Saturday Feb 28, 2026
Saturday Feb 28, 2026
Saturday, 28 February 2026 01:35 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya (right) with Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Santhosh Jha
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya this week reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to deepening ties with India, stating that as the country moves towards sustainable growth, it welcomes investors and tourists who contribute to strengthening economic and cultural relations.
She made the remarks while addressing a special celebration and dinner reception organised by the Sri Lanka India Society to mark the 77th Republic Day of India and the 78th Independence Day of Sri Lanka. The event was held on Thursday (26) at the Taj Samudra in Colombo.
During the ceremony, the Society’s official magazine was launched and the book Port of Call was presented to the Prime Minister and the Indian High Commissioner.
Addressing diplomats and distinguished guests, Dr. Amarasuriya noted that since its establishment in 1949, the Sri Lanka India Society has played a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations through cultural engagement, dialogue, and sustained people-to-people interaction.
“Over the past year, the strength of India–Sri Lanka bilateral relations has once again been evident,” she said, expressing gratitude for India’s support in facilitating the exposition of the sacred Devnimori relics in Sri Lanka.
She also acknowledged India’s swift assistance following Cyclone Ditwah, noting that India acted as the first responder through “Operation Sagar Bandhu,” providing rescue and relief support.
The Prime Minister welcomed India’s announcement of a long-term relief package amounting to $ 454 million to aid Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts.
Highlighting the breadth of engagement, she said the Sri Lanka–India partnership spans economic development, energy, connectivity, trade and investment, digital transformation, health, education, maritime security, and people-to-people exchanges.
“As Sri Lanka progresses towards sustainable growth, we welcome increased investments from Indian businesses and greater tourist arrivals from India, while further strengthening our economic and cultural ties,” Dr. Amarasuriya said, reaffirming that India remains Sri Lanka’s closest neighbour and a key partner in regional development.
Indian High Commissioner in Sri Lanka Santosh Jha described the relationship as one that goes beyond formal diplomacy, characterising it as a strong and special partnership.
He noted that the introduction of the first international degree offered outside India in Sri Lanka marked a new chapter in educational cooperation, while collaboration in connectivity and people-to-people relations continues to expand.
The event was attended by ambassadors, diplomats, officials of the Indian High Commission, and representatives of the Sri Lankan Government, reflecting the enduring warmth and strategic importance of India–Sri Lanka ties.
