Won’t allow Sri Lankan territory to be used against India: President Dissanayake to PM Narendra Modi

Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who is currently on his maiden trip to India following his win in the polls earlier this year, reiterated his country’s stated position of not permitting its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India as well as towards regional stability.

Dissanayake arrived in India on Sunday and met PM Modi in New Delhi earlier on Monday.

As per the joint statement issued by India and Sri Lanka, President Disanayaka appreciated India’s continued support for the implementation of projects despite the ongoing debt restructuring.

He further acknowledged India’s decision to extend grant assistance for projects that were originally undertaken through Lines of Credit, thereby reducing the debt burden of Sri Lanka.

President Disanayaka thanked Modi for India’s support in stabilising the Sri Lankan economy through unparalleled and multi-pronged assistance, including emergency financing and forex support worth USD 4 billion.

He acknowledged India’s crucial assistance in Sri Lanka’s debt restructuring process, including as co-chair of the Official Creditors’ Committee (OCC), as being instrumental in finalising the debt restructuring discussions in a timely manner.

He further thanked India for extending financial assistance of USD 20.66 million to settle payments due from Sri Lanka for projects completed under existing Lines of Credit thereby significantly reducing the debt burden at a critical time.

Underscoring the close and special ties with Sri Lanka, PM Modi reiterated India’s consistent support to the country in times of need and in its quest for economic recovery and stability, and prosperity for its people.

The leaders instructed officials to finalise discussions on the bilateral MoU on Debt Restructuring.

Modi welcomed Sri Lanka’s support to India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2028-2029.