PM Modi to Visit Thailand & Sri Lanka: Strengthening Act East & Neighbourhood First Policies

In a significant diplomatic move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to embark on a crucial two-nation tour to Thailand and Sri Lanka next week. The visit underscores India’s commitment to regional cooperation under its newly introduced MAHASAGAR policy, which aims to promote a stable, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

According to MEA Secretary (East) Jaideep Mazumdar, PM Modi will begin his visit in Bangkok from April 3 to 4, where he will participate in the sixth BIMSTEC Summit hosted by Thailand. This will mark his third visit to Thailand, reinforcing the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between the two nations.

Strengthening India-Thailand Relations

“India and Thailand share historically warm bilateral relations, with civilizational, cultural, and religious bonds. Thailand is India’s maritime neighbor, an important partner in our Act East policy, and a key stakeholder in India’s Indo-Pacific vision,” said Mazumdar, as reported by ANI News Agency.

During his visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking their second meeting. Their first interaction took place on October 11, 2024, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane.

Highlighting the multifaceted nature of India-Thailand relations, Mazumdar stated, “Our bilateral ties span across various sectors, including defense, security, trade, connectivity, science, innovation, education, space, health, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. This visit will build upon the positive momentum generated since the Prime Minister’s last visit in 2019.”

PM Modi’s Visit to Sri Lanka: Strengthening ‘Neighbourhood First’ Policy

Following his engagement in Thailand, PM Modi will travel to Sri Lanka from April 4 to 6 at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that this visit marks a historic moment, as PM Modi will be the first foreign leader hosted by President Dissanayake since assuming office.

“You would recall that President Dissanayake made his first overseas visit to New Delhi in December 2024 after assuming office. Now, PM Modi is reciprocating by visiting Sri Lanka, reinforcing the robust diplomatic ties between the two nations,” Misri stated.

India has long prioritized Sri Lanka under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, fostering strong economic, political, and cultural connections. The visit is expected to further enhance cooperation in trade, infrastructure development, and strategic collaboration.

India’s Role in Sri Lanka’s Economic Stability

India played a critical role in Sri Lanka’s economic stabilization during its severe financial crisis in 2022. “India has always stood by Sri Lanka in difficult times, extending substantial financial and humanitarian aid. Our commitment to Sri Lanka’s recovery and growth remains unwavering,” Misri added.

PM Modi’s visit will also focus on bilateral trade, defense collaboration, infrastructure projects, and tourism promotion. Strengthening connectivity projects like ferry services and transnational road networks will be a key agenda item.

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