President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has reiterated that Sri Lankan territory will never be used in ways that compromise India’s security interests. He emphasized this during a discussion with India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar, who visited Colombo on Friday (04).
In a statement following Dr. Jaishankar’s visit, the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka noted that the discussions on security and defence underscored the close alignment of interests between India and Sri Lanka. Both nations recognized that their collaboration is mutually beneficial and contributes to the stability and security of the region. The importance of maintaining a continuous dialogue to foster trust, transparency, and mutual sensitivity was also emphasized.
Regarding the ethnic issue and reconciliation process, Dr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the aspirations of all communities in Sri Lanka, including Tamils, emphasizing the need for equality, justice, dignity, and peace while maintaining the country’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. He also assured that the full and effective implementation of the 13th Amendment of Sri Lanka’s Constitution and the prompt holding of Provincial Council elections would support these objectives.
During his meeting with President Dissanayake, Dr. Jaishankar discussed various ongoing initiatives, including energy production and transmission, fuel and LNG supply, solar electrification of religious sites, connectivity projects, digital public infrastructure, and developments in health and dairy sectors. He highlighted how these initiatives would contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic sustainability and generate new revenue streams. President Dissanayake acknowledged India’s crucial economic support in realizing his vision of a prosperous Sri Lanka and fulfilling the aspirations of its people. He also mentioned the potential for exporting renewable energy to India, which could help reduce Sri Lanka’s production costs and generate additional resources. The President further recognized the significant contribution of Indian tourists and the potential for expanding this sector.
Dr. Jaishankar’s discussions with Sri Lankan leadership also focused on encouraging Indian investments, creating jobs in Sri Lanka, and boosting the flow of Indian tourists. In his meeting with Prime Minister Amarasuriya, the EAM emphasized India’s readiness to assist with training and capacity-building needs. The benefits of digital public infrastructure were also a key topic in their discussions.
On Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring efforts, Dr. Jaishankar recalled India’s early and steadfast support for the country’s economic stability and recovery. He noted that India was the first country to provide financing assurances, which facilitated the International Monetary Fund’s approval of the Extended Fund Facility. He confirmed India’s support within the Official Creditors’ Committee in relation to Sri Lanka’s agreement with International Sovereign Bond holders.
Additionally, India expressed its willingness to expedite the finalization of a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sri Lanka, with President Dissanayake conveying his appreciation for India’s continued support.
—PMD
