Curated by : Rajeev Bhatt
Photo courtesy: PIB
Srilankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka was accorded warm welcome by his counterpart, Indian President, Droupadi Murmu and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the forecourt of Presidential Palace in new Delhi on cold morning of Monday, December 16, 2024.
During this thee day visit, several significant agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between the two nations, further strengthening bilateral ties. Following the signing of these agreements, the leaders addressed the media together during a joint press conference, highlighting the importance of their collaboration in various sectors such as trade, defense, and regional stability. This visit underscores the growing partnership between Sri Lanka and India, focusing on mutual interests and shared goals for progress in the region.
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The India-Sri Lanka Joint Statement, outlines the outcomes of the meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka during the latter’s state visit to India. The discussions covered a wide range of areas, reaffirming the deep-rooted ties between the two nations, built on cultural, civilizational, and geographical proximity.
Key Highlights:
Economic and Development Cooperation:
India’s Support During Economic Crisis: President Disanayaka expressed gratitude for India’s support to Sri Lanka during its 2022 economic crisis, particularly through emergency financing and debt restructuring assistance.
Bilateral Development Projects: Both nations agreed to expedite projects such as the Indian Housing Project, Hybrid Renewable Energy Projects, and Community Development initiatives. India also committed to reducing Sri Lanka’s debt burden by providing grants for ongoing projects.
Capacity Building: Plans to train 1,500 Sri Lankan civil servants over the next five years and explore further training programs for officials in areas like defense and legal domains were also outlined.
Debt Restructuring & Economic Model Shift:
Both leaders acknowledged India’s pivotal role in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy and reducing debt burdens. They agreed on a shift from debt-driven models to investment-led partnerships for long-term economic growth.
Connectivity and Energy Cooperation:
Leaders emphasized greater connectivity, including the recommencement of ferry services and the rehabilitation of Kankesanthurai Port with Indian assistance.On energy cooperation, discussions centered on projects like solar power in Sampur, LNG supplies, and offshore wind power development.
Digital & Technological Collaboration:
Sri Lanka expressed interest in adopting India’s digital governance models like the Aadhaar system, UPI payments, and other digital public infrastructures.
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Defense and Security Cooperation:
Both countries pledged to advance maritime security and defense cooperation, with India providing support for maritime surveillance and assistance in the development of Sri Lanka’s defense capabilities.Joint security exercises and intelligence sharing were emphasized to address regional threats.
Cultural, Tourism, and Fisheries Cooperation:
The leaders agreed to promote cultural and tourism exchanges, highlighting the resumption of flights between Chennai and Jaffna and further air connectivity.The fisheries issue was also discussed, with a focus on humanitarian solutions and ongoing dialogue to address concerns of fishermen from both countries.
Regional and Multilateral Cooperation:
India expressed support for Sri Lanka’s leadership in IORA (Indian Ocean Rim Association) and its Chairmanship of IORA, alongside mutual cooperation under BIMSTEC and Colombo Security Conclave.
The discussion also touched upon Sri Lanka’s BRICS membership aspirations, with India promising support for its application.
The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an enhanced, mutually beneficial partnership. They resolved to implement the agreed measures in a timely manner and further deepen ties through continuous leadership engagement. President Disanayaka invited Prime Minister Modi to visit Sri Lanka, signaling the continued strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations.
