The Impressive TimesNew Delhi, August 7: India and Sri Lanka have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in the energy sector, with senior ministers from both countries holding detailed discussions on strengthening power connectivity, renewable energy collaboration and long-term regional energy security.
The bilateral meeting took place in New Delhi between Union Power and Housing & Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal and Sri Lanka’s Minister of Energy and Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Anura Karunathilake.
During the talks, both sides assessed the status of major joint initiatives, including the proposed India–Sri Lanka High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) power interconnection and the Sampur Solar Power Project. The projects are expected to improve electricity connectivity between the two neighbours while supporting clean energy goals.
The discussions also covered future cooperation in areas such as cross-border electricity trade, renewable energy development, power transmission infrastructure and technical capacity building. The two countries expressed interest in exploring additional opportunities that could enhance the reliability of regional power systems and accelerate the transition towards sustainable energy.
India also briefed the Sri Lankan delegation on its experience in developing transmission networks through the Tariff-Based Competitive Bidding (TBCB) model, highlighting the role of public-private partnerships in expanding power infrastructure efficiently.
Reviewing progress under existing bilateral mechanisms, both governments agreed to maintain close coordination and further deepen cooperation in the power sector to support economic growth and regional energy resilience.
Manohar Lal reiterated India’s commitment to advancing the long-standing energy partnership with Sri Lanka, while Minister Anura Karunathilake acknowledged India’s continued support and expressed Sri Lanka’s willingness to broaden collaboration in the sector.
The meeting was attended by Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal, senior officials from the Government of India, and the Sri Lankan delegation led by High Commissioner Mahishini Colonne, along with other officials.
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