NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya during his visit to Colombo and conveyed his best wishes as she assumes her new responsibilities. The two leaders discussed key areas of cooperation, including digital public infrastructure, training, and capacity building, and agreed to work closely to strengthen the bilateral partnership between the two nations.

In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Pleased to meet PM @Dr_HariniA today. Conveyed good wishes for her new responsibility. Discussed Digital Public Infrastructure, training and capacity building. Agreed to work together to advance our partnership.”

During his trip, Jaishankar also met Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB) leader Sajith Premadasa, expressing his appreciation for Premadasa’s ongoing support of India-Sri Lanka relations. In another post on X, Jaishankar said, “Good to see SJB leader @sajithpremadasa in Colombo today. Appreciate his continued support for the India-Sri Lanka relationship.”

As part of his engagements, Jaishankar was presented with the first copy of the Sinhala translation of his book, The India Way, by the Pathfinder Foundation. He expressed his gratitude on X, saying, “Pleased to receive the first copy of the Sinhala translation of ‘The India Way’ by Pathfinder Foundation.”

Earlier in the day, Jaishankar held discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, reaffirming India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery. The two leaders explored ways to enhance cooperation in multiple sectors and strengthen ties for the mutual benefit of both nations. Dissanayake expressed appreciation for India’s backing, saying, “Discussions focused on boosting cooperation in multiple sectors. Dr. Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery.”

In his post on X, Jaishankar conveyed the warm greetings of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu to President Dissanayake, emphasizing India’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties.

Jaishankar’s visit marks his first official trip to Sri Lanka since President Dissanayake took office. Upon his arrival, Jaishankar also met with Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath to discuss a wide range of mutual interests. During their discussions, Jaishankar reiterated India’s support for Sri Lanka’s economic rebuilding and highlighted the importance of the “Neighbourhood First” policy and the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative.

“Concluded wide-ranging and detailed talks with FM Vijitha Herath today in Colombo. Assured him of India’s continued support to Sri Lanka’s economic rebuilding. Our Neighbourhood First Policy and SAGAR outlook will always guide the advancement of India-Sri Lanka ties,” Jaishankar shared on X.