Sri Lankan Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya has expressed a strong desire for enhanced cooperation with India, particularly in crucial areas like trade, maritime security, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. During a recent event, she highlighted the importance of a free, open, and inclusive Indian Ocean, emphasizing that both nations share common interests in regional stability and prosperity. The Prime Minister acknowledged the delicate issue of Indian fishermen operating in Sri Lankan waters, noting the significant impact on local communities who are rebuilding their lives after years of conflict. She stressed that addressing bottom trawling and other harmful practices requires sensitive handling and sustainable solutions, a commitment echoed by both governments through ongoing dialogue. Sri Lanka views itself as a natural and cost-efficient maritime hub for India’s global trade, leveraging its strategic port locations. Prime Minister Amarasuriya sees a partnership towards India’s ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision as mutually beneficial, especially in collaborating on maritime security challenges such as drug trafficking and piracy. The ongoing economic recovery of Sri Lanka is significantly bolstered by India, with a focus on deepening the existing free trade agreement and exploring integration into India’s manufacturing and service value chains. This positions Sri Lanka as a potential complementary production base for industries aiming to achieve India’s ambitious ‘Viksit Bharat’ goals.
