PM Modi Arrives in Colombo for Three-Day State Visit

Colombo : Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo on Saturday for a three-day state visit to Sri Lanka at the invitation of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. This marks his fourth visit to the island nation and the first in six years, following his last trip in 2019.

Upon landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, Prime Minister Modi was warmly received by a high-level Sri Lankan delegation, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa. A ceremonial welcome underscored the significance of the visit, which comes amid efforts by both nations to deepen bilateral ties across sectors.

During the visit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold talks with the Sri Lankan leadership on key areas of mutual interest, including trade, infrastructure, connectivity, defence, and energy. Several agreements are expected to be signed during these discussions. According to Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, defence and energy cooperation will be prominent on the agenda, highlighting New Delhi’s strategic commitment to Colombo.

One of the major highlights of the visit includes the inauguration of projects implemented under Indian assistance. These initiatives reflect India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and development efforts. PM Modi will also travel to Anuradhapura on Sunday, where he will offer prayers at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi temple, a site of immense cultural and religious significance.

Following the temple visit, the Prime Minister is expected to inaugurate critical railway infrastructure that links northern Sri Lanka to the capital—part of India’s ongoing efforts to bolster regional connectivity and promote inclusive growth on the island.

In his departure statement, Prime Minister Modi noted that this visit builds upon the successful visit of President Dissanayake to India in December 2024. “We will have the opportunity to review the progress in our bilateral relations and chart the path forward to realise our shared vision,” Modi stated.

Former Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe also commented on the visit, emphasizing its importance in reinforcing economic ties between the two neighbours. “High-level exchanges such as these are crucial for maintaining momentum in our economic and strategic cooperation,” he remarked.