The agreements are
- i) MOU on implementation of Sri Lanka Unique Digital Identity (SL-UDI) programme with GOI’s grant assistance;
- ii) MOU for providing Maritime Rescue Coordination Center;
iii) MOU on implementation of Hybrid Power Projects in three Islands off Jaffna;
- iv) MOU on cooperation in development of Fisheries Harbours in Sri Lanka;
- v) MOU for the establishment of Modern Computer Labs and smart boards with customized curriculum software in 200 schools in Galle District; &
- vi) MOU between Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and the Bandaranaike International Diplomatic Training Institute.
According to a Press Release issued by the Indian High Commission in Colombo External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S.Jaishankar was accompanied by a five-member official delegation from Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi for the bilateral and BIMSTEC engagements.
Dr.Jaishankar called on President Gotabaya Rajapaksa and conveyed personal greetings from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. President Rajapaksa thanked Government of India (GOI) for economic assistance amounting to around USD 2.5 billion extended to Sri Lanka in 2022. Dr. S. Jaishankar assured India’s continued support in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery process. The discussions also covered the recent Government-TNA talks, defence and energy cooperation and fishermen’s issues. It was agreed to deepen economic and commercial linkages with special emphasis on Indian investments.
Dr Jaishankar joined Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa at a special event held in Temple Trees to virtually inaugurate the Jaffna Cultural Center. They watched a cultural performance at the Center – a Bharatnatyam rendition, a prayer dedicated to the peoples of India and Sri Lanka and their eternal friendship. They also had a virtual tour of the Artificial Limb Fitment Camp in Jaffna which is supported by GOI. In addition, they also witnessed signing of MoU on implementation of grant assistance from India to promote Buddhist ties between India and Sri Lanka. Further, there was an exchange of notes on the amendment to Article IX of the MoU on construction of Jaffna Cultural Center.
The Indian External Affairs Minister also met Finance Minister Basil Rajapaksa in the morning, who stressed the significance of deeper economic engagement between the two neighbours at a time when the impact of COVID-19 is still being strongly felt.
The Indian Minister reiterated that India’s partnership with Sri Lanka was rooted in the ‘Neighbourhood First’ approach and S.A.G.A.R (Security And Growth for All in the Region) doctrine. India has stood by Sri Lanka in the hour of its need.
Foreign Minister Prof. G.L Peiris also held talks with Dr Jaishankar in the evening. They covered the entire gamut of bilateral engagement. Attesting to the comprehensive nature of bilateral ties, they also witnessed the signing of six bilateral documents in diverse areas:
The Indian Minister separately met Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Douglas Devananda. They discussed issues pertaining to fishermen and exchanged views on devolution.
