Colombo [Sri Lanka]: Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a ceremonial welcome at Colombo’s Independence Square on Friday as he kicked off a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, aimed at enhancing regional cooperation, strengthening bilateral development ties, and reaffirming cultural links.
Modi was welcomed by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, setting the tone for a packed diplomatic agenda. The warm reception underscored the importance of the visit, which comes amid India’s growing emphasis on regional partnerships.
🤝 Cultural Reception and Diaspora Connect
Earlier in the day, PM Modi was greeted at his hotel by enthusiastic members of the Indian diaspora and was treated to a traditional puppet show—a vibrant display that highlighted the strong cultural and people-to-people connections between India and Sri Lanka.
“Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka,” PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Despite rain, six senior Sri Lankan ministers arrived at the airport to receive him personally, showcasing the high regard accorded to the Indian leader. The welcoming delegation included:
- Vijitha Herath, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism
- Nalinda Jayatissa, Minister of Health and Mass Media
- Anil Jayantha, Minister of Labour
- Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Minister of Fisheries
- Saroja Savithri Paulraj, Minister of Women and Child Affairs
- Chrishantha Abeysena, Minister of Science and Technology
🌏 From Thailand to Sri Lanka: A Continuation of Regional Engagement
PM Modi’s visit to Colombo follows his trip to Thailand, where he held a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and participated in the BIMSTEC Summit. These engagements underscore India’s strategic push toward deeper South and Southeast Asian integration.
🏛️ Key Agendas in Sri Lanka
During his stay, Modi will:
- Travel to Anuradhapura to inaugurate key India-funded development projects
- Hold high-level discussions with President Dissanayake under the shared vision:
“Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” - Review progress on various joint infrastructure and socio-cultural initiatives
🧘♂️ Yoga’s Rising Influence in Sri Lanka
In the cultural domain, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram, representing the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, lauded PM Modi’s global advocacy for Yoga. He noted that Modi’s leadership has helped mainstream Yoga in Sri Lanka, expanding its reach from spiritual traditions into corporate wellness programs and public health efforts.
🇮🇳🇱🇰 A Strategic Partnership Rooted in Shared Values
PM Modi’s ongoing visit highlights the growing strategic, economic, and cultural ties between India and Sri Lanka. With a focus on development, diplomacy, and heritage, the visit marks a new chapter in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Sri Lanka’s commitment to regional cooperation.