How Does India's Courage Inspire Asia? Lankan MP Praises New Delhi's Bold Stance Against US Tariffs

Colombo, Aug 11 (NationPress) Highlighting the significant support from India during Sri Lanka's severe economic turmoil, a Sri Lankan MP has called on his fellow citizens to endorse New Delhi's position against what he described as US President Donald Trump's "selective and inequitable trade" actions, proclaiming "India’s bravery is an inspiration for Asia".

Prominent economist and Colombo MP Harsha de Silva urged his colleagues in Parliament to show respect for India amidst its ongoing disputes with the US due to the newly imposed tariffs on Indian products. He reminisced how India was the sole nation that provided vital support to Sri Lanka during its economic crisis.

"Avoid mocking India. Don't ridicule them when they are vulnerable because they were the only ones to assist us when we were in distress. It's not over until the final act. We saw you laughing. Please, refrain from doing so. India anticipated the tariffs would decrease to 15 percent, and so did we," the Member of Parliament stated, as reported by Daily Mirror on Monday.

While addressing the Sri Lankan Parliament, de Silva underscored the profound connection shared between India and Sri Lanka and expressed support for New Delhi's stance on US tariffs.

His remarks follow Trump's announcement on August 6 of an additional 25 percent tariffs on imports from India, pointing to the country's ongoing purchase of Russian oil. India has labeled Washington's decision as "unfair, unjustifiable, and unreasonable".

The Sri Lankan politician also shared a video of his parliamentary address on X, stating, "I addressed the Government in Sri Lankan Parliament for mocking India’s courageous stance against Trump’s trade tariffs. India, our genuine ally, supported us during our most challenging times. We should respect their struggle, not ridicule it. India’s bravery inspires Asia."

The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is deeply entrenched in civilizational ties, shared history, religion, culture, and robust people-to-people connections. In contemporary times, it has transformed into a close economic, cultural, and technical partnership. Sri Lanka is a vital component of India's 'Neighbourhood First' strategy, and this bond, founded on mutual trust and goodwill, has endured over time.

"India has assisted Sri Lanka at critical junctures, most recently during the unprecedented economic crisis faced by Sri Lanka in 2022. India was pleased to play a pivotal role in the country’s economic stabilization and recovery, demonstrating its commitment as a reliable neighbor and first responder during any regional crisis," remarked Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri earlier this year.

Labeling India as "a trusted partner", Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath has also commended New Delhi's role over the years, including its support during the recent economic crisis.

"As you know, India provided various forms of assistance totaling nearly four billion USD in 2022 and was the first country to offer financial reassurances to the IMF, playing a crucial role in supporting Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring initiative. Without this support during a time of significant challenges, Sri Lanka's recovery would not have been as rapid," Herath posted on X in February this year.