Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has arrived in Sri Lanka on an official visit, marking a significant step in reinforcing bilateral relations between the two countries. He was welcomed at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake by Sri Lanka’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Tharaka Balasuriya and the Governor of Eastern Province Senthil Thondaman.
Key Agenda and Welcome
Upon arrival, Dr. Jaishankar shared his enthusiasm for the visit on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter), stating, “Look forward to my meetings with the leadership. Sri Lanka is central to our Neighborhood First and SAGAR policies.” These policies highlight India’s strategic focus on fostering strong regional ties and ensuring security and growth for all in the region.
Scheduled Meetings and Discussions
During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar is scheduled to hold extensive meetings with the Sri Lankan leadership to discuss a broad range of partnership issues. According to the Indian High Commission in Colombo, this visit is a reaffirmation of India’s “Neighbourhood First Policy” and underscores India’s ongoing commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbor and longstanding ally.
Objectives of the Visit
This visit marks Dr. Jaishankar’s first bilateral trip following the formation of the new government under Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The Indian High Commission stated, “Reaffirming India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, the visit underlines India’s continued commitment to Sri Lanka as its closest maritime neighbour and time-tested friend.” The visit aims to boost momentum for connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial cooperative efforts across various sectors.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
In a recent meeting with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in India, Dr. Jaishankar discussed the prompt resumption of several development projects in Sri Lanka that had been initiated with Indian investments but were halted midway. He expressed his intent to visit Sri Lanka to monitor the progress of these projects personally.
Dr. Jaishankar assured President Wickremesinghe of his forthcoming visit to coordinate the Indian Prime Minister’s trip to Sri Lanka and to expedite the commencement of various development projects funded by Indian investments. Among the key initiatives is the establishment of an industrial zone in Trincomalee, which is expected to attract significant Indian investment and potentially draw investors from other countries as well.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Dr. Jaishankar’s visit is a testament to the robust and enduring relationship between India and Sri Lanka. It highlights India’s steadfast commitment to supporting Sri Lanka in its development journey and strengthening bilateral ties through strategic cooperation and mutual benefits. As both nations look forward to enhanced collaboration, this visit is poised to further solidify the bonds of friendship and partnership between India and Sri Lanka.
