Prime Minister Narendra Modi was given a grand ceremonial welcome at Independence Square in Colombo on Friday, marking the start of his three-day official visit to Sri Lanka aimed at strengthening regional ties and development cooperation.
Modi was greeted by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, as he kicked off a series of high-level meetings and engagements. Earlier, he was welcomed at his hotel by members of the Indian diaspora, where he also enjoyed a traditional puppet performance, showcasing the deep-rooted cultural connection between the two nations.
The visit to Sri Lanka follows PM Modi’s trip to Thailand, where he attended the BIMSTEC Summit and held bilateral talks with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as part of his broader regional diplomacy efforts.
Despite rainy conditions, six senior Sri Lankan ministers turned up at Colombo airport to personally receive him. The welcoming delegation included Foreign Affairs Minister Vijitha Herath, Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa, and other key cabinet members.
Sharing his arrival on social media, PM Modi posted: “Landed in Colombo. Grateful to the ministers and dignitaries who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the programs in Sri Lanka.”
During his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to travel to Anuradhapura, where he will inaugurate India-funded development projects. He will also hold detailed discussions with President Dissanayake to assess progress on the “Fostering Partnerships for a Shared Future” initiative.
Meanwhile, Vyasa Kalyanasundaram from the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre lauded PM Modi’s global advocacy of Yoga, highlighting its growing presence across Sri Lanka—from spiritual groups to corporate wellness programs—thanks to his efforts.
