Colombo [Sri Lanka]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his official visit to Sri Lanka, announced a series of major bilateral initiatives aimed at strengthening energy, infrastructure, cultural, and security cooperation between India and Sri Lanka.
Speaking at a joint press conference alongside Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, PM Modi highlighted key agreements, including:
- The development of Trincomalee as an energy hub, in partnership with India and the UAE.
- The construction of a multi-product pipeline.
- A Grid Inter-Connectivity Agreement, enabling Sri Lanka to export electricity to India.
- The inauguration of 5,000 solar rooftop systems for religious institutions.
- Progress on the Sampur Solar Power Plant, enhancing Sri Lanka’s energy security.
- Indian support for Sri Lanka’s Unique Digital Identity project.
“These initiatives will bring tangible benefits to the people of Sri Lanka,” said PM Modi.
🇮🇳🤝🇱🇰 Deepening Economic & Infrastructure Ties
Modi also announced a LKR 2.4 billion (approx.) support package for socio-economic development in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province, including the inauguration of the country’s largest warehouse for farmers.
Additional infrastructure announcements included:
- Inauguration of the Maho–Omanthai railway line.
- Laying the foundation for a modern signaling system on the Maho–Anuradhapura route.
- Upcoming modernization of Kankesanthurai Port.
🛡 Security & Maritime Cooperation
PM Modi reaffirmed that India and Sri Lanka share intertwined security interests.
“The security of both countries is interconnected and interdependent,” he stated.
He welcomed enhanced defence cooperation agreements, and stressed collaboration under the Colombo Security Conclave and broader Indian Ocean security frameworks.
🕉 Spiritual and Cultural Diplomacy
Reinforcing civilizational and spiritual ties, PM Modi announced that sacred relics of Lord Buddha, discovered in Gujarat’s Aravalli region, will be sent to Sri Lanka for public exposition.
India will also support:
- Renovation of the Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee.
- Development of the Anuradhapura Mahabodhi temple complex.
- Support for the Sita Eliya temple in Nuwara Eliya.
“There is a centuries-old spiritual connection between our nations,” PM Modi emphasized.
🐟 Fishermen, Reconciliation & Tamil Aspirations
The two leaders discussed fishermen-related issues, agreeing on a humane approach and immediate release of detained fishermen and their boats.
On reconciliation, Modi reiterated India’s hope that Sri Lanka will:
- Fulfill Tamil aspirations.
- Fully implement the Constitution.
- Conduct Provincial Council Elections.
🌏 Diplomatic Significance
Calling it a “symbol of deep friendship”, PM Modi noted that President Dissanayake chose India for his first foreign visit, and now Modi has become the first foreign leader hosted by the new Sri Lankan President.
Quoting Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, Modi said:
“In the face of challenges and enemies, there is no stronger assurance than a true friend and the shield of his friendship.”
PM Modi’s current visit (April 4–6) marks his first to Sri Lanka since 2019, and follows his participation in the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand, where he held bilateral talks with regional leaders including those from Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh.