PM Modi meets Sri Lankan President at Presidential Secretariat in Colombo

ANI April 5, 2025 301 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo, marking a significant diplomatic milestone in India-Sri Lanka relations. His three-day visit includes a historic ceremonial welcome at Independence Square and a crucial meeting with President Dissanayake. The trip aims to strengthen bilateral partnerships and explore shared development opportunities across the region. Modi's engagement extends beyond political discussions, embracing cultural exchanges and interactions with the local Indian diaspora.

"Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me" - PM Narendra Modi
Colombo, April 5: Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo today, shortly after being accorded a historic ceremonial welcome at Independence Square - the first time Sri Lanka has honoured a visiting leader in this manner.

Key Points

1

First Modi visit to Sri Lanka since 2019

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Ceremonial welcome at Independence Square highlights diplomatic significance

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Aims to foster regional development partnerships

4

Engaging with Indian diaspora and cultural exchange

The meeting marks a key moment in PM Modi's ongoing three-day visit, which aims to strengthen bilateral ties under the shared vision of "Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future."

The ceremonial welcome earlier in the day, led by President Dissanayake, reflected the significance Colombo places on the India-Sri Lanka relationship. PM Modi's arrival on Friday marked his first visit to Sri Lanka since 2019 and comes amid a renewed regional focus on development partnerships and cultural exchange.

Prime Minister Modi reached Colombo following a stop in Thailand, where he attended the BIMSTEC Summit and held bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

In Sri Lanka, PM Modi was warmly received at the airport by six senior ministers, despite rainy weather: Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, Labour Minister Anil Jayantha, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj, and Science and Technology Minister Chrishantha Abeysena.

"Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka," PM Modi posted on X.

After arriving at his hotel, the Prime Minister interacted with members of the Indian diaspora and witnessed a traditional puppet performance, underscoring the cultural connections between the two nations. As part of his itinerary, PM Modi will travel to Anuradhapura to inaugurate development projects funded by India.

Meanwhile, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram, head of the Yoga department at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, praised PM Modi's efforts in elevating Yoga to global recognition. He highlighted how PM Modi's advocacy helped transform Yoga from a niche spiritual pursuit into a widely respected therapeutic practice embraced across Sri Lanka.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is such a positive development for India-Sri Lanka relations! The ceremonial welcome shows how much respect they have for PM Modi. 🇮🇳🤝🇱🇰 Hope this visit brings more economic cooperation between our nations.
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Sunita P.
I love how PM Modi always makes time to connect with the Indian diaspora wherever he goes. The puppet show was such a thoughtful cultural touch - reminds us of our shared heritage with Sri Lanka.
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Arjun M.
While I appreciate the diplomatic efforts, I hope these visits translate into concrete benefits for ordinary citizens in both countries. The development projects in Anuradhapura sound promising - let's see the actual impact on local communities.
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Priya D.
The Yoga connection mentioned at the end is so important! It's amazing how cultural diplomacy can build bridges between nations. My Sri Lankan yoga teacher always speaks so highly of India's contributions to wellness practices.
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Kavita R.
The ministers coming to welcome despite the rain shows true hospitality! Small gestures like this make a big difference in international relations. Wishing PM Modi a productive visit.
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Vikram S.
I'm curious about the development projects being inaugurated. Hope there's transparency in how these India-funded initiatives are implemented and maintained long-term. Cooperation is good but accountability matters too.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Narendra Modi Anura Kumara Dissanayake India-Sri Lanka Relations Diplomatic Visit BIMSTEC Colombo Summit
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