Sri Lankan Territory Will Not Be Used Against India
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake reaffirmed on Monday that his country’s territory would not be used to threaten India’s security or regional stability. Speaking alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi, he stated, “I assured the Indian leader that Sri Lanka will not permit its territory to be used in any manner inimical to India’s security as well as towards regional stability.”
During President Dissanayake’s maiden visit to India after his electoral victory, India pledged continued economic assistance to help Sri Lanka address its financial crisis. Key commitments include converting loans for railway signalling systems and the Kankesanthurai Port into grants. Additionally, India announced a $20.66 million grant to settle payments for previously completed projects initially funded through loans.
Concerns Over Chinese Vessels and Maritime Collaboration
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that President Dissanayake’s assurance could influence Sri Lanka’s policies regarding foreign vessels, especially Chinese research ships, docking at its ports—a longstanding concern for India. With Sri Lanka’s one-year moratorium on foreign vessels ending in January, Mr. Misri emphasized the importance of India-Sri Lanka maritime cooperation. “We pointed to the importance and sensitivity of our security interests in this area,” he said, suggesting India’s willingness to conduct maritime research for Sri Lanka.
Energy and Infrastructure Projects on the Agenda
The two leaders discussed advancing energy partnerships, including plans for a common power grid, LNG supplies, and the India-Sri Lanka “multi-product pipeline” with UAE support. They also reaffirmed their commitment to completing the much-delayed Sampur coal power project, first signed in 2011.
Uncertainty Around Adani Group Projects
No progress was announced on Adani Group’s projects, which remain under review in Sri Lanka. While the Colombo Port terminal project will proceed with internal funding, the government has indicated a pause on the 500 MW wind power project in Mannar and Pooneryn. Significantly, Adani representatives were absent from the India-Sri Lanka Business Forum, hosted by CII, FICCI, and Assocham.
Fishermen Issue Remains Contentious
The contentious issue of Indian fishermen trespassing into Sri Lankan waters remained unresolved. President Dissanayake urged India to curb the use of “bottom trawlers,” which deplete marine resources. Both leaders, however, agreed on the need to address the matter in a “humanitarian manner.”
Tamil Reconciliation and Reconstruction
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s call for Tamil reconciliation and reconstruction in Sri Lanka’s war-affected north and east. He expressed hope that Sri Lanka would fulfil its constitutional commitments, including conducting Provincial Council Elections. President Dissanayake assured his leadership represented a diverse mandate and a commitment to inclusive governance.
International Cooperation and BRICS Bid
President Dissanayake sought India’s support for Sri Lanka’s entry into the expanded BRICS bloc and its maritime boundary claims at the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (UNCLCS). However, Foreign Secretary Misri clarified that BRICS currently has no consensus on further expansion beyond its recent enlargement.
A New Phase in India-Sri Lanka Relations
President Dissanayake’s visit marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with both nations reiterating their commitment to regional security, energy cooperation, and economic stability. While some contentious issues remain, the visit underscored the importance of strengthening ties to address shared challenges.
Sri Lankan President Dissanayake Assures Indian Territory Safety, Strengthens Bilateral Ties
