New Delhi: Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake was honored with a grand ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday, marking his first official overseas trip since taking office.
During his three-day state visit to New Delhi, President Dissanayake is set to engage in important discussions with Prime Minister Modi, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing significant regional and global issues.
Having assumed the presidency in September after winning Sri Lanka’s elections, Dissanayake was greeted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
At the ceremonial reception, President Murmu and President Dissanayake introduced their respective ministers, diplomats, and senior officials, highlighting the strong ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi also participated in the event.
The Sri Lankan leader’s visit, taking place from December 15 to 17, aims to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, energy, and maritime security.
On Sunday, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with President Dissanayake and emphasized Sri Lanka’s significant role in India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR Outlook.
In a post on X, Jaishankar expressed optimism that the upcoming talks with Prime Minister Modi would foster greater trust and deeper collaboration. President Dissanayake noted that he had productive discussions on mutual interests with EAM Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.