PM Modi receives unprecedented ceremonial welcome in Sri Lanka

ANI April 5, 2025 301 views

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo for a landmark diplomatic visit, receiving an extraordinary ceremonial welcome at Independence Square. The reception, unprecedented in Sri Lankan history, symbolizes the deepening strategic partnership between India and Sri Lanka. During his three-day trip, Modi is set to inaugurate development projects and engage in critical bilateral discussions. This visit represents a significant diplomatic outreach, highlighting India's commitment to regional collaboration and mutual growth.

"A special welcome at Sri Lanka's majestic Independence Square" - Ministry of External Affairs
Colombo, April 5: Today's ceremonial welcome for Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Colombo's Independence Square was special. Sri Lanka accorded this honour to a visiting dignitary for the first time, making the gesture both historic and symbolic of the deepening ties between the two neighbours.

Key Points

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First-ever ceremonial reception for foreign dignitary at Independence Square

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Bilateral discussions focus on shared prosperity and development

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PM Modi arrives after Thailand BIMSTEC Summit

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Six ministers personally welcome Indian Prime Minister

"A special welcome at Sri Lanka's majestic Independence Square. PM Narendra Modi was welcomed by President Anura Disanayake with a ceremonial reception at the Independence Square in Colombo. Bilateral discussions to foster a partnership for a shared future & mutual prosperity of our people lie ahead, " the MEA posted on X.

PM Modi, currently on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, was received at the grand ceremonial venue by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The welcome marked the beginning of a visit focused on fostering regional collaboration and fast-tracking joint development projects.

Earlier, on Friday, soon after his arrival, PM Modi was greeted at his hotel by members of the Indian diaspora and treated to a cultural performance, including a puppet show. The vibrant reception reflected the warmth and cultural bonds shared between the two countries.

PM Modi landed in Colombo following his visit to Thailand, where he held bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and participated in the BIMSTEC Summit. He also met other regional leaders on the sidelines of the summit.

In a rare gesture, despite the rain, six senior ministers of the Sri Lankan government were present at the airport to receive the Indian Prime Minister. These included Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath and Minister of Health and Mass Media Nalinda Jayatissa, among others.

"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 said in a post on X.

During the visit, he will travel to Anuradhapura to inaugurate development initiatives supported by India. His last visit to the island nation was in 2019.

Meanwhile, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre lauded PM Modi's efforts to bring global recognition to Yoga, calling it a turning point for its growth in Sri Lanka.

Reader Comments

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Rahul K.
This is truly historic! The ceremonial welcome at Independence Square shows how much our relationship with Sri Lanka has grown. 🇮🇳🤝🇱🇰 PM Modi's diplomacy is bringing our neighbors closer than ever before.
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the diplomatic efforts, I hope these visits translate into concrete benefits for common people in both countries. The ceremonial aspects are nice, but let's not forget about the economic challenges Sri Lanka is facing.
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Sanjay T.
The cultural performance with puppets sounds so heartwarming! It's these small gestures that show our deep cultural connections beyond just politics. More cultural exchanges please!
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Ananya R.
Six ministers waiting at the airport despite rain? That's some serious hospitality! Sri Lanka really rolled out the red carpet this time. Hope this visit strengthens tourism ties too.
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Vikram S.
The focus on development projects in Anuradhapura is crucial. India's support can really help rebuild Sri Lanka's infrastructure. This is what neighborhood diplomacy should look like - practical and people-focused.
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Neha P.
So proud to see our PM getting such respect abroad! The yoga mention is interesting too - soft power matters in diplomacy. Maybe we'll see more yoga centers opening in Sri Lanka soon? 🧘‍♂️

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

Tags:
Narendra Modi Sri Lanka Visit India-Sri Lanka Relations Diplomatic Milestone Anura Disanayake BIMSTEC
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