External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with his Sri Lankan counterpart, Vijitha Herath, in Colombo on Friday. The two leaders discussed various topics of mutual interest during Jaishankar’s first visit to Sri Lanka since President Anura Kumara Dissanayake took office.

The Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry shared images of the meeting and confirmed that Minister Herath welcomed Jaishankar to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where they held discussions on a range of bilateral matters.

Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery and highlighted the importance of their partnership. “Concluded wide-ranging and detailed talks with FM Vijitha Herath today in Colombo,” Jaishankar said on X. “Congratulated him once again on his new responsibilities. Reviewed various dimensions of the India-Sri Lanka partnership.”

He also reiterated India’s commitment to its Neighbourhood First Policy and SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) outlook, which guide the development of ties between the two nations. “Assured him of India’s continued support to Sri Lanka’s economic rebuilding,” Jaishankar added.

Vijitha Herath, who took office on September 24, 2024, is also the Minister of Buddha Sasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, National Integration, Social Security, and Mass Media.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake, leader of the leftist Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna party, was declared the winner of Sri Lanka’s presidential election on September 22. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Dissanayake on his victory and reaffirmed that Sri Lanka holds a special place in India’s Neighbourhood First Policy and Vision SAGAR, which focuses on sustainable maritime cooperation in the region. (ANI)