In a landmark diplomatic gesture, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was accorded a first-of-its-kind ceremonial welcome at Independence Square in Colombo on Friday, marking a historic moment in India-Sri Lanka relations. This is the first time the Sri Lankan government has hosted a visiting foreign leader at the iconic venue for such a reception.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) posted on X: “A special welcome at Sri Lanka’s majestic Independence Square. PM Narendra Modi was welcomed by President Anura Dissanayake with a ceremonial reception. Bilateral discussions to foster a partnership for a shared future & mutual prosperity of our people lie ahead.”
PM Modi, who is on a three-day official visit, was received by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, setting the tone for a series of high-level discussions aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and accelerating joint development projects.
Upon his arrival in Colombo, Modi was warmly welcomed at his hotel by members of the Indian diaspora and treated to a traditional puppet show, highlighting the vibrant cultural ties between the two countries.
His visit follows his recent stop in Thailand, where he participated in the BIMSTEC Summit and held bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, along with several other regional leaders.
In a significant show of respect, six senior Sri Lankan ministers, including Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath and Health and Mass Media Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, braved the rain to welcome the Indian leader at the airport.
“Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka,” PM Modi shared on X.
During the trip, Modi will visit Anuradhapura to inaugurate India-supported development initiatives. His last visit to Sri Lanka was in 2019.
Meanwhile, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre praised Modi’s global promotion of Yoga, noting its growing acceptance in Sri Lanka as a result of his efforts.
