India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, completed his first official visit to Sri Lanka after the election of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. Minister Jaishankar departed for India yesterday evening after a series of high-level meetings with Sri Lankan leaders. During his visit to Colombo on the 4th, he called on President Dissanayake, met with Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and held discussions with Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath.
Line Of Credit Converted to a Grant
The External Affairs Minister also met with former President Ranil Wickremesinghe and the Leader of the Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB), Sajith Premadasa. In his discussions with Foreign Minister Herath, Minister Jaishankar conveyed India’s strong commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation, emphasizing the “Neighbourhood First” policy and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) outlook. He assured that India’s ongoing development assistance to Sri Lanka through priority projects would continue, including the modernization of the Kankesanthurai port with a grant of USD 61.5 million. He also mentioned that India was willing to convert payments for seven completed Line of Credit projects, totaling USD 20 million, into grants. Additionally, India has provided 22 diesel locomotives to the Sri Lankan Railways.
22 Diesel Locomotives to Sri Lanka Railway
During his meeting with President Dissanayake, Minister Jaishankar discussed various ongoing initiatives in energy production and transmission, fuel and LNG supply, solar electrification of religious sites, connectivity, digital public infrastructure, health, and dairy development. He noted that these projects would contribute to Sri Lanka’s economic sustainability and generate new revenue streams. The President acknowledged India’s economic support as vital to achieving his vision of a prosperous Sri Lanka and meeting the people’s aspirations. He also highlighted the potential for renewable energy exports to India, which could lower production costs in Sri Lanka and create additional resources. The contribution of Indian tourists to Sri Lanka’s economy was also noted, with an emphasis on further growth in this sector.
In his meeting with Prime Minister Amarasuriya, Minister Jaishankar reiterated India’s readiness to support Sri Lanka’s training and capacity-building needs. They also discussed the benefits of digital public infrastructure.
On the issue of Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring, Minister Jaishankar reminded Sri Lankan leaders that India had supported the country’s economic stability and recovery from the beginning. India was the first country to provide financial assurances, enabling the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to finalize the Extended Fund Facility. He confirmed India’s support in the Official Creditors’ Committee regarding Sri Lanka’s agreement with International Sovereign Bondholders and expressed India’s willingness to expedite the conclusion of its bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sri Lanka. The President expressed his appreciation for India’s assistance.
Regarding security and defense, the discussions emphasized that the interests of both nations were closely intertwined. The collaboration between India and Sri Lanka contributes to regional stability and security. Both sides recognized the importance of maintaining a continuous dialogue to promote trust, transparency, and mutual sensitivity. The President reaffirmed that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in any way that threatens India’s security interests.
Minister Jaishankar also raised concerns about Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lanka, urging their early release and the return of their boats. He called for a reconsideration of the heavy fines imposed on them, suggesting a humanitarian approach focused on livelihood issues to create a durable resolution. He also proposed a timely meeting of the Joint Working Group on Fisheries and the Fishermen Associations. Minister Jaishankar appreciated the release of 50 Indian fishermen during his visit.
On the topic of ethnic reconciliation, Minister Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for the aspirations of all communities, including Tamils, for equality, justice, dignity, and peace, while respecting Sri Lanka’s unity, territorial integrity, and sovereignty. He encouraged the full implementation of the 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution and the early holding of Provincial Council elections to facilitate these goals.
Minister Jaishankar extended an invitation on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to President Dissanayake for an official visit to India at a mutually convenient time.
