5 Reasons Why Modi’s Sri Lanka Visit is Historic
PM Narendra Modi with Sri Lankan President Anura Dissanayake (Image credit MEA India)
India and Sri Lanka Strengthen Strategic Partnership During Modi’s Landmark Visit
By Manish Anand
New Delhi, April 6: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka marked a pivotal chapter in bilateral ties. The visit witnessed a blend of diplomacy, cultural symbolism, and strategic cooperation.
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake endorsed close defence pact with India. Dissanayake also asserted that Sri Lankan soil will not be used for anti-India activities.
The Prime Minister exhibited ‘Mission Mahasagar’ and ‘Neighbourhood First’ planks of India during his Sri Lanka visit. Modi reiterated India’s commitment for the economic stability of Sri Lanka. He also committed to Sri Lanka’s reconciliation efforts.
First Visit After Political Transition in Sri Lanka
Modi’s first trip to Colombo came after political transition in Sri Lanka. Dissanayake’s political alliance swept Sri Lankan elections a few months ago. His Marxist and anti-India backgrounds had raised concerns in India.
“This is my fourth visit to Sri Lanka after becoming the Prime Minister,” Modi said at a joint press conference with Dissanayake. The Sri Lankan President also came to New Delhi for his first overseas visit.
“Dissanayake has also evolved in tune with the people’s positive outlook for India after the 2022 economic crisis in Sri Lanka,” said Atul Aneja, strategic affairs expert. He said that the 2022 economic crisis was a turning point in India-Sri Lanka relations.
Modi conveyed New Delhi’s commitment to being a reliable partner in Sri Lanka’s development and political stability.
Strategic Push Against China’s Influence
China continues to expand economic and strategic footprints in the Indian Ocean Region. With Hambantota Port, China has a strategic stake in Sri Lanka.
But Modi witnessed India and Sri Lanka signing an energy grid pact along with the United Arab Emirates in Trincomalee. The strategic oil reserve pact is much larger in scope than China’s Hambantota Port, said Aneja.
Modi quoted Thiruvalluvar to state in Colombo that “there is no better shield than a friendship”. He spotlighted India’s defence ties with Sri Lanka. Modi also gave Sri Lanka a role in Indo Pacific.
Deepening People-to-People and Cultural Links
Modi’s visit to significant Buddhist heritage sites in Anuradhapura and temples underscores India’s use of Buddhist diplomacy to connect with Sri Lanka’s cultural roots. Modi also announced that relics of Gautam Buddha found in Gujarat’s Aravali will be taken to Sri Lanka.
Modi also unveiled roof-top solar units for 5000 religious places in eastern region of Sri Lanka. Also, Modi oversaw unveiling of 10,000 houses for Tamils in Sri Lanka.
Big Push for Economic and Energy Cooperation
From renewable energy collaborations to port development and trade agreements, Modi’s visit unlocked several bilateral economic deals. Notably, the focus on energy security and grid connectivity aligns with India’s vision for a sustainable and integrated South Asia.
India and Sri Lanka can trade electricity with grid connectivity. This opens up new scope for Sri Lanka to export surplus power on lines of Bhutan and Nepal.
Symbol of Regional Stability and SAGAR Vision
Modi’s outreach reiterates India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision. It’s a strong message that India is ready to lead as a stabilizing force in South Asia, ensuring that smaller neighbors like Sri Lanka are not left vulnerable to global geopolitical pressures.
Cricket sensation Sanath Jayasurya summed up sentiments on India’s role in stabilizing Sri Lankan economy. “In 2022, we were without electricity, and there were long queues for petrol and diesel. India helped us in times of crisis. We are ever grateful,” Jayasurya told Modi at a meeting of Prime Minister with Sri Lanka’s cricketing legends.
Jayasurya requested Modi for Indian help in building an international standard cricket stadium in Jaffna. Modi responded positively to the request.
Join the WhatsApp Channel of The Raisina Hills
Follow on Google News https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMNK2vwsw39HWAw?hl=en-IN&gl=IN&ceid=IN%3Aen
About The Author
