China had taken possession of the Hambantota port for a lease of 99 years after Colombo was unable to repay $100 million annually for the $1.7 billion loan that it had taken for the construction of the port, the first phase of which was completed in 2010.
Today’s agreement with India ensures Sri Lankan territory, including its waters shall “not be used in any manner inimical to the security of India”. Nor for any operations that may adversely impact the regional stability.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka today held a comprehensive dialogue in New Delhi where the entire gamut of bilateral ties was discussed in detail. The two leaders reaffirmed that the India-Sri Lanka bilateral partnership is underpinned by deep-rooted cultural and civilizational ties, geographical proximity and the people-to-people relations.
President Disanayaka conveyed his deep appreciation for the unwavering support extended by India to the people of Sri Lanka during and after the unprecedented economic crisis in 2022. Both leaders acknowledged that bilateral ties had deepened over the years and contributed significantly to the socio-economic development of Sri Lanka.
Both sides adopted a futuristic vision to expand the India-Sri Lanka partnership and aimed to soon conclude a comprehensive defence cooperation pact.