On December 15, 2023, High Commissioner Gopal Baglay officially stepped down from his role as India’s Head of Mission to Sri Lanka and has been designated as the upcoming High Commissioner of India to Australia.
The Indian High Commission released a statement underscoring Baglay’s impactful tenure in Sri Lanka since assuming charge in May 2020, marked by significant milestones in bilateral relations. Key highlights of his term include:
- Economic Assistance: Baglay played a pivotal role in providing multi-faceted assistance amounting to USD 4 billion to address Sri Lanka’s economic challenges in 2022.
- Strategic Agreements: He facilitated the signing of the Modalities Agreement for the possession, development, and use of Trincomalee Tank Farms and the Joint Venture between CPC & LIOC in January 2022.
- COVID-19 Response: India extended support during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying over 25 tons of medicines, Made in India Covid vaccine, Rapid Antigen Test kits, and Liquid Medical Oxygen to Sri Lanka.
- Humanitarian Efforts: Indian Naval and Air Force assets were mobilized to expedite humanitarian supplies to Sri Lanka during the critical period.
- Bilateral MoUs: Several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were inked, covering areas such as renewable energy cooperation, intergrid connection, development of Trincomalee, UPI-application acceptance & digital payments, and utilization of INR-denominated trade settlements.
- Trade and Development: India solidified its position as Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner. Landmark projects like the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project were initiated, and generational ties in Buddhism were strengthened through noble initiatives, including a USD 15 million grant assistance for promoting Buddhist ties.
- Connectivity: Various dimensions of connectivity were enhanced, including the resumption of Chennai-Jaffna flights and the recommencement of ferry services.
The statement also announced Santosh Jha as the successor to Baglay, set to assume the role of the next High Commissioner of India. Jha, currently serving as India’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union, boasts a career spanning over 30 years with diverse experiences, including a tenure as Counsellor in the High Commission of India, Colombo, from 2007 to 2010.
