Sri Lanka Assures India Its Territory Won’t Be Used Against Indian Interests During PM Modi’s Visit

‘Won’t allow territory to be used…’: Sri Lanka’s assurance to India amid PM Modi’s visit. The statement appeared to be an attempt to assuage India’s concerns about China’s growing influence in Sri Lanka.

In a move highlighting the strengthening of India-Sri Lanka ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a historic ceremonial welcome in Colombo — a first-ever honor for a visiting leader — underscoring the deepening strategic bond between the two neighbors.

Key Security Reassurance

During the visit, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake assured PM Modi that Colombo would not permit any activity on its soil that could threaten India’s security, directly addressing concerns around China’s growing regional presence and influence through infrastructure and investments in the island nation.

The camaraderie was further symbolised when President Dissanayake conferred the prestigious ‘Mithra Vibhushana’ award upon PM Modi, acknowledging India’s unwavering support during Sri Lanka’s most challenging times — from the 2019 Easter bombings and the COVID-19 pandemic to its recent economic turmoil.

Strategic Agreements

Taking their collaboration to a new level, both countries signed a landmark defence cooperation agreement — the first of its kind — and pledged to transform Trincomalee into a regional energy hub. The Sampur solar power project was also virtually inaugurated, marking a pivotal step in their clean energy partnership.

These announcements came shortly after PM Modi’s participation in the BIMSTEC summit in Bangkok, reinforcing India’s active regional diplomacy. With additional agreements on development assistance and multi-sectoral cooperation in Sri Lanka’s eastern region, both nations charted a forward-looking roadmap for deeper, multi-dimensional ties.