Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has expressed a strong desire for enhanced cooperation with India, emphasizing trade, maritime security, and sustainable livelihoods. Speaking at an event, she highlighted Sri Lanka’s commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indian Ocean, where all nations can thrive. Amarasuriya acknowledged the complexities in the bilateral relationship, particularly concerning Indian fishermen operating in Sri Lankan waters and employing practices like bottom trawling. She stressed the need for sensitive handling and sustainable solutions to protect the livelihoods of Sri Lankan fishermen, particularly those in the North who are rebuilding their lives. The Prime Minister conveyed confidence in the mutual commitment of both governments to address these issues with empathy and respect. She pointed to the maturity of the India-Sri Lanka relationship, capable of constructively managing differences through dialogue and mutual accommodation. Sri Lanka aims to become a key maritime hub for the Indian Ocean and a cost-efficient gateway for India’s global trade, leveraging its strategic port locations. Amarasuriya believes Sri Lanka can be a natural partner in realizing India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision, advocating for continued collaboration on maritime security, combating drug trafficking and piracy, and enhancing regional cooperation, especially in renewable energy development. She affirmed that shared challenges necessitate a collective response, underpinned by collaboration, respect, and international law. The Prime Minister also underscored India’s vital role in Sri Lanka’s economic recovery, citing the successful India-Sri Lanka Free Trade Agreement and the potential for deepening economic partnership through future agreements. She proposed Sri Lanka as a complementary production base for Indian industries aiming for global manufacturing leadership under the ‘Viksit Bharat’ initiative, particularly in sectors like textiles, electronics, and food processing. Earlier in her three-day visit, Amarasuriya met with Indian leaders to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional matters.
