New Delhi: On the second day of his state visit to India, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake received a ceremonial welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan forecourt in New Delhi on Monday.
He was greeted by President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan. A Guard of Honour was inspected by President Dissanayake, and presented by the combined defence services.
During the event, President Murmu and President Dissanayake introduced their respective ministers, diplomats, and officers to one another. President Dissanayake’s state visit to India spans from December 15 to December 17. This marks President Dissanayake’s first bilateral visit to India since taking office in September.
On Sunday, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was welcomed by Union Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting L Murugan in Delhi. Subsequently, President Dissanayake met with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
In a statement, Dissanayake mentioned, “During my official visit to India, I had the honour of having fruitful discussions with Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Shri Ajit Doval. We concentrated on bolstering Indo-Sri Lanka economic ties, expanding investment opportunities, enhancing regional security, and promoting vital sectors like tourism and energy. These discussions underscore our dedication to fortifying the bond between our countries.”
In his meeting with President Dissanayake, Jaishankar emphasized Sri Lanka’s significant role in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and the ‘SAGAR’ initiative. He also expressed optimism that President Dissanayake’s subsequent talks with Prime Minister Modi would enhance the cooperation between New Delhi and Colombo.
