Prime Minister Modi Receives Warm Welcome from Indian-Origin Citizens in Sri Lanka
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently embarked on an official foreign visit, covering key countries including Thailand and Sri Lanka. As part of this diplomatic tour, he participated in the BIMSTEC Summit (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) held in Bangkok, the capital of Thailand.
After successfully attending the summit, Prime Minister Modi departed for Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, via a special flight. He landed at the Colombo International Airport during the night hours, where he was greeted with a grand and enthusiastic reception.
At the airport, a delegation of senior Sri Lankan ministers formally welcomed him, reflecting the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations. More notably, a large number of Indian-origin citizens living in Sri Lanka, including members of various cultural and social organizations, gathered to offer a heartfelt welcome. Holding Indian flags, garlands, and placards, they cheered “Modi! Modi!” as a gesture of joy and pride.
Three-Day Visit with High-Level Meetings and Key Events
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to stay in Sri Lanka for a three-day official visit, during which he will participate in several key diplomatic, political, and developmental programs. A major highlight of this visit is his bilateral meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, which is set to take place today (Saturday).
The two leaders are expected to hold extensive discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including:
- Defense and Security Collaboration
- Energy Partnership and Sustainability
- Digital Transformation and Connectivity
- Trade and Investment
- Maritime Cooperation and Indo-Pacific Security
This meeting marks a significant opportunity to enhance strategic and economic ties between India and Sri Lanka, two nations with deep-rooted historical and cultural connections.
First-Ever India-Sri Lanka Defense Agreement on the Cards
Following the high-level talks, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) are expected to be signed between India and Sri Lanka. Among them, a landmark defense cooperation agreement is likely to be finalized—the first of its kind between the two nations.
Given China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region, this potential defense pact is seen as a strategic move to strengthen India’s role and presence in South Asia’s maritime domain. It is expected to facilitate joint naval exercises, information-sharing mechanisms, and coordination on regional maritime security.
Ambassador Santosh Jha: “This Visit Will Deepen Our Partnership”
India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Mr. Santosh Jha, emphasized the significance of this visit, stating:
“Prime Minister Modi’s presence in Sri Lanka will greatly help deepen our cooperation in multiple sectors. Whether it’s trade, connectivity, renewable energy, or technology, we see great potential to work together. This visit is also symbolic of India’s unwavering support for Sri Lanka’s development.”
Engagement with Political Leaders and Inauguration of Development Projects
During his stay, Prime Minister Modi will also meet with leaders of various Sri Lankan political parties, fostering inclusive dialogue across party lines. He is also expected to attend the launch of several development projects that were completed in Sri Lanka with Indian assistance, including infrastructure, education, and health sector initiatives.
In a notable event, Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake will jointly inaugurate a major solar power project, symbolizing a shared commitment to clean energy and climate resilience. The project is anticipated to boost Sri Lanka’s energy independence and contribute to its sustainable development goals.
This visit by Prime Minister Modi underscores India’s “Neighborhood First” policy, placing a strong emphasis on regional cooperation, mutual growth, and people-to-people ties.
