Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka has yielded significant outcomes, including the signing of a historic defence cooperation pact, the conferment of the highest Sri Lankan honour, and crucial discussions aimed at resolving the long-standing fishermen issue. This landmark visit marks a new chapter in the bilateral relationship between India and Sri Lanka.
For the first time, India and Sri Lanka signed a major defence cooperation pact following discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. This agreement signifies a strengthened strategic partnership between the two nations, particularly in the realm of defence.
In addition to the defence pact, the two countries inked several other agreements, including a pact to develop Trincomalee as a regional energy hub and another to provide India’s multi-sectoral grant assistance to the eastern region of Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Modi and President Dissanayake also virtually inaugurated the Sampur solar power project, highlighting their commitment to renewable energy cooperation.
Prime Minister Modi received an unprecedented ceremonial welcome at Colombo’s historic Independence Square, where he was personally received by President Dissanayake. This gesture, symbolizing the deep respect and friendship between the two nations, is considered a rare honour for a foreign leader.
President Dissanayake further honoured Prime Minister Modi with the “Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana,” the highest award bestowed upon a foreign head of state. In a joint press statement, President Dissanayake emphasized that Prime Minister Modi “highly deserves this honour” for his friendship and contributions to the bilateral relationship.
Addressing the long-standing issue of Indian fishermen detained by Sri Lanka, Prime Minister Modi announced a significant relief. He declared that Sri Lanka has agreed to immediately release all detained Indian fishermen and has also pledged to return their boats. This decision is expected to bring much-needed relief to fishermen from Tamil Nadu, a state that recently passed a resolution to retrieve Katchatheevu from Sri Lanka.
Prime Minister Modi’s visit comes at a crucial time for Sri Lanka, which is recovering from a severe economic crisis. India played a vital role in providing financial assistance worth USD 4.5 billion during Sri Lanka’s economic hardship three years ago, solidifying their strong bilateral ties.
