Colombo: During his visit to Sri Lanka, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Friday, reaffirming the importance of Sri Lanka in India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) vision.
Expressing his appreciation for the warm welcome he received, Jaishankar posted on X, “Honoured to call on President Anura Dissanayake today in Colombo. I conveyed the warm greetings of President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. I value his positive sentiments and guidance regarding India-Sri Lanka relations, and we discussed strategies to enhance our cooperation for the mutual benefit of our nations and the region.”
This marks Jaishankar’s first official visit to Sri Lanka since Dissanayake took office as the ninth Executive President on September 23, following a coalition victory in the presidential elections.
In his post on X, President Dissanayake shared insights from their discussions, stating, “Met Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar today during his official visit to Sri Lanka. Our talks centered on enhancing collaboration in tourism, energy, and investment. Dr. Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. We also addressed the importance of ongoing cooperation in fisheries, security, and national unity.”
Notably, prior to the meeting with Dissanayake, it was announced that 50 Indian fishermen arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy for crossing the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) would be released and repatriated to Tamil Nadu later this week. The Indian High Commission in Colombo stated, “Returning home! Fifty Indian fishermen from Mayiladuthurai, Pudukottai, and Nagapattinam have been released today.”
Jaishankar’s itinerary also includes a meeting with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya during his day-long visit. Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, he was welcomed by Sri Lankan Foreign Secretary Aruni Wijewardane and engaged in detailed discussions with the newly appointed Foreign Minister, Vijitha Herath, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Jaishankar remarked, “Concluded wide-ranging and detailed talks with FM Vijitha Herath today in Colombo. I congratulated him once again on his new responsibilities. We reviewed various dimensions of the India-Sri Lanka partnership and assured him of India’s steadfast support for Sri Lanka’s economic rebuilding efforts. Our Neighbourhood First Policy and SAGAR outlook will continue to guide the advancement of India-Sri Lanka ties.”
