Ceremonial Reception for Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in India
Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake received a warm ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan (President House) in New Delhi today. The event was marked by a traditional guard of honor, followed by an exchange of greetings with Indian President Droupadi Murmu and senior dignitaries.
News Mania Desk / Photo Credit -Sipra Das /New Delhi -Rashtrapati Bhavan -16th December 2024
President Dissanayake’s visit underscores the strong and historic ties between India and Sri Lanka, aiming to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various domains. After the ceremonial reception, he proceeded to Hyderabad House for a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The leaders held in-depth discussions on mutual interests, including trade, economic collaboration, defense partnerships, and regional stability. A special focus was placed on enhancing connectivity, cultural exchanges, and sustainable development initiatives. Both leaders expressed their commitment to fostering a robust partnership for the prosperity of their people.
The visit is expected to pave the way for significant agreements in infrastructure, renewable energy, and maritime security, reinforcing the close bond between the two neighboring nations.
President Dissanayake’s itinerary includes interactions with business leaders and visits to cultural sites, reflecting a comprehensive engagement during his official trip to India.
Key Points
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Assurance to India
- Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured that Sri Lanka’s territory will not be used for activities detrimental to India.
- The statement was made during his bilateral meeting with Indian PM Narendra Modi in Delhi.
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Gratitude for Economic Support
- Dissanayake thanked India for providing financial assistance worth USD 4 billion during Sri Lanka’s economic crisis two years ago.
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Discussions on Bilateral Relations
- Topics included reconciliation and reconstruction in Sri Lanka, with emphasis on addressing the aspirations of Tamil minorities.
- Modi highlighted the importance of maritime security, cyber security, and counter-terrorism under the Colombo Security Conclave mechanism.
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State Visit Details
- The visit marks Dissanayake’s first overseas trip since becoming president after recent Sri Lankan elections.
- He is accompanied by Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath and Deputy Finance Minister Anil Jayantha Fernando.
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Economic and Development Cooperation
- Pacts signed:
- Avoidance of double taxation.
- Capacity building and training.
- Projects discussed:
- Sampur solar power project.
- Railway connectivity within Sri Lanka.
- Ferry and flight services.
- Digital identity projects and education initiatives.
- Pacts signed:
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Focus on Tourism
- Discussions on promoting the Ramayana Circuit and the Buddhist Circuit to boost tourism between the countries.
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Fishermen Issue
- Dissanayake stressed the need for a durable and sustainable solution to the fishermen dispute.
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Energy and Connectivity Vision
- Modi emphasized investment-led growth with a futuristic vision focusing on physical, digital, and energy connectivity.
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Business and Cultural Engagement
- Dissanayake is scheduled to attend a business event in Delhi and visit Bodh Gaya.
- Dissanayake is scheduled to attend a business event in Delhi and visit Bodh Gaya.
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Strengthening Ties
- Both sides see the visit as an opportunity to enhance multifaceted and mutually beneficial cooperation.
- The visit underscores the importance of India-Sri Lanka relations, especially under Dissanayake’s new leadership.
News Mania Desk /Photo Credit -Sipra Das (National Consulting Photo Editor)
