PM Modi Begins Three-day Visit To Sri Lanka, Strengthening Regional Ties

PM Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Friday, where he was warmly welcomed at Independence Square by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

The ceremony marked the official start of PM Modi’s three-day visit, aimed at bolstering bilateral ties and enhancing development cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.

Warm Reception By Indian Diaspora In Sri Lanka

Earlier in the day, PM Modi received a heartfelt welcome at his hotel, where members of the Indian diaspora in Sri Lanka greeted him.

In a display of cultural solidarity, the Prime Minister participated in a puppet show performed in his honor, highlighting the vibrant people-to-people ties between the two nations.

PM Modi’s Regional Outreach Continues

PM Modi’s arrival in Sri Lanka follows his successful visit to Thailand, where he held a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and attended the BIMSTEC Summit.

On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi had further discussions, setting the stage for his ongoing regional diplomatic efforts.

Warm Welcome At Sri Lanka Airport

Despite rainy weather, six senior Sri Lankan ministers personally welcomed PM Modi at the airport, underscoring the significance of the visit.

The ministers included Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath, Minister of Health Nalinda Jayatissa, Minister of Labour Anil Jayantha, Minister of Fisheries Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Saroja Savithri Paulraj, and Minister of Science and Technology Chrishantha Abeysena.

PM Modi expressed his gratitude, posting on X, “Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka.”

Inauguration of Indian-Funded Development Projects

During his visit, PM Modi will travel to Anuradhapura and inaugurate several development projects funded by India.

He will also meet President Dissanayake to review the progress made on the joint vision of ‘Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future,’ which Sri Lanka’s president outlined during his visit to India.

Yoga And Cultural Contributions Highlighted

Vyasa Kalyanasundaram of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre praised PM Modi for his global advocacy of Yoga, acknowledging that his efforts have significantly boosted the formal recognition and acceptance of Yoga in Sri Lanka.

What started as a spiritual practice is now widely recognized in wellness and corporate circles across the country.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka reflects India’s commitment to deepening regional cooperation and fostering stronger ties with its neighbors in the Indian Ocean region.

His visit comes at a time when both countries are keen to enhance collaboration in areas such as trade, development, and cultural exchange.

Also Read: PM Narendra Modi Departs For Sri Lanka After BIMSTEC Summit In Thailand