Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Visit Sri Lanka Ahead of PM Modi’s Trip

Colombo – June 10, 2024 – India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to visit Sri Lanka soon, preparing the groundwork for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to the island nation, as announced by the Sri Lankan President’s Media Division. This development was discussed during a meeting between Jaishankar and Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe in New Delhi on Monday.

The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry highlighted that Jaishankar’s visit will assess the progress of projects funded by Indian investments and expedite pending plans. Additionally, discussions were held on establishing an industrial zone in Trincomalee, a port city in the Eastern province, aimed at attracting Indian and international investors.

President Wickremesinghe briefed Jaishankar on the new Economic Transformation Act, which aims to devolve powers in agriculture, health, education, and economic management to the Provincial Councils. This act is part of Sri Lanka’s broader strategy to enhance regional governance and economic development.

The meeting also covered Sri Lanka’s agricultural modernization program and addressed ongoing issues between the fishermen of both nations, with a focus on achieving a swift resolution.

Jaishankar assured President Wickremesinghe of the rapid resumption of development projects in Sri Lanka that had been initiated with Indian investments but were halted midway. This resumption is expected to boost economic ties and infrastructure development in the region.

President Wickremesinghe also committed to designating estate line rooms, where Indian-origin Tamil laborers reside, as estate villages through a gazette notification. This designation will facilitate their development under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Additionally, the Sri Lankan President mentioned that the Truth and Reconciliation Bill, aimed at addressing historical grievances and fostering national unity, will be submitted to Parliament by next month.

Jaishankar’s visit and the subsequent visit of Prime Minister Modi signify the strengthening of bilateral relations and collaboration on economic and development projects between India and Sri Lanka.