Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya met visiting Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today at the Parliament complex during his official visit to Sri Lanka. During the meeting, the Prime Minister expressed her appreciation for the steadfast support provided by the Indian government to Sri Lanka, particularly during times of national challenge. She extended her gratitude for India's assistance following the destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah, welcoming Operation Sagar Bandhu initiated by the Indian government as part of its humanitarian and disaster relief efforts.

Dr Amarasuriya noted that the relationship between Sri Lanka and India extends beyond diplomatic and economic cooperation, highlighting that cultural, historical, and religious ties form an integral part of the pride shared in the bilateral friendship. The discussion covered India's role as an important partner across various sectors, including trade, development, defence, and education, while acknowledging ongoing cooperation aimed at strengthening institutional capabilities and good governance through capacity building in state and parliamentary spheres.

Commending the existing relationship in the defence sector, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of continuing and strengthening the partnership. Attention was also drawn to the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding during the visit. Furthermore, Dr Amarasuriya underscored the need to expand regional cooperation in tourism and education, pointing out the potential for greater collaboration between universities in both countries through specialized educational institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology to foster knowledge sharing, innovation, and skills development.

The event was attended by High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka Santosh Jha, Joint Secretary of the Indian Ministry of Defence Dr T. Amit, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of External Affairs Prasanna Srivastava, Secretary to the Prime Minister Pradeep Saputhanthri, Additional Secretary to the Prime Minister Sagarika Bogahawatta, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism.