India Pledges Major Economic, Energy and Cultural Support During Modi’s State Visit
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his ongoing state visit to Sri Lanka, announced a series of wide-ranging initiatives aimed at bolstering bilateral cooperation, with a special focus on energy, infrastructure, cultural ties, and regional security. Addressing a joint press conference with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Saturday, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to Sri Lanka’s development and stability.
Highlighting key agreements, PM Modi said, “The Sampur Solar Power Plant will help Sri Lanka achieve energy security. The agreement reached to build a multi-product pipeline and to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub will benefit all Sri Lankans. The Grid Inter-Connectivity Agreement between the two countries will create opportunities for Sri Lanka to export electricity.”
The governments of India, Sri Lanka, and the United Arab Emirates signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop Trincomalee as a regional energy hub.
PM Modi also announced several other initiatives:
-
Inauguration of 5,000 solar rooftop systems for religious institutions in Sri Lanka.
-
Continued Indian support for the Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity Project.
-
A LKR 2.4 billion support package for socio-economic development in the Eastern Province.
-
Inauguration of Sri Lanka’s largest warehouse to support local farmers.
-
Upcoming inauguration of the Maho-Omanthai railway line and foundation laying for the Maho-Anuradhapura signaling system.
-
Commencement of modernization work at the Kankesanthurai Port.
Spiritual and Cultural Initiatives
PM Modi also emphasized centuries-old spiritual bonds between the two countries, announcing that the holy relics of Lord Buddha discovered in Gujarat in 1960 would be sent to Sri Lanka for public exposition.
India will also support:
-
The renovation of the Thirukoneswaram Temple in Trincomalee.
-
Construction of sacred sites in Anuradhapura’s Mahabodhi Temple complex.
-
Development of the Sita Eliya Temple in Nuwara Eliya.
Shared Security and Regional Cooperation
Speaking on defence and maritime cooperation, PM Modi stated, “India and Sri Lanka share interconnected and interdependent security interests. We welcome the important agreements made in the area of Defence Cooperation.”
Both nations have agreed to strengthen collaboration through the Colombo Security Conclave and Indian Ocean security partnerships.
On Tamil Aspirations and Fishermen’s Livelihood
PM Modi said both sides discussed the livelihood of fishermen and agreed to address related issues humanely, including the immediate release of detained fishermen and their boats.
Touching on national reconciliation, Modi said, “We hope the Sri Lankan Government will fulfil its commitment to implement the Constitution fully and conduct Provincial Council Elections to meet the aspirations of the Tamil people.”
Symbol of Enduring Friendship
PM Modi underscored the strong ties between the two nations, noting it was his fourth visit to Sri Lanka as Prime Minister, and his first since 2019.
Quoting the Tamil saint Thiruvalluvar, he said,
“In the face of challenges and enemies, there is no stronger assurance than a true friend and the shield of his friendship.”
He added, “Sri Lanka holds a special place in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision Mahasagar.”
Earlier on Saturday, PM Modi was accorded a historic ceremonial welcome at Independence Square — the first time Sri Lanka has honoured a visiting leader in such a manner.
PM Modi arrived in Colombo on Friday, April 4, following his visit to Thailand where he participated in the BIMSTEC Summit and held bilateral meetings with regional leaders including the Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
