Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has signaled Sri Lanka’s readiness to be a key partner in India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) vision, emphasizing collaboration in trade, maritime security, and sustainable development. Addressing an audience, she stressed the importance of a peaceful and inclusive Indian Ocean, a region vital for the prosperity of both nations. The Prime Minister candidly discussed the sensitive issue of Indian fishermen operating in Sri Lankan waters, particularly concerning the practice of bottom trawling, which affects the livelihoods of Sri Lankan fishermen. She reassured that both governments are committed to finding reasonable and mutually agreeable solutions through continued dialogue, highlighting the strength of their mature bilateral relationship. Sri Lanka aims to leverage its geographical advantage as a maritime hub, offering efficient ports that can serve as crucial conduits for India’s global trade. This strategic positioning, she suggested, can directly support India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ aspirations. Joint efforts in maritime security, tackling illegal activities like drug trafficking and piracy, and exploring renewable energy cooperation were also highlighted as critical areas for collaboration. The Prime Minister also expressed optimism about enhancing economic ties through the proposed economic and technological cooperation agreement, viewing Sri Lanka as a potential complementary production center for Indian industries.
