High Commission of Sri Lanka in India

Your Excellency Santosh Jha, High Commissioner of India,
Mr. Kishore Reddy, President of the Sri Lanka – India Society,
Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
 
I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to the Sri Lanka – India Society and all Indian nationals present here on the 77^th Anniversary of Independence of India.
 
This year is further significant to the Sri Lanka – India Society as it celebrates its 75^th Anniversary of establishment. My heartiest congratulations on reaching this milestone.
 
The roots of the historical relationship between Sri Lanka and India can be traced back over millennia to a time when trade, culture and knowledge flowed across the Indian Ocean, fostering a natural connection between the people of our two countries.

This deep bond shared by Sri Lanka and India is not just a testament to history but a living example of our cooperation, mutual respect, and shared objectives. The advent and impact of Buddhism has drawn us even closer.

Buddhism is the most valuable gift from India to Sri Lanka; the pinnacle of a very special relationship between the two countries. One cannot expect that relationship to be more special, when Emperor Asoka, chose to send us the timeless message of the Buddha.

As history bears witness, this special relationship has continued to modern times following independence. It is worth recalling that Sri Lanka’s first diplomatic representative to India was sent to New Delhi in 1942, even before our two countries gained independence.

India has always stood by us as a close friend. The Government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi through his neighborhood first policy and SAGAR framework has further consolidated our ties and expanded cooperation. We recall the tremendous support extended by India following Sri Lanka’s recent economic crisis and the support extended for our debt restructuring arrangement with the IMF.

The visit of the Minister of External Affairs Dr. Jaishankar, was the very first high-level foreign dignitary to visit after the new government assumed office. This visit is a manifestation of the close bilateral ties between our two nations.

 
  
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
The trade dynamics between India and Sri Lanka have immense potential. India is one of Sri Lanka's largest trading partners, providing essential imports that support various sectors, including agriculture, health, and infrastructure. In return, Sri Lanka offers India strategic access to its markets and resources, enhancing our own economic landscape.
 
It is heartening to note that the close ties between the two nations holds immense promise for the future. The total two-way trade has increased over the years. Beyond traditional trade, we are also witnessing a growing interest in investment and technology exchange. Indian companies are increasingly investing in such key sectors. As economies in the global south, Sri Lanka values the partnership with India in the economic front.

I note that last year, Sri Lanka’s highest tourism footfall was from India amounting to approximately three lakhs. However, for a nation with a 1.4 billion population there is tremendous scope to promote tourism with the increasing air connectivity between our two countries. I am glad to reiterate that Sri Lanka has introduced a free visa regime for Indian travelers.
Cultural exchanges and people to people contacts between our two countries have gained momentum through various initiatives. These endeavors not only celebrate our heritage but also build bridges between our communities, fostering a sense of camaraderie and understanding. It is crucial to continue nurturing these cultural ties to forge a path towards greater cooperation and understanding between our two peoples.

Our cooperation in the multilateral fora has also been strengthened in recent years and we look forward to close cooperation through regional fora.
 
Excellencies,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
 
 
Organizations like the Sri Lanka-India Society epitomize the very essence of the nature of these deep people-to-people contacts.
 
I am happy to observe that Sri Lanka- India Society is the oldest friendship society in Sri Lanka, synergistically contributing in enhancing cultural and people to people ties between our two countries.
 
I am happy to note the many activities your society organizes every year including many charitable projects which have supported persons in need whether they be Sri Lankans in India or Indians in Sri Lanka. These tangible initiatives exemplify the spirit of cordiality and cooperation.
I take this opportunity to extend my appreciation for the commitment of all the members of your Society and your President Mr. Kishore Reddy.
 
In conclusion, let me express my sincere thanks to the Sri Lanka India Society for the kind invitation.
 
It is my ardent belief that the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Sri Lanka and India will continue to grow and flourish ensuring prosperity for both our nations.

Thank you