Colombo, Dec 23 (NationPress) Emphasizing the significance of Sri Lanka in the context of India’s Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR strategies, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar remarked that it was only fitting for India to provide assistance during the crisis faced by the island nation following the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah.

He reminded everyone of New Delhi’s previous support to Colombo during past economic challenges.

Earlier in the day, EAM met with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and delivered a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming India's commitment as a first responder and pledging a reconstruction package of US$450 million to Sri Lanka.

During a joint press conference with his Sri Lankan counterpart Vijitha Herath in Colombo, EAM stated, “I am here as a special envoy of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, bringing a message for President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The President graciously received me this morning, and we engaged in a thorough discussion regarding the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The letter from Prime Minister Modi that I presented strengthens our first responder role and commits a reconstruction package of US$450 million to Sri Lanka.”

“Our discussions focused on how quickly this commitment can be implemented. As your closest neighbour, in line with our Neighbourhood First and MAHASAGAR policies, it is only natural for India to step up during a crisis in Sri Lanka. We have previously done the same during your economic hardships,” he added.

EAM Jaishankar noted that India’s relief mission under Operation Sagar Bandhu commenced on the very day Cyclone Ditwah struck.

“Our aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and another vessel, INS Udaygiri, were stationed at Colombo and provided relief supplies, subsequently deploying helicopters. Several MI-17 helicopters from the Indian Air Force were active for over two weeks in Sri Lanka. An 80-member National Disaster Response Force team also arrived and carried out rescue and relief operations,” EAM detailed.

“The Indian Army established a field hospital with 85 medical professionals near Kandy, offering emergency care to over 8000 individuals. Additionally, two modular BHISHM emergency care units were airlifted to Sri Lanka and utilized,” he added.

Given the extensive damage, EAM stated that restoring connectivity was an immediate priority, a topic discussed between President Dissanayake and PM Modi during their recent phone call.

“Operation Sagar Bandhu delivered over 1100 tons of relief supplies, including dry rations, tents, tarpaulins, hygiene kits, essential clothing, and water purification kits. Approximately 14.5 tons of medicines and medical supplies were also delivered. An additional 60 tons of equipment was sent to Sri Lanka to support the relief efforts,” he mentioned.

Recognizing the pressing need for reconstruction, EAM revealed that Prime Minister Modi has directed Indian authorities to collaborate closely with the Sri Lankan government to address their immediate needs.

Outlining India’s support, he said, “The proposed assistance package is valued at US$450 million, comprising $350 million in concessional lines of credit and $100 million in grants. This package is being finalized through close consultations with the Sri Lankan government. Our support will focus on sectors most severely impacted by the cyclone.”

“I assure you that India stands steadfastly with Sri Lanka now more than ever, and I am confident that Sri Lanka will once again showcase its remarkable resilience in overcoming this adversity,” EAM Jaishankar remarked.