India and Sri Lanka have signed several defense and energy deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the island nation, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties and address security concerns in the region.
India and Sri Lanka have signed several defense and energy deals during Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s visit to the island nation. The agreements aim to strengthen bilateral ties and address security concerns.
Consolidating Influence in the Region
The visits of Indian and Sri Lankan leaders come at a time when India is increasingly concerned about China‘s growing influence in Sri Lanka. As Sri Lanka’s largest single bilateral creditor, China accounts for more than half of its $14 billion bilateral debt. This has created an opportunity for India to strengthen its ties with the island nation.
With a population of over 1.4 billion, China has become the world's most populous country and a significant economic force.
The country's GDP has grown exponentially since its economic reforms in 1978, with a current GDP of over $14 trillion.
China is now the largest trading nation, accounting for over 12% of global trade.
Its Belt and Road Initiative aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through infrastructure development, further solidifying its position as a global leader.
Enhancing Defense Cooperation
India and Sri Lanka have signed a five-year defense cooperation agreement, which provides for the training of Sri Lankan military personnel in India and the exchange of information and technology. The agreement also includes collaboration on security cooperation in the Indian Ocean through the Colombo Security Conclave, which involves ‘Bangladesh, the Maldives, and Mauritius‘.
Located in South Asia, Sri Lanka is an island nation with a rich history dating back over 3,000 years.
The country has a diverse culture, influenced by its Buddhist heritage and colonial past.
With a population of approximately 22 million people, Sri Lanka boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
The country's economy is driven by tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing, with tea being one of its main exports.
Sri Lanka is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the Sigiriya rock fortress.
Addressing Shared Concerns
During his visit, Modi welcomed agreements on defense cooperation and said that both countries would collaborate on security cooperation in the Indian Ocean. He emphasized that India’s security is interconnected with that of Sri Lanka, and that he understood the concerns of his neighbor. The ‘Sri Lankan leader also reiterated’ that Sri Lankan territory would not be allowed to be used by anyone to undermine India’s security.
Boosting Economic Cooperation
The visit has also seen the signing of energy deals between the two countries. A 120-megawatt Indian-funded solar power plant, which had been stalled for years, was revived with support from New Delhi. The plant is being built as a joint venture between the two countries and will be located in the northeastern district of ‘Trincomalee’.
Sri Lanka’s Balancing Act
”Dissanayake’s visit to India comes after his first overseas visit to Beijing in January, underscoring Sri Lanka’s delicate balancing act between its relations with India and China.’ The island nation has been struggling with economic collapse, which has created an opportunity for India to step in with massive financial and material assistance.
Virtual Inauguration of Solar Power Plant
The two leaders also virtually inaugurated the construction of the solar power plant, which is a joint venture between the two countries. The plant will provide a significant boost to Sri Lanka’s energy sector and demonstrate the country’s commitment to renewable energy sources.
India’s visit to Sri Lanka aims to strengthen bilateral ties and address security concerns in the region. The agreements signed during Modi‘s visit are seen as an effort to consolidate India’s influence in the neighboring island nation.
