Daijiworld Media Network – Colombo
Colombo, Apr 5: In a landmark development, India and Sri Lanka on Saturday signed a historic defence cooperation pact for the first time, signalling a new chapter in bilateral ties. The agreement was finalised following comprehensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake.
Alongside the defence pact, the two nations also signed agreements aimed at developing the strategic Trincomalee port as an energy hub and facilitating India's multi-sectoral grant assistance to Sri Lanka’s eastern region.
Marking a significant moment in the visit, Prime Minister Modi was conferred with the prestigious 'Mithra Vibhushana' award Sri Lanka’s highest civilian honour in recognition of his outstanding contribution to strengthening bilateral relations. The award was instituted in 2008 by then President Mahinda Rajapaksa.
“It is an honour for me to be awarded the Sri Lanka Mithra Vibhushana by President Dissanayake. This honour belongs to 1.4 billion Indians,” said PM Modi, expressing gratitude.
Recalling India’s steadfast support during Sri Lanka’s testing times, PM Modi added, “In every difficult situation, India stood with Sri Lanka — be it the 2019 terror attacks, the Covid pandemic, or the recent economic crisis.”
President Dissanayake, while hailing India's continued solidarity, assured PM Modi that Sri Lanka will not allow any use of its territory that could threaten India’s security interests.
The two leaders also jointly inaugurated the Sampur solar power project through virtual mode — a key initiative under India's energy partnership with Sri Lanka.
The formal talks and pacts came a day after PM Modi arrived in Colombo following his participation in the BIMSTEC summit held in Bangkok.
In a rare gesture, PM Modi was given a ceremonial welcome at the iconic Independence Square in Colombo, marking perhaps the first time a foreign leader has been honoured at this historic venue. President Dissanayake personally welcomed Modi at the Square, which holds immense national significance as the site commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948.
Several other bilateral agreements were also signed following the talks, further deepening the strategic, economic, and energy ties between the two neighbours.