The official welcoming ceremony for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who arrived in Sri Lanka last night (4 April) for a three-day state visit, is currently underway at Independence Square in Colombo.
Modi is accompanied by a high-level delegation including India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr. S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Indian Foreign Secretary, and other senior officials.
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, Modi was warmly received by Sri Lanka’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Vijitha Herath and other dignitaries.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Indian Prime Minister thanked those who welcomed him, noting:
“The rains were no deterrent for a spectacular welcome by the Indian community in Colombo. I was deeply moved by their warmth and enthusiasm. Grateful to them!”
At a cultural welcome event, Modi witnessed a vibrant showcase of Indo-Sri Lankan cultural ties, including traditional performances and literary displays.
“During the community welcome, also saw translations of the thoughts of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev, Sri Sri Madhabdev, books on music, Indian stories and parts of the Gita Govinda in Pali. May these cultural bonds thrive forever!” he said.
He also commended a traditional puppet performance of the Sundar Kand, applauding Nalin Gamwari and the Sri Anura Puppetry Society for their dedication.
This is Modi’s fourth visit to Sri Lanka, following an invitation extended by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The Indian leader is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions with President Dissanayake, Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, and other senior leaders.
The visit is expected to result in several key agreements in sectors such as energy, digital transformation, defence, security, and healthcare. Notably, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that a landmark Memorandum of Understanding on defence cooperation will be signed—marking a first between the two nations.
A major highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the Sampur Solar Power Plant, a joint India-Sri Lanka initiative to boost renewable energy.
Modi is also scheduled to pay homage at Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya in Anuradhapura as part of his official programme.
