Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake thanked India for its “immense support” during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis. He assured Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Sri Lanka would not allow any action on its soil that could harm India’s interests.
“I assured the Prime Minister that we will not let our land be used in ways detrimental to India. Cooperation with India will flourish,” Dissanayake said after talks with Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.
Dissanayake, on his first foreign visit as President, praised India’s help during Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring. He expressed gratitude to President Droupadi Murmu and PM Modi for their warm hospitality.
India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Defence Cooperation
PM Modi assured Dissanayake of India’s support in Sri Lanka’s development efforts. Both leaders agreed to finalize a Defence Cooperation Agreement soon. They emphasized the need to enhance collaboration in maritime security, counter-terrorism, and cyber-security.
Modi highlighted the importance of the Colombo Security Conclave for regional peace. He said both countries would work together to combat smuggling, organized crime, and natural disasters.
Focus on Fishermen’s Issues and Digital Growth
Both leaders addressed the ongoing fishermen’s issue. Modi called for a “humane approach,” while Dissanayake sought a “durable and sustainable” solution. He stressed the need to end destructive fishing practices like bottom trawling.
Dissanayake praised India’s progress in digitizing public services. He revealed that Sri Lanka plans to follow India’s model, with Modi offering full support.
Dissanayake will also meet Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and attend a business forum to boost trade ties. His delegation includes key Sri Lankan ministers. On Sunday, he met External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and NSA Ajit Doval to discuss economic and tourism cooperation.
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