Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe, during a visit to Indore, India, on Friday, underscored the importance of fully implementing the “vision document” signed between India and Sri Lanka in 2023. This comprehensive framework, adopted during Wickremesinghe’s presidency in collaboration with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, outlines strategic areas of bilateral cooperation aimed at enhancing maritime, air, and energy connectivity, along with fostering ties in tourism, trade, higher education, and skill development.
Speaking at the Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar school, Wickremesinghe stressed that his successor, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, should prioritize moving forward with this agreement during his tenure. President Dissanayake, who assumed office in September 2024, is set to visit New Delhi in mid-December for discussions with Indian leaders, including PM Modi, where the vision document is expected to feature prominently.
Wickremesinghe highlighted the achievements of the vision document, describing it as a roadmap for economic and cultural collaboration between the two nations. He noted its focus on fostering mutual benefits, particularly in light of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery following its unprecedented financial crisis in 2022.
During the event, Wickremesinghe reflected on India’s critical role in aiding Sri Lanka during its financial collapse, which had led the island nation to default on over $51 billion in foreign loans, marking its first sovereign default since gaining independence in 1948. India extended approximately $4 billion in assistance, a gesture that Wickremesinghe credited with helping Sri Lanka navigate one of its most challenging periods. He expressed his gratitude to PM Modi and Indian Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for their support during this time.
Wickremesinghe also highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and religious ties between India and Sri Lanka, emphasizing that these connections are vital for strengthening bilateral relations. At the event, he inaugurated a sports complex and delivered a lecture titled “Common Heritage: India and the Indian Ocean,” where he spoke about the shared legacy between the two nations and the potential for enhanced regional cooperation.
The former president’s remarks come as Sri Lanka looks to deepen its partnership with India, particularly under the leadership of President Dissanayake, who is expected to use his upcoming visit to explore avenues for mutual growth and collaboration. The trip is anticipated to reaffirm commitments made in the vision document and address new opportunities for bilateral engagement.
