Sri Lanka Commends India's Integral Support in Debt Restructuring
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Synopsis
Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has praised India's significant role in supporting the country through its economic challenges, especially in debt restructuring, highlighting the deep-rooted ties and shared aspirations between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- Sri Lanka acknowledges India's support during economic challenges.
- India provided nearly $4 billion in assistance in 2022.
- President Dissanayake's visit marked a turning point in relations.
- Digital solutions from India will boost Sri Lanka's economy.
- Both nations are committed to mutual peace and development.
Colombo, Feb 24 (NationPress) Referring to India as “a trusted partner”, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has once again commended the significant contributions made by New Delhi throughout the years, particularly in supporting the island nation during crucial times and aiding it through the recent economic turmoil.
“As you might be aware, India provided various forms of assistance totaling nearly four billion USD in 2022 and was the first country to offer financial assurances to the IMF, playing a critical role in bolstering Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring programme. Without this support during a period of serious challenges, Sri Lanka’s recovery would not have been as rapid,” Herath noted on X on Monday.
The minister expressed these sentiments during his speech at a cultural event organized by the Sri Lanka-India Society to celebrate India’s Republic Day 2025 and Sri Lanka’s Independence Day 2025 on Sunday.
In his address, Herath emphasized the profound connections between Sri Lanka and India and their mutual aspirations for progress.
“India and Sri Lanka share languages, narratives, intertwined histories, civilizational ties, and religious wisdom, all of which have ensured our countries and peoples remain connected throughout history. Based on this foundation, our relationship is currently stronger and more special than ever,” he stated.
Herath pointed out that the State Visit of President Anura Dissanayake to India in December last year—his inaugural overseas trip as Sri Lanka’s President—marked a “turning point” in their bilateral ties.
He expressed that the warmth and hospitality shown towards the Lankan President during the visit, along with the assurances from India's leadership of their “steadfast commitment and support” to Sri Lanka's development, was incredibly reassuring.
“In governance, India’s achievements in digitalization have been noteworthy, enhancing social welfare and transparency while granting millions access to essential services. Following the President’s visit, India has agreed to share successful digital solutions for population-scale digital transformation in Sri Lanka at our request. I am confident this will bolster Sri Lanka’s digital economy initiatives and greatly benefit our citizens,” he remarked.
He noted that the robust diplomatic relations between the two neighboring countries have not only been close but that economic, cultural ties, and people-to-people connections continue to thrive through high-level exchanges and interactions that further cement the bilateral relationship.
“Our two nations are allies and partners in the Indian Ocean region. We share a history and present that connects us through the vast Indian Ocean and our close geographical proximity. We are committed to peace, security, growth, stability, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region, and we are closer than ever in pursuing these common objectives.
“We are ready to confront numerous challenges, both emerging and longstanding, that transcend national borders. In our efforts to address the defining issues of this century—climate change, social welfare, equality, inclusive growth, and security threats—our partnership has the potential to achieve remarkable accomplishments,” concluded Herath.
