PM Modi's Historic Sri Lanka Visit Marks New Era of Strategic Cooperation
- Posted on April 5, 2025
- News
- By Arijit Dutta
- 96 Views
PM Modi’s visit to Sri Lanka received a historic ceremonial welcome, symbolizing stronger bilateral ties. Expected agreements cover defence, energy, and digital sectors. Modi will also inaugurate key India-backed projects and support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. This marks a pivotal moment in the strategic partnership between the two neighbours.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi received an extraordinary welcome in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Saturday, signaling a new phase in India-Sri Lanka relations. Greeted at the airport by five senior Sri Lankan ministers, PM Modi was later accorded a ceremonial reception at the iconic Independence Square—an honour never before granted to a foreign leader. Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake personally welcomed Modi, highlighting the significance of the visit, his first to the island nation since 2019.
The visit, packed with high-level engagements, is expected to result in at least ten crucial bilateral agreements. These include a landmark defence cooperation agreement, greater collaboration in energy security, and digital initiatives. Both one-on-one and delegation-level discussions between Modi and Dissanayake are scheduled to define a new strategic direction for the two nations. Modi’s presence is especially symbolic as he is the first foreign dignitary hosted by Dissanayake since becoming president.
India’s strong support during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis, including a $4.5 billion aid package, has earned considerable goodwill. The current visit will further build on that foundation with the announcement of agreements on debt restructuring support and currency swap arrangements. Additionally, the launch of India-backed projects such as the Sampur solar energy initiative highlights the deepening economic and developmental ties.
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Modi also engaged with members of the Indian diaspora and will travel to the historic city of Anuradhapura on Sunday. There, alongside President Dissanayake, he will offer prayers at the Mahabodhi temple and inaugurate more India-funded projects. The warm reception and packed agenda indicate a historic recalibration in India-Sri Lanka ties, with shared goals in regional security, energy, and digital growth.