Synopsis
On April 6, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. He will inaugurate significant India-assisted railway projects with President Dissanayake, including the upgraded Maho-Omanthai line and signalling system, deepening bilateral ties and celebrating cultural connections at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple.Key Takeaways
- PM Modi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
- Inauguration of upgraded railway projects in Anuradhapura.
- Collaboration with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
- Visit to the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple.
- Strengthening India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations.
Anuradhapura, April 6 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi was welcomed with a ceremonial Guard of Honour from the Sri Lankan Air Force upon his arrival in the historic city of Anuradhapura. He, along with Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, will inaugurate significant infrastructure projects assisted by India.
The two leaders will collaboratively launch the upgraded railway track of the Maho-Omanthai line and the newly established signalling system for the Maho-Anuradhapura railway segment.
These initiatives have been developed with Indian support, further strengthening the solid infrastructure partnership between the two countries.
Upon arrival, PM Modi received a warm welcome from President Dissanayake. The Prime Minister shared a moment from his visit on X, stating, "In Anuradhapura with my friend, President Anura Kumara Dissanayake."
Both leaders will also visit the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple, which holds profound spiritual and cultural significance for both India and Sri Lanka. This temple houses a Bodhi tree believed to have grown from a sapling brought from India by Theri Sanghamitta, the daughter of Emperor Ashoka.
Emphasizing the visit's significance, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated, "On April 6, President Dissanayake and the Prime Minister will travel together to the historic city of Anuradhapura. They will pay tribute at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple, which is pivotal in the India-Sri Lanka Civilizational Partnership. The sapling brought by Theri Sanghamitta from India was planted in this temple's precincts."
"During the Anuradhapura visit, the two leaders will also inaugurate two projects supported by India. The Prime Minister will depart for home later on April 6," he added.
Prior to the inauguration ceremony at Anuradhapura Railway Station, numerous local residents gathered to welcome the Indian Prime Minister.
Expressing his happiness, a local resident shared with IANS, "I am very happy. We all are delighted. We feel proud that the Indian Prime Minister is here. We hope our city flourishes like this."
Another resident mentioned to IANS, "We are grateful to PM Modi for coming here for the inauguration. This railway was vital for us."
The upgraded railway projects have been carried out by IRCON International Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
Speaking to IANS, IRCON CMD Hari Mohan Gupta stated, "Today is a fortunate day as our Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the President of Sri Lanka together dedicate an upgraded railway project spanning 128 kilometres to the nation."
On Saturday, PM Modi and President Dissanayake had extensive discussions aimed at fortifying bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Modi was also honored with the prestigious Sri Lanka Mitra Vibhushan, one of the highest civilian awards in the country, highlighting the enduring friendship and deep-rooted historical connections between India and Sri Lanka.
The day also featured the signing and exchange of several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across various sectors, with both leaders jointly unveiling key India-supported initiatives.
