Colombo, April 5 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday engaged in bilateral discussions with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in Colombo, aimed at strengthening the strategic and developmental ties between the two neighboring countries.

The talks are anticipated to revolve around a collaborative roadmap for mutual growth and regional collaboration under the "Joint Vision for Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future," which was initially established during President Dissanayake's visit to India in December of the previous year.

During the extensive discussions, both parties are likely to have assessed progress on vital joint initiatives and reached consensus on enhancing cooperation in essential sectors including energy connectivity, digitisation, defence, health, and multisectoral grant assistance.

Several agreements in these domains are anticipated to be formalized in the presence of the two leaders.

Besides his official engagements, PM Modi is also set to meet with senior political figures and dignitaries from Sri Lanka during his visit.

Earlier that day, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with a ceremonial welcome at Colombo's Independence Square, described by the Ministry of External Affairs as "special"— marking the first occasion that Sri Lanka has hosted such an event for a visiting foreign leader.

This marks PM Modi's fourth visit to the island nation since 2014 and his first since Dissanayake took office.

The ceremonial event was attended by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya and several key cabinet members.

PM Modi arrived in Colombo late Friday from Bangkok after participating in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit. His visit is at the invitation of President Dissanayake, which was extended during his first trip to India last year.

In spite of heavy rainfall in the capital, hundreds of Sri Lankans and members of the Indian diaspora came out enthusiastically to welcome PM Modi, lining the route from Bandaranaike International Airport to his accommodation.

Upon arrival at the airport, the Prime Minister was greeted by several senior Lankan ministers, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, Labour Minister Anil Jayantha, Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar, Women and Child Affairs Minister Saroja Savithri Paulraj, and Science and Technology Minister Chrishantha Abeysena.

Shortly after landing, PM Modi shared on X: "Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programmes in Sri Lanka."

Sri Lanka has referred to Dissanayake's December visit to India as a "watershed moment" in its relationship with New Delhi. PM Modi becomes the first foreign leader to be hosted by the new Sri Lankan President—a symbolic gesture highlighting the significance both nations attach to their bilateral relations.

On Sunday, PM Modi will accompany President Dissanayake to Anuradhapura for the inauguration of development projects supported by Indian financial assistance.

The two leaders will also visit the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple complex, which bears profound cultural and spiritual significance in India-Sri Lanka relations. PM Modi had visited the temple during his tours in 2015 and again in 2019.

Among the key issues anticipated to be discussed during the visit are the longstanding concerns regarding Indian fishermen. The discussions will emphasize the prompt release and repatriation of detained Indian fishermen and their vessels.

The Indian government has consistently underscored its commitment to ensuring the safety and welfare of Indian fishermen and has persistently raised the issue through diplomatic and bilateral channels.

PM Modi's visit is perceived as an extension of India's Neighbourhood First policy—an initiative aimed at reinforcing bonds and trust with South Asian neighbors. The Prime Minister is expected to conclude his visit and return to New Delhi on April 6.