India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, visited Sri Lanka on October 4, 2024, engaging in high-level discussions with Sri Lankan leadership to deepen bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors. During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, and other key political figures.
In talks with Foreign Minister Herath, Dr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, reiterating support for ongoing development projects in Sri Lanka. He highlighted India’s offer of a USD 61.5 million grant for the modernization of the Kankesanthurai port and announced the gifting of 22 diesel locomotives to the Sri Lankan Railways. Additionally, he mentioned the possibility of converting USD 20 million worth of credit payments into grants, reaffirming India’s readiness to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.
Energy cooperation, infrastructure development, and tourism were key topics of discussion with President Dissanayake. The President acknowledged the importance of India’s economic assistance in achieving his vision for a prosperous Sri Lanka, with particular interest in exporting renewable energy to India. Dr. Jaishankar also highlighted India’s contribution to sectors such as health, fuel, and digital infrastructure, which would support Sri Lanka’s long-term economic sustainability.
The talks also focused on enhancing Indian investments in Sri Lanka, job creation, and boosting tourism from India. During discussions with Prime Minister Amarasuriya, Dr. Jaishankar assured India’s support in capacity-building and digital public infrastructure for Sri Lanka.
On the subject of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring, Dr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s support, noting that India was the first to provide financial assurances, helping secure Sri Lanka’s IMF Extended Fund Facility. He also affirmed India’s ongoing support in the Official Creditors’ Committee.
Security and defense cooperation were central to the discussions, with both nations recognizing their shared interests in regional stability. Sri Lanka reassured India that its territory would not be used against Indian security interests. Additionally, Dr. Jaishankar pressed for the release of detained Indian fishermen and boats, calling for a humanitarian approach to resolving the issue.
India reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka’s reconciliation efforts, emphasizing the importance of equality, justice, and peace for all communities. Dr. Jaishankar stressed the implementation of the 13th Amendment and the early holding of Provincial Council elections as crucial steps.
To conclude the visit, Dr. Jaishankar extended an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Dissanayake to visit India at a mutually convenient date.
This visit marks a significant step in advancing India-Sri Lanka relations, fostering collaboration in economic, security, and social sectors for the mutual benefit of both nations.
