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Sri Lankan MP Praises India's Support During Economic Crisis and Diplomatic Strength

Sri Lankan MP Praises India's Support During Economic Crisis and Diplomatic Strength

Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva stated that India provided assistance during the economic crisis. India's diplomatic strength against US tariffs is an example for the entire region.

US Tariff Sri Lanka MP: US President Donald Trump's tariff decisions have caused upheaval in trade relations worldwide. Many countries opposed this decision, but India chose to firmly adhere to its policy. Regarding India's steadfast stance, senior Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva gave b advice to his government in parliament and praised India's generosity. He said that India helped Sri Lanka when it was struggling with an economic crisis and continues to support it now.

India Did Not Accept America's Arbitrariness

Donald Trump's administration imposed a heavy 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, which increased trade tensions between India and the United States. Instead of bowing down to this decision, India showed strength at the diplomatic and economic levels. In this situation, several countries criticized Trump's policy, including Brazil, China, and Russia. Meanwhile, this issue was discussed in the Sri Lankan Parliament, and India's resilience was praised.

Statement by Sri Lankan MP Harsha de Silva

Sri Lankan MP from Colombo, Harsha de Silva, said that it would be wrong to make fun of India. He said, "Instead of laughing at India when it is in trouble, we should respect it. When we were going through a difficult period, it was India that extended a helping hand to us." Harsha said that India expected the tariff to be reduced to 15 percent, and Sri Lanka was also hoping for the same. He said that the game is not over yet, and they respect India's fight.

India's Economic Assistance and Support

India's assistance was not limited to diplomatic support. In 2016, India provided Sri Lanka with 3.3 tons of medical supplies, which proved to be a lifeline for Sri Lanka at that time. In addition, India provided Sri Lanka with approximately $5 billion in credit lines, grants, and loans. These included a $400 million currency swap through the Reserve Bank of India, deferral of $500 million in trade liabilities, and a $3.1 billion credit facility for food, fuel, and medicines.

India's Contribution to Infrastructure and Development

India has also provided Sri Lanka with petroleum products, locomotives, and buses, as well as funding hundreds of millions of dollars in grant projects. These projects have helped improve Sri Lanka's infrastructure, develop a digital identity system, improve the solar energy sector, and provide housing facilities for plantation workers.

Debt Relief and Concessional Credit Lines

India has converted some loans for Sri Lanka into grants. Interest rates have been reduced, and concessional credit lines have been provided, which has significantly reduced Sri Lanka's debt burden. In this way, India has not only helped during the economic crisis but has also cooperated in sustainable development.

An Example of India's Support for the Entire Asia

Harsha de Silva also praised India on social media platforms. He wrote, "India is our true friend. India stood by us in difficult times. We should respect their fight. India's courage is an example for the entire Asia."

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