Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 16th December, 2024, Monday in New Delhi during his first official overseas visit since assuming office in September 2024. The visit, marked by high-level discussions, underscored the growing partnership between the two neighbours amid rising regional geopolitical concerns over China’s influence in Sri Lanka.
Dissanayake, whose left-leaning coalition recently secured a decisive victory in parliamentary elections, was welcomed by Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. The two leaders discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in the fields of energy, trade, and infrastructure development, reflecting India’s commitment to strengthening ties with its southern neighbour. During a joint press briefing, Prime Minister Modi announced key initiatives aimed at bolstering India-Sri Lanka relations, including the establishment of electricity grid connectivity and a multi-product petroleum pipeline. “We are honoured that President Dissanayake chose India for his first official visit,” Modi said. “This will give new speed and energy to our relations. India is committed to being a reliable partner in Sri Lanka’s development journey.”
President Dissanayake echoed similar sentiments, reaffirming his commitment to fostering a closer relationship with India while addressing longstanding regional concerns. “The cooperation with India will certainly flourish, and I want to reassure our continued support for India,” he said. He further emphasized that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used “in a manner that is detrimental to the interest of India.”
Strategic Agreements and Symbolism
The leaders agreed to collaborate on connecting the two countries’ power grids and laying down a multi-product petroleum pipeline, initiatives that are expected to enhance investment and commercial ties between the two nations. These projects symbolize India’s focus on energy security and economic integration with Sri Lanka, as both countries look to capitalize on their geographic proximity for mutual benefit.
By choosing India for his maiden international visit, President Dissanayake delivered a strong symbolic message regarding Colombo’s foreign policy priorities. His party’s Marxist roots had previously sparked speculation that his government might lean more toward China. However, this visit has dispelled many of those concerns.
“By making New Delhi his first overseas stop, Dissanayake signalled that ‘India will indeed be our closest ally,’” said Paikiasothy Saravanamuttu, Executive Director of the Center for Policy Alternatives in Colombo. “That is the symbolic dimension of this visit.”
High-Level Meetings and Regional Implications
Ahead of his formal talks with Prime Minister Modi, President Dissanayake held meetings on Sunday with India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. These discussions likely laid the groundwork for Monday’s agreements and provided a platform to address regional security and economic issues. India’s growing defense and economic ties with Sri Lanka have taken on added significance as both nations navigate China’s increasing role in South Asia. Beijing’s investments, particularly in large infrastructure projects like the Hambantota Port, have raised concerns in India about potential strategic implications. The Dissanayake administration’s renewed commitment to closer ties with India signals Colombo’s intent to balance its relationships with both major powers.
Prime Minister Modi’s assurance of India’s partnership comes at a crucial time for Sri Lanka, as the island nation seeks to rebuild its economy and regain political stability. Projects like the electricity grid connectivity and petroleum pipeline are seen as vital steps toward deeper economic integration, fostering long-term stability and growth. As the two leaders concluded their meeting, the tone was one of optimism and cooperation. Modi reiterated India’s commitment to standing by Sri Lanka as it embarks on its path to recovery. Meanwhile, Dissanayake’s reassurances to India reflect his administration’s intent to prioritize relations with New Delhi while maintaining a balanced foreign policy. The visit marks a significant milestone in India-Sri Lanka ties, reinforcing mutual trust and setting the stage for enhanced collaboration in the years to come.
