Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, highlighted the importance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Sri Lanka, underscoring that it would further strengthen the growing bilateral relationship between the two nations. Jha, speaking to the media on Thursday, described the visit as highly significant, marking a new chapter in diplomatic relations.
“This is a very important visit. Our relationship today is on an upswing, and Prime Minister Modi will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka under the new government,” Jha stated, adding that the visit follows the Sri Lankan President Dissanayake’s visit to India in December 2024, his first overseas trip. Jha emphasized that the visit would not only build on existing agreements but also introduce a fresh agenda to enhance bilateral cooperation.
The Indian envoy further elaborated on the broad agenda for the visit, noting that Prime Minister Modi’s discussions would cover key areas such as connectivity, energy, and digitization, which were identified as foundational pillars during President Dissanayake’s visit to India. Several agreements are expected to be signed in these sectors, along with new initiatives in healthcare and defense cooperation. “We are also working on a framework MoU in defense cooperation,” Jha revealed.
According to Jha, the relationship between India and Sri Lanka has never been stronger, with both nations enjoying a healthy and cooperative partnership. “The bilateral ties are in very good shape,” he added.
Prime Minister Modi will be in Sri Lanka from April 4 to April 6, with official engagements scheduled for April 5 in Colombo. He is also set to visit the historic city of Anuradhapura on April 6 as part of his trip.
