Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Sri Lanka reinforced strategic trust, fostered synergies and set the stage for tackling unresolved issues between the two nations. Three months after the new Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake picked India as his first port of call, Modi became the first foreign head of government hosted by the new government in Colombo, with the visit culminating in the signing of an umbrella defence pact—the first of its kind between the two. These visits helped address the longstanding scepticism that Dissanayake’s Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna party had towards New Delhi and underscored the ruling National People’s Power alliance’s recognition of India as a vital strategic partner.
Dissanayake reassured Modi that Sri Lanka would not allow its territory to be used in ways that could threaten India’s security or regional stability, while Modi emphasised that the security of both countries is “interconnected and co-dependent”. This was an important reiteration. Small nations surrounded by larger powers often hedge their positions. Sri Lanka’s balancing act between India and China remains an important concern for India, as Colombo is playing an increasingly significant role in Beijing’s strategic calculations in the Indian Ocean.
Energy cooperation was another notable outcome, with agreements on a power grid link and an energy hub in Trincomalee supported by the UAE. These initiatives align with Modi’s ‘Mahasagar’ vision for integration among the Global South. The visit revived discussions to find a long-term solution on the issue of Indian fishermen straying into Sri Lankan waters; both sides agreed on the need for a flexible and humane approach to prevent escalation.
The visit also gave Tamil parties the chance to reiterate the importance of the 1987 Indo-Lanka accord, emphasising India’s role in facilitating a political settlement for the Tamil population. Modi expressed hope that the Sri Lankan government would meet Tamil aspirations and fulfil its constitutional commitments, including conducting provincial elections.
Leveraging its goodwill, India must act as a benevolent facilitator promoting dialogue and development, particularly in Sri Lanka’s war-affected northern and eastern provinces, without alienating the government or the majority population. Modi’s visit reinforced India’s role as a key regional partner capable of addressing sensitive issues with a balanced, pragmatic approach. Follow-up actions from officials on both sides must ensure this commitment is upheld.