High-Level Visit: PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka underscores India’s commitment to its ‘Neighbourhood First Policy’ and ‘MAHASAGAR’ vision, reinforcing the island nation’s important role. It was his fourth trip since 2015.
Highest Civilian Honor: PM Modi awarded ‘Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushana,’ Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honor, symbolizing prosperity and shared heritage.
Defence Pact: India and Sri Lanka signed a 5-year Defence MoU for joint exercises, maritime surveillance, and defense industry collaboration, with Sri Lanka vowing to not allow its territory to be used against Indian interests.
Energy Cooperation: Agreement on India-Sri Lanka grid interconnection for electricity trade. Tripartite MoU (India, Sri Lanka, UAE) to develop Trincomalee as an energy hub.
Financial Aid: India converted over USD 100 million in loans to grants and reduced interest rates on other loans for Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring. India has provided nearly USD 4 billion in aid during Sri Lanka’s 2022 crisis.
Development Projects: Launch of refurbished Maho-Omanthai railway line and Sampur Solar Power Project, supported by Indian assistance. Also a solar rooftop project for religious sites.
Cultural Exchange: Relics of Lord Buddha found in Gujarat to be sent to Sri Lanka for exposition. Discussed possibility of exhibiting these sacred relics in Sri Lanka
Connectivity Boost: Upgraded northern railway line between Maho and Omanthai jointly inaugurated. India supported Sri Lanka during the Covid-19 pandemic with vaccines and medical supplies.
Trade Relations: India is a top trade partner. The 1998 FTA boosted trade. India a key FDI contributor, with cumulative investments of USD 2.25 billion till 2023.
Fishermen Issue: Sri Lanka released 11 Indian fishermen after PM Modi’s ‘humane approach’ pitch
Challenges: Chinese presence in Sri Lanka and the Katchatheevu Island dispute continue to pose challenges.
Future Roadmap: Focus on technology investment, renewable energy projects, and ETCA implementation to enhance relations.
Buddhist Administrative control:Chief monk presented a memorandum requesting Buddhist administrative control over Bodh Gaya temple. “PM Modi assured that he would take necessary steps”, the release stated.
