India joined Sri Lanka in celebrating its 78th Independence Day, with senior officials conveying heartfelt congratulations and underscoring the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations.
In a keynote address at the evening reception, a high-ranking Indian representative described it as a “great honour and privilege” to mark the occasion for the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. Speaking on behalf of the Government and people of India, the speaker extended warmest greetings to High Commissioner-designate and the people of Sri Lanka, emphasizing shared history, culture, religion, and civilizational links that have endured over time.
The address highlighted the renewed dynamism in bilateral ties under India’s Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision. India reaffirmed its unconditional support, standing as the first responder during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 economic downturn, and the recent Cyclone Ditwah. Notably, Indian naval ships INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri were swiftly deployed for humanitarian aid, with a $450 million relief package now funding bridge and railway restorations, housing relocations, and hospital rebuilding.
Economic cooperation took center stage, with bilateral trade hitting $5.8 billion in FY 2024-25—India remaining Sri Lanka’s largest trading partner. Indian investments now comprise nearly 50% of total foreign direct investment in Sri Lanka. Future collaboration spans trade, digital transformation, tourism, railways, defense, healthcare, agriculture, and culture.
High-level visits bolstered ties: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2025 trip to Sri Lanka and President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s 2024 India visit laid foundations for synergy and mutual benefit. India’s development aid exceeds $7.5 billion, including $850 million in grants, targeting housing, transport, health, education, agriculture, renewable energy, and railways across all provinces.
Digital initiatives feature prominently, with India aiding Sri Lanka’s Unique Digital Identity (SLUDI) project to drive inclusive growth. Capacity building shines through programs like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations scholarships, counting Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister and High Commissioner as alumni.
People-to-people links thrive, with over 500,000 Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka in 2025. Ongoing events, such as the Sacred Buddha Relics exposition from Devni Mori (February 4-11 in Colombo), reinforce spiritual bonds.
Relations are “on an upward trajectory,” the speaker concluded, pledging India’s commitment to shared progress and prosperity.
