India and Sri Lanka Set to Finalize Enhanced Defence Agreement During PM Modi's Upcoming Visit

New Delhi, March 28 (NationPress) India and Sri Lanka are currently finalizing an updated version of their existing defence cooperation agreement, which is anticipated to be signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the island nation next week, as disclosed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a recent media briefing in New Delhi on Friday.

Following his participation in the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit in Bangkok, PM Modi is set to visit Sri Lanka for a State Visit from April 4–6, at the invitation of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.

Colombo emphasized that President Dissanayake's State Visit to India in December last year, which was his first overseas trip as the President of Sri Lanka, marked a “watershed moment” in their bilateral relations. The strong diplomatic ties between the two neighboring countries are expected to receive an additional boost as PM Modi will be the first foreign leader to be hosted by President Dissanayake in his new role.

The India-Sri Lanka relationship is deeply entrenched in civilizational links, shared history, religion, culture, and robust people-to-people connections. In contemporary times, it has developed into a close economic, cultural, and technical partnership. Sri Lanka is a crucial element of India's “Neighbourhood First” policy, and this relationship, grounded in mutual trust and goodwill, has withstood the test of time. India has historically supported Sri Lanka during critical moments, most recently during the unprecedented economic challenges faced by Sri Lanka in 2022. India was pleased to play a vital role in the country's economic stabilization and recovery, showcasing its commitment as a reliable neighbor and first responder to regional crises, according to Foreign Secretary Misri.

During the visit, PM Modi will engage in discussions with the Sri Lankan President to assess the progress made on cooperation areas outlined in the Joint Vision for “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” established during President Dissanayake’s State Visit to India. The Prime Minister will also meet with senior dignitaries and political figures.

The two leaders are expected to witness the signing of several agreements concerning energy connectivity, digitization, defence, health, and multisectoral grant assistance.

During his time in Colombo, PM Modi will meet with additional political leaders before heading to Anuradhapura with President Dissanayake for the inauguration of development projects funded by Indian financial support.

In Anuradhapura, both leaders will pay their respects at the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple complex, which holds significant importance for the India-Sri Lanka civilizational partnership. PM Modi visited the temple during his trip to Sri Lanka in 2015, and he returned to the country in 2019.

The discussions will also include all matters concerning fishermen, such as the prompt release and repatriation of Indian fishermen and their boats.

The Indian government prioritizes the safety, security, and welfare of Indian fishermen and has consistently raised these issues through bilateral mechanisms, diplomatic channels, and various official interactions, including a recent dialogue between the Prime Minister and the Sri Lankan President on December 16, 2024.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri acknowledged that this is a longstanding issue rooted in agreements established in the mid-1970s when the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) between India and Sri Lanka was determined by both central and state authorities.

India has repeatedly urged the Sri Lankan Government to consider the fishermen issue as a humanitarian and livelihood concern, advocating against the use of force under any circumstances.