India reiterates strong commitment to strengthen ties via safe COVID travel

The High Commission of India in Colombo yesterday reiterated its strong commitment to further strengthening close and friendly ties with Sri Lanka by promoting people-to-people exchanges via safe and COVID-appropriate travel.

Issuing a statement, the High Commission said that it had received requests from Sri Lankan citizens from several walks of life in respect to visa and consular services.

“In view of the current situation in Sri Lanka, where, according to official sources (https://hpb.health.gov.lk/), the number of COVID related cases and fatalities have unfortunately seen an increase and the presence of globally prevalent Delta variant of the coronavirus is also established, the High Commission has taken necessary steps to comply stringently with COVID-appropriate attendance and behaviour at the workplace in the larger interest of public health. 

“This may, in some cases, imply more time for delivery of public services, including those related to consular and visa matters,” the statement said.

Given the current situation, the High Commission said individuals wishing to avail of visa and consular services from the High Commission are requested to plan accordingly, keeping the above in mind.

“As always, the High Commission of India and its staff are committed to service these requests in the best possible way,” the statement said.