modi’s discussions with Dissanayake. Stressing the importance of honouring the aspirations of the Tamil community, PM Modi urged Colombo to expedite the long-delayed provincial council elections.
“We believe that ensuring the rights and representation of the Tamil community is essential for Sri Lanka’s unity, integrity, and progress,” Modi emphasized.
Relief for Indian Fishermen
In a major relief for Tamil Nadu’s fishing communities, Modi announced that Sri Lanka had agreed to the immediate release of Indian fishermen and the return of their boats — an issue that has long been a thorn in bilateral ties.
“Both nations have agreed to adopt a humanitarian approach,” Modi stated, underscoring the shared commitment to safeguard the livelihoods of coastal communities.
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