A big step is being taken regarding defense cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a visit to Sri Lanka from 4 to 6 April. During this time, a defense agreement is likely to be signed between the two countries. Along with this, agreements are also expected in many areas like energy, health and digitalization. This visit of PM Modi is taking place at a time when the economy of Sri Lanka is gradually improving. This will give both the countries an opportunity to find new ways of mutual cooperation.
Preparation for defense deal between India-Sri Lanka
This will be the first defense agreement between India and Sri Lanka. This has already been discussed when Sri Lankan President Aruna Kumar Dissanayake visited India in December last year. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said that he hopes that this agreement will be reached during this visit. Defense cooperation between India and Sri Lanka includes naval cooperation. Apart from this, the Indian Army will also train Sri Lankan soldiers.
This is why PM Modi's visit to Sri Lanka is special
This visit of Prime Minister Modi is taking place at a time when the new government in Sri Lanka is engaged in taking necessary decisions regarding the country's economy. Foreign Secretary Misri said that a joint statement was issued during the visit of Sri Lankan President Dissanayake in December 2024. It talked about making the economies of both the countries beneficial to each other. In this visit, the focus will be on promoting investment and improving connectivity. Connectivity includes physical connectivity, digital connectivity and energy connectivity.
PM Modi will reach Colombo on April 4
The Prime Minister will reach Colombo on the evening of April 4. The next day, PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Dissanayake will hold official talks. They will jointly dedicate several projects being built with India's help in Sri Lanka. Several agreements related to energy connectivity, digitalisation, health and assistance in many sectors are expected to be signed on April 5. The two leaders will also virtually witness the launch of the Sampur Solar Power Project.
