India celebrates its 74th Republic Day today, 26.01.2023.
In celebration of the day, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar said he would like to underline that India is a reliable neighbour, a trustworthy partner, one who is prepared to go the extra mile when Sri Lanka feels the need.
Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Gopal Baglay said: Over the past year, India rendered unprecedented financial assistance of around USD 4 billion for the people of Sri Lanka. This year, India became the first bilateral creditor of Sri Lanka to convey financing assurance to International Monetary Fund and support restructuring of Sri Lanka’s debt.
These steps have reinforced India’s commitment for the well-being of Sri Lanka in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Neighbourhood First policy.
The recent visit of External A airs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to Sri Lanka has opened avenues for further cooperation through investment in infrastructure, manufacturing and promoting connectivity. India was Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner in 2021. Sri Lanka’s exports to India have also grown. Use of Rupees for trade settlement is further helping Sri Lanka’s economy. These are concrete steps to help Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and growth.
Recent developments in India-Sri Lanka ties have strengthened the friendship between the two nations and all-round cooperation. At the same time, the two countries also remain vigilant to address common challenges, especially in maritime security domain.
