Colombo (LNW): India’s Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju, met with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday (17) to discuss their multifaceted bilateral relationship, a priority under India’s Neighbourhood First Policy, Press Trust of India reported.
Rijiju, in Malé for the inauguration of the Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, emphasised the significance of enhancing connectivity, trade, and investment, aligning with India’s Neighbourhood First policy.
The Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) policy underscores India’s commitment to maritime cooperation in the Indian Ocean region.
In response to Sri Lanka’s financial crisis in 2022, India provided substantial assistance of approximately USD 4 billion in line with its Neighbourhood First policy, including credit lines and currency support.
In January, India became the first country to pledge support for Sri Lanka’s financing and debt restructuring through the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
