India Stands Firm With People Of Sri Lanka, Reaffirms Prime Minister Modi

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka has a special place in both our Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision 'MAHASAGAR',  said Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint meeting with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday (5).

Speaking at the event, on day two of his three-day official visit to the island nation, the Prime Minister said that since President Dissanayake's visit to India four months ago, substantial progress has been made in bilateral cooperation.

Prime Minister Modi pointed out that the inauguration of the Sampur Solar Power Plant, is set to bolster Sri Lanka's energy security.

Additionally, agreements to construct a multi-product pipeline and develop Trincomalee as an energy hub promise widespread benefits for Sri Lankans. The Grid Inter-Connectivity Agreement will further enable Sri Lanka to export electricity, enhancing regional energy collaboration.

At the event, the Prime Minister also inaugurated a 5,000 Solar Rooftop System for religious places in Sri Lanka.

The Prime Minister said that India will also provide support for the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity project.

"In the last 6 months alone, we have converted loans worth more than USD 100 million into grants. Our bilateral ‘Debt Restructuring Agreement’ will provide immediate assistance and relief to the people of Sri Lanka. Today we have also decided to reduce interest rates. It symbolises that even today, India stands with the people of Sri Lanka," added Prime Minister Modi.

For the Indian Origin Tamil Community, the construction of 10,000 houses is nearing completion.

Training programs for 700 Sri Lankan personnel, including Members of Parliament, judiciary personnel, entrepreneurs, media persons, and young leaders, are also in the pipeline.

Addressing the livelihood issues of fishermen, he said that both nations agreed to adopt a humane approach, and he had emphasized the immediate release of fishermen and their boats.

Discussions on reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka were also held, with President Dissanayake assuring an inclusive approach. Prime Minister Modi expressed hope that the Sri Lankan Government would meet the aspirations of the Tamil people and fulfill its constitutional commitments, including conducting Provincial Council Elections.