Colombo, Dec 23 (NationPress) The Foreign Minister of Sri Lanka, Vijitha Herath, on Tuesday, acknowledged the significance of External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar's visit to Colombo, emphasizing that it serves as a powerful testament to the close ties and enduring collaboration between the two countries.

He noted that this visit highlights India's role as a primary responder through the initiation of Operation Sagar Bandhu.

In a joint press briefing with EAM Jaishankar, Herath expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian government, and EAM Jaishankar for their invaluable assistance in helping Sri Lanka navigate its economic challenges.

“I extend a warm welcome to Dr. Jaishankar upon his return to Colombo. His visit at this crucial time is highly valued as it underscores India's steadfast support for Sri Lanka following the adverse weather conditions resulting from Cyclone Ditwah,” he stated.

“On behalf of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, the government, and the people of Sri Lanka, I express our profound thanks to Prime Minister Modi, the Indian government, and you, Dr. Jaishankar, for India’s crucial support in helping Sri Lanka address its economic hurdles,” he continued.

Herath recalled that India has provided $4 billion through lines of credit to Sri Lanka for essential goods, including petroleum, as well as for currency swaps and liability deferment.

Highlighting the multi-faceted relationship between both nations, Vijitha Herath stated, “Sri Lanka and India share a longstanding, multi-dimensional relationship founded on geographical proximity, rich historical and cultural connections, shared values, and expanding economic ties. Our bilateral relations are continuously strengthened through regular high-level interactions and close cooperation at political, official, and people-to-people levels.”

“In this context, we greatly appreciate India's ongoing support in stabilizing the Sri Lankan economy through various forms of assistance, including emergency financing, foreign exchange support, and $20.66 million allocated to settle payments for projects completed under existing lines of credit. We also sincerely value India's significant role in Sri Lanka's debt restructuring process, including its position as co-chair of the officer creditors committee, which facilitated the timely conclusion of discussions,” he further elaborated.

Herath also discussed India’s assistance following the adverse weather conditions from Cyclone Ditwah, which included the provision of over 10,000 tonnes of relief materials, the establishment of an Indian Army para-field hospital in Mahiyangana that delivered essential healthcare services, and the successful restoration of communication by Indian army signalers after cyclone-related disruptions, along with approximately 10 tonnes of urgent medical supplies.

“Dr. Jaishankar's presence today is particularly important as he is here to announce a new relief package that will offer substantial support to Sri Lanka's recovery and rebuilding efforts. Through this gesture, India has once again affirmed its enduring friendship and solidarity,” Herath concluded.