Connecting electricity grids between the two countries to be expedited

 Feasibility study mooted for petroleum pipeline between India and Sri Lanka

 Decided to check the feasibility of a land bridge

 Expects Sri Lanka will fulfill aspirations of the Tamil community

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the visit of President Ranil Wickremesinghe to India last week assured once again, that the people of India are with the people of Sri Lanka in the hour of its struggle.The Indian PM said that a stable, secure and prosperous Sri Lanka is not only in India’s interest, but in the interest of the entire Indian Ocean region.

“The past year has been full of challenges for the people of Sri Lanka. As a close friend, like always, we stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Sri Lanka in this hour of crisis. And I heartily congratulate the people of Sri Lanka for the courage with which they faced these challenging circumstances,” he said.

Our ties are as ancient and extensive as our civilisations. Sri Lanka has an important place in both, India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and “SAGAR” vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. And therefore, it is essential that we work together keeping in mind each other’s safety and sensitivities,” he noted.

“We have decided that the work of connecting the electricity grids between the two countries will be expedited. Feasibility study will be done for petroleum pipeline between India and Sri Lanka. Apart from this, it was also decided to check the feasibility of a land bridge. Fintech connectivity will also increase with the agreement signed today to launch UPI in Sri Lanka.”

“We also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should proceed with a humane approach in this matter. We also talked about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Government of Sri Lanka will fulfill the aspirations of the Tamils; will drive the process of rebuilding for equality, justice and peace. Will fulfill its commitment to implement the Thirteenth Amendment and conduct the Provincial Council Elections. And will ensure a life of respect and dignity for the Tamil community of Sri Lanka,” the Indian Prime Minister said.