A high-level diplomatic meeting signals a new phase in India–Sri Lanka relations, with bold discussions on energy, trade, and long-term regional cooperation shaping the future of both nations.
Indian Vice President Sri C.P. Radhakrishnan, currently on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka, engaged in bilateral talks with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat this morning on the 19th, marking a significant moment in regional diplomacy.
Upon arriving at the Presidential Secretariat, the Indian Vice President was warmly welcomed by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who extended his congratulations to Sri C.P. Radhakrishnan on his recent appointment as the Vice President of India, reinforcing diplomatic goodwill.
Highlighting that this visit marks his first official trip to Sri Lanka in his new role, the Indian Vice President expressed sincere appreciation for the hospitality and warm reception extended by the Sri Lankan leadership and people.
Following the ceremonial welcome, the two leaders held bilateral discussions focusing on strengthening the long-standing India–Sri Lanka partnership, with both sides emphasizing the importance of regional stability, economic collaboration, and strategic alignment.
The Indian Vice President stated his intention to expand cooperation across key sectors including economic growth, education, healthcare, tourism, investment, and trade, with a strong emphasis on energy security and port development as critical areas of mutual interest.
Discussions also included ongoing housing development initiatives in Sri Lanka supported by the Indian Government, as well as projects funded under the 450 million US dollar assistance package allocated for regions affected by Cyclone Ditva, highlighting India’s role in post disaster recovery.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake pointed out that agreements reached during his recent visit to India, along with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka, have significantly expanded cooperation across multiple sectors including economic development and social progress.
He noted that several joint programmes have already been successfully implemented and expressed confidence that bilateral cooperation will continue to grow in the coming years, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.
The President also acknowledged and appreciated India’s timely assistance following Cyclone Ditva and expressed gratitude for the allocation of funds from the Indian national budget to support Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts.
Recalling the critical support extended during Sri Lanka’s energy crisis, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake highlighted India’s role in supplying 38,000 metric tons of fuel, which helped stabilize the country during a period of severe economic strain linked to global tensions.
Referring to India’s rapid advancements in technology and digital transformation, the President stated that Sri Lanka is keen to collaborate in these areas, particularly in human resource development and public sector digitization initiatives.
Fisheries related challenges were also discussed in depth, with both nations agreeing on the importance of working towards a sustainable and long term solution that benefits communities on both sides.
The Indian delegation included State Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Members of Parliament Dr. K. Lakshman and Dr. Medha Bishram Kulkarni, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha, along with several senior officials.
Representing Sri Lanka were Minister Vijitha Herath, Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando, Secretary to the President Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, Senior Additional Secretary Roshan Gamage, Energy Secretary G.M.R.D. Aponsu, Foreign Affairs Secretary Aruni Ranaraja, Additional Secretary M.R.K. Lenagala, and other key government officials.
