Sri Lankan President Dissanayake To Visit India From December 15 In First overseas Trip After Assuming Office

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will embark on a two-day visit to India from December 15 to 17, marking his first international trip since taking office in September.

The visit, announced by Sri Lankan Cabinet spokesperson and Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, includes meetings with President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The discussions aim to strengthen India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations.

Strengthening Economic and Energy Ties

Dissanayake will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando. The trip follows an invitation from External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar during his October visit to Colombo.

Jaishankar, during his visit, emphasized India’s commitment to cooperation under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Talks focused on energy production, LNG supply, solar electrification, and connectivity. The EAM highlighted that these initiatives would enhance economic sustainability and open new revenue streams for Sri Lanka.

Dissanayake Visit to Focus on Debt Restructuring and Tourism

The Lankan President acknowledged India’s role in stabilizing Sri Lanka’s economy. He discussed export opportunities for renewable energy and tourism growth. Dissanayake praised India’s early support in Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring, enabling an IMF loan under the Extended Fund Facility.

India pledged continued support in the Official Creditors’ Committee and plans to finalize a bilateral MoU with Sri Lanka. The President expressed gratitude for India’s contributions.

This visit is expected to advance discussions on economic cooperation, regional stability, and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. It underlines the strengthening of India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations.

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