June 19th 2024.
The External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, will be embarking on his first bilateral visit since the BJP-led NDA government, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, came into power. He will be traveling to Colombo on Thursday, with the aim of reaffirming India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that during the visit, the EAM will engage in discussions with the top leaders of Sri Lanka on a wide range of issues pertaining to their partnership.
According to a statement by the MEA, this visit serves as a testament to India's unwavering commitment to its closest maritime neighbor, Sri Lanka, and its long-standing friendship with the country. It is also expected to provide a boost to connectivity projects and other mutually beneficial collaborations across various sectors.
In a recent development, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe revealed that talks are currently underway for the sale of surplus renewable energy to India. He also added that a feasibility study is being conducted to establish a power line connection between the two countries, with further discussions expected during Jaishankar's visit to Sri Lanka.
During his visit to New Delhi on June 9 to attend Prime Minister Modi's swearing-in ceremony, President Wickremesinghe also had a meeting with Jaishankar. They discussed the progress of development projects in Sri Lanka that have been initiated with Indian investments. The President also mentioned that the pre-feasibility study for a land connection between the two countries has been completed, and a full feasibility study will be conducted soon.
In addition, the two leaders also discussed India's 'Neighborhood First' policy, with Jaishankar highlighting plans for an industrial zone in Trincomalee, to be established by the Indian government. This project is expected to attract numerous Indian investors, as well as potential investors from other countries. The Prime Minister's Office stated in a statement on June 10 that this discussion was part of their efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations.
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