Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Colombo on Friday for a three-day visit to Sri Lanka, receiving a warm and historic welcome. Six senior ministers from the Sri Lankan government personally greeted him at the airport.
Colombo: Following his visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Sri Lanka for a three-day visit. He received a grand welcome in the capital, Colombo. Upon his arrival on Friday evening, five Sri Lankan ministers were present at the airport to greet him. A large number of people from the Indian community also gathered at the airport to welcome PM Modi, creating an enthusiastic and emotional atmosphere.
Warmly Welcomed at the Airport
Upon Prime Minister Modi's arrival in the evening, six ministers, including Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, welcomed him. Members of the Indian community, dressed in traditional attire, waved the Indian flag and chanted slogans in support of Modi. On Saturday morning, Prime Minister Modi received a guard of honor at Colombo's Independence Square. He also met with Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe. During their meeting, the two leaders held extensive discussions on mutual cooperation, cultural ties, and development projects.
From Thailand to Sri Lanka – A Glimpse of ‘Neighbourhood First’
Prior to his Sri Lankan visit, Prime Minister Modi participated in the BIMSTEC summit in Thailand, where he also met with the Thai Prime Minister. These visits underscore India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and Indo-Pacific cooperation. In Colombo, Prime Minister Modi was welcomed with traditional puppet dances and cultural programs at his hotel. While interacting with the Indian community, he lauded the deep cultural ties between the two nations.
Inauguration of Development Projects
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will also visit Anuradhapura, where he will inaugurate several India-funded development projects. Furthermore, he will review bilateral cooperation with the President on the theme of "Shared Future, Shared Prosperity." Vyas Kalyan Sundaram, director of the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre in Sri Lanka, commended Prime Minister Modi's role in the globalization of yoga. He stated that Modi's efforts have led to widespread acceptance of yoga in Sri Lanka.
PM Modi Shares a Message
Prime Minister Modi wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Delighted to be in Colombo. My heartfelt gratitude to all the ministers and representatives who welcomed me at the airport. Looking forward to the upcoming programs in Sri Lanka." This visit is not just political; it represents a new chapter of connection and development between the people.
