Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo on Saturday, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations during his ongoing three-day visit.
The meeting followed a historic ceremonial welcome for PM Modi at Colombo’s Independence Square, the first time Sri Lanka has extended such an honour to a visiting foreign leader—underscoring the importance Colombo places on its ties with New Delhi.
During the talks, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the shared vision of “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future”, with a focus on regional cooperation, cultural exchange, and joint development initiatives.
PM Modi arrived in Sri Lanka after attending the BIMSTEC Summit in Thailand, where he held bilateral discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
Upon landing in Colombo, PM Modi received a warm welcome despite rainy weather, with six senior Sri Lankan ministers—including the Foreign, Health, Labour, and Science & Technology ministers—present at the airport to greet him.
“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 wrote on X.
At his hotel, he interacted with the Indian diaspora and enjoyed a traditional puppet performance, reflecting the deep cultural bonds shared between the two nations.
As part of his itinerary, the Prime Minister will visit Anuradhapura to inaugurate India-funded development projects.
Meanwhile, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram, head of the Yoga department at the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, praised PM Modi’s global advocacy for Yoga, noting its growing popularity and integration into wellness spaces across Sri Lanka.
