In a pivotal move during his maiden visit to New Delhi as Sri Lankan President, Anura Kumara Dissanayaka on Monday provided a strong assurance to Prime Minister Narendra Modi that Sri Lanka would remain steadfast in safeguarding India’s security interests. Speaking at a joint press conference, President Dissanayaka emphasized his country’s commitment to ensuring that its territory would not be used in any way that could compromise India’s safety or strategic interests.
"Several important bilateral agreements were exchanged today, reflecting the growing strength of our partnership. I also took the opportunity to invite Prime Minister Modi to visit Sri Lanka. Furthermore, I gave him my personal assurance that Sri Lankan soil will never be allowed to be used in a manner that is detrimental to India’s security. The cooperation and friendship between our nations will continue to flourish, and I want to reiterate our unwavering support for India,” Dissanayaka said during the address.
This reassurance comes against the backdrop of China's expanding strategic presence in the Indian Ocean region. Beijing’s “Mission Indian Ocean” strategy, which involves increasing investments and military reach in the region, has been a source of growing concern for New Delhi. A key flashpoint is the Hambantota Port, handed over to China on a 99-year lease after Sri Lanka defaulted on Chinese loans. The port, strategically located near India’s southern coastline, has since hosted Chinese naval and surveillance vessels, sparking fears of its potential use for military purposes.
President Dissanayaka’s statement underscores continuity in Sri Lanka’s policy. In October, shortly after assuming office, he assured External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Colombo that Sri Lankan soil would not be used in ways that jeopardize India’s security. The reiteration of this pledge during his first official visit to India sends a strong signal of Sri Lanka's commitment to maintaining a balanced approach in its foreign policy amidst China's growing influence.
Earlier in the day, Dissanayaka held extensive discussions with PM Modi, covering key areas of mutual interest such as defense, maritime security, trade, and investment. The talks aimed at deepening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration in areas like renewable energy, infrastructure development, and regional connectivity. PM Modi highlighted the deep historical and cultural ties between the two nations, expressing India’s readiness to support Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and long-term development goals.
As part of his visit, the Sri Lankan President is set to participate in a high-profile business summit in Delhi aimed at promoting investment opportunities and strengthening commercial linkages between India and Sri Lanka. The summit is expected to focus on sectors such as tourism, agriculture, technology, and sustainable development, reflecting the broader economic priorities of both nations.
In a symbolic gesture emphasizing the shared cultural and spiritual heritage between the two countries, President Dissanayaka is also scheduled to visit Bodh Gaya, one of Buddhism's holiest sites. This visit underscores the significance of cultural diplomacy in fostering closer ties and mutual understanding.
This landmark visit signals a renewed commitment to India-Sri Lanka relations, positioning both nations to address shared regional challenges and counterbalance external influences. With a focus on deepening strategic cooperation, the dialogue reflects the growing realization of the importance of a stable and mutually supportive partnership in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future, envisioning a relationship defined by trust, shared growth, and regional stability.
